Clinging onto the last days of summer, I throw on a dress and head to the supermarket for a cold drink.

I inhale a strong smell of pumpkin spice and cinnamon on my way to the check outs.

My body feels obliged to turn around and investigate. An invisible Jack Skellington puts his arm around my shoulder and guides me to the aisle. Candles, air fresheners and Halloween decor greet me with a warm welcome.

‘My favourite time of the year’, I think to myself as I hold one of the candles to my nose.

I imagine strolling through a field of pumpkins, leaving a trail of muddy boot prints as I go. Scarf wrapped around my neck, long coat floating in the autumn breeze, wheelbarrows filled with orange balls tumbling around with excitement that they’ve been chosen. Ready to light up somebody’s room with a warm, festive glow. I wonder what faces will be carved into them. I feel my mindless gaze deepen as I stare with blurred vision at the shelves below.

An elbow bumps my arm. Reality is brought forward as I accept the apology of the stranger reaching for washing powder.

I wonder momentarily why I’m wearing this dress. I’m ready for summer to end. I’m so ready for summer to end.

I glance at the leaves on the trees as I head back to my car. ‘Soon they will fall’, I think. ‘Soon the ground will be painted golden’.

I change out of my dress and into a comfy jumper and leggings. Home just in time for the rain. Perhaps a horror film will cure my autumn craving.