My Cowboy Prince

Chapter One

Tearing my sleepy eyes away from the dark computer, I look down at the pulsating heart of New York City through my expansive glass windows. As darkness falls, a kaleidoscope of neon lights gradually illuminates the busy streets.

As yellow cabs zoom through the maze of traffic and random pedestrians rush along the pavements, the entire city appears to teem with more life, all contributing to the city's relentless energy like a symphony of aspiration and continual motion.

Even though I've had a front-row seat to this magnificent scenery for the past two years, it never ceases to astonish me.

Thoughts of my future journey to a tranquil countryside village dance enticingly in the back of my mind amidst the pulse of the metropolis. It promises leisure, a chance to escape the business world's obligations that devour me. Soon, the infamous New York skyline will be replaced with a starry night...

"Amelia?" A soft knock resounds on my office door effectively pulling me out of my reverie and back to reality.

My attention shift away from the captivating scenery and toward the sound. Jordan, my trusted assistant, greets me at the door with a warm smile. Her presence piques my interest because I'm normally the last to leave my department's floor, but I beckon her in nevertheless.

"Hey Jordan, I thought you were already on your way home," I remark, my voice surprised.

The petite woman enters the room. Her smile widen as she gives me a teasing look. One of pure mischief. "Ah. I couldn't resist staying a little longer, Amelia. Besides boss I want to make sure everything is in order before you left for your well-deserved vacation."

As a rush of gratitude wash over me, my mouth quirk up into a half-smile. Her dedication to making a smooth transition while I'm away demonstrates her great work ethic. Jordan's diligence and strong attention to detail have always impressed me, especially now. It takes away a lot of my anxiety from the previous week.

"Thank you; I appreciate it." I say that with thankfulness in my heart. "I have faith in your ability to handle everything in my absence."

Jordan nods, her eyes full with assurance. "Of course, boss. I completed the necessary chores and informed the team of any and all ongoing initiatives. You may relax knowing that everything is in control."

"Excellent," I say briefly as I prepare to pack up for the night... and the next two weeks.

I am relieved to have such an attentive assistance. Now I can completely unplug and enjoy my trip, knowing that the department is in good hands.

"Well, uh, before I go," Jordan pulls out a nicely wrapped item from her bag and carefully hands it to me. I kindly accept, setting down my laptop.

"What's this?"

"Just a little something from the team," the woman shrugs, her voice full of warmth. "It's mainly just to show our support and appreciation to during your time away. Anthony saw it, he thought of you and voila."

My interest is piqued by the extra gesture as I delicately peel the package to reveal a nicely designed journal within. Its cover is embellished with elaborate motifs and imprinted with the words The Journey Begins. A rush of exhilaration sweeps over me as I traced my fingertips along the edges. It's the ideal companion for my vacation, a spot for me to capture my adventures.

"This is such a thoughtful gift," I reply, my voice full of appreciation. "Please convey my gratitude to the entire team. I am really fortunate to be working with a bunch of such dedicated people."

Jordan smiles coyly, a glint of pride in her eyes. "I'll make sure to express my gratitude, Amelia. We all agree you deserve this break, and we eagerly await your return to hear about your adventures."

"Definitely and do call or email—"

"I wOn't nEed tO," the woman say in a sing sang voice as she wave goodbye before quicky exiting my office.

Jordan's departure makes the office quieter, with the exception of her pointed heels clicking clacking along the empty hall. Looking down at the wonderfully constructed journal, I chuckle; the weight of it in my hands is comfortable - a concrete reminder of my coworkers' support and kindness.

I begin to assemble my possessions with a newfound sense of excitement. After double-checking that everything is in order, I leave the office and proceed to the elevator.

The distinctive ping announces its arrival seconds later. As I step inside, I click the parking lot button. The automated doors close behind me effectively blocking out the noise of the city fades and replacing it with the faint hum of the lift.

After a few moments, the doors open to show a well-lit parking lot with rows of neatly parked vehicles. I move quickly through the usual concrete maze. I enter and settle into the driver's seat of my trusted Kia Forte, which has carried me on numerous journeys.

Setting the bags down, I start the car, reveling in the familiarity and comfort as the engine purrs to life. I take my phone from the pocket of my backpack and place it in the cup holder before driving out of the parking lot and onto the city's familiar streets.

More Than a Woman by Aaliyah plays softly in the background as I maneuver my way through the suprisingly light traffic. My mind solely focus on reaching the sanctuary of my condo, just thirty minutes away.

My phone vibrates, disrupting the moment. Idly extending a hand, I grab the device and check the caller ID. I immediately recognize the touch as being from my mum.

I pick up the phone and select the speaker option. "Hi, mom!"

"Amelia, mi child, I hope you're doing well." My mother's voice fills the car, her words filled with pure love as she greets me.

"Yes, mama. I'm on my way home. The traffic is crazy but I'm handling it just fine."

"Lawd God," she says, her voice full of worry. "Mi always fret when you're driving through such commotion. Especially when you're alone."

I take a big breath and carefully choose the following words in my head. Even while I know her concern is motivated by love and protection, I'd rather not be on the wrong side of her Jamaican tongue. "I appreciate your care, Mom. I've been driving in this city for nearly two years and I'm cautious. Besides, I'll be home soon, and the turmoil will give way to the comfort of my condo."

There's a slight delay on the other end of the line, as my mother seemly contemplates my words. "Amelia, yuh still plan fi go a rural Texas fi go look pon bush? Memba ano every weh yuh fi go enuh."

Oh Jeez. "Yes ma'am. Everything sort out already mummy. I leave in the morning,"

There's a small sigh. "Amelia, yuh cudda a come ere enuh. Tired fi tell yuh nuh body nah run yuh."

"Mi know mummy, a jus two weeks dats all." I wet my lips a bit frustrated. "It's in the countryside..."

"Then Amelia yuh cuddn't come out ere? Luk how much bush deh a St. Thomas? Nuff places yuh can go. Or even go a yuh fada a California."

The car gradually slows in the heavy night traffic as I inch closer to home. "Mom, I have to go now. It's not safe, the traffic a get one way. I need to focus."

There's another brief pause. "Alright, my dear. Please promise that you'll stay safe and alert and remember to call me when you get home so I know you're okay."

"I promise," I respond, my voice solemn. "I'll call you soon mom,"

As our conversation concludes, I bid my mother farewell, promising to call her as soon as I am in the confines of my condo. I then chug the phone in the cup holder and continue to navigate the remaining streets. A few moments latter, I arrive at my apartment complex, a refuge of sort in the heart of the metropolis.

Security welcomes me with a kind nod as I approach the parking garage. The distant murmur of voices and the sound of feet echo through the garage as I seek a parking spot for my car. The echos are a reminder of the thriving New York community that existed beyond these gates.

I hesitate for a second, before grabbing my cell to honor the promise to my mother. I tap my fingers carefully across the screen to dial her number. I can almost hear her anticipation on the other end.

"Mama, I'm home. I've made it back safely."

In my ear, her voice is a mix of excitement and reassurance. "Thank heavens. I'm glad you're back home safe and sound. So tomorrow, I guess."

I said goodbye once more to my mother and promised to call her again soon. My heart sings gleeful, grateful for her love and care. A while later, I grab my possessions, turn off the running engine, and exit the vehicle, dreading to go up.

Ugh. There is still ton of things left to pack.

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Thanks for reading!

Kellisa Kelly