aeb writes free verse that touches upon simple human events, thoughts, observations. He gave us permission to use this poem, and I hope he allows us to present more of his work in the future.
And aeb, if you’d like a brief bio, please feel free to send it along so we can add it!

Second-Hand Store

I saw them dart into the dressing room,
they didn’t see me.

I was briefly tempted to stroll by the door,
softly,
listening,
but did not intend to be a voyeur,
though,
as I say,
I was tempted.

Who wouldn’t be?

Maybe he was just going to tell her
the pants fit right,
or she had lost some weight
or …

I didn’t intend to let my imagination go wild.

It was their business,
though there was a sign on the door that
clearly stated,
“Only one person at a time,
thank you.”

The couple in the dressing room
may have had an urgent emotional issue
that needed to be dealt with.

Perhaps he was proposing marriage?
Maybe he was down on one knee?

I smiled,
embarrassed myself,
and pushed the thoughts from my head.

On my way out,
I saw the manager, speaking to a customer.
The thought of reporting the couple
never entered my mind.

© aeb, 8-5-2021