Just like they were during the years of my failures and disappointments and benders. I can’t believe I have done this again.
I should call my mother, but I know she’ll hear the tone of my voice and immediately worry I’m backsliding. So I quickly type off a message:
Felix:So sorry, accidentally had my phone on do not disturb.
(A lie, but hopefully one they’ll buy.)
Felix:Everything’s fine.
Felix:I should have documents in two days, and then I can fly back to London.
Mum:Oh thank God!
Dad:Do you need more money?
I laugh to myself. I don’t know what he thinks I could have spent 10K on in thirty-six hours.
Felix:No, I’m good. Thanks.
Mum:At least you have Hope. Is she ok?
Felix:Yeah, we’re together.
Prue:Rather romantic, actually, marooned in paradise.
This stings. Under different circumstances, perhaps it would be.
I don’t respond.
I click through to a couple other unread texts from this morning. They’re from Sophie.
Sophie:Hey mate.
Sophie:Quick update for you.
Sophie:Everything is UNDER CONTROL but wanted you to know that Izzie quit.
“Fuck,” I hiss out loud.
Izzie is the manager of the Smoke and Gun. She’s worked there for years.
Sophie:I’m filling in and I have a few leads for a replacement.
Sophie:So don’t stress.
Don’tstress? We’re already shorthanded with me away. There is no way Sophie has the capacity to run both businesses and cover the day-to-day at S&G.
Felix:Shit.
Felix:I’m coming back early.
Sophie:No! It’s all in hand. Enjoy your trip. I just wanted to let you know.
Felix:It’s fine. I was already planning on it. Long story.
Sophie:Ok… but truly don’t worry, it’s all sorted!
She knows me well. I keep an iron hand on the business because I’m obsessive about the details. When something goes off, so does my entire psychological balance.
