Between our hands

Chapter 58: Under the Weight of Responsibilities.

The next day, even before the sun had fully risen, Maëlle woke up with a heavy sense of responsibility on her shoulders. Her schedule was filled with visits to strategic sites, particularly those related to ambitious projects overseen by the royal family. She had mentally prepared herself for a long day, knowing the extent of the tasks that awaited her, but she couldn’t help but feel a certain weight as she reflected on her priorities. What mattered most to her was the education reform, a project aimed at modernizing school infrastructures and creating equitable access to education for all children in the country. This was not only about the big cities but also about rural areas, which were often overlooked.

Samy was already up, quietly preparing his things to accompany her throughout the day. He glanced at Maëlle, who was still half-asleep, stretching in bed. He smiled tenderly at the sight of her in this moment of calm before the demands of the day caught up with them.

“A long day ahead,” he murmured, gently moving closer to her to place a kiss on her forehead.

“Yes…” she replied with a sigh, nestling for a moment in the warmth of his arms. “But I’m ready. It’s for the good of the country.”

They had breakfast quickly, in silence, each lost in thought about the responsibilities that awaited them. Maëlle knew that the presence of numerous dignitaries, experts, and journalists would make the day more stressful than usual. Still, she felt prepared to face whatever came her way, especially with Samy by her side, even if he would have to remain in the background.

They hit the road early, a small caravan of officials following closely behind. As they arrived at the first site, a new, state-of-the-art school, Maëlle felt the significance of this moment. Teachers, parents, and especially children eagerly awaited her visit. She was greeted by the cheerful songs of children and radiant smiles, and this pure energy immediately revitalized her. Each face reminded her why she was fighting for this project.

Samy kept a cautious but close distance, attentively observing the surroundings. The crowd of parents and children, while friendly, required heightened vigilance. He couldn’t help but steal glances at Maëlle, ensuring she was always safe while admiring her graceful and natural way of speaking to the children. He watched her shine in those moments, which only deepened his admiration for her.

Maëlle took the time to stop in front of each group of children, speaking to them gently, complimenting their drawings or small performances. “You are the future of this country,” she told them with a sincere smile. “And we are doing everything we can to give you the best chances to succeed.”

The journalists didn’t miss a single moment of these exchanges. Every word, every gesture of Maëlle was captured by the cameras, and she knew that this day would mark a turning point in how her work was perceived within the kingdom. But deep down, it wasn’t for public image that she was putting in so much effort. It was for those children, for their families, for a better future that she believed was possible.

After the school visit, the royal delegation headed to a small remote village, where a modernization project was underway. The contrast with the city was striking. Here, there were no major roads or imposing buildings, but a close-knit community, where every face expressed sincere gratitude for the help provided by the royal family. Maëlle was touched by the simplicity of these people and their determination to improve their daily lives. She listened attentively to the remarks of village chiefs and local teachers, mentally noting the improvements that could still be made.

Samy, though focused on his task, observed these scenes of life with a certain emotion. He saw Maëlle interacting with a warmth and compassion that made her unique. However, the physical distance imposed by the crowds, security barriers, and official protocols only intensified his desire to be by her side, to exchange even a word or a knowing smile.

In the middle of the day, during an outdoor ceremony to celebrate the inauguration of a new community center, a slight altercation broke out at the back of the crowd. Nothing serious, but enough for Samy to immediately spring into action to calm the situation. He reacted professionally, quickly securing the area without causing a stir. When Maëlle, who was following the ceremony, realized what had happened, she glanced over at Samy. Seeing him handle the situation with such ease reassured her, but she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of worry. She remembered how invested he was in his protective role, but she also wanted him to know he could rely on her to lighten his burdens, even if she couldn’t tell him so at that moment.

At the end of the ceremony, Maëlle discreetly made her way to him, finally finding a moment for a more intimate exchange. “Thank you for your vigilance, Samy,” she said softly as she approached, a grateful smile on her lips.

Samy shrugged slightly, trying to downplay the situation, but his eyes revealed a deep softness and tenderness. “It’s my duty, Maëlle. I’m just glad everything is under control.”

She nodded before adding, “Even when you’re far away, I know you’re watching over me.”

Their eyes locked for a moment, and despite the turmoil of the day, this simple connection made them feel a little closer, a little more at peace.

The afternoon was just as packed, with visits to several other projects, and the hours seemed to stretch endlessly. Fatigue began to set in, and Maëlle, although she remained professional and smiling in public, felt her strength waning. Samy noticed this immediately. As they left the last site, he moved a little closer to her, seeking to offer her some comfort without drawing attention.

“Hang in there, we’re almost done,” he murmured, his lips close to her ear.

Maëlle shot him a knowing glance. “With you by my side, I’ll always hold on.”

They understood each other without needing to say more. This day had been a true marathon, but they knew that once night fell, they could finally be together in peace.

The evening ended in a reception hall where Maëlle had to give one final speech. Exhausted but determined, she spoke passionately about the kingdom’s future projects. Samy, meanwhile, stood in the shadows, his gaze never leaving Maëlle. Through her speech, he saw the woman he loved—strong and resilient—and he couldn’t have been prouder of her.

It was only much later, once all their commitments were finished, that they could finally return to their suite. Worn out, they fell onto the bed, their tired bodies comforted by each other’s presence.

Samy, lying beside Maëlle, leaned over to place a kiss on her temple. “I’m so proud of you. Today, you accomplished something great.”

Maëlle, her eyes half-closed, gave him a soft smile. “I couldn’t have done it without you by my side.”

They quickly fell asleep, each finding solace in the closeness of the other, ready to face together all the challenges that the following days would bring.