Not for all the Tea in China

[someoneingrey]

If I were smarter, or if this were
an intellectual debate instead
of whatever we have become
perhaps I could win this round
or even the next. We both know
stubborn is an art form
and we are both accomplished players.

Shall I set you tea, or a place
at my table? Will you consent to dine
on tooth and nail as we fight
a dance we've done
for nigh on ten years?
Shall I watch another dawn
with malice in my heart and tacks
mixed in with my words?
Or will you answer a simple question?

Yes or No?
It's all I ask. All I have ever asked of you
and what you can't answer
even for all the tea in China.

.