"Wouldn't have thought to find myself here".

I look up from the railing, a wry smile teasing the corners of my mouth as I approach.

    "Har har. Enjoy it while it lasts", I produce a crushed croissant from the bulging plastic bag at my feet and proffer it. I take the pastry and join myself in leaning against the wrought iron, the upturned beaks below turn expectantly.

    I settle into a companionable silence, punctuated by the frantic honks and splashes that greet each of my stale offerings.

    The bag of bakery seconds slowly empties, my shadows stretch over the canal to the lawns beyond. I play shadow puppets on the last few sunbathers.

    "This was nice", I think to myself.

    "I agree", I say aloud.

    "See you again soon?". 

I smile.

    "You know where I live". 

The park fades.

The sunbathers, the swans, the lawns, the wrought iron railing...

I open my eyes, I'm alone in my room again.

Well, nearly alone.