His suit disheveled and tie loosened, he was glad to arrive home that night. During the day, he had been involved in intense negotiations, with the mental strain of discerning the enemy’s intentions, surmising his plans and stratagems, foreseeing difficulties. Words used more like weapons of war than as a means to communicate.

As he approached the bedroom, he saw that the door was slightly open, and just then a strong spring breeze blew through the window, carrying the scent of her perfume out to the hallway. He felt his body relax with the thought of his beloved. He peeked through the door and saw her standing in front of the mirror, brushing her hair. She was wearing his favourite nightgown, the one he had bought for her in Milan. He then knew she was expecting him.

He quietly entered the bedroom as she pretended not to notice. He walked up to her, embraced her from behind, placing his hand on her hip. She closed her eyes and leaned back into him, enraptured by the moment.

Snuggling his face in her neck, he inhaled her scent with such intensity, it felt to her as though he were inhaling her soul. The words which had been so harsh during the day, suddenly became tender. He whispered his love softly in her ear. Her body shuddered and she surrendered to his desire.