The Orphan And The Crown

Epilogue

SEVEN YEARS LATER

"And then they lived happily ever after. The end." I looked up and the room erupted into whoops and claps.

"That was the best story I've ever heard." One child clasped her hands excitedly.

I smiled at them and stood up from my chair. I flinched when I felt arms wrapping around my leg. "Can you pretty please read it again, Your Majesty?"

"Awe, I would read to you all ten more times, but unfortunately, I've got to get going." I gave her a sad smile, and she frowned in defeat.

"We don't want you to go." Riley leaned forward and wrapped her arms around my waist. I embraced her in a warm hug.

"I'll be back soon and next time I'll bring more gifts for you." I tried to blink away my tears.

I was visiting the orphanage that Alessandro took me to years ago before we got married. Ever since I always made sure to visit at least twice a month or more if I could. I felt such a special bond to the children and I wished I could do more for them.

"The Queen will visit soon, children. Now go wash your hands and prepare for your afternoon activities." Their caretaker, Mrs. Wilson told them before facing me with a wide smile on her face.

"Thank you for coming, Your Majesty."

I smiled gently. "No need to thank me."

"Bye everyone, I'll see you soon." I said, giving them hugs. I waved over at my daughter, Aleyna to come. She hugged some of the children she'd become friends with before skipping to me. 

I stared at her in awe, admiring how adorable she looked with her pigtails and her white polka dot dress. She looked just like her father with his exact features. She was only four years old yet very intelligent. 

"Do we have to go now?" She looked up at me with puppy dog eyes and I chuckled. It never worked on me but Alessandro could never say no to those big blue eyes. He protected her and treasured her, spoiling her every chance he got. 

"We need to meet your father and brother to prepare for The Trooping of Colour." I explained to her. She pouted then nodded in defeat.

I pulled her close to me before facing Mrs. Wilson. "Thanks for everything. Aleyna and I will be back soon hopefully with Alvaro."

"Thank you, Your Majesty." She smiled. 

Andrew drove Aleyna and me back to Wintermoor Castle. When we arrived, Mum, Kate and Alexandra were having lunch with my son Alvaro in the garden. I gave them hugs and kissed Alvaro on his temple.

"At last you're here, dear." Mum smiled softly after hugging me. 

I sat in between her and Alvaro. "You know it's always hard to leave the orphanage."

She nodded before taking a sip of her juice. 

"You're doing such a good job, carino. I'm so proud of you." Alexandra flashed me a small smile and I returned it. 

"How's my favourite niece in the whole world?" Kate opened her arms wide for Aleyna. She jumped in them, squealing. 

"Where's your father?" I asked my seven year old son. 

"He rushed to a meeting." He replied with a shrug. 

I gently put my hand on his back and rubbed it soothingly. "Did you enjoy the World Cup Final?" 

His blue eyes met mine and his face lit up with joy. 

"We won and I got to meet all the players." His voice rose in excitement.