Page 37 of Almost Ours

“Promise."

"Good."

“Right. Course." I chuckle. "Anyway. I'm freezing, and you've got a pair of trainers to formally retire in the morning."

"Don't remind me."

"I'll say a few words at the funeral, if you’d like."

“Piss off, Ruby.”

“I’m going.” I tap my card against the reader, the lock clicking over. "Night, Josh."

“Night.” He stays put, watching the door swinging shut behind me. “Text me.”

“I will!”

“You better.”

The door closes between us, and I'm smiling the whole way up the stairs, phone already out, typing before I've even reached my floor, but I only send the text when I’m in my room.

RUBY (03:30): I’m in. Alive. No swan lying in wait. Could you let me know when you’re back safe?

JOSH (03:31): Glad to hear it. And will do.

I sit on the edge of my bed, not daring to get ready for bed, phone in hand, waiting for the follow-up text without really admitting to myself that's what I'm doing. Ten minutes pass and then my phone buzzes.

JOSH (03:40): Home. Trainers have been placed in the bin outside with the respect they deserve.

I laugh out loud, alone in my room, the sound too loud in the quiet.

RUBY (03:41): A moving tribute.

JOSH (03:41): I said a few words.

RUBY (03:41): Did you put a hex on poor Bernardo?

JOSH (03:42): Your empathy for that evil beast is throwing me off kilter. He’s the reason they’re dead.

RUBY (03:43): I think that was more Jess and her tequila from a shoe.

JOSH (03:44): Good old Jess. At least it’s not all bad, right?

Why on earth am I grinning from ear-to-ear?

RUBY (03:44): Why is that?

JOSH (03:44): At least we can both say we made a friend at Freshers.

RUBY (03:45): Yeah. At least there is that.

JOSH (03:45): You should get some sleep.

RUBY (03:47): Yeah. You should too.

JOSH (03:55): Night, Ruby x

RUBY (03:55): Night, Josh x