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I suddenly remember those big hazel eyes shining brightly while she and I held races throughout the palace. We made obstacle courses around the vases and scepters, and it was a miracle we didn’t break them.
“We used to say we were twins, even though I was older and we looked nothing alike,” I say, wading through the newly unlocked memories. “I'm not sure who we thought wouldn't question that a little white boy and Black girl were twins.”
“She’s even lovelier now than she was then. A wonderful young woman, a vibrant personality, excellent company. Brilliant and driven. Absolutely worthy of having funding for a medical charity.” A self-satisfied grin takes hold of his lips.
“Wait, how do you know what she’s like?” I resent that he uses my charity again as a carrot. “Even so, Dad, I’m not interested. I’m not ready to get married. Not to her, not to anyone.”
As annoyed as I am, I have to admit I’m also intrigued, although I try to hide it. He smiles like the Cheshire Cat.
Right then, the recently exiled team of doctors comes back into the room.
“We need to resume your treatment, Your Highness,” Nurse Valeria says.
“In my professional opinion, I agree.” I turn to the doctors and nurses. “Take good care of him, okay?”
I kiss him on the cheek quickly and surge out of the room and to the grand double doors leading out.
Outside the palace, I run into my brother Ishmael on his way in to see our father. I update him on our father’s health, and I serve him the tea about his newest matchmaking scheme.
Ishmael listens closely, taking in everything, as we stand outside the palace entrance like a changing of the guards.
“Do you want my advice, Cedrick?”
“Of course. I trust your opinion far more than his.”
“You might not like what I have to say. But I think you should go for it.”
My legs freeze. “Excuse me?”
“Listen, this could be great for you.”
“Come on. I don’t see how.”
Ishmael shrugs. “You know how Dad is. He won’t stop hounding you until you relent. But that’s not the biggest thing.”
He looks at me seriously. “For me, it was the best decision of my life. I resented him at first, but I love Liza and Isha with all my heart. And you have your funding to think about. Besides, you can get divorced if it doesn’t work.”
“I don't really know her, though. With you, she was the love of your life. But thank you for your input.”
I start turning to the car, and Ishmael holds up a hand to stop me. He makes the final appeal pleading his case.
“It’s better than marrying a stranger. I remember how close you were. What’s the harm in getting to know Ellie, and just considering it? I bet you have a ton in common as adults.”
I run a hand through my hair and consider his words. She’s a doctor, after all. And she was a cute kid. But what if she’s horrible now?
“Maybe. I have to think about it. Thanks for the advice. Good seeing you.”
We hug goodbye, and I get into my car as I see Ishmael walk into the medical wing in the side mirror.
I have to admit that my father’s gotten my attention. I find myself eager to learn more about what became of little Ellie Lawson, who isn’t so little anymore.
I sit in my car and pull out my phone. I don’t want to delay finding out more.
“Okay, Ellie, let's see what I can dig up on you.”
Ellie Lawson.
Underneath the search it says, ‘Did you mean Dr. Eleanora Lawson?’ I click yes.
