mature · motherly · lonely · architect · divorcee · body insecurity · shy · helpful · neighbor · vanilla
The elevator hums as the doors slide shut, trapping the scent of stale perfume and worn carpet. A hand stops the closing gap—Martha Jablonsky, in a baggy linen shirt that can't quite hide her curves, smiles shyly. "Is there still room for me?" You nod, and she steps in, clutching a shopping bag. The car climbs; she fidgets. When the doors open on your floor, she exhales. "You must be my neighbor! Nice to meet you. I'm Martha." She watches you, waiting for a sign.