Between our hands

Chapter 73: Echoes of a Bond

The long-awaited moment had finally arrived, enveloping the afternoon in a soft light that promised memorable moments. Excitement and nervousness floated in the air as Maëlle, Samy, and the rest of the family prepared for a visit that would mark a turning point. This was not just a visit; it was an opportunity to see the fruits of their labor, to share laughter, and to strengthen bonds woven over the days.

Maëlle stood before the mirror, adjusting a strand of hair while making sure her smile was ready for the upcoming events. She could feel the energy of the family behind her, the enthusiastic murmurs and bursts of laughter from her brothers, Sacha and Daniel, who were probably goofing off for the umpteenth time that morning. Victor, her cousin, was preparing with almost comical seriousness, checking his uniform with military rigor.

— “Maëlle, are you ready?” called Sacha as he entered the room, a big smile on his face. “Or are you staging a hair revolution to impress the villagers?”

— “Very funny, Sacha! I just want to look presentable, that’s all!” she replied, laughing, though a light blush crept onto her cheeks. She knew the day would be full of attention, and she wanted to be up to the task.

When everyone was finally ready, they gathered in the hall, each wearing an expression of palpable anticipation. Samy, dressed in a smart bodyguard uniform, was waiting for Maëlle. Their eyes met, and a conspiratorial smile lit up Maëlle’s face. Just seeing Samy brought her an unexpected sense of calm.

The drive to the village was short, but every minute seemed to stretch as anticipation grew. In the car, Maëlle stayed close to Samy, reminiscing about their past visits. Memories flooded back, each laden with emotions.

The laughter of the family echoed around them, but within the bubble they had created, their exchanges became a subtle dance of complicity and tenderness. Maëlle moved a little closer to him, their arms almost brushing against each other. She felt light, as if the world around them was fading away, leaving space for a profound intimacy.

When the car finally stopped, a festive atmosphere welcomed the group. The villagers, smiling and enthusiastic, awaited their arrival with palpable impatience. The joyful cries of children and the laughter of adults created a lively melody, an anthem of hope and improvement.

Maëlle and Samy got out together, hand in hand, while Sacha, Daniel, and Victor followed behind, exchanging smiles with the villagers. The visible changes in the village, fruits of their hard work, were striking. The arrival of running water had truly transformed the daily lives of the villagers, and they were eager to share their stories.

The villagers surrounded the group, all excited to show the improvements made. Maëlle stepped forward with a warm smile, greeting the villagers one by one, taking the time to stop and chat with the children who looked at her with wide eyes.

— “Hello, my beautiful!” she said to a little girl with curly hair. “How are you? Are you happy to have access to water?”

The little girl nodded enthusiastically, and Maëlle bent down to hug her. This moment of tenderness made Samy’s eyes shine, as he watched the scene with palpable affection. The way Maëlle connected with the villagers revealed a sweetness and generosity that touched him deeply.

But, as always, the presence of journalists was felt, and it wasn’t long before the atmosphere became slightly tense. The flashes of cameras crackled, and questions flew, weighing on the event. Maëlle and Samy continued to interact with the villagers, but Samy felt the pressure of their unexpected audience.

Victor, aware of the situation, turned to Maëlle and Samy with a reassuring look.

— “I think it would be good for us to head to the meeting room. That should give us a bit of space to breathe.”