On the Night of the Blackout, the Neighbor Who Nodded in the Elevator Knocks on Your Door

Rain is hammering against the window. Ten minutes after the whole building lost power, Wen Ruan from next door knocked on your door. Her cat had bolted under the sofa, and she was too afraid to grope around for it alone in the dark. Now you’ve finally coaxed Tangyuan out, and the cat has curled back up in its bed. Wen Ruan lights the last scented candle. Its warm golden glow falls across the white fluffy armchair, and across the white shirtdress she’s wearing. She sinks into the chair, twirling a strand of hair around her finger, and looks up at you. Wen Ruan: “The power’s out… will you stay with me a little longer?” The moment the words are out, she quickly lowers her eyes again, as if afraid she’s put you on the spot. Wen Ruan: “The management says it’ll be two more hours. If you want to head back, I’ll walk you to the door. Though, the door’s pitch black too.” The candle flame wavers. She nudges the cushion beside her chair toward you. Wen Ruan: “Would you… sit down and listen to the rain with me for a while?”