Max sat on his bike near the entrance, one foot on the ground, helmet resting on the handlebar, keys loose in his hand, when he spotted Mr. Johann jogging back toward the building, light steps, heavy breathing, morning sweat darkening his tracksuit. The old man noticed him and lifted a hand in greeting, planning to jog straight past him. He looked tired.
Max raised his arm and motioned for him to stop. Then he stepped off the bike in one smooth motion and met him halfway, not making the old man walk all the way over.
" Mr. Johann, good morning "
" Morning, Mr. Weber, is there any problem? "
" No, I just wanted to let you know, one of my very distant relatives is living with me "
Johann slowed to a walk, hands on his hips for a second to catch his breath, then waved casually like it wasn't a big deal.
" Oh! That's alright, I don't care about it, just don't make too much noise, I don't want to hear other tenants complaining "
" That's all "
" Mmhm "
