I wanted to buy a book today

I wanted to buy a book today.

The distant eyes seem so close when their gaze is fixed on you.

I wanted to buy a book today.

My hand glided upon the glossy covers as I endured the transfixed look of
the “diligent” workers.

I wanted to buy a book today.

I picked up a novel covered in graphics and checked the price. $38.00.

I wanted a book today.

But the searing eyes burned through my heart and made me scared to desire
it anymore.

I wanted a book today.

But instead I scrambled out of the place that I wasn’t wanted.

Fled the scene in which others already imagined that I’d steal.

Although I wanted a book today, it wasn’t worth the humiliation I’d endure,

because I couldn’t afford the book anyway.