The Manhattan Declaration

The contestants for Miss Russian San Francisco 2017 pose with the founder Karina Zakharov, center in white skirt and perwinkle top.

The Royal Janitor

by

John Presco

Copyright 2019

Chapter Five: The Manhattan Declaration

“She’s pregnant!” Clive told Victoria across the cold glass that covered his families ancient mahogany desk where the fate of world’s shipping was mapped out in secret trade agreements. Everything was Insured.

“Who’s pregnant?” Victoria asked, and tried to oppress the hot blood that rushed to her brain.

“Miriam.” Clive said, and studied Victoria’s reaction.

“She’s….with child? She told me she was a virgin. I am a virgin. That was our seal, our bond. How do you know? Did she tell you?”

“Breath! Take three deep breaths – and think calm thoughts. Your face is turning red. You need to meditate!”

“I need to meditate?” Victoria was fighting off a torrent of Christian Shame. She had…