Together by Andrew Shephard

The last train has been and gone.

A destination board illuminates two bicycles

alone at last in the station rack,

locked in an embrace.

His, angular, splattered with mud,

leather saddle built for endurance.

Hers, rounded, set up for comfort,

dressed in a fashionable lilac livery.

His front tyre touches hers,

like horses nuzzling in a field.

A hard helmet rests in her wicker basket.

Did he ring her bell? Was she impressed by whistles?

Days pass. Images are analysed.

Two men clad in blue plastic,

armed with bolt cutters and compassion,

carefully set the lovers free.