Knife, meet back

'Tate? There's something I need to tell you.'

'Go on.'

'I have to go away for the night. Brianne's had an emergency and I need to go be with her.'

'...What kind of emergency?'

'She's been seeing some guy and he's dumped her. So she's pretty upset and could do with some comforting.'

'Really?'

'Yeah.'

'And why couldn't she be comforted by one of her friends who actually lives over there?'

'Well, I'm her sister.'

'You're not that close.'

'No, but... that's it, isn't it? I've been slacking off as a sister and I should do more to be there for her. Now is a good time to show I care. Of course I'd have told you sooner but it just sprang up out of nowhere.'

'It's hardly convenient, Roxxi.'

'Look, I've sent the kids to their friends' places for the night. You won't be disturbed. In fact, you'll have the place to yourself. I'll make sure I'm back tomorrow night, I promise.'

[img]http://i.imgur.com/qCxJBj9.jpg[/img]

'You'd better be telling the truth.'

'I am! You won't have to do anything. Apart from picking up Julius from Nyla's, anyway, but that won't take long.'

'...Fine. If needs must. Are you going now?'

'Yeah, I packed a small bag.'

'Off you go, then.'

'Thanks.'

'Don't mention it.'

...

'Hey. Sorry to keep you waiting.'

'No problem. So he accepted it?'

'After a bit of nagging, yeah. I'm pleased with how it went.'

'Good, good. How are you feeling?'

'Nervous as hell, but it's a necessary trip. Tristan's lending the money for the house so hopefully I'll be able to put an offer in on a really nice place. We've got a few viewings lined up for tomorrow, so... at least one of them should be suitable.'

'That's great.'

'Definitely. I feel like I'm finally getting somewhere. Thanks for coming along, by the way.'

'I'm happy to. I've got a free weekend and damn right, I'll take the opportunity to spend it with you.'

'Aww... Let's find a really nice restaurant tonight.'

'I'd love to. A proper date, without having to worry about being seen...'

'Shame it's only one night. Once I'm there, you'll have to come and visit.'

'That'll be lovely. I've heard it's a gorgeous place. I bet you'll all love it there.'

'We definitely will.'

'So... are you still okay with sharing a room tonight? I'll book myself another once we get there, if you'd prefer not to.'

'No... I'd like to. Just a bit anxious, that's all.'

'Yeah, me too. Well, If you're sure...'

'I am. Come on, let's get going.'

'Okay.'

'Brianne. Hello.'

'Hey.'

'Sorry to bother you, but I have to ask: is Roxxi really going to yours tonight?'

'...Nope. I was wondering when you'd call to check.'

'Oh?'

'She asked if she could use me as an excuse. I agreed to it and thought I'd wait for you to ring, because I knew you would.'

'When was this?'

'Couple of days ago.'

'I see... do you know where she's really going?'

'Nope. I asked but she wouldn't tell me.'

'It must be serious then...'

'Yeah. I've no clue what she's up to, but...'

'Thank you for letting me know. She'll have quite the surprise when she gets back.'

'Wait. Don't tell her I ratted her out. She'll never trust me again if you do that. If you give me some time, I might be able to get it out of her.'

'Good point. It'll just be frustrating, pretending everything's fine while she's been up to God knows what behind my back.'

'Any idea what it might be?'

'Not really. Even she wouldn't be stupid enough to leave me. I'm the best thing that's ever happened to the stupid bitch. Maybe it's an affair.'

'Who knows then. I'll try to get the truth.'

'Thank you. So, I have the house to myself tonight because the kids are all at sleepovers... do you fancy coming over?'

'Heh. I would, but I won't be able to arrange childcare at such short notice. You know what it's like.'

'Okay then, not to worry. How are the twins?'

'Adorable pains in the ass, as usual.'

'Of course. Right, I have to go now. I'll talk to you later.'

'Alright. See you.'