but i wasn't ready

she says, let's arm wrestle
and puts her hand up.
i want to see how
strong you are. see
if you're man enough
for a woman like me.
she spits into the palm
of her hand then slides
war and peace
beneath her elbow
to make it even.
she grips your hand,
her palm disappearing
into yours. go she
says loudly and slams
your hand down
against a plate of
linguini. winner, she
shouts, winner. i'm
stronger than you.
your turn will come.