Page 60 of Mercury Rising

“Bobby, this is Nick.”

They shook hands. “You have been a dark horse, Morrison. I thought you were spending all your time with the poor and destitute these days. Now I understand why you’ve been MIA.”

Mercury felt Nick stiffen. Typical of Bobby to make such a crass remark.

“Well, don’t let us keep you,” Mercury said. “We need to grab that table.”

Bobby, seemingly oblivious to the ice in Mercury’s tone, clapped his hands together. “I may as well join you. I had intended on going to Bronson’s for a croissant. I can do that any day.”

This did not seem like a good move. Before Mercury could protest, Bobby had plonked himself in the empty chair. The other half of the couple hadn’t even stood yet.

“Excuse me,” she said.

“Of course,” Bobby replied. “No rush.”

Mercury shrugged at Nick.

The woman soon made off after her other half. Mercury and Nick took their seats.

“The Eggs Benedict are to die for here,” Bobby said. “I’m having those and a flat white. I know I shouldn’t have caffeine in this heat but sometimes one needs it. Me and Lotty went to Underground last night. I can’t even remember what time I got home. Won’t be long now until you’re back with us. When do you have that infernal thing taken off your ankle?”

“Friday,” Mercury said.

“Amazing. Nick, you’ll have to join us. Now tell me everything about you. How did Mercury pick you up?”

“I didn’t pick him up,” Mercury replied before Nick formed his words. “I work for Nick at the House.”

Bobby’s face lit up. “Oh, I love it. SoNotting Hill.”

Viggo came. “What can I get you?”

“Eggs Benny for me,” Bobby said.

“I’ll have smoked salmon and scrambled eggs,” Mercury added.

“I expect you’ll be wanting the bacon sandwich, Nick,” Bobby cut in.

Mercury was not a violent man yet he could cheerfully shove Bobby off his chair.

“Avocado on toast, please,” Nick said to Viggo, ignoring Bobby’s comment.

“And three flat whites,” Mercury added.

“Sure thing.”

Viggo sped off. It must be horrific having to be that busy in such heat. Mercury would tip him handsomely.

“As you were saying,” Bobby said. “I want to know everything.”

“There’s nothing to tell,” Mercury replied. “What have you been up to?”

Bobby laughed. Unfortunately, when he did so he resembled a hyena, which drew stares from the other tables.

“Nice try. I’ve busted you and your bit of rough. I need all the deets.”

Nick’s eyes flared. “Rough?”

The carefree lunch in the sun Mercury had planned was evaporating before his eyes.