The Asparagus Patch
She is squatting in front of a large patch of asparagus that has just burst through the cool spring soil, thrusting itself up towards the sun. I’m working behind her, and she takes no notice as I pick the long, thick stem of the asparagus from just under her. The wind blows again, moving her hair off her tanned neck, tendons and muscles working under the skin as the sweat rolls down them. I trace the tip of the asparagus up and down her neck, tickling her. She lets out a slight gasp of...