Between our hands

Chapter 57: In the Gentle Morning.

The next morning, the sun gently cast its rays through the curtains of the royal suite. Maëlle and Samy woke up together, bathed in a golden light that accentuated the serenity of the moment. They had breakfast in soothing calm, exchanging a few knowing smiles. The aroma of freshly ground coffee filled the room, blending with the delicate scent of flowers placed on the table. The rustling of leaves outside, in the royal gardens, added a natural touch to their tranquil morning.

After taking the time to savor this intimate moment, Maëlle sat down at her desk, surrounded by documents and notes she carefully reviewed. However, something seemed to weigh on her mind. Samy, observing her with fondness from the couch, noticed the growing determination on her face.

She finally turned to him, a resolute glint in her eyes. "Samy, I've been thinking about something," she began, her fingers absently playing with a pen. "We spend almost all our time together, whether here or elsewhere... I think it's time you moved into my suite permanently. It would be more practical, but most importantly, it would make me so happy."

Samy, caught off guard by her proposal, stared at her, speechless, before a wide smile lit up his face. His eyes sparkled with surprise and joy. "Are you serious?" he asked, almost incredulous. "That's... that's a wonderful idea. I'm so happy!" He got up and quickly went to her, planting a soft kiss on her lips in gratitude.

Maëlle returned his embrace tenderly, her heart racing at the thought of this new chapter they were about to begin together. Then, with one last smile, she returned to her tasks, while Samy headed towards the palace wing where the bodyguards stayed, ready to prepare for his move.

Upon his arrival, the atmosphere immediately filled with good-natured teasing. The other guards, already aware of the news, didn't hesitate to poke fun at him. As soon as he walked through the door, a burst of laughter and playful comments greeted him.

"So, it's official? The great Samy is moving into the royal suites?" one of his colleagues teased, a smirk on his face.

Another guard, with equal mischief, added, "Enjoy it, man. Once you've tasted that comfort, it'll be hard to go back to the field!"

Samy, though a little embarrassed, couldn’t help but laugh with them. These affectionate jabs were part of the dynamic between the bodyguards, and this moment was no different. "Yeah, it's true. I think I'll get used to these new 'responsibilities'," he replied, chuckling.

The guards continued their jokes while offering him advice on the best way to handle the transition. Some shared humorous anecdotes about their own love lives, while others gave more serious encouragement, but all shared genuine admiration for Samy, happy to see him growing in this way.

Once his belongings were packed and neatly stored in a few bags, Samy returned to Maëlle's suite. The walk back, though short, felt strangely significant. This move, though symbolic, represented an important step for him.

Crossing the threshold of the suite, he gently placed his bags on the bed before quietly approaching Maëlle, who was still working. Seeing her so focused, his heart swelled with affection. He silently circled her desk and, without a word, wrapped his arms around her, resting his chin on her shoulder. Maëlle, surprised but delighted, let out a soft laugh before relaxing against him.

"I love you so much," he whispered in her ear, his warm breath brushing against the delicate skin of her neck. "Thank you for letting me share your life this way."

Maëlle slightly turned her head to offer him a radiant smile, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "Welcome home, Samy," she responded softly before kissing him tenderly.

Their lips met in a soft, reassuring kiss, a promise of what was to come. After this tender moment, Maëlle returned to her work, focused on the documents spread across her desk. Several long minutes passed, but Samy couldn’t resist the urge to distract her. He slipped his arms around her shoulders, placing a light kiss on her neck.

"You’re working too much," he murmured softly, his voice full of affection. "Do you know I could spend hours watching you like this? Every time I see you concentrating, I fall a little more in love."

Maëlle, trying to stay focused, couldn’t help but smile at his words. "Samy..." she said gently, trying to compose herself. "I need to finish this..."

But Samy had no intention of letting her go so easily. He leaned in a little closer, his warm breath brushing the nape of her neck, and added in a playful whisper, "I know, but... you're just so... I can't help but want to have you close. I want you all to myself, just for a few minutes."

Maëlle looked up at him, a mock reproachful expression on her face, but her lips betrayed a growing smile. "Just a few minutes?"

Samy pretended to think it over. "Okay, maybe a little more... but I promise I'll let you get back to work afterward."

Maëlle shook her head, unable to resist any longer. She gently pushed the papers in front of her aside, taking a moment to fully turn toward Samy, her eyes gleaming with affection.

"You're quite the distraction," she murmured before pulling him in for a tender kiss.

They stayed like that for a while, lost in each other, almost forgetting the world around them. Then Maëlle, with a playful laugh, pulled back slightly and said with a smile, "Now, if you really want me to be productive, you’ll have to let me work for a bit."

Samy released her with a mock pout, but his eyes shone with love. "Alright, but just know I'll be right here, impatiently waiting for our next distraction."

Maëlle smiled as she watched him settle comfortably in a corner of the room. As she returned to her documents, she still felt the warmth of his words, and the slight smile on her face seemed unwilling to leave.

Their silent companionship, between work and stolen moments of love, filled the room with a peaceful sweetness.

Later, they made their way to the dining hall to join the rest of the royal family. Upon their arrival, the already jovial atmosphere intensified. The family members were thrilled to see them arrive together, hand in hand, smiles on their faces. Knowing glances were exchanged, signaling the complete acceptance of Samy into the family circle.

Lunch unfolded in a warm atmosphere, filled with lively conversations and spontaneous laughter. The discussions covered a range of topics, from local politics to family anecdotes, and everyone seemed to enjoy Samy’s presence at the royal table.

The day promised to be full of challenges, but also moments to share, and Maëlle and Samy, now closer than ever, were ready to face it together.