Gravensnod (manxman)

Chapter Five

Alexei

"Sooooo," Ari said while falling into step beside me. "Want to tell me what that was all about?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

I knew exactly what he was talking about. My body reacted to Philo when it shouldn't. For one, I wasn't gay. And, he was a minor. Also, I was in a relationship with someone who would probably become the next Queen. Honestly she wasn't my first choice but I've been getting pressured to find someone and settle down. Being first in line for the throne could be overwhelming at times. Especially when everyone was constantly asking when I'd get married and have a kid. I needed to have a child to continue on with the line to the throne. While Genevieve wasn't my soulmate I knew she'd be happy to live this life. I'd been looking for so long for someone I truly loved that I've given up.

There weren't any gay royals, at least that I knew of. And it wasn't like there were a lot of homophobic people walking around the castle. Fyn had been one, but honestly, I knew he was just confused. He acted out of confusion and anger until I made sure he'd never do that shit again. However, I knew many people would not be happy or comfortable with a ruler being gay or even bi. This world was evolving but there were still lots of simple minded people not only in Gravensnod but in the world.

I didn't need to look over at my best friend to know the look he was giving me. "Oh please. You were staring at him like you wanted to bend him over right there and claim him."

"Ari!" I whispered shouted as my cheeks lit up. "That is completely inappropriate."

He rolled his eyes as we continued to walk down the long hallway. "Get real Alex. Don't be all royally prude on me all of a sudden and just talk. We're not in front of your parents or anyone else in this fucking country. I saw the way you were looking at him! Damn, if you looked at me like that I'd let you bend me over any day." When I looked over at him and glared he simply laughed. "Wouldn't that be a fun Tuesday?"

"You're an idiot."

"I'm an idiot that pays attention and realizes when my best friend is actually feeling something real. Like god, I've never seen you look at Genevieve like that before."

"You don't know what you're talking about Ari."

He sighed before saying, "I do!"

"Stop," I whispered as we rounded the corner and almost ran into someone.

I blinked a few times before recognizing the man as Theo, the physical therapist. He was around my height and had short blonde hair and blue eyes. When he saw me he instantly bowed his head while saying, "Good afternoon your highness. Good afternoon Aristotle."

"Good afternoon," I said with a smile.

"Hey," Ari said with no emotion as he gave a small wave.

The bags in Theo's hands made me think back to what Victor said. "Are you going to Philo Carver's room?"

"I am," he said with a nod.

I wasn't sure why my hands started to ball into fists or why my chest felt hot. Ari must've noticed because he said, "Have fun with that. I think Philo is still a little tired. Sorry to run but we must be leaving."

"Of course," Theo said before walking around us.

We stood in silence before I put my hand up. "Just, don't."

"You're jealous!" Ari said as he basically started to jump up and down.

I glared at him again while starting to descend the staircase. "You can't be talking like that Ari. I'm not jealous."