But the call (and the baking distraction) had the requisite effect of lifting her spirits, and a little later, once the treats had sufficiently cooled, Hannah clutched a plate of Rice Krispie buns, her pulse quickening in anticipation as she once again approached her not-so-friendly neighbour’s door. She could still hear muffled sounds coming from inside, like the TV was on or something, but when she knocked there was still no response. Undeterred, she took a deep breath and decided to scribble a quick note of her own, once again calling on her trusty diplomatic skills.

Sorry about the recent mistaken deliveries – guessing the delivery people don’t realize there are two of us up here. Made these Rice Krispie buns as an apology? Hope you like chocolate. :)

P-2

Then carefully folded the slip of paper and slid it under the door, leaving the plate outside by the architrave. But just as she was about to leave, she heard footsteps approach and a burst of panic shot through her as she realized her neighbour must have company.

Hannah hurried back to her own door, not wanting to meet him for the first time in such circumstances, or perhaps needing to explain to complete strangers (perhaps even more of the angry residents’ group?) why she needed to make a peace offering. With the lawsuit in the offing, she also needed to remember she was on somewhat delicate ground here.

Back in her apartment, she was running water for a pre-bedtime bath accompanied by a long-awaited glass of wine when the doorbell rang. The unexpected intrusion startled her, to the point that she almost spilled her wine.

Ed from P-1?

Having since changed out of her work clothes, Hannah looked down at her current attire of fuzzy pink robe and a pair of comfy rainbow-coloured socks. She debated whether she had time to go and change back into daytime clothes, then decided against it. Actually, it was probably a good thing she looked so non-threatening, it meant there was less chance of anyone yelling at her.

But when she opened the door, there was no one to be seen. She was about to close it again when she looked down and saw her now-empty plate resting on the carpet. The treats were gone, and in their place was another note.

Thank you. At first, I had no idea what the hell you’d put on my doorstep so to speak, but these were something else. The perfect combination of crunch and chocolate. Rice Krispie buns, you say? Just what my soul needed, actually. Seems like you’re a woman of many talents after all.