>>1[Strict Shopper]
Narita Taishin
Starlight dapples the stone with every step,
You rush ahead a tile and a half,
Too stubborn... too stubborn to look back yet.
Patchwork of people line the market;
You weave through crowds like the needle tracks
And I'm the thread pulled idly past
Warm glows emanate from of stalls,
Stringlit wares, shiny baubles.
Steam rises over hot chocolate cups
Cinnamon scents blend into the dusk─
"What's the hold-up? Don't get separated..."
I realize you've turned my way and waited.
I nod and you avert your gaze
Stubborn again, a tile and a half away,
Not a step further, not a step less
Keeping me close and distant yet.
Occasionally, you glance back at me
And I pretend I didn't see
I somehow feel, if our eyes meet...
This precious moment will abruptly end
And next I know, you'll be tiles ahead.
On this holy night, walking moonlit streets,
I keep your pace carefully,
And you lead our way slowly, gently.