"Ah, this is the life," Jon said, lying back on the beach chair, his new brown hair tucked neatly behind his new curvy body. He was wearing a pink bikini, showing off his clear skin, with sunglasses and a white hat completing the look. He gazed across the gorgeous Mediterranean private beach that Eleanor had reserved for herself—now Jon's, thanks to Kalea's body swap. Sailboats in the distance glided gently across the horizon, adding to the ambiance.
Standing attentively behind him was a sharply dressed 30-year-old woman who looked like the same Amber who had always followed Eleanor, ready for orders. Her expression, however, betrayed the anger she felt. "Shouldn't you be watching Princess Victoria, Your Majesty?" Zoe asked.
"Now, Amber, you know the nanny is watching her. She'll be fine. I'm here to relax after the death of my beloved husband," Jon replied, his tone dripping with faux solemnity.
Damn, Jon is getting way too into this role, Zoe thought to herself. But at least I only have to serve him for a month because of that damned chip. When we get home, I'm going to make sure Mom and Dad ground him forever. She didn’t realize, however, that Kalea had no intention of letting any of the Gibsons return to their own bodies.
Jon interrupted her train of thought with an order. "Amber, get me reservations at the resort's best restaurant tonight—Luxe Lumière, I think it's called."
Zoe sighed to herself, forced a smile, and said, "Of course, Princess Eleanor."
"Also, make sure my stylist knows to get me ready. I need to look my best this evening," Jon added.
"Of course, Your Majesty. I'll make sure Carol knows to expect you," Zoe said with as much obedience as she could muster. Always telling me what to do. One day in a princess's body, and he thinks he's better than me. When we get back home... Her thoughts trailed off there. She had a job to do, and if she didn’t act like a proper assistant, well... she had already learned that lesson the hard way.
After checking with Carol to ensure Eleanor's evening dress would be ready, Zoe called Luxe Lumière. A voice answered, "Luxe Lumière, how can I help you?" It was ER-4, the android also known as Erica.
"Princess Eleanor would like a table tonight at 6 PM sharp. I trust it'll be available?" Zoe asked.
"Of course, anything for the resort's guest of honor," said the android.
"Excellent," Zoe responded before hanging up.
She walked back to her brother in his new form. "Your table will be available for you, Your Majesty. It’s still a few hours away, but perhaps you should start getting ready now. Carol will need some time to make sure you look your best this evening."
Part of Zoe hoped Jon would hate the idea of being dressed up. He had certainly grumbled when their parents made him wear a suit for their cousin's wedding. But she realized that, most likely, Jon would enjoy being pampered.
"Thank you, Amber. Lead the way," Jon said, flashing a winning smile that Eleanor had used to great effect in public relations.
