Page 67 of Kicks

“No,” Harry said. “That’s a bad word.”

“Shit.”

“Tell us everything,” Kim said. “And ignore my first-born.”

Crystal explained how the coach had contacted them a few hours ago to give them the news.

“As she’s a late possibility for the September cohort, they’re coming to see her in the next week or so,” Billy said.

He caught Eddie frowning. “That’s not long to practice.”

Crystal shrugged. “They must think I don’t need it.”

“Thank you, Miss Cocky,” Billy replied. “You’ll be working up to the minute they arrive.”

Crystal didn’t look impressed. “I’ve just done a load of work for my exams. This is supposed to be my summer of fun.”

“Billy’s right,” Harry said. “If you want to make it in sport, you have to give everything.”

“If that’s the case,” Crystal said, producing a football out of her beach bag. “You’d better put your money where your mouth is.”

Lennox wriggled out of Harry’s arms and made a beeline for the ball.

“We’d better show him how to play,” Eddie said.

He and Crystal got to their feet and led Lennox away from the picnic area. Billy watched how effortlessly Eddie played with the kids.

“Not sure she’ll get much practice with her nephew helping,” Kim said.

She and Billy emptied their bags of food. Harry sat cross-legged, watching.

“Manchester United is a big frigging deal,” he said.

“Will you watch your language, Harry?” Kim said.

“Somehow I don’t think Cassius is going to pick up on it. He’s out for the count.”

Kim slapped Harry on the leg. “Get into the habit.”

“Yes, boss. Are we allowed a beer?”

“No,” Billy replied. “You can have a Coke like everyone else.”

“Shall we call into a bar on the way to yours?” Kim said. “Toast it properly.”

Harry gave her a loaded stare. “I’m sure Billy has other plans for the evening.”

“Shut it,” Billy replied.

He glanced over his shoulder. Lennox was dribbling the ball. At almost half the size of him, he was achieving this feat with his belly rather than his foot. Eddie and Crystal were falling about laughing.

“I may have been wrong,” Harry said.

“About what?” Kim replied. “There’s so much to choose from.”

“Eddie,” Harry said, making Billy snap to attention. “Turns out he’s a decent guy after all.”

Billy stared at his brother. The changes that had come to Billy’s life recently almost took his breath away. Yet, he was happy.