Mira's Pov

"Look? That's your name, isn't it?" the queen asked as soon as we left Prince Perry's office, and I nodded.

—Yes, my lady —I replied, as she shook her head.

"Don't ever speak to me like that again, Mira. Call me Jemima."

My eyes widened when I heard his words.

"Should I call her by her name?" I asked, looking into her eyes as she continued to smile.

I looked away.

—I'm sorry. I won't do it.

I heard her giggle and wondered if I was truly someone capable of making a queen smile so much. She was a fascinating woman, but I couldn't shake the feeling of being inferior to her. How could a mere low-ranking slave be in the company of a queen?

"Well, welcome home, Mira," she said in a melodious and comforting voice. "I'm glad we finally have a chance to talk. I'm sure you know that being in the palace can be... overwhelming."

"Yes, Your Majesty," I replied, trying to sound confident. "I'm still getting used to everything."

The queen nodded sympathetically.

—I know it might be difficult for you at first, but I want you to know that you're not alone, Mira. I'm here to support you.

All I could do was nod in response.

As we toured the palace, the queen began pointing out the various portraits and tapestries, sharing stories about the kingdom's history, just as I had read, and recounting some of her own experiences as queen. I listened attentively, captivated by her wisdom and kindness.

Then, suddenly, he murmured:

—Look, I have to ask you something.

His expression suddenly turned serious.

—Do you feel comfortable being with Prince Perry at the palace? Or would you prefer to accompany me on my daily activities and meet the other ladies of the court?

I hesitated, unsure how to respond. Part of me enjoyed the prince's company, despite his occasional indifference. Yet another part longed for freedom and independence. I wanted to explore the palace and meet its inhabitants without having to remain constantly by the prince's side.

"I... I don't know, Your Majesty," I admitted, feeling my cheeks flush.

The queen smiled warmly.

"That's perfectly fine, Mira. You don't have to decide now. I just want you to know that you have options and that I'm here to support you, no matter what you choose."

Her warm smile and gentle tone reassured me, especially when she reached out and took my hand. Her touch was comforting.

Then he added:

“Look, don’t worry about the way the king reacted last time,” she said gently. “He can be… a little difficult to deal with sometimes. But I want you to know that you’re welcome here. You’ll be here forever, and I’ll make sure of it.”

I felt a lump in my throat as I looked at her, her eyes shining with kindness.

—Thank you, Your Majesty—I whispered, my voice trembling.

His hand squeezed mine tighter.

—Don't be afraid of anything, Mira. You're safe here. I'll always be by your side.

I took a deep breath. I still felt strange in the face of so much kindness, but I couldn't help feeling grateful.

"I promise to behave myself, Your Majesty," I said, trying to sound brave.

Queen Jemima let out a giggle.

—I know you're a good girl, Mira. That's why I grew fond of you from the first moment I saw you.

My heart skipped a beat when I heard his words. No one had ever said anything so kind to me before.

I looked at the queen, amazed.

"Really, Your Majesty?" I asked, in a barely audible voice.

She nodded, with a warm and sincere smile.

—Yes, really. There's a special light inside you, Mira. Never let anyone extinguish that light.

I felt tears begin to well up in the corners of my eyes as I looked at her.

The queen was offering me something I had never known: a sense of belonging, of acceptance. And in that moment, I knew I would do anything to make her proud of me.

Finally, the queen led me through the winding palace corridors until we stopped in front of a bustling kitchen, filled with the delicious aromas of roast meats and freshly baked bread.

The ladies of the court, dressed in their immaculate aprons, curtsied as the queen entered.

"Everyone, I'd like to introduce you to Mira," the queen announced in a warm and welcoming voice. "She's a new member of our palace family, and I want you all to make her feel welcome."

The ladies smiled and nodded amicably. They already knew me from when I arrived at the palace with the prince, so all they did was exchange a few glances in my direction.

The queen turned towards me.

—Look, these women are the heart of our palace. They work tirelessly to keep us well-fed and happy.

I bowed my head in respect.

—Thank you for all your hard work.

One of the ladies of the court, whom I recognized as the leader of the group, spoke up.

—We'll make sure to treat you well every time you come to the kitchen, Mira.

The queen smiled, pleased.

—Thank you, ladies. Now, prepare dinner to take to the dining room. It's time.

While the ladies hurried to prepare the food, the queen turned to me again.

"Look, I have a special task for you," he said, smiling from ear to ear.

I couldn't wait to find out what it was all about.

"I would like you to serve the king during dinner tonight," he announced.

My heart skipped a beat and I hesitated.

—Me, Your Majesty?

She nodded.

—Yes, you. It's a perfect opportunity to thank the king for allowing you to stay at the palace.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. Serving the king was an intimidating task, but it was the queen's request. Besides, it would be a good way to make a favorable impression on him.

I nodded, trying to appear confident.

—I will do everything possible, Your Majesty.

She smiled, her eyes sparkling with approval.

—I know you will, Mira. Now, let's get ready for dinner.