Page 94 of Thrill

“Seriously though, son. I’m proud of you.”

“Thank you, Dad. That means a lot.”

Tyler was half dragged into the kitchen by Lisa. Resplendent in a light grey suit and pink shirt, he was perfection.

Danny stood up. “Wow. I know it wasn’t your choice but you look gorgeous.”

“Doesn’t he scrub up well?” Lisa said. “Go and stand over there. Andy, take a photo of them.”

Andy shrugged at Danny. “Has to be done.”

Danny and Tyler dutifully stood by the window. Andy took a few shots.

“Perfect,” Lisa said, peering over his shoulder. “Can I put them on Facebook? Please.”

“Fine,” Danny said. He turned to Tyler. “Are you busting me out of this mad house?”

“Wait,” Lisa exclaimed, opening the fridge. “I’ve put you both some sandwiches together. Andy, get those crisps out of the cupboard.”

“It’s fine, Mum. We can eat at the services.”

“Nonsense,” she said, shoving two foil-covered items into Danny’s hands.

Andy handed Tyler a multipack of crisps.

“Thank you,” Tyler said. “You didn’t have to go to any trouble.”

Danny grabbed his bag as they walked to the front door.

“Have a wonderful time,” Lisa said. She gave Tyler a bear hug then traversed to Danny like a deranged spider monkey.

“I’m parked on the next street,” Tyler said. “Bye, both.”

Danny’s parents waved them off until they had gone round the corner.

“They’re very excited I’ve been invited to a family wedding,” Danny explained.

“They’re hiding it well,” Tyler replied.

They reached Tyler’s Mercedes and hopped in. Danny leant across and kissed Tyler.

“Hello,” he said.

“Hello to you too.”

Tyler fired the machine into action and they set off. Danny reached behind and placed the sandwiches on the back seat.

“You’re not hungry yet, are you?” he asked.

“Only for you in that suit,” Tyler replied.

Danny grinned. “Thanks. The feeling’s mutual.”

Tyler sighed.

“Are you nervous?” Danny asked.

“A bit. You don’t know my family. I keep thinking it’s a bad idea.”