Morning rolls around, and Archie bangs about the apartment. God forbid he lets a man get some sleep around here. I run through my morning routine, and when I’m done, I swipe my phone off the bed and notice there’s a message.
Shortcake
Botanical Garden
Well, that’s a weird message.
Me
Is this a crossword puzzle clue?
The three dots appear immediately.
Shortcake
No, dingbat. That’s another thing for my list. I’ve always wanted to go to a Botanical Garden! My grandad used to spend a lot of his time in the garden.
I smile, loving the small nuggets of information that she gives me.
Me
Added *smiley face emoji* breakfast?
Shortcake
Sure, meet you down there in ten.
I close the message and open my phone's web browser;botanical gardens near me.The search brings back one not too far away that opens its doors at 9 am; it’s only 7:30 am now, so we have time.
When I walk out into the living area, Archie is lying on the couch with his nose in a book. I tilt my head to read the spine, ‘My Sexy Alien Next Door’, I look over the top of the book, and he rolls his eyes.
“I’m not apologising for this. People should be allowed to enjoy their smutty books in peace.”
I fold my arms. “No judgment here, in fact, I downloaded an audiobook app last night. Is that something all smutty book readers enjoy?” I nod to the book now lying face down on his stomach.
He shrugs. “From what I’ve gathered from the bookish community, people like all sorts…” He trails off and looks away.
“Is there something on your mind, Arch?” I know my brother all too well.
His cheeks tinge red. “If I tell you something, are you going to laugh at me?”
I sit. “No, when have I ever laughed at you?” My chest tightens ever so slightly.
He throws a glare my way. “Oh, how about yesterday when you decided that it would be hilariously funny to offer me shorts that disappear when they get wet?”
I burst out laughing. “Sorry. I won't laughthis time. Promise.”
He sighs and hides his face behind a cushion. “I want to open a bookstore.”
I don’t know why he would think I would laugh at that. “Archie, that’s amazing! Why would I laugh at you for that?”
He sits up, shrugging. “I don’t know, everyone else has a proper job, and I’ve been floating about, but this is something I really want to do. Do you think I should?”
“A hundred per cent, you should do it. I can make you some bookshelves and a counter. We’ll all pitch in and help. Have you spoken to mum and dad?”
He shakes his head. “No, not yet, but I will.” He picks up his book and starts to read again.
“Hey, Archie, are you going to be okay if I take Hayleigh out today?”
