Page 46 of Stepbrothers

“I left a message.”

“Just one?”

“Yes.”

“He needs chasing with a bit more determination,” Parker said, “if the flat is this bad.”

“I’ll call him again next week.”

“Mmm.” Hugh’s lips twisted as if he was in thought. “And the PGCE form? I trust that has been sent off.”

She swallowed, her mouth dry. Should she lie? Could she? What if they wanted proof? An email confirming submission?

Something deep inside told her lying would get her in more trouble. And after the spanking from Parker at the wedding, she didn’t fancy getting into more trouble with her stepbrothers. “Er, no, not yet.”

Parker clicked his tongue on the roof of his mouth.

Hugh studied her with narrowed eyes.

She knotted her fingers and stared at the floor.

“Why not?” Hugh asked, pushing away from the bench.

“I just…I just haven’t had time yet?”

“So you have the reference?”

She nodded and curled her toes. Her nails were painted pale pink.

“So the entire thing is filled in and ready?” Parker asked.

She nodded again. Her heart rate picked up. Fuck. Why hadn’t she sent it off the day before? It wasn’t like she’d had a busy day, it would only have taken half an hour to read through and hit submit.

“Why didn’t you send it?” Hugh asked. “I told you to. It’s important not to delay if you want to get on a course this academic year. Which I believe you do.”

“Yes, I do.” She looked at him and then Parker. “I just…”

“What? You forgot, couldn’t be bothered, put it off for no good reason?” Parker asked,

“I just…I’ll do it tomorrow.”

“You’re at work in the café tomorrow, you should have done it yesterday when you had all day.”

“I know I should have. I’m…I’m sorry.” It felt strange apologizing to them, but perhaps it would lighten the mood. Take the irritation from their expressions. Blow that damn cloud away.

“How does sorry help?” Hugh took her hand in his big one.

She kind of shrugged.

“The word ‘sorry’ doesn’t get the form submitted, does it, Clarice?”

“No.” She shook her head.

“You do know there will be consequences for not following my instructions,” Hugh said. “I was quite explicit.”

“What? But I—”

“Clarice,” Parker interrupted. “Actions have consequences, some are rewarding, some serve as punishments.”

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