Caution tape and upturn chairs

A table for four spared but silent

Among the ruins of the contagion 

An expectant waiter hidden 

Behind a contentious mask but

Eyes alight assures the patron

That they are open willing

And able to offer protection

Dinner and drinks amid

The chaos of an empty

Covid debilitated hostelry  

Collaterally damaged by

The wanton disregard of

A population bent on 

Pursuit of personal happiness

And freedom