Page 34 of Rhymes with Metaphor
“Why would you want me to come?”said Joel.
“You don’t seem happy here.”
“And England would change that?”said Joel.
“It’s had that effect on me.If you don’t want to come, I won’t be offended.I’ll tell Juliet you’re not welcome, so she can blame me instead of you.”
There was a long pause on the other end before Joel responded, “I’ll come.Thanks, Reg.”
Chapter 10: When in England
The combination ofjet lag and mono laid Joel flat, and he hadn’t emerged from his bedroom since they’d arrived.Juliet had gone in to check on him again while Reg and Martin set up the badminton net on the lawn.
“We both know why she’s really here,” said Reg.
“To enjoy my company,” said Martin.
“Iexpect it’s because she’s found a boyfriend of dubious provenance, and she wants to do a background check of his pedigree and credentials.”
“I’ve been trying to convince her to go riding with me this afternoon,” said Martin.“But she won’t bloody well leave Joel alone.”
“Here it comes.”
“You don’t even like riding, Reg.”
“I have plans for this afternoon, which don’t include riding or babysitting, thanks.”
Juliet emerged through the back door.“He won’t come out of his room.He’s missing a beautiful day.”
“Well, since we haven’t got enough people for doubles,” said Reg, “I’ll leave you to play singles.I’m going out.”
“Where?”said Martin.
“I’ve got errands to run.I’ll see you later.”
Martin followed him to the garage.“So, you’re sticking me with New Bug all afternoon?”
