Page 97 of Playing the Game

“I’m at a bit of a loose end,” he replied. “What are you two doing?”

The winter darkness would be upon them in an hour or so. Jonas had never been one for watching television. He might try to persuade them to go for a run. That would clear his head.

“I’m getting serious about buying a piece of land somewhere,” Noah said as he emerged from his bedroom. “Udo said he’d drive me around and get my bearings.”

Jonas bristled.

Why didn’t he ask me?

“Come with us if you like,” Noah added.

“You sure?”

“Of course. I’d value your opinion.”

“Let me grab my coat.”

Jonas went to his apartment. He did feel jealous that Udo had been summoned for this task. Not that he had any right to. Noah could ask whomever he liked.

They met at Udo’s car. Jonas climbed into the back and off they went. As they drove through the town, a few people waved at them. Jonas returned the favour.

“Not including the protestors,” he said, “they’re pretty friendly round here.”

“Some,” Udo replied.

It didn’t take long to clear the outskirts of Brockton. The countryside was spectacular. Jonas hadn’t spent enough time exploring his new home. He realised he’d been too focused on Adam.

“Are you sure you want to build your own place?” Udo asked Noah.

“Yeah. I’ve been searching online. There are a few plots with planning permission already granted so I reckon I’ll go for one of them.”

For a young lad, Noah had his head screwed on. Jonas had also neglected spending time with him.

“Steven has shown me all the best places,” Udo said. “He loves it up here.”

“It’s going well then?” Jonas asked.

Udo nodded. “We had a shitty start. The media are still coming for us now and again. It’s all a bit lacklustre. Thank goodness.”

Jonas stared out of the window. A couple of cyclists were stopped, admiring the view.

“If you don’t do anything exciting, they generally do,” Jonas replied.

“Got it in one.”

“It’s so unfair,” Noah said. “Look at the way Jerzy and Alain carry on.”

“The world isn’t fair,” Udo replied. “I’ve learnt that the hard way. Still, we all survived and we got you three as a bonus prize.”

“The star prize, thank you,” Jonas fired back with a raised eyebrow.

“It’s decent of Javier to support you,” Noah said.

“I can’t thank him enough,” Udo replied. “He made everything so much better. He’s a decent guy.”

They carried on the country road. Udo seemed very used to dealing with the narrow bends. Jonas hated it. He was terrified he’d prang his car on the way to Adam’s and not be able to explain what he was doing.

Even though he’d made a vow to leave Adam to stew in his own juices, the temptation to contact him was strong.