Page 53 of Mercury Rising

“It’s a party,” Mercury said.

“Yes, Nick,” Cath chipped in. “Chillax.”

“Don’t you start and please don’t ever say chillax again.”

Mercury glanced at Eddie. He had sat on the stones, transfixed at the view.

“Do you think he’s okay?” Mercury asked.

“Why don’t you go and find out?” Nick replied.

Mercury nodded. He got up and wandered down to Eddie. It didn’t look as if he’d moved a muscle.

When he got there, Eddie had a huge smile on his face.

“Mind if I join you?” Mercury asked.

“Sure.”

Mercury flopped down on the ground, causing a mini landslide of pebbles.

“Ugh,” he said. “Sand might get everywhere but these bloody rocks are a pain in the arse. Literally.”

“I love them.”

They stared out at the water for a little while.

“This is the best moment of my life,” Eddie said. “And I know it was your idea.”

Mercury swallowed down the lump that appeared to have taken up permanent residence in his throat.

“I thought you’d enjoy it.”

Eddie nudged him. “You were right. When I get married, me and my wife are going to see everything.”

“Don’t you want kids?”

He shook his head. “Nah, I want to see more of this.”

Mercury chuckled. “You might get bored of only sea. You know, after an hour or so.”

“I won’t. It’s bloody brilliant.”

“Your wife, huh?” Mercury said. “Got anyone in mind?”

To his astonishment, Eddie dropped his head and fiddled with some stones.

“Wow, that means yes. Anyone I know?” Mercury continued.

“You’re not allowed to say. Do you promise?”

Mercury crossed his heart. “I will take it to the grave.”

Eddie hesitated for a second. “Doesn’t matter. Forget I said anything.”

“Is it Brooke?”

Eddie threw a stone into the sea with a satisfying plop. “Might be.”