Trust

An unexpected guest
after a second, second glass of wine
an interesting story.
A client had visited earlier that year.
This was her testimony.

Change had occurred, she was certain
no scent, e-mail or unfamiliar phone number
just furtive distraction and counterfeit attention.

Some solutions do not require formal logic
conviction – without evidence or trial.
An appointment with a lawyer
and an unexpected question.
Is it knowledge? Or suspicion?

Knowledge and suspicion
different entities : different issues – different solutions.
Agitated and distressed she will be treated as fool
no one is going to take what she has
she will leave on her terms.

Although not sought
counsel is offered.
The clock is stopped
if no action is taken – no invoice – no record
for 45 minutes a chilling, unfolding inventory of loss.
A much smaller house
in an area of much greater social inequality
contracted income and expanded expenses
two embattled opponents
constantly drafting truces with conflict weary children.

Is it worth it? Just for intuition.
Go home drop a hint
the guilty are careful listeners
fear of prosecution is a powerful corrector
if nothing changes come back.

Later that same night
after a second, third drink
a question – will doubt it go away?
“ Probably not.”