| CROWN II | 👑👑

CHAPTER 63 : A BEAUTIFUL SUMMER

DATE : July 10, 2022

PLACE : Wimbledon, London

The sun was shining brightly in London on July 10, casting long shadows over the hallowed grounds of Wimbledon. The famous white-clad tennis players had spent two weeks battling it out on the grass courts, and today, it was time for the final showdown. The stands were packed, with tennis fans from all over the world eagerly awaiting the last match of the prestigious event. But for Matilda and her mother, Catherine, the day was even more exciting. It was their first time presenting the trophies together, a responsibility that came with both pride and a bit of nervousness.

Matilda had been looking forward to this day for months. As a young girl with an emerging love for sports, she was thrilled at the opportunity to be part of such an iconic event. The Duchess of Cambridge, who had attended Wimbledon for years, had always been a keen supporter of the tournament, and now her daughter would be by her side, participating in the ceremony that followed the final.

"Are you excited, darling?" Catherine asked as she adjusted Matilda's hair before they left their car.

"Yes, Mama! I can't wait," Matilda said, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. She adjusted the simple white dress she was wearing, matching the formal nature of the event. It was a summer dress from Catherine's collection, and Matilda had carefully chosen it for the occasion. Her blonde hair was neatly done, and her blue eyes sparkled with excitement.

The two made their way towards the royal box, where they would be seated during the match. It was a comfortable, luxurious area, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the crowds. As Matilda sat down beside her mother, she couldn't help but glance at the other members of the royal family who had gathered to enjoy the match, including Prince William and her younger siblings, George, Charlotte, and Louis.

"Look, Mama!" Matilda whispered, pointing to the center court, where the players were warming up for the final match. "I've never seen the courts so full of people before!"

Catherine smiled at her daughter's enthusiasm. "It's always like this at Wimbledon, darling. The whole world watches these matches."

The excitement in the air was palpable, and Matilda found herself caught up in it. She was keenly aware of her responsibility today. Not only was she representing her family, but she was also about to be part of a tradition that had been passed down through generations.

When the match began, both players displayed incredible skill and determination. The crowd roared with every point, and Matilda could feel the intensity of the competition from where she sat. Her eyes were glued to the court as the players gave it their all.

After the match, which ended in a thrilling final set, the atmosphere shifted from competitive fervor to celebratory joy. The winning player made their way to the stage where the trophies were to be presented. Catherine gave her daughter's hand a gentle squeeze, signaling that it was their time to join the ceremony.

Matilda stood up, feeling a surge of nervousness in her chest. She followed her mother, trying to remain as composed as possible. The eyes of the world were on them, and it was hard not to feel a little overwhelmed. However, as she stood next to Catherine, ready to present the trophy, Matilda reminded herself that this was a moment to be proud of.

The audience cheered as the Duchess of Cambridge, holding the coveted trophy, presented it to the victorious player. Matilda stood at her side, holding a smaller, equally beautiful trophy, prepared to hand it to the runner-up. As the moment drew closer, Matilda felt a rush of pride. She knew that she was part of something truly special. The atmosphere was electric, and as she passed the trophy to the second-place finisher, she couldn't help but smile at the joy and gratitude on their face.