George felt like dancing, but he kept his wits about him as he hurried down the castle corridor. He was thrilled with his new assignment. Not that he would be thrilled with the departure of anyone on the Camelot Castle household staff - that certainly wouldn't be sporting, would it? But George was thrilled with the opportunity that the new opening afforded him. And he meant to do a bang-up job.
George had learned a good deal since his first brief sojourn as the king's servant. He had gained valuable experience serving Lord Agravaine, and had done his best to provide proficient, reliable, consistent service. To be honest, George had always secretly been a little uncomfortable with Agravaine, though he could never quite identify the reason. This fact had led him to try to do his work with a little less show and a little more subtlety, thus drawing less unwanted attention to himself. Regardless of the cause of this change, George recognized that the effect had been good. If the quality of ones work was high enough, it would be appreciated. Drawing attention to snappy service was, perhaps, actually a detraction. He was grateful to have learned this from Lord Agravaine before the man's tragic disappearance - though the end of the assignment had undeniably been a relief.
He found Drea in the laundry room, folding clean linens. He took hold of the large sheet she was pulling down from the line and began helping her to fold it.
"And what has you so cheerful?" asked Drea, unable to resist his goofy but infectious smile.
"You are looking at the king's new valet!"
"George, that's wonderful! I mean, everyone's sad that Merlin left, but I know you will do a great job." She placed the folded sheet on the stack as George pulled down the next one on the line. Together they folded on.
"I know it will be awkward at first," said George, pragmatically. "I think Merlin was rather an unofficial friend to the king, and I would never presume to such a thing. But I know I can make things comfortable - the meals, the apartment, etc. I can be a good servant."
"There's nobody in Camelot better suited for the job." This was exactly why George loved talking to Drea. She had a knack for building people up. The girl had a generous heart. "So when do you start?"
"Today. This morning. Right now."
"Then what are you doing here talking to me? You'd better get up there!" The girl beamed at him incredulously.
George beamed back. "I just had to tell somebody!"
Drea laughed, turned him toward the stairs, and gave him a little push.
Author's note: Drea and George are each featured separately in another of my stories: "Mornings After".
