20 JANUARY 1996, Page 28

Into His Plans

The truth, which on my more possessive days Lurks in the background, spoiling all the fun, That I am not the only game he plays, Neither am I the most important one, I've always known. I knew before I fell Into his plans. I knew because he said, And, flattered that he wanted me as well, I didn't wish he wanted me instead At that stage. Now I'm feeling discontent And longing for a more familiar mess Having been many people's main event, People who've hurt me more and liked me less Than he does — also knowing that it's wrong To think this way, not thinking it for long.

Sophie Hannah