Autumn

The autumn leaves are falling fast now, the sudden dip in temperature over the last few days hastening their departure from this world, and signaling the end of another long year.

I used to love this time, the colourful leaves heralding the beginning of winter, the undisguised excitement and anticipation of festivities from my friends, and the gradual emergence of pretty fairy lights in the shop windows, decorating my way home.

Can I also confess another reason for my enjoyment of the end of summer and the beginning of the colder months?

I relished the sight of those black leather gloves passing past my desk every day, sometimes a single covered finger running along the edge as their wearer hardly broke stride on his way towards his office.

Did you imagine I noticed? Hope that I did?

I miss those gloves. I miss you.

Autumn seems devoid of colour without their – your presence in my life.