What the hell can I say? How can I explain that my life has been completely upended in the last few weeks, and I’m currently spending the majority of my time either dealing with unruly dogs or even unrulier party-going children?
“It’s an evolving situation,” I say finally.
Andrew’s eyes fly up. “Evolving in what way?”
“Let’s just say there was a small mishap, which led to Vaughn’s brother’s ankle being injured, so I’ve had to step in and help him with his businesses.”
“What are his businesses?”
“Dog walker and children’s entertainer.”
Andrew splutters on his mouthful of champagne. “You’vebeen dog walking and entertaining children?”
“I’ve just been providing some practical assistance,” I say.
“Practical assistance? Please tell me exactly what this practical assistance entails.” Andrew grins.
I can only imagine how Andrew’s grin would widen if he’d seen the things that have unfolded between Archie and me over the last few days.
“I’d rather not elaborate,” I say.
Andrew’s mouth twitches. “So, what’s Vaughn’s brother like?”
How can I describe Archie Mansley? Are there any words in the English language capable of summing him up?
He’s playful. He’s smart. He’s kind. He’s…
“He’s not what I expected,” I say finally.
Andrew’s eyebrows rise. He waits.
“He’s nothing like Vaughn,” I continue. “I mean, he looks like him, but that’s where it stops. And there’s something about him that doesn’t add up. He’s been living in a bedsit despite the fact that the Mansleys have serious money.”
“Maybe he’s estranged from his family.”
“Maybe.”
Thinking about Archie gives me the urge to check my phone to see if he’s sent me any more messages.
Sure enough, Archie has sent me a series of caterpillar emoji, followed by a butterfly emoji, followed by a single word:Believe.
I have to cough to cover the laugh that wants to escape my throat.
When I look back at Andrew, he’s studying me with a speculative expression. “It’s not like you to be addicted to your phone.”
I put my phone in my pocket. “I’m expecting a client email.”
“At nine-thirty on a Tuesday night?”
“My clients are in different time zones.”
Luckily, we’re interrupted then, cutting short Andrew’s scrutiny.
“Leo, great to see you.”
It’s Augustus Wilson, one of my clients who runs a very successful network security company.
“Hi, Gus. You know Andrew, don’t you? And this is Justin.”
