A Royal Mess

16. Communication

A hospital?
Why is the king going to a hospital?

Though before I can question his motives the king steps out of the car. A bodyguard opens the door on my side and I too get out. The king and I enter the big blue and white building surrounded by security guards.

Hospitals are subjective.
It's a happy place for some while it's bleak or heartbreaking for others.
How ironical is it that sometimes life ends and new life begins in the very same building.

A stocky young man greets us at the entrance. He almost trips on air in his hurry to reach us, then eagerly shakes hands with the king and introduces himself as Robert Melendez. He then turns to me and almost faints when he recognises who I might be.

"The princess! How nice to meet you! I had no idea you were going to accompany his majesty." Exclaims Robert, shaking my hands enthusiastically. His wavy blonde hair bounce around his head and his big dark eyes give him the look of an adorable puppy wagging it's tail, desperate to please.
I smile at this joyful individual and at how his jolly personality stand out from surly ones of other workers milling around.
One of our guards clears his throat and poor Robert almost jumps out of his skin. His cheeks turn red and he scratches the top of his head once before saying, "Right. I'll be happy to guide you, your majesty. This way please." He points to his left, then turns around and starts walking so that we can follow him.
I look at my father and see a gentle smile on his face while he stares at Robert's back.
He's a good man.
Alex's words from yesterday ring in my head once again.

"Dad?" I don't know why I call him that. I think it's because I don't want to embarrass him in front of his employees and Robert. The king for the first time since I've met him looks truly astonished but he does a good job at hiding it.

"Yes, darling?" He smiles lightly at me.

We've already turned one corridor when we arrive at the elevators. Robert, father, I and two guards enter the same elevator before I reply, "Why are we at the hospital?" I question sheepishly.

The king looks like he wants to laugh at my recklessness but he manages not to, "We're here to see a friend of mine that had a heart attack last night." He says, turning sombre.

My mouth forms into the 'Oh' shape and I gently touch my father's arm and say, "I'm sorry to hear that."

He gives me a small smile and gently pats my hair once. I'm as surprised as he is when I don't scowl or start throwing a tantrum.

We reach upon a pale white door and Robert informs us that this is Sam Kirk's room. My father orders the guards to wait outside while he and I knock and enter.
I realise why the name sounded familiar as soon as I see the plump old man lying on the hospital bed. It's the head legal advisor. I remember how much fun Alex, Jenna and I had during his lesson. I feel very bad seeing him like this.

Father moves around me and hugs the pretty blonde woman at Mr. Kirk's side. When Mr. Kirk notices us he tries to get up but the king pushes him back down and enfolds him in a short hug too.
I move to my father's other side and shake Mr. Kirk's hands and smile at his wife, I assume, who brightly smiles back.

"Hello there, princess. We meet again." Says Sam happily.

I look at him with a sad smile and reply, "I wish the circumstances were different."

"What are you talking about? I'm fan-damn-tastic." He flicks his wrist and winks humorously.

I shake my head slightly and chuckle a little.