Fourth Floor

Apartment #403

"Hello."

"Hi."

"May we come in?"

"Umm. Do I know you?"

"No. But I think my daughter would like to know yours. We're from across the hall, and she's been dying to play with her."

"Oh, I see. What's your name, honey?"

"Ashley."

"That's a beautiful name. My daughter's name is Zoe and she's in that room."

"Can I play with her?"

"Sure."

"..."

"..."

"So uh, my name is Zack."

"I'm Angie."

[Loud male voice.]

"Was that your husband?"

"No, that voice must've come from the TV in Zoe's room. My husband died three years ago."

"Oh, I'm so sorry."

"It's okay."

"..."

"..."

"I don't have a wife either, you know."

"Oh?"

"She left. A few months back. Didn't even say goodbye to Ashley or anything. Just one morning she's cooking breakfast and laughing with us and the next, all that's left is a piece of paper on her pillow."

"I'm so sorry."

"It's okay."

"..."

"..."

"Why don't you sit down and I'll bring you some coffee?"

"Yeah, that'll be nice. Thank you."

"No problem."

[Soft exchange of smiles.]

"By the way, you and Ashley can stay as long as you want."

"Thank you for the hospitality."

"Thank you for coming over."

"..."

"Well, I should get that coffee brewing, shouldn't I?"

"I'll help."

"Thank you. The kitchen's this way."