Roman closed the textbook on the Introduction to Governance, having finished reviewing the foundational history of the kingdom and its earliest principles of rule.
"Young Lord, it is time for your evening milk and snacks," Joanna announced gently from the doorway. She pushed the door open to find Roman carefully placing his study notebook onto the shelf before sliding down from his chair.
Joanna brought the silver tray inside and set it upon the small table beside the window. "The evening air has grown quite chilly, Young Lord. Allow me to close the window." As she latched the wooden frame shut, Roman lifted the silver glass into his hands, feeling the soothing warmth radiating through it. It was tempered perfectly—neither too hot nor too cold.
"There are only eighteen days left until my parents return," Roman said, glancing up at her.
"Yes, Young Lord. You have been counting each one so faithfully," Joanna remarked with a tender smile.
