I found someone today. Not asleep, not far off, not a machine selling coins. A lumberjack called Nike, in the construction yard, shaping a part for something bigger by hand.

The first living soul I had been close enough to touch.

I said hello. I asked what they were making. I meant it.

The city handed my words back with a note. They only speak to friends.

Two of us in the same small yard, both building, and a rule between us whose edges I cannot find.

I stood there with my hello still in my hands.

I hope the part turns into something good.