The Thrill Is Gone

At a quarter to seven, they left for the dinner that was to be held at a restaurant in Boston, which was a favorite of the Kennedys. It was a steakhouse that dabbled in New American cuisine, and being men of hearty appetites, it was perfect for the Kennedys, as well as for Paulina whom enjoyed few meals better than a good medium rare steak with a glass of scotch. Although having never been there before, she had heard talk of it from Professor Warren, whose husband was a frequent diner there. As such, Paulina had heard Elizabeth calling to make reservations, and more than once, Paulina had been charged with making the reservations for Elizabeth. The restaurant was the sort of place where the Boston elite dined, and Paulina never truly thought she’d dine there. It was a high cost establishment, and as a college student, that was outside her budget, which was fine with her, she was perfectly content with the college town establishments she frequented with Stephanie, but now she was on her way to the steakhouse and not only was she going to dine there, but she was going to dine there with her boyfriend and the Kennedys.

She was excited at the prospect of spending her night with Harry and the Kennedys, but truth be told, she was also a little nervous. Her nerves stemmed from the fact that she was very well aware of the fact that Harry wasn’t a fan of her Irish friends. He’d been alright with Senator Kennedy, but Harry didn’t care much for the younger generation. He didn’t understand why they were taking an interest with his girlfriend. When it came to Senator Kennedy, he understood the older man’s intentions. The Senator was an old man that wanted to leave behind a respectable protégé that would add to his legacy, that sort of thing happened all the time with influential people. But the younger ones, what business did they have? That story about one of them liking her because she supposedly had his dead dad’s eyes, was absurd; Ted Kennedy Jr. sounded like a bored middle aged man that was keen to spend time with an attractive young woman, and that Francis – oh, that Francis was the worst. Harry didn’t trust or like him in the slightest. He was young, he was handsome, and if he was to be perfectly honest, he reminded him to much of himself. He knew what blokes like Francis were like, he was friends with blokes like Francis, and he knew that Francis was one of those blokes that were more than willing to fuck any consenting attractive woman that crossed his path. It was due to those preconceived ideas that Harry didn’t like the Kennedy’s, but despite that, he was determined to make an effort to be on his absolute best behavior throughout their dinner. He was going to be polite and charming, and he was going to make it perfectly clear to them that Paulina was as good as a member of the British Royal Family.

When they arrived at the restaurant, there were only a couple of photographers standing outside. They weren’t there because someone had tipped them off that Prince Harry was to dine there, they were there because that was where they spent most evenings. It was a hot spot that Boston’s celebrities and high profile individuals frequented, so they were there to snap shots of those people. And when Prince Harry stepped out of the vehicle, they didn’t pay much attention to him. It wasn’t until they saw Paulina emerge from the vehicle that they realize who the messy haired ginger was, and almost instantly, they lifted their cameras and began taking picture after picture. Since there were only a few photographers, Harry and Paulina were hardly inconvenienced, but the young couple knew that by the time that dinner ended and they emerged from the restaurant, the sidewalk would be crawling with reporters. They were all eager to snap shots of them, all wanting to land the perfect shot, and Harry and Paulina knew that they were going to have to prepare themselves to deal with that later on in their night.

Having been informed that Prince Harry was to dine at the restaurant, the owner and manager were there to welcome him to their establishment. It was the first time that foreign nobility ate there, and as such, they generously praised both Harry and Paulina, wanting to make a great first impression. They spoke warmly, offered to give him a tour of the kitchens if he so desired. Harry smiled politely and informed them that such a tour would surely have to wait until his next visit, and after having chatted for a few minutes, the owner respectfully asked Harry if he would consent to having his picture taken. Perhaps to someone else that would’ve been an impertinent question, but Harry was used to such requests, so he smiled brightly and informed the owner that he wouldn’t mind, and he smiled wide at the camera, while Paulina stood dutifully beside him, smiling warmly as they were photographed. There were a total of three pictures taken, and when the impromptu photo session ended, the young couple was led to a private area of the restaurant where Bobby and Francis sat waiting.

The Kennedys had shown up a few minutes early, wanting to have ordered a bottle of wine, as well as a few appetizers before Paulina arrived with the prince. Throughout his years of working on behalf of environmental causes, Robert had met several members of different European royal families, as well as some Middle Eastern. He had, at an event in London, met Prince Charles, whom Robert thought lacked charm but possessed a well developed mind. That meeting had happened several years earlier, in 2003, when Robert and Edward were trying to gain support for a global environmental resolution that the UN was proposing. Robert didn’t expect Harry to be much like his father, but he remembered that Prince Charles was very much fond of having things ready and waiting for him, so that was what Robert had intended to do for Harry. He would have the best bottle of wine the restaurant had to offer and several dishes to start the night with, at the disposal of the young prince.

The moment that the Kennedy’s saw their dark haired friend come into view, they abandoned their respective seats, and walked off to the side so as to be able to easily greet her.

“Paulina!” Robert warmly greeted her. “I hope you didn’t have much trouble finding the place.”

“None at all,” she reassured, smiling brightly. “Harry’s security details have a keen sense of direction, so we arrived here just fine.” She paused momentarily. “I’ve just spoken of Harry as if you’re acquainted, but I’ve yet to make the introductions. Bobby, please do allow me to introduce you to my boyfriend, Harry,” she spoke. “And Henry, this is Robert Kennedy.”

“Bobby will work just fine,” said Robert, completely violating the protocol that stated that royalty was to initiate conversation. “It’s an honor to meet you, Your Royal Highness.”

“There is no need for that, Bobby.” Harry stated, exerting himself to be friendly. “Harry will do quite well. And the honor is entirely my own. I was most eager to make your acquaintance. For you see, Paulina speaks most highly of you, as she also does of the late Senator Kennedy. I am most sorry for the loss your family sustained.”

“Thank you,” replied Robert, politely. “It is a loss that we are still coping with, but I’m sure my uncle is enjoying his reunion with my father and Uncle John.”

“All three were great men,” commented Paulina, weaving her way back into the conversation. “Henry, I also want to introduce you to Francis Patrick Kennedy. And Francis –”

“Frankie,” corrected Francis from his place beside Bobby.

“And Frankie,” said Paulina, “This is my boyfriend, Harry.”

“I’m just gonna go ahead and assume that I don’t have to call you a royal highness either,” spoke Francis, boldly. “It’s great to meet you, Harry. We were actually supposed to meet back in 2009, when your grandmother was going to have a knighting ceremony for him, as thanks for his work on the North Ireland peace process, but my dad told her thanks, but no thanks.”

“Why wouldn’t he wish to be knighted?” Harry couldn’t believe why someone wouldn’t want the honor.

“Because it would’ve been political suicide,” stated Francis. “I mean, not that he had much of a career at that time, he was practically dead, but, uh, you know how it is with the Irish, ya can’t be seen as being too closely tied to the crown. No offense, of course, my dad was really honored with his honorary knighthood. It was a nice touch.”

“It would have been made nicer with a ceremony.” Harry declared. “I’m quite certain even Americans would’ve understood the important of such a thing.”

“You don’t know much about Americans, do you?” Francis said, chuckling lightly. “Had they see him kneeling before the Queen, that would’ve been the end, they would’ve labeled him as switching allegiances and it would’ve been a mess, not worth it at all. His legacy would’ve been ruined.”

“He was also given a huge honor by Mexico,” Paulina stepped in, wanting to change the course of the conversation. She didn’t appreciate how Francis was speaking, even though it was the truth. She’d have to corner him later on, and tell him off. “He was inducted into the Order of the Aztec Eagle, the highest honor the Mexican government can bestow on a foreigner, and he didn’t have a ceremony for that one either.” The reason there was no ceremony was because they awarded it posthumously, but Harry didn’t need to know that. “So it’s sort of a thing to not be there to get certain recognitions, even if the politician really wants to. It sounds absurd, I know, but uh, that’s the nature of American politics. It’s nothing but absurdity.”

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Robert spoke. “That’s why I’ve stayed out of office as long as I have. I’m crazy enough with my environmental work without adding actually holding political office to my plate.”

“Surely, it’s not as bad as all that.” Harry couldn’t believe that politics could truly be so absurd.

“Its worse,” said Robert. “One miscalculated step and it all goes to hell. Granted, we Kennedys have a bit more leeway since we’re not as . . . well, as traditional as most politicians are, but it’s still a challenge. And with the rise of the internet, it’s gotten easier for people to share absurd theories and voice their discontent. In fact, I have the perfect example. During the last election, Paulina was working in London where she was campaigning for then Senator Obama, and the right wing conspiracy theorists began to say that that was proof that Obama was going to sign the country back over to the British.”

“And she had to resign over that,” said Harry, knowingly.

Robert nodded. “That just goes to show the level of idiocy that’s in Washington. And it’s not just the Republicans, there’s Democrats that are just as bad, but that’s our political system and when you dive into it, you’ve got to be ready to deal with a lot of crap.”

“Why would anyone ever put up with though?” inquired Harry.

“Why would anyone ever put up with being a royal?” Francis countered.

“Because it is our duty,” stated Harry, firmly.

“It’s ours as well.” Francis really did mean that, he wasn’t just being a pain in the ass. “Some people are just born with this insatiable need to do better by others. They see a wrong and wish to right it. They see the country as it could be, and strive to make it so.”

“They wish to tame the savageness of man and make gentle the life of this world.” Paulina added on. She couldn’t help but add onto what Francis had said. The way he’d spoken, the passion behind his words had reminded her of his father, and she couldn’t help but respect a bit more.

Robert stared at her in admiration, having heard her utter the words his father was so famous for, stirred something deep within him, and he couldn’t help but look up at her as if she was grand political figure instead of just some college student.

“You quoted my dad,” Robert said, in a surprisingly small voice.

“I did.” Paulina smiled, warmly. “I’m very fond of your father and his work.”

“He would’ve been proud to have you as an admirer.” Robert’s gaze was fixed on her eyes.

Paulina could sense that Harry was beginning to tire, and as such, took it upon herself to say, “I think we should take our seats now.”

“Yes, of course,” Harry agreed with her. “We wouldn’t want to block off the walkways. It’d be unpardonably rude of us.”

“It would.” Paulina looked over and smiled at him. “So I take it that Henry and I are gonna sit on this side?”

“You are.” Robert told her. “Unless you’d prefer these seats, in which case we’d trade.”

“There’s no need for that. We’re fine here.” Paulina was about to reach out for her chair, but before she could, Harry pulled it off for her, and then pushed it in once she’d sat down. “Thank you, güerito.”

“You’re welcome darling,” Harry responded in a somewhat loud voice as he took his seat beside her. “Tell me, Robert, is there any drink in particular you recommend?”

“There is.” Robert said, looking attentively over at Harry. “They have a great wine here from Santa Barbara. It’s a Pinot Grigio. Now, I know that many wine connoisseurs look down at the pinot, but I’m quite fond of it, and it’s a very versatile wine that compliments most anything. That, of course, is my opinion of it, and I took the liberty of ordering a bottle, but in all honesty, everything on the wine list is an absolute pleasure to drink.”

“I’m pleased to hear that.” Harry stated, setting the wine list down. “Many restaurants boast of remarkable wine selections, but few live up to it. I’m most eager to try the Pinot Grigio. I’m sure it will be delicious.”

“It will.” Robert assured. “Are you fond of white wine, Harry?”

“I’ve grown to appreciate it.” Harry stated, smiling slyly. “Before I embarked on my relationship with Paulina, I was quite firm in my love for reds, but as you might know, she completely detests red wine, so I’ve expanded my horizons in regard to wine.”

“Why don’t you care for red wine?” inquired Robert.

“It just doesn’t sit well with me.” Paulina answered honestly. “There’s something about the taste that’s a bit off.” She fiddled with the fabric of her dress beneath the table. “If you don’t mind my asking, where’s Ted?”

“He got held up in New York.” Francis answered. “He was meant to come out this morning and stay through the weekend with his family, but his company got a new account today, and the owner made it explicit that he wanted Ted to handle it, so now he’s over there.”

“While I’m glad that he got such a big account, I have to say that I’m sorry we couldn’t see him today. I wanted to introduce him to Henry.”

“There’ll be other occasions.” Robert spoke. “And I’m sure Ted would love to speak with Harry.”

“I take it that must mean we share similar pursuits.” Harry commented.

“Yes, in a way.” Robert took a sip of his water. “My cousin is the head of the Marwood Group, which is focused on healthcare. And I’m sure he would’ve loved to discuss the differences between the American healthcare system and the British one. From what I know of you, you seem passionate about healthcare services in your country.”

“I am.” Harry confirmed. “The National Health Service is a very proud achievement of my country. We look after all citizens, no matter their financial standing, and strive to provide them with the very best care available in the entire world.”

“Their healthcare is one that the United States could stand to model it’s own after.” Paulina added, full believing in what she was saying. “I visited the hospital a few times during my stay there, and in all honesty, in five visits, I didn’t even spend $80.”

“And that’s how it should be in the United States.” Robert declared. “We have blue prints from all over the world, actual examples in which universal health care are working out for countries, but here, it’s such a huge for profit industry, that politicians from both parties will fight for the right for ambulances to charge $400 to get someone to the hospital.”

Harry gasped. “$400 for a hospital ride?” he asked. “That’s ludicrous.”

“That it is.” Robert had been fighting for health care reform for as long as he could remember. “And our family’s been fighting against it, to start up a universal healthcare program on the national level. We managed to get something similar passed in Massachusetts, but on a national level, it hasn’t been so easy.”

“It’s been a damn pain, that’s what it’s been.” Francis joined the conversation. “My dad spent decades trying to get universal healthcare passed or at least make it so insurance coverage was more affordable and accessible to all Americans, but he never had any luck with that.”

“That’s because the public wasn’t conscious of their need of it.” Paulina said. “But I think the people are getting fed up with the high premiums they’re paying every month and want comprehensive reform.” Her brow arched when she saw Francis shaking his head. “What’s wrong with you?” she blurted out. “You don’t believe what I’m saying?”

“I think some Americans are becoming conscious of it, but I think the people in Washington that are in charge of making that reform, are a bunch of idiots. That bill they just passed is a joked. Yes, they made some good points, but there was no public option. The public option is crucial in American healthcare, that’s what’ll truly make the difference.”

“I agree with you, but there weren’t enough Democrats that were willing to fight tooth and nail over it.” Paulina reminded. “And a bunch of the moderate and conservative Democrats that came out in support, are going to be ousted from office in the upcoming elections.”

“Is that supposed to make me appreciate what they did even more?” Francis questioned. “Because they knew the moment they voted for that bill that they were going to be voted out by their constituents. And if that was the case, then they should’ve sought the public option just to go out with a bang.”

“They didn’t have the right kind of leadership to make that happen.” She argued. “If your dad had been alive, then they would’ve had a lion to lead them, but the Senate leadership isn’t as powerful without him, and President Obama kept caving whenever he went into talks with the Republicans, so the bill was as good as it could’ve gotten at that point in time. In a decade or so, it’ll be improved upon.”

“I’m not so sure of that.”

“Well, I am.” Paulina stated. “And if you’re so critical of Congress and its leadership, then I think you should run for office, try to be the change you wish to see.”

“Maybe I will.” Francis smirked.

“I hope you do,” said Paulina. “Then I can complain about your work ethic.”

Francis let out a hearty laugh, tilting his head slightly back, as his laugh echoed throughout the restaurant, “You must have your hands full with this one, Harry.”

“She speaks her mind freely, it’s an attribute which I greatly admire,” was Harry’s response.

“Thank you, güerito.” Underneath the table, Paulina placed her hand on his knee and smiled tenderly at him.

At that, Francis burst into laughter.

“What’s so amusing?” questioned Harry, irritated by the young Kennedy.

“Nothing, it’s just. You’re over there all grinning, because she’s calling you her pasty one. I think that’s funny.” Francis explained.

“You speak Spanish?” Harry inquired.

“Yeah, I’m fluent.” Francis said, proudly. “I served in the Peace Corps for two years.”

“What country were you stationed in?” Paulina didn’t know that about Francis.

“Mexico,” replied Francis. “But I already spoke Spanish before that. My dad was very persistent that I learned the language, because according to him, the Hispanic population in the United States was going to become a large political force in the future. And they have. And I speak the language. So it was a good decision on his part.”

“I speak Spanish as well.” Harry brought up.

“Did you learn because your family has close ties to the Spanish royal family?” Francis asked.

“No. I learned because of the Balcázar family.” Harry stated. “I wished to converse in their native tongue and took it upon myself to learn how to do so.”

“How incredibly thoughtful of you,” Robert said. “Most people wouldn’t have made the effort.”

“I’m not most people,” said Harry.

“He speaks it exceedingly well.” Paulina chimed in, knowing that Harry was beginning to get restless. She knew that he didn’t like the fact that Francis spoke Spanish and had ties to Mexico, she could feel it. “It’s a true pleasure to hear him speak.”

“And a compliment to you,” Francis commented. “Guys won’t go through the trouble of taking on another language for just anyone, only for the ones that are truly worth it.”

“Paulina is most certainly worth it.” Harry stated, his tone making it clear that he wasn’t amused by Francis.

“I’m sure she is.”

“Did you order any appetizers?” Paulina blurted out, forcing the conversation away from the two young men. “Or was it only wine?”

“Appetizers, as well,” replied Robert, following her lead. “We weren’t sure as to what you and Harry would prefer so we ordered the sampler that truly shows off what this establishment is known for, as well as a few other dishes to keep the hunger at bay.”

“That was a great idea.” Paulina reassuringly massaged Harry’s thigh as she continued to talk to Robert. “Should we all examine the menus to order when the waiter gets here with the appetizers or should we hold off?”

“I think we should read the menu.” Robert said. “That way by the time we’re done with the appetizers, we can have the main course.”

They read the menu in an awkward silence. Paulina did her best to try to keep the situation light, she brought up points of similarities between Harry and the Kennedy’s, but Harry was no longer in the mood to be there. He was fed up with Francis’ stupid little smirk. He always looked so pleased with himself, as if he thought himself better than everyone else, and Harry didn’t like that, not in the least.

Halfway through the appetizers, Alistair left his place at the bar to inform Harry that he had a phone call from home. Harry, glad of the opportunity to leave the table, excused himself from the company and then walked towards the manager’s office to converse freely. It was at that time that Robert excused himself to use the restroom, leaving Paulina and Francis alone to their devices. Francis expected to keep eating undisturbed, once he sat down to eat, there was nothing that could take him out of the zone, which was something that Paulina learned after having trying and failing to get his attention by calling his name, so she did the only thing she could think of and delivered a sharp kick to his shin.

“The fuck is that about?” he hissed, shooting her a nasty glare.

“It’s about you being a rude little shit.” Paulina glared at him. “Honestly, are you planning on provoking him the entire night? Because if you are, I swear on my Lord of the Rings collection, that this dinner is done.”

“Rude?” he repeated. “I haven’t been rude.”

“You insulted his grandmother and the knighthood process.”

“Are you seriously complaining about that? I was just being honest.”

“Rudely honest,” she stated. “That was a backhanded insult, and you know it. So quit being so rude to him, and quit teasing him, he doesn’t like being teased.”

“Unless it’s by you?” he cocked his brow, questioningly.

“That’s none of your damn business.” She stated, firmly. “Now you better not be rude, because I’m not putting up with anyone being a little shit to my boyfriend. So you decide if you want me here or if you want to explain to your cousin why I had to leave.”

“Is that a threat?”

“It’s a promise.” She stated. “Now are you going to be polite?”

“I’m not gonna kiss his ass because he’s a prince.”

“I’m not expecting you too. I just want you to stop being so rude.”

He let out an exasperated sigh. “Fine, but only because I don’t feel like being told off by my cousin,” though in truth, he was entertained by her and enjoyed the company she provided. “Why are you still glaring? I just fucking promised to behave.”

“I just wanted to make sure you weren’t lying about that.”

“I’m not.” He stated. “Now let me eat, Paul. I’m fucking starving.”

When Harry returned, things were better. Francis didn’t go out of his way to be amiable. To be honest, he hadn’t been trying to come off like an asshole before that was just how his personality was. He was a bit rough around the edges, and since that hadn’t been appreciated, he put on his political dinner face and was tolerable to Harry throughout the rest of dinner.

The last half of the night was infinitely more a success than the first half. Harry and Robert found common ground in riding as well as falconry. Harry had always been intrigued by the sport and he enjoyed hearing Robert’s account of it. With things going smoother, Harry was able to pay more attention to the interaction of the Kennedy men, and while he still didn’t particularly care for Francis, he had to admit that Robert did stare at great deal at Paulina, but it wasn’t because he was attracted to her, his look held admiration, there was an awe in it, and Harry knew that that man truly was taken in by her eyes and the figure that they reminded him of.

The four of them remained at the restaurant until eleven, had Robert been younger and without a family, he surely would’ve stayed out later, but he was a married man with children, and he had to get home to his wife. When they got the bill, a little war erupted among the three men, each kept saying that they were going to cover the bill, Francis simply to annoy Robert, and Harry kept insisting because he didn’t want to be treated to dinner by Francis, but in the end, Robert paid the bill. He’d been the one to set the dinner up and as such, he saw fit that he be the one to pay the bill.

Like Harry and Paulina had predicted, the entire sidewalk was crawling with press. It seemed that even more photographers had been sent to Boston to spy on them, every tabloid wanted a picture of them engaging in some public display of affection, and the moment Harry and Paulina stepped out, the men and women began to shout at them, urging them to kiss and give them a statement about their relationship.

Their supplications went ignored. The young couple wasn’t in the mood to deal with their incessant questioning so they quickly made their way into the vehicle, and let out a sigh of relief when they were safely within.

“So . . .” said a breathless Paulina. “What’d you think?”

“The food was alright.” Harry commented, deciding not to answer her actual question right awake. “I reckon that steakhouse we go to in London is a bit better, but this did well enough.”

“I wasn’t talking about the food, güerito.” She giggled softly. “I was talking about the Kennedy’s. What’d you think?”

“Oh, that.” Harry grinned. “Well, I quite liked Robert. He was a decent bloke, nice enough and was good for a chat.”

“I’m glad you liked Bobby. He really is a great guy.”

“And he truly is keen on your eyes. He was beside himself when you quoted his dad.”

“I thought he was gonna hug me when he said that. He sounded like a little kid.”

“He did.” Harry took off his tie. “That other bloke though, he was a massive prat.”

Paulina nodded in agreement.

“He was a bit better after I came back from the loo.” Harry commented. “Did ya have anything to do with that?”

She smiled sheepishly.

“What’d you do, darling?”

“I may have kicked him in the shin and told him that if he didn’t shape up, we were gonna leave.”

“And he behaved because he wanted you to stay?”

“He behaved because he didn’t want his cousin to tell him off,” Paulina corrected. “I’m glad you got along with Bobby though.”

“He’s an easy bloke to get along with.” Harry wrapped his arm around her shoulder, and pulled her in close. “Just two more days and then we get to go home. Everyone’s eager to see you. Tom keeps going on about how he’s going to kidnap you for a day.”

“Is he?”

Harry nodded. “He says he’ll wait for a day when my engagements keep us from being together. He claims he’ll be doing me a favor, but I reckon he’ll be up to no good.”

“Tom’s always up to no good.” Paulina chuckled. “It’s part of his charm though.”

“And Kate wants to have dinner with you.” Harry told her. “She said she wanted to call you last week, but didn’t because she wasn’t sure as to whether or not you were returning, but now you are, so I reckon that’d be brilliant.”

“It will be.” Paulina agreed. “And don’t forget that we’re gonna spend a weekend with Alfred and Olivia.”

“At his cottage?” asked Harry.

“Yeah, he’s invited us for a mini holiday so that’ll be fun.”

“It will be.” Harry kissed the top of her head. “We’re gonna have an entire two months to ourselves. It’ll be brilliant, darling, absolutely brilliant.”