Mamma Mia, Chapter 10

Mamma Mia: Chapter 10

  Arthur storms into his mother’s library with little concern for the world around him. He doesn’t bother to take off his shoes or straighten his clothes, or take off his baseball cap. He barges into the library to see his mother and a book reviewer mid-discussion. The two jolt at his intrusion.

  “You.” He points to the reviewer. “Out.”

  “Mr. Altamura, this is an unwelcomed-” The reviewer begins.

  Arthur cuts him off. “I said out.”

  Mia and the reviewer exchange glances.

  Arthur huffs. “This is the respect you show for the heir of the MWS?”

  Mia holds a hand to Arthur while addressing the reviewer. “I apologize for my son’s irrational intrusion. May I have a few minutes with him to resolve this?”

  “Of course, Mother Altamura.” The reviewer gathers his notepad and communicator. “Perhaps we can continue our conversation tomorrow? Same time?”

  Mia smiles warmly. “Most definitely.”

  The reviewer bows and leaves the room. He does not even bother to look into the volcanic gaze of the young Altamura. As the doors shut, Mia’s warm façade freezes. A warm smile thaws into a scowl. Arthur and Mia stare at each other for a long time. She glances down to see the book in his right hand. She presses her hands together and taps them on her lips. “It’s about the book, isn’t it?”

  “Yes. This book.” Arthur wiggles it in his hand. “Why did you write it?”

  “Because I wanted to.”

  “Have you ever considered asking your muses if publishing this story would be a good idea?”

  Mia tilts her head to the side. “I’m not sure what you-”

  “Cause this muse did not agree!” Arthur slams the book on her desk. The image on the cover shows two men in the heat of battle with drawn weapons. The title is generic, but suitable: A City of Two Princes. It still went over well for its first selling week. Of course, it helps to have an idea reservoir in the now-upset “muse.”

  Mia shrugs. “I don’t know if I believe in these muses you speak of, but-”

  “You need to stop lying.” Arthur interrupts her. “I’ve seen beyond the veil. I finally saw what gives you ideas for these stupid books.”

  Mia raises an eyebrow. “Oh? You figured out where I get my inspiration?”

  “I mean, isn’t not exact. Obviously. But it is my story.” Arthur exclaims.

  Mia remains stoic. She finds his fury just as funny as one of her syndicate equals. All yelling, shouting, accusing, placing blame where they think it belongs. Always wanting the three Ps: peace, power, and paper. Never truly willing to sacrifice their pride to get it.

  “What is so funny?” Arthur yells. Mia didn’t realize she has been laughing under her breath.

  “My apologies.” Mia clears her throat. “I just find your fury hypocritical. Here you are, striving for fame and popularity, not willing to let me help you.” She crosses her arms on the desk and leans toward him. “This is why I put you under the charge of Major General Kent. You will never learn to rule if you cannot learn in the first place. Being a junior informant will help you more than you realize.” Mia glares at Arthur in silence. “Leave for your apprenticeship before I force you to learn the hard way.”