a burly dude brushes past me as the train door closes in. when the train inches forward, i see him on the platform seeking out my gaze. then he mouths “sorry.” in the station i emerge out in queens. a couple resolves to hold hands as they negotiate the steep incline of the exit stairs. each carries a bag bellied with groceries in their free hand. the twin vertical columns of light are still visible from this outdoor platform. climbing down, i thought i see someone i used to know. i ready a smile. but then he looks at me and for a second, i hold his gaze back. he was not that guy. then we move on like passing clouds in a dark night.