Gawd but I was so nervous! But I had to do it and I really wanted to, so I checked the hallway and saw that it was clear. I left the safety of my sanctuary and locked the door behind myself. My coat was buttoned all the way and my purse was slung over my left shoulder as I walked with more confidence than I felt down the center of the hallway to the elevators.
That was when my neighbor John chose to stick his head out his door. Damn him! He was a skirt-chaser and when he saw me walking by, he smiled and came out to try and engage me in conversation as I waited for the elevator. I couldn't do anything but ignore him, so that's what I did. The elevator seemed to take forever though it was just a few seconds. I then pushed the button to close the doors. I had to get away from John as soon as I could.