Apologies for the huge delay on this tag. I swear I will be much speedier on the next.
It was her own fault, really. She should have known better than to stand in front of the door.
Having a daughter, Helen was accustomed to the mysterious art of texting, though she, herself, hated it. There was something very impersonal about it. She'd much rather pick up a phone and talk to someone. Or better yet, have a conversation face to face. Perhaps it was her age, or possibly her upbringing. She simply didn't care for it. And so, she could at least sympathize with his struggle, and therefore, his distraction.
She regained her balance easily enough, absently brushing herself off, though it was entirely unnecessary. Force of habit. Truly, she wasn't trying to be rude.
When she turned to face him, it was with a smile and a gentle shake of her head. "Don't be ridiculous. It's perfectly all right. I shouldn't have been in the way."
That unfailing English politeness. She really couldn't help herself. After a moment, allowing him time to collect his phone if he'd like, she offered a hand in greeting. "Helen Magnus."