JACK Earl’s Court
JACK
Earl’s Court
As soon as we step out of the pub, we automatically head towards the Tube station, and I waste no time laying into my brother, who trails behind me with a mopey look on his face that honestly doesn’t suit him at all.
“Have you completely lost your mind?” I hiss, hugging my arms to my chest as we walk briskly through the air, surprisingly cold for an autumn evening.
I’ve never actually lived through a London winter before, but if this is how it’s starting, I’ll definitely need to stock up on some proper jumpers.
At least I’m wearing one of my beloved bandanas, doing its best to shield my neck from the elements…
“I just don’t get you sometimes,” Ian snaps suddenly, his tone sharp with irritation.
The thought of seeing Ollie again soon seems to make him more nervous than happy, and considering they’ve been friends and flatmates for years, that feels at the very least suspicious… especially given the weird dynamic between them.
Not that this is the right moment to bring it up, obviously.
“You do realise, Jack, that Francis’s offer is the best thing that could’ve happened to you? If you turn it down just because you’re being stubborn, you’ll be a complete idiot!” he snaps eventually, reverting back to his usual bossy, arrogant self.
“For starters, he didn’t actually offer me anything!” I shoot back, unable to stop myself from waving my hands around like I always do when I’m annoyed.
“You’re the one who pushed him to hire me as a babysitter,” I shoot back, crossing my arms again, “just so you could finally get rid of me. It’s painfully obvious.
And I honestly thought we were starting to act like brothers again.
Turns out you just want me out of the way so you can go back to your wild little lifestyle, which, by the way, I’ve never stopped you from living! ”
Ian lets out a bitter laugh. “Don’t be ridiculous!
Do you really think you being around is what stops me from doing whatever I want?
I’m not fifteen, Jack, and you’re not our mum.
Trust me, that wouldn’t stop me either, if I actually wanted to do something.
The truth is, despite all your big speeches, you’re the one who doesn’t trust me. ”
I glance at him, unsure whether to believe that or not, as we head briskly towards the tube station. But he’s not done yet.
“Francis is a friend,” Ian says, his tone quieter now.
“He’s got his flaws, like everyone, but I trust him, and I know he’d treat you right.
The money you’d earn working for him would be more than enough to cover your own room near the Academy.
Don’t think I haven’t noticed how much you miss your privacy.
Living on my sofa is harder for you than it is for me… just think about it.”
“Maybe…” I blurt out. “But he’s so annoying!” I add, and even though I hate how whiny I sound, I just can’t help it.
We’ve just reached the tube station when Ian stops for a moment before heading down the stairs. Then, out of nowhere, he bursts into loud laughter, shaking his head. “Even if he is, what do you care?” he says, grinning. “It’s not like you’re marrying him…”