THE TIME: 2042

THE PLACE: A writer’s room in a Los Angeles TV studio

Archie sits alone in the writer’s room on a couch. He is still processing the news that the show has not been picked up for a second season. He will have to ask his mother to get him a job as a writer’s assistant on another show. He knows she will do it, but hates depending on her connections.

Then he remembers something and pulls his phone out of his pocket. He scrolls through his contacts until he clicks the name he added in secret years ago. His finger hovers over the Call symbol before he summons up the courage.

After two rings, a familiar voice answers. There is no greeting, just “I knew you would call eventually.”

Archie nods. “Are you sure they will understand?”

“If you called, does that really matter? It’s time to come home, Archibald. It’s time to be a prince.”

“You’re right, Uncle William. I mean, Your Majesty.”