Loneliness on the Assembly Line — Susan Hart

 Clara Mitchell had worked at the Miller Manufacturing plant for over a decade, steadily climbing her way up to becoming a respected supervisor on the assembly line. Though she took pride in her role and the solace of routine, there was an undeniable loneliness that often crept in after clocking out each night. Her social circle had dwindled over the years as friends married and moved away, leaving Clara to face the quiet stillness of her apartment alone.Despite the persistent solitude that colored her evenings, Clara found solace in the rhythmic hum of the machinery at the plant, the steady beat of metal-on-metal echoing in her ears long after she had left for the day. It was a symphony of familiarity, a melody that spoke to her in ways words never could.One crisp autumn evening, as Clara walked home under a canopy of golden leaves, she heard footsteps behind her. She quickened her pace, heart thudding in her chest until a familiar voice called out her name.Clara, wait up!Turning around, she saw Thomas, a coworker from the plant whom she shared occasional small talk with during breaks. He caught up to her, breathless from his hurried steps.I've been meaning to ask you something, he said, his cheeks flushed pink from both the chilly air and perhaps a touch of nervousness.Clara arched an eyebrow, curious despite herself. Thomas was not someone she had ever considered more than an acquaintance, but his sudden earnestness piqued her interest. She tilted her head slightly, prompting him to continue.I was wondering if you'd like to grab dinner with me sometime, Thomas said, his gaze steady on Clara's face. I know this great little Italian place downtown.