The Royal Rescue

Chapter 22

Serenity's PoV

I froze, still as stone. Internally panicking.

Why has he invited me up to stand next to him? Only royalty does that and as far as things are going, I'm not there yet.

My heart was pounding almost as if I was having a panic attack. My lungs felt tighter by the second. I think I'm gonna be faint.

What do I do?

Holding my breath, I did what was asked of me. If I retaliated, I would embarrass not only myself but the king as well. I slowly and steadily approached the king, just wanting to rid myself of all the staring faces.

The king had never introduced anyone to the crowd and since this was a first, I know that I would be the talk of the town for the coming weeks if not months.

As I got closer, he offered me his hand which I took appreciatively. His touch always had that calming effect on me which at this current moment I was thankful for. All I could focus on at this current moment was him. I needed the distraction, otherwise, I'd be running through this crowd looking like a manic mess.

He brought me close to him and wrapped an arm around my waist. It was like he thought I was gonna leave.

Then he addressed the crowd again.

"People of Valera. As some of you may or may not know, Pembroke was hit with financial difficulties a while ago. This was done by their town's leader which has now been rectified. However, during my most recent meeting there when I was solving these issues, I found out some very interesting news. One of their citizens hadn't been attending my meetings." I heard a gasp of shock and murmurs of disapproval. I lowered my head to the floor in shame and guilt. I guess they all hate me now for not obeying orders.

Was this my punishment? Was he making me a public embarrassment?

"When I investigated further, I found out something shocking. The citizen that was not attending meetings was homeless and didn't want to burden anyone, not even me, with their troubles. She didn't want sympathy and hid away. However, even though no one helped her, due to the financial difficulties, she still helped them anyway. She saved lives, supported people through troubling times and wanted nothing in return. After all the financial trouble was sorted, during that meeting, Pembroke was able to once again be a place of kindness and generosity. Do you want to know why?" I heard a roar of "yes" scream through the crowd and I just continued to hide my face. Not knowing where this was going and fearing for the worse.

"It was because of this one girl. Her kindness created a contagious impact and therefore they asked me to help her. That's why I'd like to introduce Serenity Beaumont. She is what inspired me to build this very shelter. I never want anyone homeless ever again and this shelter will provide enough support to get people back on their feet. That's why I'd like to declare, under Serenity's name, this shelter officially open." He cut the ribbon with a pair of scissors that were handed to him by one of the guards.

Everyone cheered and when I finally looked up, I saw the king standing there proud. He had a giant smile on his face knowing full well that this will change Valera. It will bring light to those in darkness. I was so glad that he did this.

I looked over at the crowd hoping to not see faces of disapproval but instead saw faces of happiness and admiration. I was in complete shock. After what the king had told them, I thought they would hate me because I didn't go to the meetings.

"Dove, is that the part that is making you worry?" I was wiped away from my thoughts by the question the king asked. I looked up confused.

"I'm sorry, I'm not following. What do you mean?" He frowned ever so slightly as if I was meant to know what he was on about but I had no clue.