Page 130 of Lessons in Chemistry

The Otley Run is something every student at Leeds University needs to do at least once. Well, that’s my opinion anyway. It’s the king of pub crawls.

Casey

Won’t it be a bit late in the day?

He’s right. We wouldn’t get to all the pubs before closing time unless we took taxis between them.

Casey

We could have a drink at the last pub on the route.

The Dry Dock is a pub in a docked boat at the top edge of the city centre, next to Leeds Beckett University. I’ve only been a couple of times, but it’s got a cool, relaxed vibe to it. I’m not in the mood for a chat and a pint. I want to do something different. Something that will help me forget my conversation with Dad.

There’s a club I’ve been wanting to visit since I moved here.

Casey

Which club?

The Heaven and Hell Club. Have you heard of it?

No.

Of course he hasn’t. He didn’t even realise he was interested in guys until recently. It’s also not the sort of place I should be taking my ace boyfriend to. Or my easily embarrassed boyfriend, for that matter. Why did I mention it? Ah, that’s right because I often act before I think.

Are you still there, Emory?

Emory

I’m here.

You went very quiet on us.

Casey

He was looking up the Otley Run.

You haven’t done it?

Emory

No. Fourteen pubs?

Yes. It’s amazing. Fancy dress is NOT optional.

I’ll pass.

We’ve already decided it was a bad idea.

I know. I’m caught up. Do you want to go to the Heaven and Hell Club?

I read his message three times and then chuckle.

You’ve heard of it?

The LGBTQ+ society handed out flyers for it once.

You’re in the LGBTQ+ society?