" If I didn't know you inside and out. I would be offended but I do, and I'm not, " Mason says with a playful smile on his lips.
" On a lighter topic. You will be happy to hear that I'll be gracing you with my company far more often from now on," Mason adds in a playful tone, in an attempt to dispel the sombre mood that had settled following their little exchange.
" Oh. And to what do I owe the pleasure, Mr Kinnaird?" And I realise that she uses his surname as a taunt and not as a way of showing respect. I don't catch on quickly, do I?
" Things change. I'll focus my business endeavours, locally. Thaddeus and Victoria will take over the business outside the district," I'm sitting down, otherwise I would have found myself in need to hold onto something.
Enid nods," Where to then?" She asks with furrowed brows, and I think I already know the answer to that one.
" It's a bit ahead of schedule. There are still a few things that need to be taken care of but essentially we are ready.
The plan for rebuilding the Quarter will be submitted before Christmas, " I'm swept away on a wave of relief. I never thought I'd live the day to hear those words. And Mason is the one who is uttering those words, and my heart does this crazy leap in my chest. Damn it. He is not making it easy for me to dislike him.
" That is excellent news, Mason. I'm proud of you, " Enid beams and I can't keep the smile from spreading on my lips. All I can think of is the people living in the Quarter and how much their lives would improve.
" I want to help," I quietly say and Mason raises an eyebrow at me.
" You'll have your hands full with the academy," My excitement deflates, and I slump in my chair. I want to be a part of it.
" You have other things to worry about," Mason quietly says when Enid stands and goes to the sink to get herself a glass of water.
Well aware. Thank you for the reminder. I want to say but Enid plops back into her chair, and her gaze snags on my hand clutching the fork, hard enough to snap it in half.
" Don't worry, dear," Enid pats my hand, smiling," It will take a decade to bring that place to a decent standard. You'll have your bite of it," She heard me. Shit.
Am I deaf? Because everyone seems to be hearing better than me.
I muster a sorry excuse for a smile and nod at Enid. Not exactly pleased, but he is right. I do have other things to worry about. It is so easy to forget.