Chapter 13

As he approached, Alf glanced up skittishly. Adam noticed despite the relaxed pose, he was holding himself tensely. Funnily enough, it reassured him that Alf was anxious too.

In contrast to their first meeting, this time it was easier. They skirted around anything personal, simply making small talk about work. When Adam offered to get a second round in, Alf complied with no comment. The atmosphere between them might not be warm but Alf was staying at least for another drink with him and that was all that mattered.

Once the drinks were finished, Alf made a motion to stand, mentioning again about the mealtimes.

This time, Adam spoke up. “There’s a pub near my place that does decent enough food. It’s a bit of a walk up the hill, but if that’s no issue?” he shrugged, leaving the decision up to Alf. The silence seemed to last hours.

“Sounds good,” Alf said with a slight twist of his lips. “Anything would be better than overcooked rissoles and watery cabbage like last time.”