In the Middle of the Bus
by Elizabeth Challinor
You're pathetic!
I hate you!
I looked up in surprise
She averted her eyes
Alone
No sign of a phone
Nobody beside her
The bus arrived at my stop
I got off
And forgot
Until I heard her again
Days later
Behind me
I could not turn to look
But I knew who
She was talking to
I wanted to reach out
I know what it's like!
But a stranger
On a bus?
No chance of that!
So I sat
Imprisoned in indifference
Until I reached my stop
Got off
And got on again
And sat next to her
Days later
This time not a word
We approached my stop
I stood up
Placed a book
On my seat
Turned my back
And got off
And got on again
Weeks later
The bus is full
Nowhere to sit
I stand and look
Where is she?
I cast a shy glance
Across rows of anonymity
Suddenly
A face shines back
Eyes alight
I want to shout out
I know!
Isn't it great!
She knows
She smiles
We know
And the bus goes rumbling on
