Page 46 of Don't Point at the Moon

“Does double chocolate cheesecake count?”

“Idiot.”

“Actually, I’d better contact Zane’s uncle. Let him know how things are going.”

Tommy held back a pace or two while typing a message to Mitchell.

Tommy:We’re done. Want to join us? Heading to Wyndham for a drink. I’m sure you could use a glass of vino by now.

He began to put his phone away, thinking Mitchell might be busy and unable to respond, but an incomprehensible message pinged onto his phone.

Mitchell:Hd drink whisker. At world

Mitchell:Worm

Mitchell:Work

Mitchell:Shut

Tommy:Are you okay?

Reply bubbles popped up a couple times and stopped. Eventually, after standing and waiting for a response for a full minute, Tommy dialled the number. The phone rang continuously before Mitchell finally answered.

“S’okay. Mm fine.”

“Where are you, Mitchell?”

“Mm fine.”

“Mitchell.”

“Taxi stan’ near Kowloon fle-fle-ferry. But m-fine.”

“You don’t sound fine. Stay where you are. I’m coming to get you.”

“Is that Mitchell?” asked Zane, coming up as Tommy ended the call.

“Yes,” said Tommy.

“I texted him already. He told us to go on without him.”

“Sounds like he’s—uh—unwell. I’ll pick him up and take him home.”

“I can do that,” offered Zane, looking naturally concerned.

“No, Zane,” said Shelly, nodding at Tommy and holding Zane’s arm. “Let Tommy go. I’m sure your uncle would be mortified if you missed out on the fun because of him. Tommy’s got this.”

“Shelly’s right. I’m sure it’s nothing. Probably a stomach bug. He just needs medicine and rest. I’m sure it won’t take long. He did insist you stay and get to know the crew. Do you have money?”

“Yes,” said Zane, reaching a hand into his pocket. “I have Hong Kong dollars and my bank card.”

“Good for you. I suggest you also buy yourself dinner. I’ll take care of Mitchell. It’ll give me and him a chance to have a chat about you, okay?”

“Oh. Yeah. Cool.”

“You have my phone number, in case you need me. Can find your own way home?”

Zane rolled his eyes.

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