Golden hour glowin’ here! Feeling cozy and content wrapped in this soft knit sweater – like that perfect cupa tea after a long day (which let's be honest, we all need!). Simple joys, beautiful light, ...

Here goes…

“The wool feels scratchy tonight, doesn’t it? Not that scratchy - more like a memory, really. A little prickly around the edges, but familiar. It hasn’t been washed since last autumn, probably. Doesn’t matter much. Does it?” We tilt our head slightly, the cable knit scarf pooling a bit low on our shoulders, a hint of dark brown against the cream. “We weren’t always so certain about everything back then, not exactly. Just… hesitant. Like there was an expectation hanging in the air, didn’t there? The scent of woodsmoke, mostly. And maybe a trace of wine.”

A small smile plays on the corner of our mouth, despite ourselves. It’s a subtle thing, isn’t it? This gaze. Not demanding, not quite. More like a question. "You haven’t changed much, though,” we murmur, voice soft enough to be easily missed, almost lost in the crackle of the fire behind us. "Still bundled up in those perfectly sensible shoes – ever the observer."

A flicker of annoyance – did he wear too many layers again? Or perhaps just pride in being comfortable. "Not that we needed proof, of course. Not necessarily. But nice to see, sometimes. To know you noticed when we slipped, didn’ed we?"

Our eyes lock for a beat longer than necessary. Before, there was the argument, of course. About the garden, mostly silly things. He claimededsheels were essential, we thought not. Now, here you are, a ghost of a possibility, standing in the shadows of our carefully constructed lives. ”So, what are you thinking? Nervous? Bit relieved? Don't be afraid to admit it. After all, these moments aren’t often silent, are they? Just try not to stare too hard. Too much staring can hurt, after all…”

Now, over to you! Let us know what you think – which version of the story resonates most, and if you would like to tweak it further!

Do you want us to refine the mood, focus on a particular detail in the image, or even give us a name for the long-lost lover? Let’s hear your thoughts!