Apparently, this moment is insufficient for me.
My consciousness is months in the future,
Choosing my words carefully,
Rehearsing my tone and articulation,
Anticipating your response,
And formulating my reply to it.
On and on and on I go;
My mind running through dozens of simulations,
In the span of a few seconds…

“…know what I mean?” you ask.

Wait.
What?
What did you say?
What did you say?!
“Yeah. Of course,” I answer.
Just keep smiling.

If only I had been better prepared!
I should have said this!
I should have mentioned that!
If I could only go back and have another chance;
I’d entertain you with my eloquence,
Captivate you with my charm,
Intrigue you with my intelligence…

“…what do you think?” you ask.

Not again!
I fumble for an answer,
And collapse, exhausted, into the silence.
This is ridiculous, I think to myself,
As I let out an aggravated sigh;
I’m with you, but I’m so far away.

“Is something wrong?” you ask.
“No. I’m alright now.”