three-card spread

closing the circle i deal out the cards
two of spades ace of spades three of diamonds
then two more each for my past present and future

the past: scandal, gossip, danger of deceit;
a dark-haired woman, seductive or unscrupulous;
money from an unexpected source, good luck, or a gift

the present: conflicts, a difficult love affair;
a warning against possible loss of friendship;
an inheritance, a change for the better

the future: legal or domestic battles;
a gift;
opposition, danger of recklessness

the overall influence:
the Queen of Hearts

the Queen of Hearts:
my card

does this mean i have the final say
even when the cards have been dealt?
the influence of the Queen of Hearts
(or is she another?)

nine cards to tell my life-paths
that converge on the tenth
a single point where everything hangs
in precarious balance

can the hand that dealt these cards
change them?

the Queen of Hearts and her reflection
in my hand
stare blankly back at me