Page 20 of Don't Point at the Moon

“You didn’t really?”

“Not in so many words, but she got the message. Hey, let me tell you about the staging of this play. Then you can let your nephew know what he’s in for.”

Mitchell knew the synopsis ofCabaret, but Tommy filled in small details about the set design and the staging for the play. He ended by explaining how Mitchell’s nephew, Zane—Tommy had remembered his name—would be needed for quick set-changes and to help ensure the props were always in the right place at the right time.

“Is Zane gay?” asked Tommy out of the blue.

Mitchell stared at him over the top of his wine glass.

“I’m just curious,” said Tommy. “I’m not prying. We have a very inclusive theatre community. Everyone’s friendly and welcoming, but if you’re concerned, I can keep an eye on him and fend off any unwanted attention.”

“Like I said, I know hardly anything about him. But what I do know is that he’s my sister’s kid, and as such can take care of himself. He’ll also behave himself because he knows what it’s like to face her wrath.”

“Fair enough. And if you want, I can show him around when you’re busy.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“I’d be happy to. Or if it makes you feel better, how about we agree to a trade-off?”

“Trade-off? What kind of a trade-off?”

Across the table, Tommy began drawing a circle in the condensation on his tall glass.

“My sister’s getting married this year…” he began, but appeared unable to make eye contact with Mitchell. Eventually, he sighed deeply before continuing.

“Okay, look. Total transparency. My sister’s getting married in July and the groom’s best man is his best friend, this gorgeous Australian hunk. We’ve only met once, but I got a vibe from him. And the dude totally slays the surfer beach bum look. Think of a blond, blue-eyed, pumped-up version of Henry Cavill. Yikes. The thing is, I don’t really know how to engage him and I don’t want to come across as completely superficial—”

“You’re doing a pretty fine job right now—”

“Will you listen? They’re having the bachelor party in Singapore, but the wedding will be here. The thing is, I fell to pieces last time I was in his presence.”

“I find it hard to imagine you being lost for words in anyone’s presence. You’ve certainly never been with me.”

“That’s because I don’t find you—uh—intimidating.”

Mitchell knew precisely what Tommy meant. He didn’t find Mitchell attractive.

“Anyway, I wondered—” began Tommy.

“You want my help.”

“Yes.”

“At the wedding?” asked Mitchell.

At least Tommy had the decency to look and sound tentative, as though he knew he was probably asking too much.

“As what? Your date?”

“If you’re free.”

“While you romance some other guy—”

“Alec.”

“Let me see if I’ve got this right. You’re suggesting introducing me as your plus-one while trying to hook up with the best man. I’m sure I won’t be the only person in the room who might find that behaviour a tad unchivalrous.”

“Details. We can work out motives and mechanics later.”

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