Page 64 of Kicks
“Perfect. One down. How about two that aren’t football related?”
“I don’t know,” Crystal exclaimed.
“Why not tell them a bit about Brighton and where you live?” Billy suggested.
Eddie nodded. “That’s a great idea.”
“Okay,” Crystal said. She seemed to be getting herself together again. “Then I’ll say something about when I went on summer camp.”
“Perfect,” Billy said. “You aced it there. Come back over here. It’ll look more natural when you’re talking.”
Crystal sat in the spare chair. They had managed to calm her.
He glanced up at Billy. Something passed between them.
“Right,” Eddie said, clearing his throat. “Let’s go for a take.”
FOURTEEN
BILLY
Crystal was lazing on the sofa watching television whilst scrolling endlessly on her phone.
“He’ll be here soon,” Billy said, plumping a cushion up.
“Will you relax? It’s only Eddie.”
Only Eddie?
He sighed and checked himself out in the mirror. Summer was still in full force so he had chosen a black T-shirt and black linen trousers.
“You look gorgeous,” Crystal said.
“I never know if you’re taking the piss.”
She put her phone down and lay on her front. “No lies, you scrub up well,” she said. “You really like him, don’t you?”
“Yes,” he replied. “I do.”
“Good. So do I.”
Billy grinned. That meant more to him than anything.
“That’s handy. I wouldn’t have him round if you didn’t.”
“I can’t wait to tell him my news.”
Billy came over and kissed her on the head. “I’m so proud of you.”
The doorbell rang and Billy almost leapt out of his skin.
“He’s here,” Billy exclaimed.
“What are you waiting for? Go on. I’ll be in my room getting changed.”
“You don’t have to.”
The doorbell sounded out again.
