Slight reconsideration, standing on the chilly step. . .

to bring champagne might be a bit too much

as if wishing, yearning to be asked in

Took tall green bottle back inside, left it

kept bright-wrapped gifts

stepped out into the night.

Without the sky was clear, bright silver moon, calm air

Quite soon was standing chilled before his tall dark door

pressed button thrice! no bell pealed out, no sound

But he was visible, moving, talking

in warmlit kitchen there, visible

framed by the door's small window, safe within

At last nerved up, banged knuckles on the door

bravely, three hard raps

Like clockwork he appeared

surprise strong in his eyes, but no dark wrath

strange warmth, in fact, a welcome kind of welcome there?

Relieved! smiled, said a Happy New Year!

quick thrust bag toward him, turned swift to go . . .

he cried out no-no, you have to come inside

come in and meet my friend

just talking about you, he said (?!?)

she'll love to meet you now

Voiced my polite protests — have dance night plans!

time short! must go! must not intrude! and in I came

was sweetly welcomed by pretty dark eyed lady there

embraced with gentle warmth by her

then lovingly, it seemed, by him — turned once more to go

Called back again! must have one glass of wine at least

And on it went, an offering, refusal, coat on, coat back off

Comments on my shoes, my scent, my beauty, my cuisine

much amiable humour, cozy jokes — felt loving, shared good vibe

In time fine dinner shared, dessert, French music, lots of talk

he voiced repeated queries to the lady about going out tonight

each time she gently rolled her eyes at me, then said it's up to you

each time he put it off

until fifth time he met her up-to-you with his abrupt decision —

he didn't want to go, and I should leave them now

head off to my dance — and so I did,

a little startled, grateful still

pleasured to have seen him, seen him happy, handsome, well

had greeted him, at least, on last date of the calendar

already brighter night than what I'd feared.

***

(part 4, conclusion of "bright night," follows)