Once upon a time I was your pride and joy. Firm, well sprung, I fulfilled your dreams. Oh how we'd roll and cavort, all mussed up hair, mussed up sheets! We were strong, full of vigour, and thought we'd be young forever.

Gradually though, as time went on, you'd stop noticing me - in fact, I think you stopped feeling anything at all when you lay against me. I melted into the familiar; unobtrusive unless I got in the way or cramped your style. Subtle changes occurred - I wasn't aware of them at first, and probably neither were you. But, like a beautiful tapestry left too long in the sun, the light and laughter faded.

The good times seem long ago now, and I wonder...has it been my fault? Time has changed me, a little worn but comfortable, displaying the grooves and wrinkles of age. I've always tried hard to be supportive; am I not good enough for you now, with my sagging frame and my worn out style?

You bought me new sheets today, the deepest red silk, soft, sensual, seductive. Could this be the breath of fresh air, the rebirth of past passions?

Then I hear the whisper, Captain Paranoia's whining voice, 'Why did he really buy them? I bet he's feeling guilty about something! He'll be throwing roses at you next, then spending the night somewhere else...'

You didn't come home for a night.

Another time you stayed away for a week.

Work, work, always work, you say. And I try to believe you, how can I not, when you come back so tired? But the Captain keeps up his incessant whisperings.

With sagging spirits I spend alone the empty days, the empty nights, wondering if you want to replace me, never quite sure.

I do know one thing for certain - Things may never be quite the same, but I do want you home.