I sigh. “Fine. That was… effective.”
His smile widens. “You’re welcome. If you need me again, I’d be happy to oblige. In fact, you may want to fire your assistant and hire me instead.”
I laugh, shaking my head. “You wouldn’t last a day, but I’ll keep that in mind if something opens up.”
The kids bounce to their feet and show Archie how clean their hands are. He observes them carefully, making them laugh, then gives them a seal of approval.
They tug at his shirt, begging him to come see their kingdom, and he has no choice but to oblige. Although, it doesn’t seem like a huge sacrifice, given the wide grin on his face.
“Please do,” he says to me, turning around. “And keep that offer in mind. I could surprise you.”
With a wink, he turns back and jogs off with the kids, who show him everything with animated voices, offering to share their corn and giggling when he tickles them.
Yeah, Archie Wilcott is full of surprises.
Regents After Dark
Finn
How you holding up, Wilcott? Still in Uganda?
Archie
Still here. Thriving, actually.
Cameron
So, I take it you’ve finally found your calling?
Archie
People appreciate me here. I’m rebuilding a school and—brace yourselves—I saved a bunch of kids from diarrhoea.
Wade
Good work, Archie.
Finn
Hero material, right there. Have the kids kicked you off the team yet?
Archie
Nope. I’m their official goalie now.
Cameron
So… giving up your spot at the Regents?
Finn
*Drumroll*
Archie
Nah, I think I’ll come back. Just to haunt you lot. Besides, the mosquitoes here are far too attached to me.
Wade
