‘Any time.’
He leant down and hugged me. I squeezed him back, realising just how much I’d missed him. Even though I’d been busy, even though we’d spoken on text and video calls, it wasn’t the same as having him physically in my life. Charlie had fast become, alongside Amy, my closest friend.
As he opened the door, he turned back. ‘What are you doing about your photoshoot for the wedding dresses?’
‘What do you mean?’
‘How are you doing it?’
I blew a wisp of hair off my face. ‘I don’t know. Probably just take it in turns, or something. I might try and set up some shots with both of us in them if I can, but it’ll just depend on how it’s going and time really.’
‘Do you want a hand?’
‘Are you offering?’
‘Yes. I’m off tomorrow. I could come and help you shoot. It’ll be easier that way and you’ll get more of the reportage feeling you were after. I was thinking about it during dinner.’
‘Were you, now?’
He held up his hands. ‘Hey, you’re the one who encouraged this photography thing.’
‘Yes, but you don’t usually like taking people pictures.’
‘Only because I don’t always feel comfortable talking to people I don’t know, in that sort of circumstance. I do actually like taking their photos.’
‘Well, it would make things a lot easier and get it done quicker. But shouldn’t you be trying to get over your jet lag?’
‘I’m going straight home to bed now. If we say after lunch tomorrow, I’ll be up by then and functioning, for the most part. Come on, let me repay you for dinner and for falling asleep on your sofa.’
I rubbed his arm. ‘You don’t have to repay me, or apologise, for anything. But if you really don’t mind, it would be a great help.’
‘Great. OK. I’ll see you about two, then?’
‘Sounds good. Thanks, Charlie. And sleep well.’
‘I’m pretty sure that’s a given.’ He raised his eyebrows over sleepy eyes.
‘Just text me when you’re in, will you?’
He gave his little head-shake. ‘Libs. It’s a few minutes’ drive.’
‘Please. You’re tired. And lots of accidents happen very close to home. You love statistics so I know you know I’m right.’ I tilted my chin up.
‘Fine. I will text you.’ He bent and kissed me on the cheek. ‘You’re worse than my mother.’
‘Thanks.’
‘See you tomorrow.’
Ten minutes later, my phone cheeped at me.
?? Home. Thanks for dinner. Going to… zzzzzzzzzzzz
I smiled at his message.
?? Thank you xx
A smiley face, followed by a sleepy one, came back, along with a couple of kisses. I switched my own phone onto silent and headed off to bed myself.
