why are they being nice?

i suspect anyone

with a cake

coming towards me.

anyone with a wrapped gift

and a card.

or blowing up balloons,

being festive.

i'm concerned about

anyone

smiling brightly

with lipstick on.

i think, what are they up to?

what's with the perfume?

what's the game.

what will i owe

them for this visit,

for words of flattery

and kindness?

what's the deal here with

people being nice?