Smilingly

Kisses don't mean love

Greetings don't mean hi

Your handshake startles me

You wave but do not smile

His arms are tight around her waist but his eyes are over there

Why do we ask how are you

We do not really care

Eyes shut, smiling lips, a kiss

But then you're broken up next week

We hug and laugh but we're not friends

People clasp my wrist and speak smilingly

But I was already listening

---

I think touch is powerful

Magic and alive

But when did it become habitual

Instead of meaningful

Don't kiss and tell

"Please," I say

I beg you --

Gestures true or not at all