the close call

the policeman
on the phone, or is he,
says, you are not in any trouble,
we just
want a donation.
a contribution to our
fund.
any amount will do,
I let out a sigh,
and look out the window,
pulling the shade back
just so.
I turn the computer off
and slip
my new book, fifty shades
of purple
under the mattress
next to a pair of handcuffs
and a can of whipped cream.
then i sit down,
and wipe
the sweat from my brow.
is ten dollars, okay?
I ask.
do I get a sticker for
my car too?