"The Abduction"
Michael Knapp

It was casual conversations
Everyone glancing at the door
In a diner called 'The Usual'
Simply that and nothing more

The waiter pours another cup
Staring eyes without intention
He blames the loss on everyone
Saying 'you are my detention'

I decide to get my coat and leave
I put the waiter's tip on the table
All eyes ask 'where are you going?'
'I could stay, but I'm not able'

Laughter grows as I look back
I see myself with an empty smile
The waiter locks the door and asks,
'It's dead outside, won't you stay awhile?'