With a fake name.

"Iris..." began Harry, going over several surnames in her mind before settling on her mother's old maiden name. "...Evans. Iris Evans. Nice to meet you."

Stan took her hand and shook it while returning the introduction. "Stan Shunpike. Nice to meet you too, Iris."

From there, the two just started chatting with each other. Awkward nerves quickly fading away as they flitted from one topic to another. While it was clear that Stan was attracted to Harry's new Iris Evans persona, he was being very gentlemanly about it and never let his eyes wander or use the jostling of the bus as an excuse to touch Harry. It was a refreshing change from the treatment she had experienced under Uncle Vernon and best of all was the fact that Stan hadn't acted in a way that caused the Oath to trigger. The more she relaxed, Harry found herself genuinely enjoying the conversation with the older man who had a wealth of absurd tales from the various passengers he had seen while working for the Knight Bus.

"There's _no _way that's true! What kind of band has a hag as it's lead singer?" accused Harry.

"Don't forget the vampire on the drums." chortled Stan.

Harry giggled and lightly slapped Stan's arm. "See I know you're taking the mickey out of me."

Stan put on an affronted expression and crossed his hand over his heart. "'Never! Swear on me mum, it's true! Even got a record and signed poster from the vampire back at my place!"

"Uh-huh."

Stan narrowed his eyes playfully at her for a few moments before he became suddenly bashful. "I-" A blush crept up his neck and he rubbed the back of his head awkwardly. "I could...show you it, sometime. If you want, that is."

"Oh." Harry's face felt warm at the implication.

At her noncommittal response, Stan frantically waved his hands and babbled, "It's just a dumb idea I had! Wasn't suggesting you and I- I mean, that's not what I meant to-"

"Ration Alley, coming up!" called out Ernie to the occupants of the bus.

Stan looked rather despondent at the announcement and the air between the two became awkward again.

"Well. Seems like this is my stop. Thanks for the conv-"

"Would you like to grab a drink with me sometime?!" blurted out Stan.