Stuck

I put my card in

and nothing happened.

The metal bars didn't move.

Behind me, someone breathing.

The moment stretched.

I tried again. Still nothing.

The bars held firm against my palm.

The person behind me

getting impatient. I could feel it.

My card in my hand,

useless. The turnstile

wouldn't give. Wouldn't let me through.

I was stuck between

the bars and the waiting,

between going and staying.

The person behind me sighed.

I stepped back. Let them try.

They got through.

I didn't.