tea..

I was on my way out, trying to strap the velcro of my floaters on, running down the stairs.. and something about the scene in front of me made me slow down.. the two old friends sitting on the sofa.. at right angles to each other.. with their legs stretched out on the small centre table.. talking about old times and motor cycle days and retirements and knee ailments.. I've seen pictures of them from their bell bottom days.. one with a french beard and shades.. and the other with a thick pointy edged mouche and a cowboy hat.. And now here they sit.. with their stretched out legs on the centre table.. the french beard has disappeared.. he has a pot belly now and his knees are giving him trouble.. The other has skinnied down... balding slightly.. his moustache trimmed and almost entirely grey... She brings in tea and sliced plum cake.. Black tea for her husband, the other one for his friend.. She pushes the plate of cakes towards their guest. As he sips his tea, he thanks her and even though she tilts her head and raises her eyebrows as if to say, 'There's no need'.. I can see she's pleased.. She sits down with them as her husband reaches out for the cakes.. and I'm on my way out smiling at the trio..