Trevorwhos Trevor? Sebastian finally said, pausing the game and typing on his cell phone.
Though the Mansion was as decayed as an ancient ruin, I was disappointed with Sebastians lack of refinement. Instead of behaving like a guest, he was sitting like he was in a fraternity house, scuffing the already antique coffee table with his shoes. I wasnt Miss Manners myself, and heaven knows I wouldnt have cared if Becky had put her John Deere, soil-stained boots on my bed. But this was the Mansion, after all, the house of my dreams, and, more important, Alexanders home. I spotted a beat-up old ottoman in the corner and scooted it in front of him.
You might be more comfortable, I said graciously.
Thanks, he said. Now I feel like a king. I can see why you like it here, he said to Alexander.
I didnt know if he was sincere or making a snide remark.
Alexander sat on the couch, and I curled up next to him.
I was curious about this friend who seemed like the opposite of Alexander.
So how do you like it here so far? I asked.
Awesome, now that Ive found a room with outlets. And I cant believe Alexander still doesnt have a cell phone. How do you two communicateby smoke signals?
Excuse me? I asked defensively.
Its okayhes just joking, Alexander reassured me.
Oh, I said, relieved. My first response was to protect Alexander. I hadnt been exposed to anyone before who amiably ribbed my boyfriend.
So who are you texting? A girlfriend? I wondered aloud.
One of many, Alexander said. A lady in every town.
It must be nice to receive steamy texts, I hinted to Alexander. Id cherish every one.
Alexander only shook his head.
Ohyeah, Sebastian said. Im being rude, arent I? After a few clicks, he closed his phone.
Sebastian sat up, now ready for conversation. So, what did you do all day? he asked. Soak up the sun?
Hardly. I was stuck in school. How about you?
Well, my day started about two minutes ago.
Yes, thats what I figured. Soits really cool you came to town. I havent met any of Alexanders friends.
He likes to keep us hiddenlike tucked away in a vault somewhere.
So do you live in Romania, too? I inquired.
Yes. We lived next door to each other.
I imagined two Gothic mansions resting on top of a large mountain surrounded by fog, witchlike trees, and a ghostly cemetery and protected by a full moon.
I guess you didnt live in the suburbs? I asked.
Not exactly.
Do you live in a mansion, too?
I guess. I never thought about it really. It was just our home. But we had lights, he said, giving Alexander a verbal jab.
Do you know Jagger and Luna?