Under the Mulberry Tree

 

Eva held Paul's hand as they walked across the tree-lined square.  

September holidays were the best. Parents were back at work after seeing their little darlings off to the new school year.

What if it was only a weekend away. 

This was the first time in months she and Paul had any time together. They had been too busy with work. She'd normally come home by seven or eight. Often she went to bed alone and woke up alone, his side of the bed rumpled. 

Even weekends he locked himself in his man cave. 

This holiday she hoped for beach time, good food in a French restaurant, cuddling, even making love.

Two cafés were on the south side of the square across from the old marie and now a music school.

"Let's have an espresso," she said. She chose the one under the mulberry tree.

"What a smiley waitress," she said taking her first sip.

"I've taken apartment in town." He didn't look at her.