Page 53 of Best Wrong Thing

“No. You don’t. But deep down, you want to. You just haven’t admitted it to yourself yet.”

He’s right. The question is, why? To spend more time with Archer outside the bedroom. I exhale slowly.

“You just had a lightbulb moment, didn’t you?”

“Yes.”

“And—?” He draws out the word.

“It’s nothing.”

Rex sighs. “Suit yourself. I’ll be here when you’re ready to talk. Well, not here, but you know what I mean. Seriously. Call me. Email me.”

“I will.”

“Promise?”

“Yes. Are you going to show me your photos? I’ve never been to Hong Kong.”

Rex grins and pulls his laptop out of his rucksack. During the rest of my lunch break, we look at the stunning photos he’s taken, each one more breathtaking than the other. No wonder he can make a living out of travel photography.

All too soon, I have to go. He walks me to the bank, where we stop outside and hug.

“It was great seeing you,” I say.

“And you. Think about following my advice.”

“I will.”

He pats my back and then lets me go. “Call.”

I grimace. Does he have any idea how hefty the international fees will be?

He walks backwards and spreads his arms wide. “Email.”

I smile and nod. “Safe flight.”

He waves and turns. I watch him until he rounds a corner. I miss him already. Hopefully, one day soon, he’ll come home for more than a few hours.

Chapter 14

Archer

I wander into my bedroom, naked except for a towel wrapped around my waist. I haven’t done a great job of drying my hair, so beads of water drip down my face and neck. Has Jacob texted? It’s pathetic, but getting a text from him brightens my day. Not that today’s been a bad day. I worked an afternoon into early evening shift at the bar, so now I have the rest of the evening to myself. I’ve got an invite to go clubbing with friends, but if a night of snuggling with Jacob is on offer, that would be my first choice. Where’s my phone?

Frowning, I glance around my bedroom. I’m sure I left my phone on its charging mat while I showered. Did I knock it onto the floor? I look under my dresser and bed. Nope. No phone. Did I toss it onto my bed? I check under the pillows, lift and shake my duvet. No phone. Huh. Weird. Where have I been since I got home?

I search the kitchen. No phone. The bathroom. No phone. Which leaves my lounge. I push the door open and step inside.

Mum is sitting on my sofa. She looks up and smiles. “Oh, hi, love.”

“What are you doing here?” I hold my towel. The last thing I need is a mishap in front of Mum.

Wait. Is thatmyphone in her hand?

My jaw drops. “Why do you have my phone?”

“I thought I’d help you pack for our holiday.”