Page 38 of Just a Number

“Cassidy suggested we all get together and start an actual book club. That could be fun.”

“Oh yeah, I love the sound of that. But just spicy books, yeah? I don’t want to be reading classics.” Abby sounds horrified.

“Of course, only those rated three or more chilli peppers,” I tell her with a chuckle.

We hang up after that and I pause while I try to work out what to do.

I thought it for the best that Alex was gone, but he doesn’t have anywhere to go and that’s bullshit. If it were Zack in this position, I would hope that someone would step in, especially if they had the spare space like we do. I cringe when I realise that I wouldn’t want some older, predatory woman taking advantage of him, even if it wasn’t that way at all. I know if other people knew about what Alex and I did, they may see it differently.

I go to speak to Zack. The easiest way to get his attention is to stand close to the screen, and it works as he switches the audio off on his headphones and mic set.

“What’s up, Mum?”

“I was just chatting to Abby from the bar and she said Alex’s new place fell through.”

“Oh, bummer.”

“Yeah, I don’t think I want a guest staying in the guest room long-term, but how would you feel about him staying in the flat above the garage?”

“I’d be down with that. Are you okay with it?”

“Yeah, he’s a decent kid.” I curse myself as a blush rises on my cheeks. “If he stays above the garage, he could come and go as he wants.”

“Sweet.”

“Would you help me give it a tidy? We might need to put a sofa bed or something out there?”

“He could use the one in my room. It’s always covered in junk. I don’t actually sit on it. I’m sure he and I could get it down the stairs and over there without too much bother.”

“That would be great.”

“Shall I call him and let him know?” Zack queries.

Panic rises at the thought of Alex saying something to Zack that he shouldn’t. “Err, no, it’s okay. Abby asked me to pop into the pub for something else so I can speak to him.” I smile to try to hide the panic.

“Sweet. Can I get back to this now?” He gestures at the screen.

“Of course.”

Okay. So Zack’s on board. Not that I thought he wouldn’t be. Now I just need to speak to Alex and make it clear that he can stay, but we keep our distance and what happened last night can never be repeated. And Zack can’t ever find out.

I shake my head as I look in the mirror a while later. Abby hadn’t invited me to the pub at all, but I figured it was the only way to speak to Alex. I could call him, but it’s unlikely he’ll answer if he’s busy working. So why have I gone to the effort of putting on makeup and fixing my hair? I could have just gone as I was, but no, I had to let vanity get in the way. I refuse to dress up though, so I’m wearing some jeans and an old band t-shirt. I add my leather jacket so I don’t look out of place in the pub and some heels as a last-minute addition.

I drive over there. I’m not there to be social, so there’s no need to get a taxi. I’ll just stick to a non-alcoholic drink if I have to wait to speak to Alex.

The place is packed. There’s a football game showing on the screens and a buzz of excitement as many of the patrons watch the game. There’s a big loud cheer and lots of clapping as I makemy way through the crowd towards the bar. I spot Abby first. She does a double-take when she sees me.

“Mel. Hey. What can I get you?” She’s pouring a pint for someone else and leans over with the card payment machine so he can tap his card.

“Just a small lemonade, thanks, I’m driving.”

“No worries, coming right up.”

“Is Alex around?” I ask. I can’t see him behind the bar.

“He’s just grabbing a bite to eat. If you head out the back, he’s in the staffroom. You’re all good to go in there. I’ll vouch for you if the boss asks.” She gives me a wink as she pours my drink.

“Thanks. What do I owe you for the lemonade?”

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