Between our hands

Chapter 94: The Gleam of a New Day

The next morning, the first rays of the sun filtered through the thin curtains of the suite, gently illuminating the room. Maëlle and Samy woke up side by side, surrounded by the warmth of the early morning. Samy opened his eyes first, and when he turned his head, he found Maëlle, still half-asleep, nestled against him, her face serene. A tender smile spread across his lips, and he leaned in to place a gentle kiss on her forehead.

Maëlle stirred slightly, awakened by the tender gesture, and her eyes slowly opened to meet Samy’s. A silent exchange passed between them, a blend of gratitude, relief, and deep love.

“Good morning,” she murmured with a soft smile, her fingertips brushing along Samy’s arm.

“Good morning,” he replied, his voice still touched with sleep.

Maëlle sat up slightly, still half-wrapped in the sheets. “So, what’s the plan for today?” she asked, her hand gliding down Samy’s arm in a tender gesture, almost like an invitation to relax.

Samy smiled, though his body still felt weary from recent events. “I’d love to get out of this suite and enjoy the palace a bit. I don’t want to stay cooped up in here any longer.”

Maëlle nodded, understanding. She knew how much Samy needed to regain some sense of normalcy, even if his body wasn’t fully healed yet. “Alright, we’ll take it easy.”

They got up slowly, with Maëlle staying close to Samy to assist if necessary. She handed him a clean shirt with attentive care, avoiding his bandages and still-painful injuries. With every movement, her fingers brushed his skin with infinite gentleness, as if to remind him she was there, supporting him through every small effort.

Once Samy was ready, they made their way together to the dining hall for a family breakfast. Maëlle offered him her arm to help him walk more easily, and Samy, despite his pride, accepted her support with gratitude. The hallway leading to the dining room was long and adorned with old portraits, but that morning, Maëlle only saw Samy at her side.

As they approached the grand room, they could already hear the laughter and lively conversations of the family. Despite recent events, the atmosphere seemed light and joyful, as if everyone had decided to celebrate life after so much fear and tension.

When Maëlle and Samy entered, the family members immediately turned toward them, their faces lighting up with warm smiles. Victor was the first to react, leaping to his feet and letting out a laugh of relief upon seeing Samy standing and looking better.

“Samy! Maëlle!” he exclaimed, rushing over with open arms. “There you are at last!” He embraced Samy carefully, avoiding his injured shoulder, but the hug was sincere, full of emotion. “How are you feeling?” he asked, his gaze shifting between Samy and Maëlle.

Maëlle answered before Samy, smiling slightly. “He’s much better. We’re happy to be here with you all.”

The room filled with murmurs of joy and relief. Sophie, Marie, and William, seated at the table, greeted them with kind smiles. Sophie rose to place a gentle hand on Samy’s shoulder, her gaze full of tenderness.

“You gave us quite a scare, young man,” she said, her voice tinged with emotion. “But I’m so glad to see you here, looking better.”

William, ever himself, couldn’t help but add a touch of humor. “So, lovebirds, ready for a well-deserved day of rest after all that stress?” he said with a knowing grin.

Maëlle laughed, appreciating the lightness of the moment. She turned to Samy, who gave her a playful look, and replied, “Yes, that’s exactly what we need. A peaceful day.”

As they sat down at the table, Charles, the youngest of the family, jumped up from his seat, still wearing his pajamas. He ran over to Maëlle and Samy, his small arms outstretched.

“Play?” he asked eagerly, his eyes shining with excitement.

Maëlle ruffled his hair affectionately, leaning down to whisper softly, “Maybe, Charles. We’ll see how the day goes, alright?”

Sacha, who had remained quietly seated, stood to greet Samy. His smile was genuine, but behind his relaxed demeanor was a deep respect for Samy. He shook Samy’s hand firmly.

“How are you feeling today?” Sacha asked, his tone more serious than usual.

Samy smiled gently. “I’m okay, thank you.”

Breakfast unfolded in a joyful atmosphere, with light conversations and frequent laughter. Seated beside Samy, Maëlle felt a sense of true relaxation for the first time in days. The tension that had weighed on her shoulders since the attack seemed to finally fade in the warmth and support of her family.

Victor, always full of energy, suggested an idea for the day: “How about a guided tour of the new palace renovations? I have a few secrets to show you!”

Marie, ever eager for fresh air, added with enthusiasm, “Then we could spend some time in the gardens. The sun is shining; it would be perfect.”

Maëlle, looking to Samy for his opinion, responded with a relaxed smile: “A palace tour and some time in the gardens sound perfect.”

Samy nodded gently, still a bit tired but clearly happy at the thought of spending time with the family. He leaned back in his chair, taking Maëlle’s hand under the table to silently express his gratitude.

After breakfast, everyone got up, ready to start a day of relaxation and exploration. Victor proudly took on the role of guide, leading the small group through the palace corridors, each corner revealing a new story, a hidden detail, or a family anecdote.

The ancient tapestries on the walls told tales of past legends, and the large windows let in the daylight, illuminating the smiling faces of the family. Maëlle walked beside Samy, making sure he was comfortable throughout the tour. They often brushed against each other, their hands occasionally grazing, finding comfort in each other’s presence.

After exploring the newly renovated parts of the palace, the group finally headed to the gardens. The fresh air and the vibrant colors of the flowers offered a pleasant contrast to the cold marble corridors. Charles, Nohé, Sacha, and Daniel quickly started a game of catch on a grassy lawn, their laughter and shouts blending with the birdsong.

Maëlle, sitting in the shade of a tree with Samy beside her, watched her brothers play with affection. She rested her head on Samy’s shoulder, enjoying the tranquility and simple happiness of the moment.

“It feels good to see everyone so happy,” she murmured, her voice soft, while her fingers traced gentle caresses on Samy’s hand.

Samy turned his head toward her, his gaze full of tenderness. “Yes. And I’m glad I can share this moment with you... and your family.”

Later in the afternoon, after a long walk in the gardens, Marie suggested having an outdoor snack. They gathered around a large wooden table, and colorful dishes were served: fresh fruit, fragrant pastries, and refreshing drinks. The sun gently caressed their faces, and the air was filled with the scent of the flowers lining the garden paths.

Throughout the snack, the family shared memories, laughed, and made plans for future activities. Yet, in a more serious moment, Victor brought up the topic of security. “With everything that happened recently, we’re going to reinforce the palace’s protection. I’ve taken measures, but it’s important for us to stay vigilant.”
Maëlle nodded, grateful. “Thank you, Victor.”

The evening ended peacefully, with everyone retiring to their quarters for the night. Maëlle and Samy, exhausted but at ease, returned to their suite. Maëlle helped Samy get ready for bed, making sure he was comfortable and well-settled. Before lying down, they shared a long kiss, full of promises and tenderness.

Cuddled up together under the sheets, Maëlle and Samy closed their eyes, finally at peace after a day filled with laughter, love, and serenity.