I sat at the table, nervous as Nico used the restroom. I liked Nico...well, as much as I could. I sat up straighter. I had to remind myself that I was a praetor, not a silly little girl looking for love. But...my heart ached constantly seeing cute couples walk down the streets of New Rome, hand in hand, kissing each other, enjoying themselves...
I sighed. It was so difficult. But at the same time, I felt proud. I was a leader. A true leader.
I heard a toilet flush and tried to look as relaxed as I should've been. Nico came out a few seconds later, trying to look casual, but there was an unusual gleam of excitement in his eyes. He handed me a plate and I grabbed a slice. I bit into the warm pizza.
"How's New Rome?" Nico asked. I shrugged. "As Roman as it can get. Nothing has changed much. Though I'm worried about Jason."
Nico arched an eyebrow. "Oh?"
I frowned. "He's been so busy making statues for all the gods and goddesses...and when he's not..." I looked at him sadly. "He just been around Piper and neglecting his duties."
Nico frowned. "That's not good."
I shook my head. "No, not good at all. I was considering a new praetor..." I glanced up at him. For a moment, his eyes dazzled. "But I'd have to run it by Jason first."
His shoulders slumped ever so slightly. He nodded. "Yes, of course."
"How is it here?" I asked him. He grinned. "It's going good. I really like it here, but I also like roaming around too, you know?"
'Roaming around Rome' I thought.
I nodded. "Yeah. I guess that's fun too." I took another slice of pizza. "This is good." I complimented.
He smiled. "Thanks." A sudden knock on the door startled him. He excused himself and stood to open it.
