Today I left the office at 7.08pm. The sky was lit up in orange and blue hues. The evening downpour was reduced to a mere drizzle. I struggled with my umbrella. As I walked towards my car, a car alarm was bleeping loudly in the near distance. I cupped my right hand to my ear while gingerly skipping over the puddles of water. What does it matter anyway… water has seeped into my well-worn shoes. As I passed the huge tree at the road’s bend, heavier droplets of rain drummed onto my umbrella. Running across the street, I reached the rusty barbwire gate of the house. I padded through the house as quietly as I could. The padlock … sigh my boss should change it, really. Cursing and fiddling at it, I finally managed to work the lock.

I stepped out of the house and walked onto the street lined with houses on both sides. The light breeze funnelled into my direction. For a moment, I felt at peace. It does feel good after a long day at work. I love the rain. Sometimes you would drive over from work and patiently wait for me at my office and ferry me to my car. Today’s rain reminded me of that. I turned the corner, the drizzle picked up speed, the faint rumble of a motorcycle was a few meters behind me. I quickened my step, slightly stiffened in case it was a mugger. The rumble passed me. It was only a pizza delivery guy. The street became significantly silent then. I was the only person walking the street. The amber street lights lit the remainder of my path. There was Greenie. I must remember to get new batteries for my car beeper. The driver’s seat was slightly damp.

Really, I need to change the rubber skirting too.
On the road home, my mind was filled with thoughts that I want to say to you later tonight. I thought of writing you a letter after dinner. I couldn’t wait. I was a good driver today. I didn’t run the red light as I sometimes do. I didn’t want Greenie to skid into oblivion on the slippery road. There are still a number of things I would still want to do in my life. I still want to savour my favourite steamed pork strips with pickled vegetables dish mom occasionally makes. I still want to see you.

The sky was getting darker. Heavy clouds were still looming overhead. I drove on and reached home. I manoeuvred Greenie between the yellow Ford Ranger and black Vios and yes, I had successfully side parked once again! It was 7.35pm. And it was supposedly a five-minute car ride.

Mom coincidentally cooked your favourite dish tonight. Plum sauce pork with whole boiled eggs. When are you coming home again?

Love,
Shirley