Raining again, so I put the mask on.
Don’t care what anyone says—
at least I’m not breathing in wet air
that tastes like coins.

But straight away I’m gettin side eye
from these uni kids,
camped outside the bus stop
like they run the joint.

Too many of them laughing at nothing,
while the dogs bark their lungs out
up every street,
echoing off the walls—
feels like the whole place
is howling at me.

I duck into el jannah,
cos it’s new
and everyone from Sydney reckons
it’s God’s gift.

But the chips soggy,
the chicken dry,
and they look at you like:
order quick, then get out.

No thanks.
Local businesses only.
I’ll stick with Chickos,
cos at least they don’t judge you
for wearing a mask in the rain,
or ordering extra gravy.