Page 102 of Kicks
“Both,” Eddie replied, unconvincingly.
James sat in his chair and studied Eddie. “Seems odd that he would take his ball and go home. No matter what had gone on between you.”
Eddie shifted in his seat. “They’re selling the shop. Seems as though there’s been a change of heart in the family.”
“Is that right?”
“Yep.”
He had always been proud that he wasn’t a liar. Now it seemed Eddie’s life consisted of half-truths and outright fibs.
“I’m relieved you told me,” James said. “Because a little bird has already done so.”
Bloody Barry. He might have warned me.
“Don’t look like that,” James continued.
“Like what?”
“As though you’re heading straight out of here in search of poor Barry.”
Eddie folded his arms. “Some things should be confidential.”
“I can tell you he was doing it in your best interests.”
“So that’s it, is it?”
“I guess the only thing left is to answer any questions you have for me,” James said.
Eddie desperately wanted to get out of the room. He was hot and in dire need of alcohol in any shape or form.
“My only question is when we find out?”
“Monday,” James said, closing the lid on his laptop. “I need the weekend to mull it all over.”
Eddie stood. “No matter what you decide, it’s been great to work for you and Pleasure Seekers.”
James also got up. “You’ll still have your job here.”
Eddie glanced out of the window. Brad was holding court to a couple of his cronies just outside.
They’re only after the gossip, you mug.
“This is make or break for me,” Eddie said. “I won’t work for that little twat.”
“No pressure on me then.”
“I’m sure he said the same thing.”
A glint appeared in James’ eye. “I would never tell.”
Eddie shook James’ hand and forced a smile onto his face. It might appear that everything was disappearing before his very eyes. He certainly wouldn’t let Brad know it.
Once out of the meeting room, he took a sharp left to avoid Brad and his merry men. Unfortunately, he walked right into Barry.
“Careful,” Barry said.
Eddie glanced back and saw Brad watching him with interest. To his horror, tears welled in his eyes. Twice in one day was fucking embarrassing.
