The New Neighbor

Emma was making tea when she heard a delivery driver in the hall. A minute later, she opened her door and found a brown box on the floor. The address was almost right, but the name was not hers.

The label said “Mr. Patel, flat 3B.” Emma lived in 3A, next to an empty flat that had finally been rented. She could have left the box outside, but rain was coming through the open window in the hall.

She picked up the box, walked one step to the next door, and knocked. A man with tired eyes opened it. Behind him, Emma saw suitcases, books, and a lamp without a shade.

“I think this is yours,” Emma said. Mr. Patel looked relieved. He explained that he had moved in that morning and still did not know the delivery code for the building.

Before Emma returned to her flat, he asked her about the nearest supermarket. She gave him directions, and they talked for a few more minutes.