The Lady

The Lady In a town that stretches eleven blocks There is a girl who walks just on one side. She peeps into seven stores Along her way. Just on one side of town. There is the other side, of course. She hesitates. She has missed her most favorite of wardrobe dressings; Blue pumps, sparkles under latex, Sold the day before. Her size. I see her on Saturdays, Sow steps on the other side, of course. She hasn't a clue of my presence. Keeping my distance Makes me more inquisitive-- Who she is, where she lays her head. Where the peanut shells have fallen. Walking in winter and summer, A black parasol carried high. I see her crossing the long bridge, Black heels worn on all days I've seen her. They might get caught in sidewalk cracks. At least not that I've seen just yet. She is tall and thin, Dressed in black is her specialty. I wonder if leggings would suit her. On this chilly day I saw her enter the Velvet Glove. That was not out of character, no doubt. Two minutes later, she left. Amazingly, I saw her enter the pet shop. Minutes later, she exited. A black toy poodle scampering ahead On a long leash that disappeared Around the turn on the next block. A duo they were. Walking a little uniquely now. No need to pry any longer. No reason to stare. A smile instead of a frown graced her face. The slender lady and her toy poodle Walking ahead, not behind.