Tyler thought he might still be dreaming.
“Oh…okay. That’s great. Thank you, Deborah.”
“Don’t mention it. Text me his full name and any dietary requirements. I’d better go. It’s my hen do tonight.”
“Amazing,” Tyler said. “Are you heading to Manchester?”
“God no,” Deborah replied. “We’re going to The Pines.”
Tyler almost laughed out loud. The Pines was the local country club. Waiting tables there had been his first job when he was still at school.
“God, is it still going?”
“They have a new chef,” Deborah snapped. “Okay, nice talking to you. See you next week.”
She terminated the call. She knew how it annoyed him.
Touché, sis.
He threw the phone down and turned to Danny. “So, I have news.”
“From the sister who upsets you?”
“That’s the one. She called to say you’d be welcome to attend the wedding. That’s if you’re not busy.”
Even in the semi-dark, he saw Danny’s face drop.
“Really?”
“Yes, really.”
“Oh fuck, babe. I’m not sure about that.”
Tyler slapped him on the leg. “What do you mean?”
“No offence. I’ve not heard one nice thing about your family.”
He had him there.
“Fair enough,” Tyler said, settling down against the pillow.
The silence was palpable.
“Okay, fine. I’ll come,” Danny said, eventually.
Tyler hugged him. “Such a wonderful boyfriend.”
“You can pay me in sexual favours.”
“Deal. Your wish is my command.”
“Suppose starting with a blow job would be a wise move.”
TWENTY-TWO
DANNY
“Let’s have a look at you then,” his mother said.