Strangers Reply

by Ashvin Mistry

I know a kindness in her eyes, 
that says I'm alright, 
I'm just fine, 
I'm in control, 
I'm a confident soul who shall not fail, 
but put you under a welcoming spell.

I sense a hesitant smile framed by time, 
used when curious, used when tired, 
used when sipping a vintage wine 
whilst recounting days of frivolous guile.

I see an elegant pose, that could be in vogue,
held with precision , refined in composition,
waiting with anticipation for a stranger's reply.