Page 5 of Royal Pain

“Wow. Beautiful!”

The strong response is what I was hoping for. The rooftop restaurant looks like it belongs in an enchanted garden but was dropped in the middle of Manhattan for our pleasure. To remind jaded New Yorkers what the season is really about. Renewal. Rebirth. The décor changes with the seasons.

“This is my secret garden. It’s about my favorite place in the city.”

Taking in the entire space, he turns slowly. “Thank you, Belinda. It may become my favorite spot too. Spring in New York just took on new meaning. I didn’t realize you have such a variety of flowers here.”

I choose the table against the far edge of the patio, overlooking the cityscape. He joins me, pulling my chair out. Gentleman. He takes the seat opposite me.

“Well, to be fair, you’re not going to find most of these plants and flowers just anywhere. The Diamond is known for this and even though it’s such a short season before the heat comes, they make the most of it.”

Zan motions for the waitress. “Let’s have breakfast. Do you have time?”

“Definitely. I don’t have to be anywhere till two.”

That’s a big fat lie. I don’t have to be anywhere at all. He doesn’t need to know that.

He’s looking at me, and it’s unsettling to say the least. Those eyes. Holy bat shit.

“What’s your pleasure?” Zan says.

My thoughts run wild with visions of the prince giving me the royal treatment.

“Pardon?”

“Breakfast. What would you like?”

Oh shit. My brain is scrambled by his fucking face.Get your shit together.

“I’ll have Eggs Oscar. It’s my usual.”

The waitress approaches. Well, actually the huge breasts lead the way. Eyes lock on her new favorite customer.

“Morning. Would you like a mimosa to start with?”

The batting of eyelashes commences accompanied by a sly smile. For real. I’m going to wretch. How does he stomach this ridiculous female behavior?

“Would you like a mimosa, Belinda?”

“No. It’s a little early for alcohol. I’m going to have the Eggs Oscar and coffee,” I say, shooting Cardi B a dagger.

“I’ll have the same,” he says, looking up. “What’s your name?”

This delights boobalicious to no end.

“Kim.”

“Well, thank you, Kim. We’ll start with the coffee. And could you bring us both waters?”

“Yes, sir. Right away.”

As she walks away I see her look back. He’s watching me watching her.

“Is she looking back?” he asks.

“She gave you a second look.”

“Did she bring out her cell for a picture?”