Don’t look at me that way:
expectant
hopeful.
This is not the place for that.
I cannot endorse your optimism
any longer.

I seek the safety of cynicism,
the support I gain
from never needing to try.
Your asking me to be or do something else
even silently
will not stand.
I cannot allow it.

Keep away
with your positivity.
I prefer something stronger
and I shall keep it.