Between our hands

Chapter 62: Promises in Action.

In the following days, Maëlle and Samy continued their tour, visiting other villages and inspecting the construction sites of schools and medical centers. At each location, Maëlle listened to the concerns of the residents, while Samy, always by her side, ensured that nothing disturbed their mission.

One afternoon, while visiting a school under construction, a group of children approached Maëlle. Their curiosity was palpable, and one little girl, with her braided hair and mischievous gaze, asked, "Ma'am, is it true that you're going to give us books and pencils?"

Maëlle crouched down to their level, a warm smile on her lips. "Yes, that's true. And not only that, you will have teachers to help you learn, to read, to write, and to dream big. You are the future of this country, and you deserve the best."

A boy a little older, with his hands in the pockets of his worn-out pants, added timidly, "But what will happen if you leave? Who will take care of us then?"

Listening attentively, Maëlle intervened gently. "That's an excellent question. We won't leave until we make sure everything is in place. We will work together with the teachers and parents to ensure you have a safe and enriching environment. Your education is our priority."

The children, reassured by Maëlle's words, exchanged smiles, and Samy felt a wave of pride wash over him. It was in these moments that he realized how important her commitment was.

After the visit, as they headed towards the car to return to the palace, Maëlle, tired but satisfied, turned to Samy. "You know, sometimes it's hard to see the immediate results of what we do. But today… today, I feel like we're really making a difference."

Samy took her hand, a gesture that had become natural between them. "It's because you're a leader who truly cares for her people. And that's why I'll always be by your side, every step of the way."

On their way back, they passed villagers who greeted them with respect. An elderly woman, carrying a basket of vegetables on her head, stopped to greet them. "Your Majesty, your visit here has given hope to our community. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

Maëlle, touched, replied warmly, "Thank you. It is your strength and resilience that inspire these changes. We are just doing our part."

As they continued on their way, they came across a group of young people playing in a field. Seeing Maëlle, one of them stepped forward, his face beaming. "Ma'am, can you help us get more playgrounds?"

Maëlle leaned down, intrigued. "Of course. And I will personally bring you some balls!"

The children's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Really? Thank you, Ma'am!"

Arriving at the palace, fatigue set in. They decided to take a moment for themselves, away from their responsibilities, to recharge. They settled into a private lounge, where a large bay window offered a stunning view of the palace gardens. The rays of the setting sun bathed the room in golden light, creating a soothing atmosphere.

Sitting side by side, Maëlle rested her head on Samy's shoulder. "Thank you for always being there for me," she murmured.

Samy placed a kiss on the top of her head. "I should be the one thanking you… You've given me a reason to fight, a reason to believe in a better future."

As they walked through the halls, their moment of tranquility was interrupted by Victor, whom they encountered with contagious energy. "I hope I'm not interrupting?" he asked with a smile.

"Not at all, Victor. What's going on?" Maëlle replied, sitting up straight.

Victor adopted a more serious tone. "I've heard about your tour. You're becoming a real legend here. The villagers speak of you as the princess who keeps her promises. But don't forget to take care of yourself too."

Maëlle smiled. "Thank you, Victor. But all of this is possible thanks to Samy's support and our entire team."

Victor nodded, his gaze turning to Samy. "I know you're a valuable support for her. But don't forget to take time for yourself as well."

"I'm not just here for support," Samy replied, a hint of pride in his voice. "I believe in what we're doing."

Victor rolled his eyes with a smile. "Okay, but don't let the work consume you. We have an important meeting in an hour, so make sure you're both ready!"

They exchanged knowing glances, aware that despite the challenges ahead, their unity was their greatest strength. They prepared together, ready to face the new responsibilities that awaited them.

Before entering the lounge, Maëlle turned one last time to Samy, her gaze filled with determination. "Let's go."

Samy smiled, his heart racing, ready to continue this adventure by her side.

And so, they left the room, hand in hand, prepared to write the next chapter of their story, a chapter where love and commitment to their people intertwined to build a better future.

In the days that followed, their tour took them to increasingly remote villages. During a visit to a secluded village, Maëlle and Samy encountered a community suffering from the lack of proper sanitation facilities. As they settled in to listen to the villagers' grievances, Maëlle realized that public health issues had a significant impact on daily life.

She listened attentively as a woman, her voice trembling, explained how children often fell ill due to contaminated water. "We need toilets and clean water, Ma'am. Our children deserve to live in good health."

Touched by her testimony, Maëlle responded with conviction. "I promise that we will implement sustainable solutions. We will work together to improve your living conditions."

Samy, ever watchful, observed the exchange, admiring Maëlle's strength and determination. When they left the village, he whispered to her, "I love you so much; you're so perfect." She turned around, surprised, and tenderly kissed Samy in response.

Upon returning to the palace, they prepared for a meeting with dignitaries, a crucial moment where they had to present their progress and convince skeptics of the importance of their projects. The room was filled, the atmosphere electric. Maëlle, though nervous, stood tall and resolute, ready to defend their vision.

During the meeting, she spoke passionately about their experiences on the ground, sharing testimonials from the villagers they had met. Samy stood beside her, supporting her speech with data and concrete facts about the progress made.

At the end of the meeting, several dignitaries, initially skeptical, were convinced by Maëlle's commitment and the effectiveness of their plan. One man stood up, applauding. "You have touched our hearts, Miss. Your determination and that of your team are admirable. We must all unite to support these projects."

Grateful, Maëlle smiled at Samy, realizing that together they were changing things. A new phase lay ahead, filled with promises and hope.