Page 31 of The Writer
Two for two on lvy leaving after sex.
Being at her own apartment didn’t even stop it.
I do take the time to have a shower before I leave. There’s no rush now that she's left, and it's Saturday. That doesn’t make any difference to me, given that I have no firm plans past the drink with Dan tonight, but I do wonder where Ivy was heading off to as I look around her place. That’s another dangerous line of thought and something that's happening a bit too often where Miss Broderick is concerned.
It was gone nine when she breezed out, so not that early after all. I grab a coffee from her well-appointed kitchen—all sleek lines and minimal appliances and look out across the small park. There wasn’t a lot of time for interior appreciation last night, but it's nice here. Suits her whole being in some way. Still, the only thing I'm appreciating is Ivy’s body, her tongue, her lips. Last night was just like our first time. Explosive. And each contact with her just gives me more reason to want to see her again.
Eventually, I double-check the door’s locked behind me and then head to the tube to make my way back across town to my current address.
~
The pub is quieter than I’d expect for a Saturday night, but it suits me, and I doubt Dan would have been up for the place Ivy chose last night. I chuckle at the thought as the yeasty tang of beer fills my nose and I head towards the bar. I’m a little early, but I’m happy to sit and soak up the atmosphere for a while.
The golden amber pint is a fucking good sight, and I have to admit the real ale tastes bloody amazing after years of bottled beers and foreign imports. As I sit and enjoy the moment, I can’t help but assess the room and people around me, counting the two guys huddled in the corner as a potential threat.
“Hey, man.” Dan claps me on the back and takes a seat at the bar.
“It’s good to see you.” I stand, and we have an awkward shoulder hug moment before Dan sits back down again.
“I see you’ve dived right in with the beer.”
I raise my glass in salute. “Isn’t this why you chose this place?” I take a healthy gulp, savouring the taste.
“It is. And I’m glad you’ve not lost the taste for it. Can I get a pint of whatever he’s drinking?” Dan orders.
“To your safe return.”
“I’ll toast to that. Cheers.” We clink, but I have to admit, I’m not as comfortable around him as usual. We’ve been mates for a long time, and over the last ten years, we’ve always been able to meet up and reconnect when I’ve flown in. He’s the only one I’d consider a true friend despite the distance I force between us, but this feels strained. And I know why. My choice of conversation isn't going to be easy at all.
“So, what got you on that plane, bud?”
“Really? We’ve not spoken in months, and I haven’t seen you in years, and that’s the first question?” I deflect.
“I know you. You haven’t just decided to come home. Hell, you don’t have a home because you’ve been on international ground for so long.”
He’s right. And he deserves honesty from me and the reasons behind my decision, even if I’m still figuring out one part of that. “Did you know Mum was ill?”
“No. Mate, I’m sorry.”
“It was a call with her that made it clear that I’d pulled away too much. She has cancer and didn’t even bother to tell me. It’s pretty shit to realise you’ve been that bad of a son your Mum doesn’t even call when she needs help.”
“Don’t beat yourself up, man. You’ve got a complicated relationship with her.”
“No, Dan. She’s spot on. She didn’t tell me because there was no point in her eyes. And, she’s right. It’s not until recently I’ve seen an alternative view to what family could be.”
“I know you’ve been dealt a rough hand. You’ve dealt with it in your way. You do you. We’re here for you.”
“You say that, but I think I left it a little late with Mum.” We get back to drinking, the conversation too heavy.
“That’s enough about me. How’s Linda?” I drain my pint.
“Mate, I’ve been married to Lindsey for two years. You got to get her name right.”
“Sorry. Sorry. I will.” I put my hands up in apology and smile all the time, racking my mind for her name, knowing it will never stick. I’ve not even met the woman. But if Dan is happy, I should make an effort.
“What have you got lined up for work?” Dan moves the conversation along.
“No plans.”
