Page 54 of Kicks

They fell into step.

“In what I think is exciting news, I’m applying to some architectural practices for freelance hours.”

“Was that your job before the shop?”

“Yeah. I’m not really cut out for retail.”

Eddie frowned. “How are you going to manage that?”

“Harry and Kim are going to help out. I can do it in the mornings.”

“That won’t leave you much time for yourself.”

Eddie glanced up at him. For a second, he seemed as if he had the weight of the world on his shoulders.

“Crystal’s almost sixteen,” he explained. “If I can manage for two years, she’ll go off to university. We’ll both have new lives. It can’t hurt to begin making contacts in my old world too. I’ve been in a family bubble for too long.”

“Sounds sensible,” Eddie said.

Billy sighed. “I guess. I’ve quite enjoyed working for myself. Even if I’m shit at it.”

“Not shit,” Eddie replied. “In business, decisions need to be made. With all the emotional baggage you have linked to the shop, how could you make them objectively?”

Billy nudged him. “Thank you. Not many people recognise that. I thought a hard-nosed businessman like you would think I was being a wuss.”

Eddie cackled. “How little you know me. I’m totally not cut out of the career game. I love my job and everything. It’s all the other shit. Office politics and being strategic. It’s not me.”

“Does it have to be?”

Eddie stared out at the pebble beach. “It kind of does. My boss is retiring and who replaces him is down to me and Brad, the office knobhead.”

“I wish you victory in your duel.”

“Thank you. I’ve a comfortable lead at the moment.”

“I never had any doubts.”

They had reached the end of the pier now. As they walked out onto the pavement, Eddie turned to Billy. He looked absolutely perfect in the sunlight.

“What?” Billy asked.

“I live ten minutes away. I know this is really forward but…”

“Yes.”

TWELVE

BILLY

Once the deal had been made, the walk to Eddie’s apartment became a little awkward. Billy had no idea what an appropriate topic of conversation was with someone he was about to know intimately.

Nice weather we’re having?

Seen any good films lately?

Are you top or bottom?

Thankfully, Eddie rescued the situation and chattered away about a celebrity rumour he’d read online about a Formula One driver who had been found out to have two families.