Universe PU-S-50:

As the steam-run tram neared my destination, I glanced my watch and it showed: 4:45 PM. I grabbed my handbag and stood up from my window seat and then gradually, I moved into the aisle. As the bus stopped, I boarded off the bus and quickly rushed towards my house. Just few minutes were left for observation of The Steam-free Hour.

Just few minutes, I thought.

For crossing the street, I waited for the light to turn red. There were hardly any steam cars running on the concrete way.

In this steam-powered world, The Steam-free Hour had a very great importance. Every day from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, no steam vehicle, no steam-dependent machine was allowed to be used. Every machinery activity was stopped and people just enjoyed the one hour official break. This enjoyment didn't involve any steam-based activity. But the bliss of being silent and observing each and every small details in the nature, the most artistically invented gift of God, was just greater than anything.

I crossed the street, walking on the zebra-crossing. While entering the colony's gate, I heard the loud Ding-dong.... I glanced my watch and then looked in the direction were The Clock Tower of the town was situated. I saw the watchman shutting down his large message machine in his cabin.

I increased my pace and reached at residence building. I observed people sitting in their balconies. Some sat on their armchairs and had mugs full of their favourite beverages; some read newspapers; while some just observed the sunset, feeling the cool breeze blowing against their skin.

I climbed the spiral staircase. It was tiresome to walk upstairs till the 4th floor. Of course, it was the only option as the elevator needed steam to run. With aching legs and exhausted body, I reached at my apartment.

I pulled the string that was attached to a bronze bell, hanging over my head. Ding-dong! Sometimes I think why we observed this steam free hour. Life is difficult without steam-powered machines.
"Where were you?" My mother asked me as soon as she opened the door and realized that was me.
"Sorry...at college library." I briefly answered. Her face was red; perhaps she was annoyed yet she never wanted to scold me and waste the relaxation time.

I quickly changed my clothes. However, I didn't join my family at the balcony. I stood near the window of my room that opened before another window that belonged to Abhimanyu Dave.
"Late and tired, eh?" he said while holding his guitar.
I nodded, "Yes... what about you?"
"Just practising a whole song!" He said.
"Then please sing!" I requested.

He plucked the strings and sung, "Mere Samnewali Khidaki..." and I blushed as he sung passionately. It's a movie serenade sung by the hero for his crush.
I hummed and hoped that he really meant what he sang.