Elevator Music

It seemed to make no stops between the lobby and their designated floors.  Other than the motion of the steadily rising elevator, which was the only noise that filled the awkward space between the two strangers, things were relatively quiet and dull.  The music was noticeably absent that night.


She glanced at her watch.  He glanced at her.  She looked up.  He looked away.  Furtiveness.  He cleared his throat, then turned to her.  He asked her from where was she traveling.  She mentioned from just upstate.  She asked him for what reason was he in town.  He mentioned for business.  Ah, business not pleasure, she jested, Certainly.  His grin was mischievous.  The ninety seconds that followed were accented with notes of laughter and sweet wit.  The initial awkwardness of two strangers was soon eclipsed by an open, friendly exchange.


When they reached the twenty-eighth floor and the doors slid apart for her to exit, she thanked him for the good company and delightful conversation.  Pleasure, he replied with a smile.

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Now in their golden years, they occasionally look back on that rather serendipitous evening and relive the most enchanting elevator music that was never heard.