– There's your bike! – I heard Harry's voice and his footsteps on the creaking stairs.
The guy came down the hallway and placed a very nice dark blue bicycle with a bell in front of me.
– It matches the colour of my jacket! – I said cheerfully and snapped my finger on the bell.
The whole house immediately responded with a high-pitched ringing.
Harry looked at me strangely.
– You're very pretty» he said, embarrassed.
– It's not about looks, it's about soul» I replied stony-faced, but then I softened. – Thank you for driving me. I really like your house: it's very cosy. Where do you want me to put my bike?
– By the porch. Don't worry, no one will take it» Harry said. – Open the door.
He lifted the bike, I held the front door open, and we walked out of the house, down the stairs, and Harry leaned his two-wheeled friend against it.
– It's so amazing! People aren't as bad as I used to think» I said, pleasantly surprised by Harry's words.
– Why do you dislike people so much? – Harry asked, walking over to me.
– Because most people don't look at your soul, they look at your appearance: how you're dressed, what your hair is like… Whether you're pretty or not… It's hard to explain. I think it's time for you to go, don't you? – I wanted to get rid of his presence as soon as possible, and now I regretted breaking the rule: «Don't talk to people.»
Harry seemed to understand and smiled.
– Actually, yes. By the way, you can buy groceries at the shop around the corner because it's cheaper there than in other shops. The fridge is in the kitchen… I think that's it. And you've won our bet – you're right on your wish.
I frowned: I didn't really feel like laughing at the poor guy who'd been so nice to me. The peace and quiet of the house must have discouraged me from trying to teach the Englishman a lesson for being a bore.
– I'll think about it: I can't think of anything now. – I shrugged my shoulders.
– Then I'll be going. Oh, and when you come up with something, or if you need anything, give me a call. Here. – Harry pulled a business card out of his jacket pocket and held it out to me.
I hesitated.
«Is he trying to flirt with me?» – I thought grudgingly, but took the card anyway, thinking that I might actually have to call him about the house.
– Okay» I said.