Avoiding puddles, I reached the bus stop, which was deserted. Maybe due to the chilly weather, the pavements were quieter than usual, with a lone person or two crossing the streets. The sky was slightly overcast, but I'm glad it wasn't raining as it has been for the past few days. From a distance, I spotted a green single decker bus approaching. Squinting through my foggy spectacles, I flagged it down after noticing the correct pixelated digits on the screen. The bus lazily strolled into the stop and stopped a couple of steps away from me.
I boarded the bus alone, for the first time in awhile.
A little scared, and a little nervous, I never really liked spending time outside alone. The bus wasn't crowded, and I gladly plopped down into a row of empty seats, situating myself by the window. I could feel the cold rubber seat against my thighs, sending a wave coldness as I shivered unintentionally. Maybe I should have worn longer pants today.
Another chill came over me. A pinch of fear struck me.
There is an empty seat beside me.
In the span of this estimated 40 minutes bus ride, will it be occupied?
The bus continued on its' journey, not realising the fear of one of the few passengers on board. Calmly making its' way through the traffic lights and under the overhead bridges, a couple of stops were passed with minimal passengers alighting and boarding. The situation was beginning to look optimistic, in contrast to the slight drizzle and started unknowingly. I absentmindedly watched the family in the nearby car, silently celebrating the fact that the seat next to mine was still gleefully empty. Until... ...
That one certain stop arrived. I should have known, it wasn't my first time taking this route. A swarm of passengers boarded the bus, a couple of aged ones too. Seats were starting to fill up. The one behind me, across the aisle from me and even the standing bay was soon occupied. Are the ample seats remaining excluding the on next to me? Do I need to give up my seat?
Someone sat next to me.
I am sandwiched between her and the window. I reluctantly shifted myself closer to the window, subtly glancing at my neighbour. She didn't seem to care or mind. Fishing out her mobile phone from her handbag, she stayed glued to the screen. What if I needed to get off? I would have to speak up, won't I? I rather not. I really hoped she will alight off before I do.
*Side note:
Another descriptive post, hopefully it is better this time around. Also, I managed to write a post for every month last year. I didn't skipped any months, and kept the promise that I made to myself, which I rarely do. I guess this is an achievement unlocked? I hope I will uphold this promise this year too.
