He Followed the Scent into the Elevator

I still flinch a little when I think of that elevator door. I was wearing a soft white top, wide brown trousers, monk shoes, my oversized canvas tote slung over one shoulder—and that perfume. Chypre, warm woods, a touch of fruit. Quiet but grounded. Just as the doors were closing, a large hand shot out and stopped them. I panicked and instinctively held my tote up like a shield. He laughed. “Hey—I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you. I’ve just… I’ve been following you for like half a block. What fragrance are you wearing? It’s amazing.” It wasn’t flirtatious. Just pure admiration. The last time someone asked, it was a taxi driver. This time, maybe an athlete? I didn’t realize it projected that far. I only wear it for myself. But I guess fall does something to perfume—lets it stretch, settle, stay. Maybe that’s why he noticed. #beauty #fragrance #ScentEncounter