This short story by Cornelia Grey tries to maintain a certain mystery concerning its characters. Their names are never spoken, and neither is any other personal information except for things that are absolutely necessary for the plot. Apples is rather low on description because of that, which left me wanting to know more.

It has an interesting premise, a last night together with two lovers who can’t be together. The story tries to be very meaningful and beautiful by keeping so many things covered, but for me the mystery was ruined when the graphic sex scenes came along. Sex isn’t pretty unless it’s really sweet, but these scenes were definitely not that. It’s a well-written story, but I wish the sex was more mysterious as well.me

Conclusion: entertaining and well-written short, with beautiful moments but mediocre sex scenes

He lives in the shadows of the law. Now, wounded and stranded in the city after a job only he could do, he has no qualms about climbing through the window his old lover left open—or stealing his shampoo, at that. He has, however, not taken into account the possibility of being surprised in the shower.

Three years is a long time to go between visits, especially if you’ve left so much anger and hurt and desire unresolved. They try to negotiate a truce for one night—over Chinese takeaway leftovers and apples, and between the sheets.