Blindfolded, we were guided through the darkness, hand in hand, step by step across auneven carpet of leaves. I knew where we were going but I had to play my part. Not only the part of organising this party for my best friend but also the part of a loyal, trustworthy friend. I wondered if he was close by.

Music got louder, smells got stronger; as we felt forward towards the glow under the trees. I wondered how the guests felt. The atmosphere was alive, shrieks of joy and alarm as we moved deeper.

Then stillness…

‘Ladies and gentlemen! Release your blindfolds!’

As I untied the knot, the first eye contact I made was with him standing, hand in hand with her. My hard work and surroundings forgotten, unnoticed.