The Ming Poodle: Chapter LXXII

Hugh Hamilton

"Tom!?" screamed Hugh and Ben in simultaneous shock.
"You were expecting Harry?" said Tom in a sinister voice.
"Who?" asked the men in stocks (Hugh and Ben).
"Oh, sorry," said Tom. "He hasn't been introduced yet."
"No need to apologise," said Hugh. "It's perfectly understandable."
"Well I thank you for understanding. Not everyone would be so considerate."
"Well," said Hugh smugly, "I'm not everyone."
"Ha ha ha," cackled Tom. "Champagne?"
"Thank you," said Hugh, snatching the glass.
"Hey, what about me?" protested Ben.
"What about you?" questioned Tom.
"It isn't fair. I've had enough, now I want my share. Can't you see—" sung Ben.
Tom gave Ben an especially icy glare until Ben looked considerably ashamed.
"But why?" said Ben, still staring at his feet.
"Ah," said Tom, "you mean why have I turned against you?"
"No, I mean...." said Ben, searching for a witty end to the sentence "...Uh... nothing."
"Good," said Tom, "then I shall tell you"
Hugh leaned over to Ben.
"I love these twists."