I learned with sadness she’s again unwell.
We wouldn’t meet for lunch or see the play.
I texted three with offers, but could tell
it wasn’t how I wished to spend the day.
I needed quiet, and could not compel
myself to sit all afternoon away
from home, in crowds, with mask and nodding head.
We finally postponed the plan instead.

Like obligated calling that completes
by leaving word, full happy no one speaks,
my offers scored some credit socially.
But we still have the tickets. Fortune treats
us well if she’s recovered in two weeks,
when we can dine and watch the play mask-free.