I’ll take the middle seat
When cars fill up, riders often slide to the windows for space and comfort — leaving the backseat middle open. The author chooses that spot and reflects on the small ritual.
The piece reflects on the familiar call of “shotgun” and how, in a crowded car, passengers naturally claim the window seats for room and something to lean on. That leaves the backseat middle unassigned, and the author explains why they habitually take it.