she raises both arms through the open sunroof, the chilled november air separating her fingers. the song seems faster than she remembers. or perhaps the tempo has slowed.

her thoughts are captured in a single moment, as if frozen by the movement of the wind on her small hands. the contrast of the heat blasting from the dashboard vents onto her chest enhances the surreality of the situation. she gazes up into the night. the crescendo, pulse, and decrescendo of street lamps enhance the rhythm of music within.

he drives without knowing. the song is not unique, the conditioned warmth is expected. there is no fascination with the movement of light above. it is the same highway, the same streetlamps, and the same exit as always.

the weight of her body shifts into a curve as momentum pushes her to one side and then back again. her muscles flex in concert to maintain balance and she is aware of every one.

she chokes on the feeling of lonliness, the lack of connection with him. the cold breeze pulls her out and away from the car, where she wants to be. the heat on her breast keeps her in place.

the music swells. she takes a deep breath and sighs.

he drives without knowing.