Page 40 of Be Less Panda

‘He does, and it earns him a lot of money, but he doesn’t like to spend it, not on his family anyway.’

‘What does he spend it on?’

‘Houses mostly. To rent out to people to make even more money.’

‘That seems to be what capitalism is about. Is he a good landlord?’

‘I suspect not, given how mean he is with us.’

She was relieved that the waiter picked that moment to return to take their order.

‘I have absolutely no idea what to choose,’ Nancy said, glancing down the bewildering list of options.

’Shall I choose for you? Is there anything you don’t eat?’ Hans asked.

‘Lamb chops. I’ve eaten enough of those to last a lifetime.’

‘Very well.’ He began reeling off a list of dishes in what sounded like perfect French. The waiter complimented him on his choices.

’So what are we having?’ Nancy asked as the waiter walked away.

‘It will be a surprise. Hopefully, a good one.’

Another waiter appeared with a bottle of red wine. It looked expensive. ‘Wine, Madame?’

Madame not mademoiselle. Perhaps the dim lighting made her look older, or was he just being respectful?

‘Yes, please.’

She noticed how the candle flame made Hans’ eyes sparkle more than usual. At least, she assumed it was the candle.

She raised her glass to him. ‘Happy Birthday, Hans.’

‘That was a wonderful meal. Thank you,’ Nancy said as they left the restaurant.

‘I’m glad you enjoyed it.’

Nancy shivered when the cool evening air hit her bare arms.

‘Are you ok?’ Hans asked.

‘I should’ve remembered to bring a coat. It was so mild when we set out earlier, I forgot it would be cold now.’

‘Take mine.’ He took off his jacket and put it around her.

‘But what about you?’

‘I’m fine. I have my new sweater. Sorry, polo-necked jumper.’

‘You’re a fast learner,’ she giggled at him.Careful, Nancy, that wine was stronger than you thought.

‘Shall we head back home?’ Hans said.

‘Tempting as it would be to stay out longer, I guess we should go home as it’s a school night.’

‘School night?’

She laughed again. ‘I never realised how many idioms we use in English until I started teaching you.’

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