Unknown pursuer

i didn't notice you at first
as I boarded the tube
i squeezed into an overflowing
carriage and tried to read my book
whilst wedged against a man with an enormous back pack

later the carriage emptied
and i discovered a seat
but still i did not notice
that you were still there

when I came to my stop
you must have got off with me
I heard steps behind me
but didn't turn
it wasn't late at night

i emerged into sunlight
and so did you
i sensed a shadow
close to mine
but still i did not
feel concerned

a cough and splutter
notified me of your prescence
and a hesitant question
but I don't smoke so was
unable to help you
I didn't have a watch so the second question
could also not be
answered

then I looked at you
as you remained by my side
and then you stepped in front
and asked me for money
a negative reply
did not please you

and your hand pressed
against my chest
I stopped
and looked at
your hand
and placed
my hand over yours
not tenderly

i peeled your hand
from my chest
and looked into your
eyes

i saw neediness
desperation
but felt
threatened and
did not like
that feeling

did not want to help you

your pleading
went ignored

your desire for
enough money
to get back
to crystal palace
did not seem
plausible

why would you travel
to north london
without money to
return home

you did not
push the issue
you looked into
my eyes
and

retired
ungracefully