the good bartender

I haven't seen you in a while
the bartender says,
setting a glass of gin
and tonic with a slice of
lime on the bar,
pushing it slowly in
your direction.
he throws a clear swizzle
stick in, against the jeweled
ice, tucks a napkin
under the wet glass.
where you been? he says,
throwing a bar rag over his
shoulder, leaning with
both hands against the polished
mahogany. you take a sip
and shake your head, thanks,
you tell him. he walks away.
he knows everything there is
to know, no need to say it.
he gives you a menu,
leaves you alone.