Chapter 94

“No there’s not!” Flora shrieked.

“Flora, shut up,” Eli mumbled, and kissed Rob on the mouth before taking firm hold of his wrist. “Come and at least say a quick hello to Mum. She’s been dead nice about you today. Seems to think you’re becoming a good citizen.”

“That’s your fucking lies.”

“Mind your language.”

“Fucking lies!” Flora echoed cheerfully.

“Flora!” Mum shouted from the kitchen.

“The tree man said it!”

Rob levelled Eli with a flat, unimpressed stare. Eli just gave him an obnoxious smile, firmly closed the front door, and hauled towards the kitchen.

“Rob, dear, have some ice cream!”

Rob grunted a hello, and stuck his hands in his pockets. Eli tipped Rob’s bowl out into his own and attacked both portions when Mum’s back was to him.

“Are you all set for going to Manchester, then?” Mum chirped, busying herself by washing her hands.

“Yep.”