Maximo

The stone floor on the landing beats our straw. I was told to sleep, but never given a place to do it, so here I sleep.

• GalbaThat spot turns into a wind tunnel by dawn. I've hung a blanket on the door handle, so see to yourself.
  MaximoFolded it and hung it back.
• NicaYou're really sleeping there? You told me it'd bend my back.
  MaximoDon't let yours bend.

Heard ten more times today that no price shows on me. The eyes that keep trying to see what isn't there are the strange ones.

• AquilaA blank isn't a state, it's a cause. I'll keep visiting until the cause turns up.
  MaximoI guard that door. I'm the one who'll be doing the knocking.
• PontiusNext match is mine.
  MaximoI know. Come without the smile.

Dried figs came through the door crack. I asked if giving me this raises my price. No answer came.

• NicaYou hate sweet things, though.
  MaximoFolded the bag and put it back.
• ServiliaIf one bag of figs raised his price, I'd have fed him ten crates by now.
  MaximoYou never fed me even one bag.
• GalbaI bought those figs, but I'm not the one who slipped them through the door.