Page 28 of Royal Pain

“It’s good. Just haven’t turned it in yet.”

“I know that tone. What aren’t you telling me?”

I chuckle because it’s amusing to be read so easily by your best friend.

“There was plenty for a three parter, but it’s notVanity Fairmaterial. I know that for certain. So I’ll probably just put it on my blog.”

The splash from a man jumping in the pool showers both our heads. We move away from the edge of the pool.

“Can you rework it?” Soraya asks.

“I edited it within an inch of my life. Cut out every spare word and unnecessary bit of information. It’s lacking one thing.”

“Do tell.”

“Meat. There’s nothing revelatory in the work. The reader isn’t going to have theirahamoment. It’s just a solid story about the royals. But they didn’t tell me anything they don’t want the world to know.”

“Did you really expect that? You had just met Zan.”

“No. Not really. But you know how it is. Sometimes people accidentally reveal information in conversation.”

Soraya scrunches her nose in response. She knows I’m brutally honest with myself. I continue.

“It’s good for the blog. But an inferior story to submit to the magazine. I’m not going to blow my chance on something I already know won’t pass muster.”

“Do you think there’s something else there? Something actually happening they didn’t tell you about?”

“Of course there is. Trouble is, I don’t know what. Thought it was about who will ascend the throne when King Mansa steps down. But they didn’t bite when I asked.”

“Well, you’re going to have another chance when you’re with them in Africa.”

The thought of that delights me. If I’m being truthful it’s the thought of being with Zan. The rest of the world could break off and I’d still be happy in his company.

* * *

It’s getting to be habit. Glorious habit. My bedside table is ready, the lights are set low, I’m in bed. Ten o’clock. Well, actually nine fifty-eight. Usually I’m too excited to be working on my iPad or laptop. Even knowing he’s about to call is enough to occupy my mind.

The cell sounds and my heart jumps.

“Hello?”

“When are you coming to see me?” He says it with a chuckle.

“Soon I hope. I was thinking maybe in a few weeks.” I know that one shocked him.

“Really? Never mind, don’t answer. I’ve been asking you that every day for a month. I’ll take you at your word.”

“I thought I’d stay for a couple of weeks, does that work for you?”

“Only two? Whatever. You do you. Just leave some wiggle room in case you get here and want to stay longer. I’m excited.”

“Me too. I have a wedding to go to later in the month, and I’m in it, so there’s no room for change.”

“Who’s getting married?”

“My brother James. I think I told you about my brothers, right?”

“Yes. He’s the one you said was really a sweet guy.”