Page 21 of Don't Point at the Moon

“And you’re going to just introduce me there and then? Some random guy you just met on the streets? Are your family going to buy that?”

“Maybe. Okay, we might need to tidy you up a bit.”

“Should I be offended right now?”

“No, I just mean the guys I tend to go for are more fussy about their appearance. We might need to work on your hair, clothes, grooming—”

“Stop right there. You are notQueer Eye-ing me. If you want me there, you take me as I am or not at all.”

Tommy paused to assess Mitchell for a few seconds.

“I suppose that might make the breaking up part a little more convincing.”

“Remember, I’m doing you a favour here. How old are you, Tommy?”

“Twenty-nine.”

“I’m thirty-eight. Which makes me nine years your senior. Have you considered the reputational damage that might cause?”

Mitchell watched as Tommy stared down at his drink, a deep furrow between his brows.

“I’ll survive.”

“I meant me, not you.”

When Tommy’s gaze swung back, Mitchell began to laugh, which had Tommy joining in.

“You’re a dick.”

“Seriously though, Tommy. Shouldn’t we at least be seen together before the event?”

“We’re here right now, aren’t we?”

“For nobody to see.”

“Come to the play run-through this Thursday.”

“The way work’s going right now, that might be difficult. What are you doing Sunday?”

Tommy grinned, probably thinking Mitchell meant brunch in town or a drink with friends. But something in Mitchell’s expression must have given him cause for caution.

“Why?” he asked, his eyes narrowing. “What did you have in mind?”

“Oscar’s taking a group of us on a hike Sunday. The first two stages of the MacLehose. Early start, though. The trek takes around six hours, and the second section is supposed to have some steep climbs.”

“I usually catch up on sleep Sunday mornings.”

“Shame. Would have given us a chance to swap stories about each other. And your friend, Devon, will be disappointed.”

“Devon’s going? Are you serious?”

“Gospel. According to Saint Oscar.”

Mitchell watched the cute little knot form between Tommy’s brows again as he looked away to consider Mitchell’s words. Eventually he returned his gaze and heaved out a sigh.

“If it helps promote the illusion, then I’ll come.”

“Excellent. I’ll let Oscar know. He’s arranging a minibus to take us there and bring us back after we’ve finished. They’re picking us up is from outside pier three in Central at six. Do you need an early morning call?”

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