New York Surgical Prep Waiting Room at Dusk

Copper-toned sunlight floods the surgical prep waiting area, pooling across the linoleum floor and reflecting off the curved metal frames of spaced waiting chairs. The muted glow of a television screen casts a soft blue rectangle against the far wall, against the warm amber light entering from the side. Early autumn shadows stretch long along the beige walls, lengthening as the sun dips below the horizon. Plastic armrests show faint wear, while a row of chairs creates leading lines that draw toward the quiet, empty corridor at the back. One water bottle rests on a side table, catching the edge of the sunset reflection.