Page 212 of Three Reckless Words

“Hello?”

“Is this Miss Winnie Emberly?”

“Speaking.”

“I hope you’re well, Miss Emberly. This is Tyler In-ho, an assistant to Dr. Mackay. We’re calling about the lab results of the honey you sent us a few weeks back.” The male voice pauses like he’s checking data. “The results came back yesterday and I wanted to follow up.”

“Okay, great. And?” I can hardly breathe.

“It turns out, the honey has remarkable anti-inflammatory properties, stronger than ordinary kinds by several orders of magnitude. I cross referenced the results with a few other researchers, and they say they’ve only seen this a couple times in samples from overseas. Never here in the United States,” he says cheerfully. “It’s early, of course, but it’s possible more bee colonies like this could serve the medical community very well.”

“For medicine?” I’m gobsmacked. This is like my greatest dream come true.

“Well, if the results hold up under more rigorous testing, yes. This could have significant impacts on treatments and therapies designed for mitigating severe inflammation.”

My breath stalls.

Am I dreaming?

Did I ever really make it out of the woods?

“Wow. So, um… what are the next steps?” I ask. “Can I see the data?”

“In its raw form?”

“Yes, whatever you have.”

“Certainly. I can have that emailed to you along with the report we promised, provided you sign an NDA. With your permission, Miss Emberly, we’d love to do further studies. Where did you say these hives were based again?”

For a second, I hesitate.

“Only if the bees won’t be disturbed too much. Assuming the honey comes back just as strong next year, I mean.”

We talk a little more about logistics while Archer waits patiently in the morning sun, looking back fondly every few minutes.

I love how he’s content to just be here while I have my moment.

And suddenly, the excitement hits full blast. I’m pumped about the bees and the honey and the unexpected miracle.

The details the researcher rattles off start to wash over me. I agree that the bees need to be studied, as long as they can be protected, and clear my throat.

“I’m sorry, but I have to go. Can you send over the data today?”

“Absolutely.”

“Thanks for calling. I appreciate it.” I walk over to where Archer waits and beam up at him.

“No problem. Have a good day.”

I’m still smiling at Archer as I say, “I will.”

“Good news?” Archer takes the phone from my hand as I end the call. He tucks it into his pocket.

“Yes.” I cock an eyebrow. “Is there a reason you just took my phone?”

“Because I’m done with distractions, Sugarbee. Just you and me now.”

I smile. “Did you know the lab would call today?”

---