Queen Acceptance

Mira's Pov

"Mira? That's your name, right?" The Queen requested as soon as we stepped out from Prince Perry's study room and I nodded my head. 

"Yes, my lady," I answered while she shook her head. 

"Do not address me as that again, Mira. Call me Jemina." 

I widened my eyes at her words. "I should call you by your name?" I requested, locking eyes with hers as she won't stop smiling. I shifted my gaze. "I'm sorry, I won't do that.

I heard her chuckle and I wondered if I was somebody who could make a Queen smile so hard. She was interesting but I just couldn't shake off the fact that I was smaller than her. 'Cause how could a low slave be seen with a Queen?

"Anyways, welcome home, Mira," her voice was melodious and soothing. "I'm glad we finally have a chance to speak. I'm sure you're aware 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 can be tough for you for now but I want you to know that you're not alone, Mira. I'm here to support you," she countered and all I could do was nod my head in response. 

As we strolled through the palace, the Queen started to point out various portraits and tapestries, sharing stories about the kingdom's history just as I have read and her own experiences as Queen. I listened intently, fascinated by her wisdom and kindness.

Then, suddenly, she muttered, "Mira, I have to ask." Her expression suddenly turned serious. "Are you comfortable being with Prince Perry in the palace? Or would you rather join me in my daily duties and get to know the other ladies of the court?"

I hesitated, unsure of how to respond. Part of me enjoyed the Prince's company, despite his occasional aloofness. But another part of me longed for freedom and autonomy, to explore the palace and its inhabitants without being tied to the Prince's side.

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

The Queen smiled warmly. "That's perfectly fine, Mira. You don't have to decide right now. Just know that you have options, and I'm here to support you, no matter what you choose."

Her warm smile and gentle tone put me at ease especially when she reached out and took my hand, her touch comforting.

Then, she added, "Mira, don't mind how the King reacted the other time," she said, soothingly. "He can be... prickly, at times. But I want you to know that you're welcome here. You'll stay forever, and I'll make sure of it."

I felt a lump form in my throat as I looked at her, her eyes shining with kindness. "Thank you, Your Majesty," I whispered, my voice trembling.

Her grip tightened against my hand. "Don't be afraid of anything, Mira. You're safe here. I'll always have your back."

I took a deep breath, still feeling absurd but I couldn't help but be grateful. "I promise to be a good girl, Your Majesty," I said, trying to sound brave.

Queen Jemina chuckled. "I know you're a good girl, Mira. That's why I loved you at first sight."

I felt my heart skip a beat at her words. No one had ever said anything so kind to me before. I looked at the Queen, feeling a sense of wonder. "Really, Your Majesty?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

She nodded, her smile warm and genuine. "Yes, really. You have a special light within you, Mira. Don't ever let anyone dim that light."

I felt tears prick at the corners of my eyes as I looked at the Queen. She was offering me a sense of belonging, of acceptance, that I had never known before. And in that moment, I knew that I would do anything to make her proud.

•

The Queen finally led me through the winding corridors of the palace, finally stopping at a bustling kitchen filled with the delicious aromas of roasting meats and freshly baked bread. The court ladies, dressed in their crisp aprons, curtsied as the Queen entered.

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

The court ladies smiled and nodded their friendly faces. They have known me since I've been there with the Prince so all they did was send glances my way. The Queen then turned to me, "Mira, these ladies are the heart of our palace. They work tirelessly to keep us all fed and happy."

I lowered my head in respect. "Thank you for your hard work." 

One of the court ladies whom I recognized to be the head of them spoke up. "We'll make sure to treat you nicely whenever you come to the kitchen, Mira."

The Queen smiled, looking pleased. "Thank you, ladies. Now, let's get dinner served to the dining room. It's time."

As the court ladies scurried to prepare, the Queen swirled around to face me again. "Mira, I have a special task for you," she countered, grinning from ear to ear and I couldn't wait to hear from her. "I'd like you to serve the King at dinner tonight," she announced and my heart skipped a beat as I hesitated. 

"Me, Your Majesty?"

She nodded. "Yes, you. It's a perfect opportunity for you to thank the King for allowing you to stay in the palace."

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. Serving the King was a daunting task, but it was a request from the Queen plus it would be a good way to leave a good impression on the King. I nodded, trying to look confident. "I'll do my best, Your Majesty."

She smiled, her eyes shining with approval. "I know you will, Mira. Now, let's get ready for dinner.”