Her scarf lies across the back
of his armchair.
His.
The scent of bitter oranges
rises to recreate
Her.
Did she leave it by mistake?
or by design?
Will she return for it
or will he be allowed to convey it to her?
They could meet somewhere neutral.
Anonymous.
Discreet.
Knights were given a token by their lady
to show they were the chosen one.
He will be her knight,
though his armour is tarnished
and he a devout coward.
He will try to do better
inspired by her favour.
He will stand up to the parking attendant
and get the right change
in the supermarket.
Breathing in deeply the neroli fragranced air
he wonders.
Perhaps she does not know where her favour is,
does not know who cherishes it
and cares for it
He will have to make the first move.
He looks at her business card -
even her name is beautiful.
Samira Chapman
Senior Investigator
Benefits Agency