Page 86 of Playing for Keeps
Naomie sat on the end of Steven’s lounger. Kyle remained by the patio table.
“You know Kyle is doing well as a DJ?”
“Of course. Congratulations, Kyle.”
“Thanks, man.”
“Spit it out, Naomie,” Steven said. His tone hardening.
“He’s got the chance to play at a club in Ibiza. They won’t pay the travel costs, tight bastards. We’re skint, bro.”
“Bro?”
“That’s what you are.”
Steven sighed. “I’m sorry, Naomie. I’m not a bank. I gave you a grand the other day.”
“Are you saying you can’t afford it?”
“Not at all. I’m saying no. Kyle will have to find another way. I suppose you’re going with him.”
Naomie nodded.
“Flights to Ibiza aren’t expensive,” Udo offered. “My cousins got bargains last year.”
“Leave it, Naomie,” Kyle said. “I’ll find another way.”
“That sounds like a good idea, Kyle,” Steven said. “In fact, Naomie, can I have a word?”
The brother and sister went into the house.
“Do you want to sit down?” Udo asked Kyle.
He sloped in and sat on the lounger vacated by Steven.
“Cool goal yesterday.”
“Thank you.”
“It’s nice that Steven invites you over. Don’t you have a garden at your place?”
Udo pushed his sunglasses up on his nose and stared at Kyle. He had no idea what Naomie saw in him. Such a beautiful girl could do far better than this pasty specimen with terrible tattoos.
“Kyle, do you have any friends?”
“Course I do.”
“And you like to spend time with them?”
Kyle shrugged. “It’s all right.”
“Steven and I are friends. I’m new round here so he’s been kind enough to save me from long weekends stuck in the house.”
“Sick.”
Before Udo had a chance to respond, the patio doors opened. Steven and Naomie looked grave. They’d evidently had a disagreement. Udo was proud of Steven for refusing yet another request for cash.
“Let’s go,” Naomie said.
