“Just a minute,” I called.
I used that minute to have a complete meltdown. It went well, as far as meltdowns go.
I opened the door, resigned. Pete was on the other side, looking far too amused.
“I don’t even want to hear it,” I grumbled.
“I wasn’t going to say a word,” he said.
“You,” I said. “Not saying a single word.”
He shrugged. “Well, a few words. Your date for the evening has arrived and is waiting in the lobby. And the Knight Commander is there too.” He was struggling not to smile. “There might be some… posturing involved.”
“Posturing,” I repeated.
“Intimidation tactics, even,” Pete said.
“Who is Todd trying to intimidate?” I asked, sounding shocked.
Pete covered his face with his hands and groaned. “I worry for the future of this kingdom.”
I rolled my eyes. “I’m going to be a part of that future. I think we’ll be just fine.”
“Because of your level of awareness?”
“Exactly,” I said, smiling at him. He knew me so well.
He muttered something that sounded like “we’re all doomed,” but I couldn’t be sure as I was too busy shutting my chamber doors.
TODD DIDN’T seem to be posturing in the slightest as I descended the stairs. In fact, he looked downright terrified.
Ryan stood right next to him, a bland expression on his face.
Morgan was leaning against the wall, humming quietly to himself.
“This was a bad idea,” I breathed.
Which, of course, they heard. They snapped their gazes to the stairs.
“Eep!” Todd said.
“Sam,” Ryan said.
Morgan just smiled enigmatically.
“Heeey,” I said, giving an awkward wave.
Then we all just stood there.
For, like, two whole minutes.
Just staring.
Morgan cleared his throat pointedly.
Todd said, “Um. Yes. Right. My cue. Thank you, my good man.” He took a step forward. And then another. “Sam! You look—”
I waited.