Page 20 of Drink Up, Darling
Athens didn’t speak for a moment, away with his thoughts, then he patted Dariel twice on the shoulder and turned back to his seat. “You’re right.”
They did not talk again until Godwin re-entered the room, serving Dariel first with a steaming plate of pie. Despite the strong, hot food smell, the lavender was even stronger. More overpowering than before, as Godwin brushed his side.
He’s trying too hard.
Once everyone was served and re-seated, Dariel could finally note the subtle change in Godwin’s demeanour. He had this new air of confidence about him, as though the jolly but shy man from before had disappeared behind a mask. Or was this now with the mask removed?
Godwin prepared his cutlery, tucking the napkin back into his shirt. “Shepard’s pie. Exactly how my mother used to make it. It’s my favourite, I couldn’t resist.” Those were still his words, but the life-filled energy he spoke with earlier was missing. He now spoke more matter-of-factly. An off-putting tone of sudden professionalism.
“It’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a Shepard’s pie, thank you,” Athens returned the formal tone.
“Yes, thank you, Godwin,” Dariel added before pretending to tuck in. He was beginning to feel rather sick at the thought of eating.
“So, gentlemen, we should probably discuss the business at hand!” Godwin spoke after an eternity of silence between the three of them. Athens didn’t even look as though he wished to speak, he just tucked into his meal like a child starved.He’s a much better actor than me.
“Design, fashion, galore!” Godwin sounded more like a merry businessman now, having downed his second glass, and opening the fresh bottle of red he’d brought over before beginning his meal. Rioja this time.
Athens finally looked up. Straight at Dariel.
‘Here we go. Now comes our chance.’
‘You want me to start?’Dariel gulped at the realisation, then leaned forward, thrusting all remaining confidence he had into his words. The headache grew less and less the more he let Athens in. He’d been resisting too much before. Their mental communication was growing more natural now.
“Yes, well actually, we, well,Iwas wanting to ask you a few questions before we start.” His hands were shaking.Why? You’re in control of this entire situation. You’re the oldest, most experienced, you need to start thinking higher of yourself.
“Ask away.” Godwin smiled, dabbing gravy from his mouth.
“Well… for starters… I…”Just speak.“I was wondering why you didn’t mention Athens in the email? I thought we were to be alone?”
Dariel caught Athens’ brow rising from the corner of his eye, but he kept his own eyes on their host.
Godwin looked mildly puzzled, not quite understanding the statement. “Would you have preferred us to be alone?”
Hands in your hair.
Strong fingers pressing into the flesh of your thighs.
Dariel blinked hard, startling himself back to the present.It’s been so long.
He refused to look at Athens.
“No, sorry, I didn’t mean it in that way, I was just surprised to learn you hadn’t only invited me.”
“Oh.” The mask slipped. Godwin’s face dropped to the table then he coughed, his voice quieter and gentler: “Well, I must apologise on that front. I had neglected to include clarity over how this evening would play out.”
“It’s not a problem, Godwin. Dariel and I have found great company in one another.” Athens finally decided to join the conversation, though Dariel couldn’t quite make eye contact with him still.
Godwin paused before he smiled, his aura dimming.
‘The best company.’
‘Took your time.’
‘You don’t do this a lot, do you?’
‘What? Accept invitations to secluded manors from strangers?’
‘Talk to people.’
