fold

Born contrary: Early and impatient,

I can’t tell (not one to hold out on my hand, but I can’t tell).

I can’t bluff—but misdirect

(As anyone would rather tales of their own tells told).

Convinced of a con, he calculates my pockets and

Shrugging them off as shallow,

Demands high stakes (but doesn’t go all in).

I’d rather be silent,

Holding drowsy, apathetic crowns close,

Than be caught empty handed, flushed with a smirking swagger.