The man who answered the door was of average height, with short, cropped black hair. He had dark eyes that were deep set with a gaze that was difficult to hold for too long without feeling slightly uneasy. A crooked nose on the center of his face suggested a scrappy youth. He was dressed in exercise clothes that hugged an athletic form. When he came to the door he was sweating and short of breath.
“I live across the lake,” Aldo said in greeting. “I’ve been working on a shop on my property.”
“Oh, you are directly across from me. I’ve been watching that thing go up all summer. How’s it coming along?” the man inquired cordially.
“It’s just fine. Had its share of setbacks and surprises.”
“Which is to be expected.” Added the man.
“Right.” Aldo wasn’t sure how to carry on.
“So, what can I do you for?” He said, lending Aldo a hand.
Aldo appreciated the assistance, having never een strong conversationaly or socialy for that matter. Asking for anything whether it be a helping hand or simple advice was even more difficult for him. The level of independence he held required him to mostly rely on himself and made any level of vulnerability difficult. Additionally, he hated the thought of being an imposition on others.
“Well,” Aldo continued, “you see, I’ve hit a snag on the shop. I’ve been able to construct most of it on my own. I hit a wall when it came to the windows. I haven’t been able to lift them into place due to their weight. I was hoping to ask for your help. Lifting the windows that is. If it isn’t any trouble?”
“No trouble at all,” replied the man, “glad to help.
“You sure? I’d hate to put you out in any way.”
“Really, it’s no problem. Should we go knock it out right now?” the man enthusiastically suggested.
“No, no. It’s getting late.” Aldo said. “And I’ve seemed to have interrupted your evening already. How about tomorrow?”
“Tomorrow it is. I’ll be over in the morning.”
“Thank you.” Aldo said as he turned to leave.
“It’s Jonas. By the way.” Aldo turned around to find the mans hand extended towards him.
“Oh, right. Aldo.”
They shook hands amicably, Jonas’ grip a little too firm.
“See you in the morning.” Said Jonas.
“See you then.”
A Page a Day 