The cottage of West Wycombe

Chapter 3

—— 3 ——

If there is one thing interesting about my summer holidays is my weekly walks with Christian. It may sounds silly, but these walks are the only moment were we are alone. There are no noises, no people watching us... Back in London, we both are very busy but we made a promise to see each other at least once or twice a week over diner. Those are crucial moments where I get to focus on myself and my best friends. Just like these summer walks.
Christian hands me a croissant.
"I have a secret older brother." he announces out of the bloom.
"What?"
"A couple of months ago, a man came and handed me a letter. I did not mention anything to you since I did not think it was serious... Anyone can lie and make up sick twisted stories... You know, anything can be real and fake. So I had to pull some strings in the CIA to check the info. And well... I do really have a brother."
I frown, trying my best to act like I am not aware of this information. Even if I am the one who made the DNA tests. I am the one who found his brother... But he must never discover the truth.
"And where does this brother come from?" I ask.
"North England. I forgot where. Can you — um there's a guy staring at you."
I turn around to see a familiar face, one that I haven't seen for a very long time. I take a deep breath to slow my heart rate.
"Do you mind going to the country club without me? I'll join you." I say.
"What? Are you sure? I cannot let you alone with some random guy. Your father would be pissed." he answers.
"I will be fine. I'll be there very soon." I assure him.
He hesitates for several seconds and eventually, he leaves me.
He leaves me to face my past. A past that I thought was long gone.