"This isn't a hotel, Dimitri." Dimitri was so nervous he could feel the sweat on his palms. It took all his strength to try and keep a smile on his face as the taxi traveled through the narrow streets of the lower west side. They had finally stopped in front of a small brick building, only 3 stories or so tall.
"No, it isn't." He sighed and stepped out. Holding the door open for Madi before paying the cabbie. The two men unloaded their bags before Dimitri joined Madi on the sidewalk, walking towards the glass door that appeared to be the main entrance. The buzzers were labeled in black labeling type, raised letters worn white over to make the names more easily read. Apartment 3 read 'Geirzynski'.
"Is this where your aunt lives or something?" Dimitri simply took Madi's hand, walking in through the glass door before resting their bags to the side and guiding her up the stairs. The place was neatly kept with walls the color of red clay, and wooden banisters hugged the walls. Each floor had a wooden door with a golden number screwed into place. Dimitri stopped in front of the door on the highest landing, withdrawing a key from his pocket.
"Madi, I, um, had this idea, and I wanted to surprise you. And.." He fumbled with the key in the lock unlocking the door, opening it a crack, "And.... Well..." He swung the door open with a wide smile, walking inside. Madi's jaw dropped. The place was empty, plush white carpet lining the living room they were entering into. "What do you think?" He eyed her nervously, her teeth pulling her lip into her mouth before she ran and tackled him, kisses showering his face.
