Royalty, Romance Novels + Secret Attackers

Games

The next day, I search for Gus, only to be told he will be with his father most of the day, leaving me ample time to myself. I finish up my latest read which leaves me hungry for more material. Unfortunately, that was the only book I brought with me.

Leaning backward, I think back, remembering when Gus told me he had his own collection of books. They're probably in his room. I don't think he'll mind if I borrow a few.

His room is light and airy when I step inside. And of course is neat and tidy. His bed is tucked away in a corner, with two fluffy pillows nestled on top.

I pull my gaze away, self conscious of the fact that he never explicitly invited me in here. It would be best if I just grab a book and go.

The bookcase is flush against the wall on my right, overflowing with books. Ironically it is the only messy part of the room.

I run my fingers along the spines. They seem to be categorized by genre. A shelf of nonfiction, a couple sci-fi, a surprising number on astrology. Of course the majority of the collection is fantasy. My finger come across the shelf of government books.

My finger slows as I remember what I promised. I sigh.

I shouldn't put it off any longer and this is presenting myself with the perfect opportunity.

I tug a larger volume from the shelf. It contains generic overviews of all the top governments in the world. Content with my choice, I sneak back out and wander around.

I come across a table nestled in a corner of what I think is a drawing room, open the volume and start reading.

The government's power is split between the monarchy and parliament in a sixty-forty ratio, giving most of the power to the monarchy, but still leaving a significant amount for the people.

I yawn but force myself to power through, making a note for myself in a notebook.

Monarchy 60% - Parliament 40%

____________________________________

Gus finds me a few hours later and sits down beside me, sliding the book towards himself.

He examines the cover and flips through the chapter I was working on, shaking his head. "Wow, look at you! I'm impressed."

"Hey." I look up at him.

He pulls the book away and starts to quiz me. I don't embarrass myself too much, answering most of his questions correctly.

"That's a good start." He tells me, sliding the book back.

I sigh. "Thanks. It's just, I always asssumed someone would be around to help me, so I never bothered to learn any of this." I gesture to the book. "I took an online quiz before I started. Turns out I had a third grade level of understanding about my own government. I kinda assumed the monarchy held all the power." I bat around the book absentmindedly, "I think now I have a fourth grade level understanding."

He nudges me. "Maybe even fifth grade." He teases.

One side of my lips quirk up as I glance at him. "Maybe. If we're being generous."

He taps the book. "Well, it's good you're finally stepping up and learning, despite being fashionably late."

I roll my eyes.

"And you're right about one thing. There will always be someone to help you. At the very least, I will help you out as much as I can."

I smile at him. "Thank you."