H Story for the #atozchallenge

“Hello. How do you do?” He extended a hand towards me.

“Hello,” I said, backing away from the offending hand.

“Have no fear,” he said. “Habits, in our culture, include shaking hands when meeting.”

“Ha-ha.” However I tried not to show my nervousness just didn’t work. “How silly of me.” Having said that, I determined to show my courage. Hooking the wrist of the extended hand with both of mine, I gave a mighty shake.

“Hey, what are you doing?” He seemed surprised; I couldn’t think why. Had he not told me to shake his hand?

“Hand… shaking,” I blurted out.

He’d previously had the corners of his mouth turned upwards. Happy, I’d learnt that meant. Had he stopped being happy now? Had I made him sad?

Holding his shaken hand in the other, he said, “I’m afraid I don’t think you’ll be suitable for the position of spokesperson for the Prime Minister. Have you considered applying to be in slapstick comedy?”

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