On The Stairs

I tried to sneak in without making any noise, but she was sitting on the stairs, looking disapprovingly at me.

I tried to make a joke about how long she must have been sitting there. That didn't work.

I tried to explain why I was so late, explaining about the work thing, and what the boss had expected. That didn't work.

I tried to apologise, acknowledging her right to be upset and angry, and swearing I'd be better. That didn't work.

Finally, I asked her what she wanted.

Turns out she'd gotten drunker than I was and needed help up.