You call it grace
But it's just good timing
You talk in mirrors
So no one's really lying

You shake the hand
You feed the fear
Smile wide enough
To disappear

You look concerned
But your eyes are off-duty
Every favor has a barcode
Every hug's a little movie

I'm not bitter
Just observant
You call it help
I call it purchase

You show up when I'm breaking down
Just to write it in your crown
Every tear's a social cue
You taste the pity when it's new

You ask
How are you?
But you mean
Am I still winning?
You call it care
But it sounds like business

Chrome smile
Polished tone
Everyone's kind
When they're not alone

I learned the game
I play it slow
Pretend to feel
Pretend to know