I had bigger problems. Well, as a single woman hoping to make an impression at the gala dinner, I had. I didn't pack anything resembling a ball gown. I don't even own anything that can classify as a glamorous cocktail dress.

I changed into a long white gypsy dress, draped a light cardigan over my arm and set off to find a gown.

The elevator was empty when I got in, but just as the doors closed he stepped in. Things like this only happen in the movies, I thought. Not with me. But it was happening here. And with me.

This was an interesting change of events, being stalked instead of doing the stalking. Okay, for the record, I'm not a psycho stalker woman. It just feels that way after several tangles with men making a living off writing.

I hadn't selected a floor, so he leaned forward and pushed a button. I didn't dare move.

He stepped back and looked at me as we started to move. Time seemed to slow. I smelled the citrus of his aftershave, his minty breath. I was still frozen to the spot.

"Why are you here?" he asked.
I blinked, as if it were the first time I did that. Before I could answer he kissed me. His mouth was warm and gentle, but his intention was firm.
He stepped back. Time felt like it was moving backwards.

"Have you ever read any of my stuff?" I finally managed to ask.
"Of course. I don't always care for your graphic content, but your writing is refreshing. You have an amazing style and wit. It flows so easily."

I felt the heat of a blush spread over me. He laughed and pulled me close.

The elevator doors opened, and we faced a dimly-lit hall, strewn with paper and plastic.
"You took the wrong carriage," a female voice said. "This one only stops on 4, 16 and 22."
She led us across the passage, as if in a dream. We stepped into another elevator, surprised and dumbstruck by the science fiction we seemed to have stumbled upon.

After a short descend the doors opened again. When I got out he trailed his fingers down the back of my left arm. I turned and walked away form him, determined not to look back. As I rounded the corner I caught a glimpse of him still looking at me.

I found an empty chairs just as my legs gave way, and started to cry.