Page 43 of Friends Rucked Up

“The weekend,” I say.

“Did Saylor know you were going for so long?” he says like it’s an outrageous idea.

Saylor holds her hands up to him. “Stop right there. I know you’re being an overprotective brother, but it’s not necessary. Alfie is a great guy, and he’d never intentionally hurt me. The only problem you’re creating is a wedge in your friendship. You love Alfie, so what is the problem?”

Harlan’s eyebrows raise in surprise, and he looks to me before focusing back on his sister. “I know he’s a great guy. I just feel like there’s no place for me to come home. You’ve both moved on without me and I’m afraid I’ve messed everything up by leaving.” He pats his poorly hand against his body and then winces out in pain.

“That’s ridiculous. You’ll always have a place with us, even if it’s just for the weekend or longer. We’d always want you around,” Saylor reassures him.

“Just not on date night,” I add seriously, but try to sound like I’m joking.

We make it back to my car. Harlan opens the front passenger door, hesitates before offering it to his sister. “I guess this is your seat.”

“You can sit in the front if you’d like.” She shrugs nonchalantly.

“No. I think it’s time I take the backseat.”

They hug and I can’t hear their whispered words. When they break apart, Saylor gets in the front and Harlan gets in the back. I take the driver’s seat and start the car.

“Did you damage anything in my apartment?” Saylor asks.

“Don’t worry, I didn’t call the fire brigade out again. I think your building has already used their quota. I made a pizza and the cheese dripped off. I accidentally touch the shelf in the oven trying to scoop it up.”

Saylor grimaces. “Why would you do something so stupid?”

“Because I’m an idiot.”

“We’ve all done silly things. I’m sure your hand will heal,” I say. I turn onto the main road, leaving the hospital car park.

“Yes, and so will my ego. I’m sorry again for ruining your date. Saylor’s right, I could’ve handled this myself. I was just jealous neither of you need me anymore.”

“There’s no need to be. You’re my best friend and you’re important to me,” I say.

“Thanks, man.” He smiles weakly before adding, “Everything is changing; even my travelling friends are cuddling up. I’m not ready to settle down but that means I’m not always included in group outings.”

“You’ll find new single travellers once you’re in Australia and you’ll always have us. Plus, if we end up getting married, it means you’ll have the perfect brother-in-law. Family are friends you can’t get rid of,” I joke.

“Woah. Slow down, buddy. We’ve only had one date,” Saylor says, laughing.

“I’m never letting you go,” I say, hoping it doesn’t scare her.

“This is getting intense. Maybe I should walk,” Harlan says.

His usual happy chirp is back in his voice and his threat is empty. Although we’re only five minutes from home, it would take him a lot longer on foot.

“Give it a few weeks and you’ll get used to us,” I say.

“I have no choice.” We all fall into silence for a second. Harlan starts to laugh followed by Saylor then me.

“I better be you kid’s favourite uncle.”

“No talk of babies,” Saylor says.

“Agreed,” I say.

I park outside my block of flats and switch the engine off. We all climb out.

“I guess I’m back on the sofa,” Harlan says.

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