Borrowed Time

The light above the table dims
Amidst the dust it sways
With narrow eyes, they both sit poised
But time will tell who stays

It’s the same draw that sits them here
Different prices paid
Against this weight they stack their chips
A choice was hardly made

Too many kings reflect on queens
Contests they should have played
Without the nerve to call a bluff
Their chance at grandeur fades

Expression built this deck of cards
A hand unseen, still raised
Held so firmly against her chest
Vague edges have since frayed

He knows, and could not wager more
The utmost stakes are laid
Instinct, with time, will tell of hearts
For eyes, revealed just spades