i hopped on the train
a little earlier than usual
and tried not to look too surprised
as I found a seat
(luxury!)
a frowny late-middle-aged guy
sat opposite, to the right
writing “FENCER”
on his crossword
to the left
a small girl stole glances
at me
in between stealing a few words
from a comic
that seemed to be in Viet
I looked around
trying not too look too obvious
wondering
where these people were going
and wondering
when I’d feel a little more at ease.