Commuters Under Flickering Nice Light

Flat noon light spills across a damp underpass in Nice, reflecting off wet pavement and the shallow water pooling near the entrance. Steam rises in thin, white ribbons from metal grates along the walkway, lingering in the cool late autumn air. Three commuters descend the concrete steps, their coats heavy and dark against the peeling layers of faded concert posters lining the walls. The posters show vibrant colors that have faded to soft pastels under the harsh overhead glow. Water ripples gently where the steam meets the puddles, distorting the reflections of the figures above. One poster corner curls upward at the edge, revealing the rough, gray concrete beneath.