"Well, I suppose there's a first time for everything," Harry jokes, knowing full well he's acted the gentleman many times before tonight. Still, there's an ease of being around Maria that makes him feel less uptight and more inclined to laughter and joking.

He doesn't complain when she hands him half of her cargo; he smiles and holds his arms around the parcels, taking care not to jostle or drop any of the packages.

"Nineteen is still impressive," he promises her. "I was out visiting a friend, actually. Looks like you had quite a haul this year, no?"