Halfway through, my phone buzzes.
I freeze.
Not because I’m startled. Because I was waiting for it.
I wipe my hands on a tea towel and pick it up.
Tom
Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
That’s it. No flourish. No unnecessary enthusiasm.
I stare at the message for a moment longer than necessary.
Me
You’re welcome. Thought it was better than a surpriseover breakfast.
I put the phone down and return to the vivarium, determined not to hover.
It buzzes again.
Tom
I don’t read the paper at breakfast. I pretend I don’t care until at least ten.
Me
Very mature.
Tom
Years of practice.
I snort. Hadrian shifts an inch, clearly offended by the noise.
Me
How bad is service tonight?
Tom
Busy. Demanding. Opinions everywhere.
Me
That sounds like Carlisle.
Tom
That sounds like people.
I replace the water dish carefully, checking it’s level. Hadrian approves by not biting me.
Me
Angela said it was mad.
