The but

This is my second submission to Lockdown Love Stories.

The first was light-hearted - a tale of my return to dating after two years of celibacy.

And then I met you, with your mysterious and unassuming profile. We met first on a Sunday afternoon at Camden Lock, some light conversation and a few cans in the sun. You booked a cocktail bar for two weeks later - Friday 7pm, and I finally made it home Sunday 10pm.

I was hooked. 6 more full weekends together have followed. Now you visit in the week too. Drinks, sex, bowling, table tennis, pubs, bars, restaurants, cinema. We've cooked for each other. Commuted together. Booked a holiday. I wear your clothes.

We're so drawn to each other, the attraction is intense yet effortless and easy. You make me feel so desirable but also comfortable around you.

And here comes the but. My new job. The news arrived when we had just met. I'm leaving. For another city, in another country, during a pandemic. We have 8 weeks left.

I've been alone 5 years, and here you finally are. And I have to leave you behind