It seemed like a nightmare but it was all happening to Ruth in real time. She watched Phoebe lead David into her apartment by hand and close the door.
The sound of that door closing was like a wake up call which pushed her to rise to her feet and scramble after them but it was already too late so she ended up stuck outside and resorted to banging on the door like a crazy person while calling out for Phoebe desperately.
The loud noise attracted other tenants who came out to see what was happening. Some were annoyed by the nuisance of the noise while others had come to enjoy the drama. Gossiping about each other was one of the favorite pastimes of the residents of the Cerene apartments.
Some were already on their phones, texting friends and other residents. The ones who had quick fingers were sharing pictures of Ruth already.