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“Why do you sound like you’ve been crying?” he accuses. Shit, how can he tell even over the anger I’m feeling towards Charlie?
“I got some bad news.”
“About that dick?”
“No. Just before. Don’t worry, what can I do for you?”
“Well, I was calling for a chat, but as I’ll be there in less than five minutes I suggest you get the kettle on. I want hot chocolate. It’s time to show Phoenix how to have it properly.”
I chuckle and acquiesce.
“I’d love to see you. But should you be driving and chatting to me?”
“It’s hands free, Princess,” he points out.
“You still have to concentrate,” I counter.
“Fine. Hanging up now. See you in three.”
“Wait, what?” I call, but the line’s already dead.
“Come on, Phoenix. We need hot chocolates all round.” I smile when her face lights up and she races to the front door. Following her, I snatch down the eviction notice and head inside to put a pan of milk on to warm. If we’re having hot chocolate, we’re damn well having it properly. None of this boiled water shit.
I’m just putting the finishing touches on three mugs when there’s a knock at the door. Obviously, the bell has well and truly died. Phoenix runs to open it and lets Rebel in. She squeals with excitement when she sees him and launches herself at his kneecaps to hug him.
“Whoa, rugrat, what are you doing? Trying to kill me or something? You almost knocked me over!” Phoenix giggles at the absurdity of her being able to knock Rebel over but then proceeds to try her best to rugby tackle him to the floor.
“Okay, time out, Nix, come have your hot chocolate.”
I carry it over to the sofa and put the TV on for her, selecting the cartoons. Her face lights up at this rare treat and she happily settles back with her mammoth hot chocolate and Scooby Doo. I give Rebel a nod to join me in the kitchen.
When he’s squeezed past the ridiculous table, we take a seat and I pass him his drink. He takes a long sip and tells me it’s amazing.
“Not as good as Thorn’s though is it?” I sigh. “Damn, I’ve missed that.”
“Me too.”
“What? Why? I would have thought you could have it whenever you wanted,” I puzzle.
“He wouldn’t make it after you disappeared.”
I stare at my drink, unsure what to say. Finally I settle on “I’m sorry”, but I know it’s not enough. It will never be enough.
“Tell me what’s wrong, Princess. You said you had bad news?”
“There’s nothing you can do…” I begin.
“I’ll be the judge of that. Tell me.”
I slide the eviction notice across the table towards him. He scans it and scowls, then looks up at me.
“I’m sorry, Rae,” he states simply.
“I don’t know what I’m going to do, Reb,” I tell him honestly.
“Don’t say no…”
“What?”
