There are two ends to every banana.

The first end, the symbolic, sensual side of the story, the beginning, contains goodness and promise.

Watch, carefully, as the fruit is peeled and slowly consumed, absorbed into the body with gentleness and love.

Eyes meet as the awareness of the message dawns.

She flushes, suddenly conscious of meaning, unable to take it out of her mouth, her body, but acutely aware of his eyes, his thoughts, his desire.

The second end, the real end, is final, slightly sad.

The fruit has been partially eaten, and he holds the remnants hopefully, wanting to be of use.

She had need of the energy – in a few minutes she will be running, running away perhaps – and now she is preparing herself mentally and physically for the challenge.

She is in control. He waits. She leaves….

He has lost her. The skin, slowly changing colour, offers itself as yet another symbol.

He slips away.