It was a cold, rainy evening in November. Anna was sitting by the fire with a cup of tea when someone knocked at the door. She wasn’t expecting anyone. Slowly, she walked to the door and opened it.
A tall man stood outside. He was wet from the rain and looked tired.
“Good evening,” he said. “I’m sorry to bother you. My car broke down, and there’s no phone signal. Can I wait here until help arrives?”
Anna hesitated. She lived alone in a small house in the countryside. But the man looked honest, and the storm was getting worse.
“Of course,” she said. “Come in. You must be cold.”
The man stepped inside and smiled. “Thank you. I really appreciate it.”
Anna gave him a towel and made another cup of tea. They sat by the fire and talked. His name was Michael. He was a writer travelling to a town nearby for a book event. He spoke kindly and told funny stories. Anna felt relaxed.
Hours passed, but no help came. The rain didn’t stop. Anna offered him the guest room.
“You can stay the night,” she said. “It’s too dangerous to drive.”
“Thank you,” Michael said. “You are very kind.”
The next morning, the sun was shining. Michael’s car was gone when Anna woke up. On the kitchen table, she found a note:
“Dear Anna,
Thank you for your warmth and kindness. People like you make the world better. I hope we meet again.
— Michael”
Under the note was a signed copy of his book. On the first page, he had written:
To Anna, the most generous host. Thank you for reminding me of the good in people.
Anna smiled. It was just one evening, but it made a difference — for both of them.
📒 Key vocabulary
hesitate – to pause before doing something, often because you are unsure or nervous.
appreciate – to be thankful or show gratitude for something.
generous— willing to give or share with others; kind and unselfish.
dangerous – not safe; likely to cause harm, injury, or problems.
relaxed – calm and comfortable; not stressed or worried.
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