In the crossroads between Main Street and the tram tracks there is an exact spot, half a meter after the crosswalk, from which, if you start pedaling thirty-five seconds after the first traffic light turns red, you can cross the road and the tracks in the five second lapse there is from the moment the other traffic light turns green to the moment the cars get there.
Alex knew it like the back of his hand. That particular spot was the most complex, but he knew all the other ones too.
In that city, he had found out, no one thought you were a foreigner if you knew the traffic lights well enough to run them deftly. He never waited for them to turn green. And he was careful never to use a map in public. It was better to look like you knew where you were going. All foreigners were considered tourists and all tourists were looked at condescendingly.
And that particular afternoon it was even more important that he took the first pedal stroke at thirty-three… thirty-four… thirty-five seconds, because, a few streets further, Dani was waiting for him.
The great thing about Dani was that she barely knew him. With her he didn’t have to act like he was born and raised there, she wasn’t either (although no one could afford to look at her condescendingly). Dani was an island oasis to a castaway, a blank slate, a new life.
He couldn’t remember to what kinds of deceits he had had to resort to get a date with her. In fact, he didn’t remember having used any questionable methods, but he was sure that had been the case.
He turned right five seconds before the first car passed. Behind him, a man that hadn’t been fast enough had to stop. Polish probably. But Alex didn’t notice him because before him, on the sidewalk, was Dani, bathed in sunlight.
He dismounted without stumbling, thus avoiding having to justify himself by simulating a limp.
He locked his bike with one swift, deft movement.
He walked in a straight line.
He even pulled her chair out.
When they sat down he looked at her pale eyes and caught himself faking a Danish accent. She was surprised to learn that they were compatriots. Pleasantly.
If only he could keep that up…
If you understand traffic lights, you will go far! A great read, Clara!
Ooo, Clara, you've given us a quick insight into a manipulative mind. I want to like this guy but I cringe for young Dani. I love the way you set this up with the opening sequence of beating the traffic lights. Well done!