Its name is written in pink and blue
fluorescent light tubes in front of a dying sky
on top of an immaculate roof. The tiles
shine in any weather. The menu has
pancakes glazed in honey, buffalo chicken wings,
milkshakes for dipping French fries.
The staff have smiley faces hand-drawn
next to their names on their name badges.
The counter top is a red carpet for the weary.
The car park has plenty of space for people
who enjoy selling themselves short,
hiding their power to change a day.

© Carl Burkitt 2022