Flim Noir

Most guys have a chance with a dame who puts out
vibes like she was sucking a bone the minute before
you were introduced, and hasn't had time to wipe
her face. Her eyes go wide as she covers her mouth
with the back of her hand - that antique damsel
in peril pose, familiar from stills of old black
and white flicks - but why is she giving you that look?

She must have seen you do it. You're tumbling quick
to the need to review your not-kill-again vow.

She knows.

And there's nothing you can do in here, not in front
of all these gins and old-fashioneds. So chill,
play it smooth and off. She can't know you know

what she knows - any more than the next one
will.

Besides, she is built like her dress
is a cry for help. Just position yourself

as an honest man
whose only pleasure ever

in life is to serve.
That's true enough, in a sense
too richly deserved.
Knowing what she must, she can't fall
for it. But the trap you twisted out
of your head won't fit, without
more moving parts than you have.
You'll need to rope a buddy in
who you know is square,
and who owes you a life. You know
he'll be glad of a job. It will have

to take place outside. In the dead of a night

on the dark of the moon. So

You have some time to get to know
your roles. Stock still and posed

in a crowded room.