Page 73 of Kicks
“Oh yes?”
“Doing five laps of the football pitch is your number one priority right now. Then you can go in search of this man.”
By the time Eddie got to the marina, he was stinky. Those five laps had made him sweat like never before.
Crystal opened the door. She went to hug him.
“Stand back,” Eddie warned. “I give a new meaning to B.O.”
“Coach says that’s a sign of hard work.”
“Then I’m excelling. Bloody Barry is a demon.”
Crystal let him in.
“Where is he?” Eddie asked.
“Here,” Billy called from the kitchen.
Eddie went over and kissed him.
“You weren’t wrong,” Billy said. “You stink.”
“Gee thanks.”
“Right, I’m off,” Crystal shouted through.
Eddie frowned. “Where are you going?”
“Harry’s picking me up,” she replied. “We’re going to Manchester.”
Despite his obvious aroma, Eddie gave her a bear hug. “All the luck in the world, little one. You got this.”
“I hope Old Trafford have baths,” Crystal said, pushing him away. “I can’t believe you came on the bus.”
Eddie cackled. “I did get some strange looks.”
Billy came over and drew her close. “You are amazing,” he said, kissing the top of her head. “I’m so sorry I can’t take you myself.”
Crystal shrugged. “I don’t mind. Keep your phone close. Just in case I have a meltdown.”
“Always here for you.”
Eddie watched the scene with a tender heart. Their relationship was very special.
“Now scoot. You need to get the bus to Harry’s.”
Crystal sighed. “I’ll be a millionaire footballer soon. I expect I’ll have a driver when that happens.”
“That’s exciting,” Billy replied. “Until then, scoot.”
Crystal stuck her tongue out and walked away.
She let the door slam behind her.
“That child,” Billy said.
Eddie inspected the food. “What’s cooking?”
