City At Night

City At Night by Edmund Siejka It was cold outside I hadn’t shaved in days and I was hungry I was going to walk it Only a few blocks Through the same streets I walked every day So how bad could it be At 1 AM? The Diner’s neon sign Shone in sharp relief in the night. A greasy spoon type of place Inexpensive meals And large portions. The waiter leaned against the chrome soda dispenser Dark circles under his eyes Anything good? I asked Everything’s good he answered Quickly taking my order He resumed his post. I’ve been coming here for awhile and I don’t ever think I saw you around Without turning around I answered the stranger I’m just getting something to eat. I’ve been around lots of places he said And I think I can spot a victim of disappointment I’m a writer by day and at night a denizen of the streets Because of who I am I have become frugal So, I eat here to stay alive. Ignoring him I started eating When his chair creaked and swiveled I caught sight of his back when he left. I left the Diner around 2 am Footsteps echoed around me Anxious I looked around To be sure I was alone. Up ahead Two men were talking The taller of the two leaned against a car Arms crossed against his chest Watching me as I got closer Cold night, isn’t it? he asked. My breath curled out in the frigid night I carefully answered, Yes, it’s a little cold Out for a night time stroll? he inquired Before I could answer, the shorter of the two turned away It was then I quickly turned And hurriedly walked away. Behind me the thudding sound of a car door slammed shut Loud laughter broke the quiet of the night Theirs was a private joke And I was the intruder.