Page 93 of Refrain
“Ric’s,” both he and Xane said together, making them both flash grins full of teeth.
Luthor’s expression said it all. A wide smile stretched from one ear to the other, and he tossed the towel into the air. “Halleluiah! When do we depart?” He clapped. Actually clapped, like someone had just inducted him into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. “Not that I don’t like this cottage. It’s glorious. The views are very attractive, but… I’m just, you know, feeling there’s life beyond the knitted haggis.”
“Christmas,” Xane muttered to Spook under his breath, presenting him with an image of a Christmas morning knitted surprise for his fellow countryman.
“Cock warmer,” he mouthed back.
“So, when are we leaving?” Luthor asked.
There was no real gain to be had in staying, now the decision was made. To do so would put him at risk of doubting himself, and backtracking. Forward motion was the only direction he needed to be travelling in. Alas, he couldn’t quite keep the terror of it off his face. Xane’s grip on the back of his neck tightened fractionally. “I’ve got you.”
“Xane and I can have this place packed up within the hour.” Luthor cast his gaze over the assortment of instruments and music-making paraphernalia. “Why don’t you go take a shower and put on some fresh clothes. We’ll be ready to haul arse before you’re done drying your hair.”
“Luth,” Xane cautioned, but Spook caught Luthor’s gaze and nodded.
“Okay.” They were doing this.
-34-
Allegra
9thDecember
Ronnie: I’m being summoned to Cornwall!!?
Ronnie: You’re looking at the newest member of Black Halo. Official. Check it out
Allegra: Yay! Go you. I’m glad for you.
Allegra: Are BH recording?
Ronnie: Apparently so.
Allegra: I want all the updates.
Ronnie: Totes.
Ronnie: Sorry I can’t smuggle you along.
Allegra: Me too.
Allegra: Is Spook going to be there?
Ronnie: Assume so.
Allegra: Where are you headed? Sawmills?
Ronnie: No. Somewhere else. Not heard of it before.
14thDecember
Allegra: How’s it going? How’s Spook?
Ronnie: Ah. Um…
Ronnie: Fuck!
Ronnie: A, I’m really sorry, but I think you should know that Xane and Spook are kinda a thing.
