‘No, it was mine for being such a snitch.’ Star turned round, adding, ‘OK, I’m going to bed.’ She then hotfooted it down her alleyway, shouting back as she went, ‘Thanks, Conor. Night, all.’
‘All OK up there for you is it, mate?’ Billy nodded towards the flat above Passion Flowers.
‘Yeah, grand, grand. Honestly.’
‘Well, just shout if you need anything,’ Kara told him.
‘I will. I have your number.’
‘I’m in the shop every day bar Sunday, so just pop your head in.’
Billy took hold of Kara’s hand possessively. ‘See you around, pal.’
By the time Conor had got to the top of the metal steps leading to his new place, Star was inside, door closed and outside light off.
He had hoped that a change of scene might cause a change of direction to his life, but he just hadn’t seen it happening quite this quickly. Yet despite the obvious chemistry between him and the ethereal Steren Bligh, it looked like he might have his work cut out trying to get her to love thy neighbour in the way he imagined.
