31.10.07

A handsome young construction worker walks in the newsagent to buy some cigarettes. I hear him mutter the name of a brand - there was something incongruously effeminate about it. Does he like a particular scent about him when he smokes? I know it wasn't Benson and Hedges. In the time it takes for his order to be placed and the transaction to be fulfilled, he empties at short, sharp draughts a can of Lucozade. On his way out he places the freshly emptied can on a shelf in a peculiar manner of disposal that I observe as I take a second glance at his handsome form. He sees me see him do it, the can falters, falls to the floor, and with his plan foiled, he leaves with can in hand, obviously against his original wishes and embarrassed at being so caught.