A Princess in Theory (Reluctant Royals, #1)

by Alyssa Cole

Thabiso dropped the plate onto the table with a loud ceramic thunk. The man who had requested it took it up in his hand without even looking at him, continuing to converse with his compatriots. He had just been waited on by royalty and couldn’t even manage a nod of gratitude? Son of a two-legged antelope . . . Thabiso waited a moment longer for the recognition owed to him, and then snatched the kale back. “I beg your pardon,” the man said, clearly confused as he finally turned his gaze toward Thabiso. “Your pardon is denied. I just performed a task for you. The correct thing to say in this situation is ‘Thank you.’” Thabiso imbued each word with the disdain learned from years of etiquette lessons. The man sputtered, eyes wide behind his glasses, then stammered out a thanks. Thabiso returned the kale to him. “You are welcome.” He clapped his hands together. “Now, you must leave this place, as I’ve been informed that there is work to be done for a later event. I give you permission to take this plate with you, as it’s obviously of inferior quality and will not be missed.” The man and his group of friends quickly gathered their things and shuffled out. He crossed his arms over his chest and watched them go. Do I ever thank my servants? He couldn’t remember explicitly doing so. His servants had always been there, like the photos of ancestors on the walls and the furniture handed down for generations. Surely, they didn’t feel affronted when he waved or beckoned without a word. ...