Leaks

The cafe is drafty in winter
because people keep
opening the door to go in
and out. Every time
conversation, steam,
fragrance, citizenship
leak the snow
leaving cold vacuum.

I envy the girls at the table
in the warmest part of the room
and watch them all through lunch.
Every time they laugh,
the girls put their hands to their mouths
like they are coughing.

At first I think they are
hiding their laughter
because the open mouth
isn't polite in public.
Then I realize
they are trying to keep
spirit from leaking out.