I am shopping for food at my regular supermarket.

I usually choose to go during lunch time, it’s less crowded.

I am looking for a particular shampoo and hair conditioner, absorbed by the many brands on the shelves.

A woman ‘s presence is felt, I don’t see her but I can smell her: the scent is recognisable and familiar.

I close my eyes and inhale the air, I cannot help, but smile.

I am brought back to my past, there is no mistake, the perfume she is wearing is Chanel #5.

I take in the complex fragrance, a harmonious composition of rose and jasmine.

It reminds me of fresh clean linen, lakes and rivers… I see a face: hers, it’s so clear.

A picture comes to mind, she is in a rose garden and she is smiling at me, glowing in the faded sunlight.

I know it’s not real, she can’t be here, but it feels like it.  I want this instant to last.

This unknown woman brought her back, if only for a few seconds and I am grateful and yet melancholic.

I open my eyes and the mysterious woman is looking at me a bit puzzled and says:

“There is so much choice, I can’t decide which shampoo to buy.”

I tell her:

“You smell good, it’s Chanel #5, isn’t it?”

She nods:

“Yes, how do you know?”

“My mother used to wear it, it was her perfume.”

I have a knot in my throat, it’s like one of those Proust moments, but it’s not a “Madeleine”, it’s Chanel #5.