Gentleman

– Here, ma’am. Come closer to this side.

– Thanks.

– Where are you going to?

– Me… to Gràcia.

– Oh, me too.

The noise of the train braking and the doors opening, while the announcement system screams on the speakers. The elevator’s door opens.

– Take my arm, I’ll help you.

– You’re such a gentleman. What is your name?

– I’m Ramón, and you?

– Well… it’s better if you call me Mary.

– Then Mary it is. What brings you to Gràcia? Do you live here?

– No, I came to visit my grandson.

– Oh, I see. Erm, I’m sorry… How old is he?

– No problems. He is 7. Was supposed to be in school, but got sick. My daughter asked me to help.

– Can’t say no to that, huh?

– Hehehe, that’s true. But doing this makes me so happy.

The elevator announces system that it has reached the surface.

– Here we are. Closer to the sun once again. Where does he live?

– Not far, close to Verdi street.

– Yes, it’s close. Can I keep you company?

– You don’t need to…

– But can I?

– I can’t say no…

– Then don’t let go of my arm!

– I won’t. And you, what are you doing?

– Me? I was just in the registry delivering some paperwork. Widower life…

– My condolences. This is such a sad moment.

– It was, yes. But it was quite a while ago, now it’s just bureaucracy.

I feel his arm holding me tighter. We stop.

– Careful with the cars. Sometimes there’s crazy people driving in those streets.

– Yes, I’m sorry.

– No need to be, we’re already in a calmer street now. Almost there.

– Good to know. I’m not paying that much attention.

– Yes… unfortunately we’re even too close to the destination. I enjoyed talking to you.

– Oh, what a pity. I also enjoyed, thank you very much.

– Could we have coffee some day?

– I think so, I don’t imagine why we wouldn’t.

– Ok, now I’m going, then.

– But where to? Here, take note of my phone.

The pen dances on a paper while he writes the number.

– Thank you, Mary. It was nice meeting you.

– But you haven’t told me where you’re going now. Don’t you want to stay and have a coffee?

– You should stay with your grandson, he needs your attention. Me… I’m going back to the train station, I have some more stations before home.