Today has eloped and left me in the lurch

'Once in a while, from out of nowhere
When you don't expect it
And you're unprepared
Somebody will come and lift you higher
And your burdens will be shared'
- from 'Gone At Last' by Paul Simon


“My heart was in the right place
when I agreed, online, to meet
in a pub near the church. His face,
in the photograph, looked nice.
But I awoke feeling uneasy. I've had
a long streak of bad luck, romantically.
I live in fear of what happens next.
How do I tell him? It'll have to be by text.”

                        * * *

“We'd agreed to meet, at one, for lunch
at a lovely little pub near the church.
By 2.25, still no sign. I felt a right chump.
Feigning nonchalance. Checking my watch.
That feeling of dread. I wanted to clutch
my heart and fall to the floor, sobbing.
I've had a long streak of bad luck, romantically.
Then ping! A text. Oh god! What happens next?”

                        * * *

“That bloke looks dejected. Shame.
Nice face. I could say hello. Ask his name.
Wonder if he's waiting for someone? Probably.
He keeps checking the time. I don't think
she (he?) is going to show. Perhaps
he could do with another. Maybe
I should say Hi. Can I buy you a drink?
Too forward? Oh, what the hell!” “Hi.”

Gone At Last