Page 84 of Peep

Epilogue

Anders

Ishamelessly grin at Jahmar’s message, oblivious to my mum’s nattering.

Jay

You should come online. ;)

“Oi, you. You’re here to see your mother, not play on your phone,” Mum playfully scorns.

“Sorry, it’s Jay. He’s having some trouble with erm, the internet. Yes, that’s it. He needs it to do some work. I should probably pop out and give him a call.”

Mum rolls her eyes. “You said he works in a hospital. Why would he need the internet, and how the hell are you supposed to help?”

Shit, that was a ridiculous lie.

“Erm, you know, for googling symptoms, I don’t know. Doctors can’t know everything. Sometimes Google’s their best friend.”

She hums, shaking her head in disapproval.

I quickly type out a message while Mum clears the plates.

That’s gonna be tricky, I’m at my mum’s.

Jay

Bathroom? ;)

Oi, that was one time.

Jay

Haha, go on. I promise it’ll be worth it.

I chew my bottom lip in contemplation. I could sneak to the bathroom, but it would probably be obvious I’m up to no good, and it’s never a quick tug with Jahmar; he likes to put on a show.

“Anders, it’s fine if you need to go. I know you’re all loved up now and would rather spend the night with your fella.”

I look up from my phone, feeling a smidge of guilt but also knowing I’m definitely taking her up on the offer. We both have the night off, so I want to make the most of it.

“Are you sure?” I tentatively ask, already climbing to my feet—I’m a terrible son.

“Of course, you silly sausage. Come here.” She swings the tea towel over her shoulder and draws me in for a hard hug. “Next weekend, you’re bringin’ him over. Chris will be here. I’m sure he’d like to meet Jahmar, too.”

My stomach sours, and I have to turn away to hide my disgust. That’s all I feel when I think of my brother these days. He’s tried reaching out and making amends, but it feels wrong. I told Jahmar I chose him and meant it with my whole chest. I don’t care if Chris is my flesh and blood. Jahmar’s my family and my main priority now.

I swallow hard, straightening my crooked expression before speaking, “Sorry, Mum, I can’t; we’re away next week.”

“Oh, that’s a shame. Where you headin’?”

I scramble for a location, but my mind goes blank.

“Erm, I’m not sure. Jay said it’s a surprise.”

“Aw, that’s romantic. Well, never mind. Maybe next time.”

Maybe never.

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