John huffed past me in a flurry towards the door. Although he still seemed mad, I could imagine his eagerness to meet the brash woman from across the alley. “I’ll be back in a little bit,” he mumbled in French, opening the door.

“I wouldn’t expect him anytime soon. If Izzy has her way, they will be occupied for the rest of the day,” the girl with the New Zealand accent hollered.

I wished I could see what she looked like leaning out that window.

“Speaking of which, monsieur, would you like to come over for some lunch and entertainment?”

She had not detected my handicap. She thought I was just like any other man she could seduce with her pretty face and flirty charm.

I was seduced. But by something she would not understand.

“I’m sorry, mademoiselle, but I do not make it a habit of leaving my flat.”

“Well then, why don’t you invite me over?” she countered.

“I don’t think that would be the best idea.” There was silence in return.

I waited for a few minutes until I heard a sudden knock at the door.