Strange Milieu

Chance Encounters

Christmas vacation had just begun.

The students of the University were all on vacation--as was I. But, I still had quite a few things to put in order before taking the much needed break.

I listened to my own footsteps as I made my way towards our lab. Without classes, the building was empty--save for the guards and the custodians, and they were all chatting in the lobby. It was so still that I immediately sensed the shift in the air when you open your faculty room door. You're there to wrap a few things up, as well. Like me, you weren't expecting anyone else.

We stare at each other for a moment before I decide to turn and walk away. But, before I could turn my decision into conscious action, you raise your hand in greeting, "Oi."

"Hey," I respond lamely. My smile doesn't hold much reality in it. I quickly lower my eyes, trying to hide my apprehensions about speaking to you.

You approach me, but not close enough to touch. I could reach out and my fingers wouldn't graze your shirt. "I'm sorry," you say in that quiet tone of yours that tells me you're serious. You hate apologizing. The last time you did, you had a grin on your face, as if you had no idea what you were doing. You're a proud person. 'Sorry' is a word that is alien to you.

"You didn't do anything wrong," I explain in a voice that matches yours. You smile, you're about to extend your hand in friendship, but I stop you in your tracks. "But I'm sorry, too."

"For what?" you ask.

I look you in the eye to try to convey the message that I am serious as well. "Because I can't accept your apology just yet. I'm not ready to let go of things just yet. So, I'm sorry." I bow my head and begin to walk away.


And, it's a pointless encounter that I want to happen as I stand in front of the classroom you teach in during school days. But, perhaps because it is a pointless encounter, it doesn't happen, and probably never will.

posted by beautiful stranger @ 1:15 AM