Page 1 of Friends Rucked Up

Chapter One

Saylor

With a wink, I pull out a small box of Turkish delight from my back pocket and sneak it under Gordon’s knee blanket.

“Are those from the town market?” he asks, scoping the room.

It’s a habit he picked up during the Second World War. Both of us know his eyesight isn’t as good as it used to be but there is no danger in the nursing home, so Gordon’s observation skills don’t need to be top notch. The only prying eyes will be Willamina’s, and it’s likely he’ll lose a piece or two of his sweet treat during their card game later.

Gordon’s mind is fairly sharp, but Willamina has lady luck on her side when it comes to playing any games. She apparently used to count cards in Vegas back in her heyday.

“Only the best for my favourite guy.” I pat his hand, warmth filling my heart.

His smile is kind, which only makes my trip to the market even more worthwhile. When I got this job, I didn’t realise I’d be finding more than a monthly pay cheque.

My watch buzzes as it clicks onto 5 p.m. and I look at the clock.

“What time’s your brother calling tonight?” Gordon asks.

I’ve been excited for the chance to speak to Harlan.

“6.30 p.m. I can’t be late getting off work today. I want to freshen up before meeting Alfie, my brother’s best friend. We arranged the call to Harlan a few weeks ago.” They were joined at the hip since infant school, until my brother decided he needed to see more of the world.

“Well, stop dilly dallying and leave an old man in peace,” he says, making us both laugh.

Gordon is the main reason I’d never leave this job. He’s become a great friend. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have any family of his own, but I’d adopt him as my grandpa anytime. We’ve been close since my first shift as a carer at the nursing home.

“Cheeky. We both know I’m the highlight of your day.” I smile brightly.

“That you are.” His blue eyes warm as he mirrors my expression.

My happy buzz returns, filling me with comfort. I hope I have people I care about when I get old. Right now, I’m single with no immediate plans to change my relationship status. One day, though, I want it all. I’m dreaming of a big family with a loving husband and a couple of pets.

“Goodnight.” He tips his imaginary hat on top of his thick grey hair in a polite, dismissive gesture.

“Don’t eat all that Turkish delight at once. It’ll rot your teeth. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Gordon wears false teeth, but he understands I’m just looking out for him. Plus, the market only comes to town twice a week.

Hurrying from the main hall, I make my way to the small staff room where I grab my coat and handbag. I say a few more goodbyes to residents and my co-workers before heading out the door.

I’ve worked at Selby Retirement Home since I left school five years ago. It might not be most twenty-three-year-old's dream job, but I love it. They basically pay me to care, which I’d do for free if I didn’t have bills to pay.

Usually, I’m the first to arrive and the last to leave but today is different. It’s my younger brother’s birthday. The one day of the year where he is guaranteed to take a break from his busy life and think of home.

Harlan has been travelling the world ever since he finished high school. He’s been to France, Germany, Poland, and beyond. At the moment, he’s in Singapore. Well, according to his social media. We haven’t spoken other than a quick text message to arrange tonight.

I head home, quickly showering, putting on some casual clean clothes, and combing my thick blonde hair. I’m a jeans kind of gal, and they always look nice with a plain black t-shirt. I add a clear lip conditioner to complete my fresh look before making the short journey across the street to Alfie’s flat.

I swear my brother planned our living arrangements so he could keep an eye on me. We only have each other and Alfie, I guess. He wasn’t worried enough to stay in the country but cared enough to leave a spy across the street.

I knock on Alfie’s door, but don’t wait for him to answer. Instead, I let myself in. Rugby plays loudly on the TV which is no surprise. Alfie sleeps, breathes, and eats rugby like he needs it tosurvive. He joined a local team at a young age and never had to think about doing anything else for a career.

It must be nice to have it all figured out. He makes good money, owns the nicest black sports car, and works out.Wait.That’s not what I mean.

My brain short fuses as he comes into view with only a towel around his waist. His perfect abs make my mouth go dry.Saylor, get a grip. We don’t check out our brother’s best friend even when he’s half naked.Shaking my head, I look away immediately, hoping he misses the way my body reacts to his.

“Hey. I knocked on the door, but I’m guessing you didn’t hear me come in over the TV.”

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