The autumn colored sun was setting over the pole docks of the gondoliers. Her head was transfixed on the horizon no doubt watching a boat buoy on the waves swelling with her thoughts. Her loosely braided hair fell down her back and even at a distance he could see loose flyaway hairs catching the light. Her silhouette stretched into a shadow that formed a path leading him back to her. He walked to the start of it.
“Capri,” he called willing her to turn back to him, and though she flinched, she did not.
“Capri,” he tried again, albeit with more determination.
“Capri…”
“Don’t. Just say what you need to say and leave,” her arms were crossed below her smeared makeup.
He closed the distance, wrapped her up in his arms, and kissed her. And then he was in the water with a stinging cheek.