‘What did I say?’ George asks, pushing the kitchen door from ajar to open.
‘Eavesdropping much?’
‘My “me” radar is extra sensitive. Unlike Charles’, clearly, because I’ve just spilled all the tea. Including what happened at the infamous Phil’s birthday party.’
Loris appears in the frame behind George and shakes his head to refute the statement.
‘Be useful, brother, and make some. Tea. Patty always had a great selection of infusions.’
‘You mean potions and, no way, I’m not rummaging through this house.’
‘It’s perfectly alright.’
‘At first glance, meaning the dodgy, witchy stuff is hidden behind cupboard doors!’
‘God, you’re such a wuss for someone who intends to rule several universes.’
Liv strides towards George to whisk him back into the kitchen.
Loris walks over to Charles, his eyes asking the question he tends to keep silent but never hides. So Charles reassures him with a smile and taps the free spot on the sofa.
‘So, George hasn’t told you everything yet?’
‘No. What happened at Phil’s party?’
‘I got drunk and stripped.’
‘Nothing I haven’t seen.’
Charles laughs and nestles against Loris, who points at the sheet lying on the coffee table.
‘What’s your verdict?’
Seized by an idea as they were leaving the flat, Charles brought the pastel drawing he did a few weeks ago during his confessions. He doesn’t want to leave it at his parents’ house, and there will come a time when Loris’ place will be occupied by strangers. Charles thought it could perhaps find a home at Patty’s, hung on the wall next to Fred’s unmeant artwork.
‘I don’t know, the colours might clash.’
‘Everything clashes with everything in here. It’d fit the vibe.’
‘True. Could you ask Patty for me tonight?’
‘Will do.’
‘Thank you.’
‘So… Is Charland at peace at the moment?’
Charles jolts back to survey Loris’ face. ‘Why do you sound like you’re about to wreak havoc upon it?’
‘No, I’m just checking that you haven’t got any Fred-processing to do, because I’m dying to show you something unrelated.’
‘Everything’s processed, and now I’m dying to see. What is it? Don’t tell me you’ve already sketched Liv’s character?’
‘Only in my mind. I want you to read an email.’
‘Colour me intrigued...’
Loris raises his phone, keeping a strong hold of it so Charles doesn’t grab it.
