That Kiss (Revised)

Chapter Nine - The Bad Seed

                “Do you think there is something different about Savannah? It seemed she was a bit shocked about the engagement. Do you think she is having cold feet?” Michael, lounging on a large leather sofa in his cozy den with a bottle of scotch asked Joey. Something about the glint in his eye, made a knot form in the pit of Joey’s stomach. It felt like an accusation more than a question.

                “I think Savannah is a good actress.” Joey shifted in the stiff chair he chose next to the crackling fire. He peered out the window, noticing the thin layer of fog resting on the ground.

                Michael eyed Joey.  “That she is.” Swishing around the scotch he had in his cup he offered it to Joey.

                “No thanks, I’m good.”

                “Are you alright? You seem different.” He finished the scotch in a swift tip of the glass, bringing his lips over his teeth before the ice could hit. “Normally you’d be hammering these down with me. You haven’t even had one.”

                “I’m just taking a break, that’s all.” Joey was nervous. This is the first time he’d been close to Michael since the engagement and he was scared of saying the wrong things. He had no idea what the old Joey was like and Michael seemed to be catching on.

                “No pressure!” Michael put his hands up in defense before he poured himself another. “Savannah is coming over in a little while. We’ve got to take the traditional walk around the gardens.” He sighed, swishing the liquor again.

                “Sounds nice,”

                “These traditions kill me, man. If I could have it my way we’d be in bed celebrating, not walking around in the freezing cold looking at dying plants. Don’t ever have a winter engagement.” He warned, throwing back another glass.

                “You should probably slow down then,” Joey tried a friendly laugh.

                Michael sucked in air, as if to cool his burning throat. “Slow down? I wish. Ever since my dad got sick he’s been pushing this engagement. Don’t get me wrong, Savannah is great and I love her. Who wouldn’t right? She’s gorgeous. I just wish it didn’t have to be so soon. I was having fun with all the ladies in town. Now I only get one.” His lips formed a pout, before he poured yet another drink.

                Joey felt his fists clench. He didn’t feel bad about poisoning Michael so much anymore. He was a tool. What really angered him is that Savannah was going to have to spend time with him until they could figure out how to get home. God only knows what Michael would try with her. Or worse, what she’d let him do.

                Another thing surprised Joey. The reason for such a sudden and short engagement was the King’s health? He wondered if this was common knowledge. If Edith knew? What it would do to her plan if she didn’t?  

                “How is your father doing by the way?” Joey pretended to sound concerned.

                “About as well as a forty-five year old fly. I’ll be surprised if he makes it to the wedding. Mom’s a wreck. She doesn’t want to have to rule for long by herself. Savannah and I will have the kingdom right after we get back from our long, active honeymoon.” He winked and tipped back another drink. “You sure you don’t want one?”

                “Yeah, I’m fine.”

                “Suit yourself.” He poured another scotch, finally setting the bottle on the glass table in front of him. “How are things with you and that brunette girl from last weeks’ ball? From what I heard she’s quite a handful.” He chuckled, killing the last bit of scotch.