At the bus stop, the kid beside me hides death,
like a wolf in silk, he shoots me a sly grin.
I toss him a gentle smile and a quick nod,
let him know we’re cool, we’re kin, on the same side.
His too-tight black jeans reveal a secret.
The wolf, a fang pressing against
pursed lips.
The glint of a silver tooth peeking
from a shallow pocket.
I don’t know him.
I don’t know his side.
I don’t know who his knife has tasted.
My lungs tighten with the thought of home.
My pocket, toothless, is all gums.
I feel him looking at me.
Aware, we wait in silence
for our shared ride.
Every breath between us
is a slow dagger drawl.
Members of different packs,
but sheep deep inside.
Should I let him get on first?
Easier to ward off an attack.
Should I let him get on behind?
Make him feel safe.
I’d rather not see it coming.
I glance at him.
A wolf’s glance,
a sheep’s silence
He looks at me.
“After you.”