We couldn't plan one specific vacation for our honeymoon right away, but Prince still turned slightly clingy, wishing to see me as often as possible.
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Not long after "Around The World In A Day" packed shelves in record stores, those nine tracks somehow played in my head whenever we saw each other. Every tune sounded happy, conscious, or emotional, but life was surely different for us now.
Though his record thrived on countless charts, "Around The World" struggled with promotion. Prince wouldn't even bother shooting other music videos anymore and just wanted to release this album. Even I called that move a marketing nightmare.
"They'll find it, Ro." Prince had spoken up while facing me and scooted in his favorite chair at the studio one night. Look at what's going with "Raspberry."
I nearly rolled both eyes, but stopped myself. We had gone back and forth all night, trying to figure why the hell he didn't boost this album further.
"Too busy with the movie?" I attempted.
"That, and other shit." Prince leaned back in the chair and turned to look at me. His beautiful wedding band shined underneath every dim light found overhead.
"Wanna head home?" I asked, barely able to keep up with him this time. I couldn't even remember what hour struck on the clock.
"C'mere." He gestured for me to sit on his lap, not even caring if our shared weight took out this chair at some point.
"You didn't answer my question." I laughed gently and noticed that his lips barely moved towards my neck.
"I love you." His voice lowered, sending chills down my spine.
"I love you, too." I needed to stop myself before we acted up here. Despite this ungodly hour, anyone could've seen us.
_________
That next morning, I still woke up alone, but there was a classic Sharpie marker note resting on his vacant pillow.
Ro (My Precious Wife),
So sorry 4 leaving u so early, darlin'. On my way back 2 France.
We might finally release "Cherry" next year if life permits.
Progress keeps stallin', but I'll spare ur pretty self the details.
I love u more than words could ever say.
We'll catch up hopefully soon.
Proud 2 be urs.
-Husband
For the millionth time, I smiled while reading that message and folded the note back into place, ready to start my day. Of couse, there was no other choice because waiting around for him would never speed up his plans aboard.
