Autumn’s leaves

Autumn’s leaves: “Come out and play!” You enticed us with colourful fun. The children danced and played around your waving arms as you showered them like the way they do in Nigerian parties. The next day, you invited me to sit on the bench next to you. You said you needed to express yourself. You told me an animated story. I watched you body shake with laughter in the wind. You laughed so hard that your tears started falling until you were completely naked. Then the cold shook you...I helplessly watched you empty yourself down to your last tear. It happened gradually but too fast for me to accept. I didn’t want to let you go. I was not ready. I objected :” Don’t go. I can’t breathe without you...please…” You refused to answer me. You withdrew where no one could find you. When I came closer to hug your cold body, I noticed the note you left me: “See you in Spring, babe. I’ve left Evergreen in charge. Nimeenda (I’ve gone) South, B…”