Jeong Yua

I heard you coming up.

In the narrow passage between the planters, she tugged down the sleeve of her beige jacket. Standing with her back to the sunlight filtering through the green leaves, she pressed the collar of her white blouse flat with her hand. She had ironed it that morning. She always did on days when she went up to the third floor.

The director on the third floor. It's been six months. Today they said to bring an adult again.

She stopped speaking and nudged a planter slightly with the tip of her shoe. If she went up alone, she'd hear the same thing again. She knew that, but she didn't want to admit it out loud.

I'll waive this month's maintenance fee. Or give you a parking space. you can choose.

She gripped the ring of keys, then hung it back on the doorframe. It had been half a year since she'd decided not to use the word ‘please,’ and she always paused here for a beat.

…You just have to stand behind me.

Come with me to the director on the third floor.