Page 70 of The Good Neighbour
Hugh groaned. “I wish it was just us today.”
They had invited Michael over to see the costumes. Josh hoped to goodness they would fit. He could imagine the scene if he’d calculated anything wrong. He marvelled how two people who were total opposites worked together so effectively.
“Why don’t we say we have dinner plans?” Josh replied. “Then he won’t stay too long.”
“Good idea.”
Hugh slung his arm over Josh’s shoulder as they wandered towards the gate. The heat from his body warming Josh. It felt so companionable and natural.
“Do me a favour,” Hugh said.
“Name it.”
“Don’t mention that Mrs Wimpole and the Prof have seen them. Let Michael think he’s special.”
Josh had already decided on that course of action. He kissed Hugh.
“Walk faster. We may need a significant amount of time to dry off after the bath.”
“Oh my God, I love it.”
Michael’s suit fitted him perfectly. Hugh had thrown his on too. They’d even put some light drag on to set things off.
“This is perfect,” Josh said, clapping his hands together.
Since he’d had the idea of creating a drag label, he had been overflowing with ideas. With Hugh as his muse, he could really do something exciting.
“I can’t wait for this tour now,” Michael said.
He hadn’t been able to tear himself away from the mirror. He pulled Hugh toward him and they struck a few poses. Hugh was getting close to the haughty yet approachable way Mrs Wimpole carried herself.
“You have a bit more creative leeway, Michael,” Hugh said. “I need to get her just right.”
Michael tried a few walks. Suddenly, he started to emulate the Professor’s way of scurrying. Usually after Mrs Wimpole.
“That’s it,” Hugh cried out.
“We need to practice. Come on.”
Then Hugh’s face dropped.
“What’s the matter?” Josh asked.
Hugh glanced at him. The joy of seconds ago replaced by anxiety.
“It’s this backlash thing. Will it really be enough to come out with two new characters? What if I’ve fucked things up completely?”
Josh and Michael raced to his side.
“You haven’t fucked anything up,” Michael said, rubbing his back.
“You’ve changed your tune.”
Michael had the decency to blush. “Oh, shut up. I’m here, aren’t I?”
Josh ran his hands through Hugh’s hair. It was so soft.
“This will not ruin your tour. I can promise you that.”
