“Yes. Clubs. Women. I really didn’t give a flying fuck what I was doing.” James lets go of me, pacing in front of me. “It was all about Ellie. And don’t get me wrong, I love my sister, but if they weren’t grooming her to take over the throne, then it wasn’t on their radar.”
James looks so small walking around this massive field. “Where is all this coming from?” I ask softly.
“I’m just tired of the fucking paparazzi dredging up my past. When do I get a fresh start? When doweget a fresh start?”
“Hey.” Placing a hand on his chest, I stop him and his racing thoughts. “What makes you think we didn’t get a fresh start?”
His heart is racing under my palm. “Because you wouldn’t be here if we did.”
“Ouch.”
“Look, I really don’t want to talk about this right now. Let’s just go enjoy the rest of our afternoon with the Smythsons.” Shoving his hands in his pockets, James stalks away from me.
His mood is giving me whiplash today. He is his usually sparkling self one minute, and then worrying about our entire future in the next breath. James’s shoulders are slumped as he heads back into the bowels of the stadium.
What in the world just happened?
James
The match should be holdingmy attention. It’s tied two-two with ten minutes remaining, but all I can think about is the conversation with that coach earlier. I’m used to women hitting on me. But the way she propositioned me this afternoon even though Zara was there? It left a bad taste in my mouth.
She said she assumed I’d be down for a shag because I’d fucked so many other women before. Her words, not mine. And then Zara telling me she had faith in me? I couldn’t handle it.
I wish I could sit here with George and talk strategy, but he’s cheering his little head off. At least someone’s day has been made. Zara has been an absolute charmer all afternoon. After we finished the tour, we were given a private box, and she kept Victoria entertained.
Zara has fit so seamlessly into my life that I didn’t think twice about it. But now, my past is kicking my arse. I should’ve known better than to expect everything to fall into place.
“Goal!” The crowd erupts around me as George stretches his hand up for a high five.
“That was the best goal I’ve ever seen!” His excitement is infectious. It’s hard not to be when someone is this energized. “Did you see that, Prince James?”
“I did. It was excellent.” Players are celebrating on the field as the crowd goes wild. Looking over at Zara, even she and Victoria are cheering along. She shoots me a smile as we go back to watching the end of the game. Chelsea squeaks out a win over a tough team.
“This was the best day ever!” George’s voice is happier than I’ve ever heard someone.
“Prince James, we can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for George. You’ve truly made his dreams come true.” Mrs. Smythson is giving me a warm smile. “I don’t think anything will ever live up to meeting his heroes today.”
“I’m glad I could give him this experience. It’s given me a lot of great ideas.”
“What sort of ideas?” Her husband has left her to help move George along, still talking about the match.
“Just thinking of how this could maybe become a new project of mine. Broaden the reach and help more children. Not just things like this, but bringing sports to areas that may not have the funds to support local teams.”
Her face lights up with a smile. “That is absolutely brilliant. I can only imagine how many children will benefit from that. I know George is itching to get back to playing.”
“Hopefully he’ll get his cast off soon.” He had me sign it before, but it didn’t compare to having all his favourite players sign it.
“Are you ready to head home, Victoria?” She’s still talking Zara’s ear off as they walk over.
“Mum. I have all sorts of new songs I want to try. Can we go to the music store tomorrow?”
“Of course, love.” She runs a hand down her daughter’s hair in a loving manner. “Thank you again, Prince James, for such a wonderful afternoon and evening. Everyone is so happy.”
“Thanks, James! This was brilliant. No one at school is going to believe I got to meet the players. They’ll all be so jealous!”
“Now George, we don’t want to go bragging. You wouldn’t like it if your friends did that.” His father takes a tone that sounds just like Mum’s. Christ, is there a school all parents attend to master that?
“Thank you again, Your Highness.” Mr. Smythson shakes my hand as they all head out. George is recapping the entire match on their way out as Victoria rolls her eyes. It’s reminiscent of Ellie and me.
