‘Alright, Sherlock.’
Loris comes to a standstill. ‘Am I wrong? Please tell me now, so I can get over my crushing disappointment. I don’t want to ruin the mood and your plans later.’
‘You’re not wrong.’
Loris produces a weird sound, hybrid of a cry and a cluck. Charles laughs, casts a look around and presses their lips together.
‘I hope you’re aware I’m not gonna be okay in that room,’ Loris says, caressing his cheeks.
‘I’m counting on it.’
A man emerges from a side street, so they resume walking, leaving just enough space between them for their arms to swing and their hands to lock, let go and lock again.
‘Hey, where’s mad-Charles?’
‘I ditched him. He’s not the company I like to keep.’
‘But what did your colleague do to summon him?’
‘He’s a vindictive halfwit but, to be honest, I use him as a mental punching ball. Being mad at him is a lot less hassle than being mad at… who I’m truly mad at.’
‘Your father?’
‘Wild guess?’
‘You called him a dickhead on Saturday.’
‘I was being too kind and…’ Charles grimaces. ‘Sorry, I shouldn’t.’
‘Don’t refrain from bitching about your father because I lost mine. I’m sure you have valid reasons.’
‘I do, but I’d rather bitch about something more relevant.Kaunas. Donie Culver’s daughter has decided to keep Her as part of a private collection. In her private house.’
‘That sucks.’
‘So bad! It’s unfair!’
‘Says the guy who’s taking me to a private collection in a private house.’
Charles elbows him. ‘It’s not the same.’
‘No? I think Olwinski geeks around the world curse your name for having aLandall to yourself. But you’re right, it’s different. They can’t go see one in their underwear to feel better about the injustice.’
‘You’re supposed to bitch with me, not at me!’
‘I’m not here to tell you what you want to hear, Charles. But happy to listen.’
‘It’s just that… I had made my peace with never seeingKaunas. And suddenly I got my hopes up. Which was a big mistake because now I’m like… By the way, I’ve changed my mind, we’re not going to my place but to a sushi restaurant.’
‘What?’
‘See! This is how I feel!’ Charles flinches aside when Loris elbows him in return. ‘Except my crushing disappointment is real and… and I’m about to sound like an unbearable spoilt brat, but I’m used to getting what I want. Materially speaking. Not only stuff, but also experiences. If Enrica Bianchi exhibitedKaunasthis weekend, I’d go. Just like that. But she won’t, I’ll never see that painting, and it’s a cruel reminder that actual happiness can’t be bought.’
Loris throws an arm around Charles’ shoulders. ‘I’m sorry you’re upset about it. If there’s anything I can do to make you feel better, letme know.’
‘Anything?’
‘You’re taking me to one of my all-time favourite paintings. I’d put on that weird dress from the shop if you asked.’
