Page 113 of The Wrong Royal
Emilie smiled, clearly amused by our sibling banter. “Well, I’m sure we’ll have plenty of time to get to know each other. But for now, shall we start our adventure?”
My parents took their usual seats near the back. Jack and Astrid were sitting next to each other. Victoria forgot something in the car, as usual. She was always forgetting something. She was lucky we flew private. Otherwise, she would miss every damn flight she was booked on.
As I settled into my seat next to Emilie on the plane, I felt a rush of enthusiasm about showing her around home. I wanted to introduce her to the rest of my family and immerse her in American culture. I knew she was going to love it.
“You have to share her,” Victoria pouted when I gestured for her to find somewhere else to sit.
The two met ten minutes ago and were already acting like they were the best of friends. I was happy for them, but I wasn’t ready to share her. Not yet.
“Later,” I said. “Go away.”
Victoria stuck her tongue out before moving to take a seat at the table with my parents.
The plane taxied down the runway and took off. I turned to Emilie with a smile. “So, have you ever watched classic American movies?”
She laughed. “I didn’t grow up under a rock. I’ve seen American movies before, but I can’t say I’ve watched any classics. At least, I don’t think I have. I’ve watched plenty of old TV.”
“You’re in for a treat. Let me introduce you to some cinematic gems.” I tapped the screen and selected two movies:GreaseandThe Breakfast Club.
Emilie’s eyebrows rose in surprise. “Grease? I’ve heard of it, but I didn’t realize it was a classic. Isn’t it one of those silly movies?”
“Oh, it definitely is,” I replied with a grin. “It’s a musical filled with catchy songs, teenage drama, and a whole lot of fun. You’re going to love it.”
“I think I’ve seen parts ofThe Breakfast Club, but I don’t think I’ve seen all of it.”
“It’s one of my favorites.”
As the opening credits ofGreaserolled, Emilie settled in, our shoulders together. We both put on our headphones to enjoy the movie. Throughout the film, I explained some of the cultural references and quirks of American high school life in the fifties. I couldn’t wait to show her what life was like in South Carolina. I knew it was going to be a culture shock.
Emilie laughed and seemed to be genuinely enjoying the movie. She tapped her foot along with the music and bobbed her head.
“That was really good,” she said once it was over. “I liked it. I’ve heard of it, but it’s so old, I thought it might be cheesy. Thank you for introducing me to it.”
I winked. “You’re welcome. But your immersion into American culture isn’t over. Now, if you liked that one, you’re going to love the next one.”
During the movie, we shared comments and laughter. Emilie’s reactions to some of the characters and their antics were priceless, and I found myself laughing along with her. I had seen the movie a hundred times, but it was like seeing it for the first time.
When the film concluded, Emilie turned to me with a grin. “I thought my educational experiences were rough.”
I chuckled. “I don’t think anyone really enjoys high school, or secondary school, but it’s all a part of growing up. Some days, I wish I was back in school. I wish I could go back to those easy days of no responsibility.”
Emilie giggled. “I don’t know about that. I don’t know if we ever got the zero responsibility in my house. My school was never that exciting. I had guards that kept me out of most antics. No one wanted to hang out with the girl that had two bodyguards. I’m glad I get to experience it through movies like this though.”
I smiled at her. “I don’t want to waste all our time together watching movies, but there are so many I think you would love.”
Emilie leaned in closer to me, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “I’m up for anything, especially if it involves spending time with you.” Her hand reached out to touch mine, sending a jolt of electricity through my body. I knew then that this trip to South Carolina was going to be much more than just a cultural experience.
We discussed movies and talked about our own high school experiences. Emilie shared stories of her school in Norway and the few childhood friends she had. Our conversation flowed easily and the time flew by. When we started to descend, it felt like we’d only been in the air a few hours.
There were two waiting cars ready to take us home.
“It’s humid,” Emilie commented.
“Usually is,” I said, laughing. “It takes a while to get used to.”
The cars pulled through the gates of our property. Emilie was looking out the window with a smile. Jack and Astrid handled our bags while I took Emilie’s hand. “Do you want a tour?”
“I do! Please. I’ve been dreaming about seeing your home for a week.”