The awkward silence seemed to stretch out for eternity. I looked into her vacant eyes hoping to find a hint of emotion, but only found that I could not hold her gaze. I felt uncomfortable. I shifted in my chair struggling for words to say, anything. I couldn't. I had said all I could hadn't I? It was her turn now surely? Yet all she offered me was silence.

I had not been prepared for this; I had expected anger or disappointment, an argument or an agreement. My mind had raced through endless possibilities on my way to this tragic unfolding but none had come close to capturing the torture which had awaited me. The stillness was swallowing me whole. I had to do something.

"I always thought I'd have something to say in an awkward silence" I found myself saying. "Is this an awkward silence?" She gave a slight nod. By addressing the silence I knew I had made it worse, her lack of reply had merely emphasised it. I had played my gambit and it had failed; I knew I could not risk speaking again.

I scanned the venue looking for a friendly face, any distraction welcome, anything to save me from the abyss. There was nobody. I was alone in this sea of tranquillity, drowning in its still waters.

I chanced to look at her again. Was that a hint of a smile I saw playing across her face? It was. I was sure it was. She was enjoying this. It became apparent that watching me squirm was her revenge; she had known what was coming and had plotted against me. I felt abused. She had turned this around on me; her mute indifference was my punishment.

"I think I should go," she said, as she made to leave.

I don't know if I will ever hear sweeter words. I had been released from my silent prison. As I was becoming accustomed to my newfound freedom the buildings fire alarm sounded, mockingly. Where were you 5 minutes ago?

Learn more about this author, Christopher Voss.
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