The Girl Who Dreams

Chapter 2: The Elevator

Another day. Another overtime.

My eyes were getting droopy. Sometimes I ask myself why am I even doing this. I'm down to my last cup of coffee. I have to remind Joe to buy more sachets next time.

I stood up from my seat and stretched a little. The office looks a lot different in the day than at night. People running back and forth, papers everywhere, occasional client visits from time to time. It's just so full of life during the day, while at night it feels as if I'm in a cemetery. Too quiet. I should've gotten used to it by now since I've been doing overtime for almost a month now. But somehow this night feels a little...different.

I shook my head. Just need to focus on my work, and then I could home. And when I do I'll have a nice warm shower and probably have a cup of tea. Yeah, that's it.

Focus. Focus. Focus.

I kept repeating that one single word over and over again.

And sure enough, in a matter of minutes, I have accomplished my tasks.

Grinning, I thought to myself "The big boss will be surely impressed."

As I packed up my belongings, I couldn't help but feel as if there's someone watching me.

Okay, I think I'm getting paranoid. Need to get the hell out of there asap.

I pressed the elevator button.

I waited.

And waited.

And waited.

It seemed like someone else in the building was using the elevator.

But that was impossible.

Suddenly, the elevator arrived.

I held my breath as I wait to see who was inside. And upon my surprise, I saw Brian, our janitor.

"Hi!" I called out to him.

He simply smiled in return. He looked rather pale and thinner. Is he sick or something?

It was only a short elevator ride but the awkward silence made it feel like we've been there for hours.

Finally, Brian spoke. His voice was low and raspy. "I'm going home today. I can't wait to see ma and pa."

"That's good!" I replied. "Say hello to them for me, okay?"

Brian nodded.

The elevator had finally reached the ground floor.

"Have a good night Bri—"

I suddenly froze.

That's when it hit me - I was alone on the elevator.

But I could've sworn Brian stood right next to me.

I shook my head.

Need to get some rest. My mind's just probably playing tricks on me.

The following morning I received a voicemail from one of my coworkers.

"Hey, Matt. The boss wanted to let every employee know that our dearest janitor Brian had passed away in his sleep last night. Details about his wake are to follow. Please be advised."

I'm at a loss for words.

At first, I got scared. And then I got sad.

Brian was a real nice guy. Such a shame his life had to end early though.

I thought about our meeting last night. When he meant he was going home, he really did go home.