Bomb-shelter schmoozing

(JNS) — They file in gradually, descending the two flights of steps leading to the bomb shelter. Some remain silent, heads down. Others exchange knowing glances, shrugging as if to say, “Here we go again.”

Newcomers to this particular space follow veterans, learning the rhythm, the corners, the spots where cell reception is best. The last one to enter when the air-raid siren stops wailing pulls the heavy door shut and lifts the handle until it clicks—a required act to stave off blast-damage.

The room has white walls, dingy from basement dust, visible via the 100-watt bulb in a hanging socket....