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She kept looking at me as though trying to figure something out.
We drank pints and talked about football, which was something we always did when catching up. I even apologised to Sapphire for talking about nothing but the game.
“I don’t mind. It’s nice just being here.” She looked at Billy, and he returned a sweet smile.
“So, what’s the plan now?” he asked. “Are you going to stay in London or return to Downton Abbey?”
“Downton Abbey?” Sapphire asked.
“Merivale.”
“Oh, that’s where Manon lives. I’m going to a party there next weekend.”
“Oh?” I asked. Carson hadn’t mentioned a party.
“Manon invited me. I’m not sure what it’s for, though.”
That made sense. They always had parties.
“You aren’t going?” she asked.
“I haven’t been invited.” I clutched my glass.
“I’m sure Manon would like to see you,” she said.
“I haven’t heard from her for a while.”
“You should call her then.” She slanted her head.
Changing the subject, I turned to Billy. “Hey, do you want to do some security work? Carson’s hiring. The money’s good. You just need to get some black gear and not flirt with the girls.”
Giving Sapphire one of those he-doesn’t-mean-it looks, Billy said, “I wouldn’t dream of it. Why would I flirt when I’ve got this gorgeous girl?”
A smile grew on Sapphire as she blushed.
They suited each other, in that I could imagine them being together forever. Even if Sapphire was still young, she was clearly devoted to Billy. They were also opposites—he was a loudmouth, and she was a giggler who hung off his every word. After a few drinks, he’d admitted to how much he loved and respected her and how she was the one for him.
Seeing his eyes shining with sincerity, I felt both happy and a little envious.
Was Manon the one for me?
I knew, deep down, that I couldn’t imagine any girl making me feel like Manon did.
It was just that I needed to sort out my head.
Would I lose her if I stayed away too long?
Or was I trying to wean myself off her, like she was some kind of harmful drug?
Despite those questions keeping me awake at night, I still couldn’t find an answer.
All I knew was that I missed her.
Badly.
“Well, what you do think? You just have to stand around looking tough. Second nature for you. All those misspent years on the streets trained you well enough.”
Billy nodded slowly. “Yeah. Could be good for some extra cash. Count me in. Though I don’t have a ton of time. I’m doing that computer degree. You know about that.”
