Walking along, I came by a homeless man.
We made eye contact.
He’d clearly just been crying.
He smiled.
I really wanted to help him but I didn’t have any money.
I asked him if he just wanted a hug.
He stood up quickly, quite aggressively.
I knew I’d said the wrong thing.
Then we hugged.
First gently, then firmer.
He obviously needed some affection.
The hug went on and on.
I didn’t care that I’d miss my train, I didn’t care about anything else.
The hug was the only thing happening in the whole universe.
After our embrace he smiled at me again, as if to say thank you.
Then he said thank you.
I really needed that hug too.
I’ve had a loveless few years.
I couldn’t tell you just how lonely I’ve been.
I thanked him and rushed away, trying not to cry.
It was such a beautiful moment.
It’s a stupid little detail, but I did catch my train.
Anyway when I got home I realised that he’d stolen my wallet.
Six hundred fucking quid.
