Page 85 of Mercury Rising

“So,” Madeline continued, “we decided to do a surprise soiree for him. Mercury here is going to record him coming in and if he wants, he can use it in his film.”

The doorbell went again.

“That will be them,” Madeline shrieked. “Everyone, top your glasses up. Mercury, can you pour two more?”

She fled out of the room.

“I’ll fix the drinks,” Nick said. “You get your phone ready.”

“You’re a doll,” Mercury replied. “In case no one ever told you.”

Mercury was in position to get a perfect shot. He heard his mother shrilly welcoming her guests. With a huge beam on her face, she led them through.

“Surprise,” they all shouted in unison.

Josh beamed while Winston looked about fit to burst.

“What on earth’s going on here?” he spluttered.

“Darling,” Madeline shouted, grabbing his hand. “Josh told me your wonderful news and I thought you would like to celebrate with your friends. Mercury captured it for your little film.”

Winston pulled his hand away from Madeline and glared at his partner. “You didn’t think I would want to know?”

“Winston. I… What’s the matter?” Josh replied.

“We need to discuss this at home.”

Winston turned on his heel and stormed out of the house. Josh looked apologetically at the little party.

“Guess we got that one wrong. I’m sorry. I’d better go.”

Madeline pursued Josh down the hallway.

“Shit,” Mercury said, putting his phone down.

“I guess not everything is for social media then,” Nick commented.

“It’s not social media,” Madeline said, coming onto the patio. “He’s a critically acclaimed filmmaker.”

They all sat at the table. Mercury stared at the guests. Everyone seemed more than a little shell-shocked.

Viggo stuck his head around the door. “Erm…are we okay to start serving?”

“May as well,” Madeline replied. She took a large swig from her champagne. “We’re two down.”

Viggo nodded.

“He must be very touchy about things,” Arvid said. “I can’t imagine what he’s been through.”

“No need to be so bloody rude,” Madeline replied.

“Let’s forget it for now,” Mercury said. “And try to enjoy the food.”

The atmosphere was thick, to say the least.

“Nick,” Simon said. “What made you want to work with young people?”

Madeline let out a laugh. “Guilt, I would imagine.”