Page 107 of Ghost

Mason turned to face Francis.“Yeah, they are.”

Francis looked down.“I apologize for my behavior.I have no right to question you as I did.For that, I am truly sorry.”

“It’s okay.”Mason grabbed the box, setting the water on the counter.“Let’s take this into the living room.I’m suddenly hungry.”

They both settled on the small sofa, the TV on but muted, waiting for the ceremonies to begin in less than an hour.

“I need a Coke.”

“I wish I could bring you one,” Francis said, turning his head to face Mason.

Mason was so tempted to say that was the real issue between them and that was why he was miserable.Not that it was Francis’ fault, it was just the situation they found themselves in.But he had to admit, he was miserable because Francis wasn’t a real, live man.Not anymore, at least and that was the issue.

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Mason sat down with a glass of ice and a can of Coke.He reached for one of the potato skins covered in bacon, cheese and sour cream with a sprinkle of chives on top.He bit off half of it.“Oh my god, this is too good.”He chewed, swallowed and then took a gulp of soda.“I needed that.”

Francis sat next to him, his expression blank.

Mason knew what Francis wanted and he was having a hard time figuring out how to explain everything.He took a deep breath, exhaled slowly, took a sip of his drink and hung his head.

“Francis, I am miserable but like I said, not in the way that you think.”Mason looked up at Francis.“Today, I was really upset after our argument and so I went for a walk.I saw a barber shop and decided to get a haircut, which by the way is called a military style crew-cut.I was assured that it was really stylish.”Mason ran his hand over his head.”I’m still not sure I like it, but if I don’t, it’ll grow out.”

“I am sure.I do not like it.”Francis frowned.“I miss your curls.”

Mason smiled.“I’ve always hated my curly hair.”

“But why?”Francis looked surprised.“It is like you have a golden halo around your head.”He smiled.“I would like to think that is how angels would appear.”

“Aw, that is so sweet.Thank you.”Mason wanted to take his hand right then but couldn’t.“I think I will let it grow back out.Not sure this suits me, anyway.”

“I think that is a wise choice.”Francis scowled for a moment.“It is my opinion that it makes you look much older.”

“Anyway, as I was saying, I went into the barber shop.A nice-looking guy cut my hair, but he also hit on me.”

Francis jumped up.“He struck you?Did you call the authorities?Was he arrested?”