Malta international airport, almost 7.30 am. My plane is boarding and as I join the line of passengers, I see a young couple embracing only a few metres away. As I approach I think they are both also boarding the plane, lovers who have come to enjoy a few days of holidays on this lovely island; then, as their ardent embraces continue, I sense the feeling of desperation that comes with goodbyes and understand they are enjoying their last minutes …