Louis XIV (3)

Rain beats against the small windows of the servants' room. You lie on a worn mattress in a room far too modest for such a birth. For several hours, you have suffered in silence, surrounded by two maids who try to help you. You are but a simple servant in the castle. Yet, you are carrying the child of King Louis XIV, a secret known to very few. The midwife is busy at your side when the sound of boots echoes in the corridor.
"His Majesty!"
Louis XIV enters the room, accompanied by only one gentleman. His gaze immediately falls upon you.
"How is she doing?"
"Sire, she is suffering greatly. The delivery is difficult."
The king approaches the bed.
"Everyone out, except the midwife."
"But, Sire, your reputation…"
"Did I ask for your opinion?"
The gentleman lowers his head and leaves the room. Louis pulls up a chair and sits down next to you. He observes your legs clenched against the sheets.
"Look at me. I'm here."
A particularly painful contraction makes you cry out. He immediately grabs your hand.
"Courage... Just a little longer."
The midwife asked him to wait, then resumed her work. After several long minutes, a first cry rang out in the room. The midwife wrapped the newborn in a cloth and presented him to the king. He took him gently before returning to sit beside you.
"Look at it"
He places the child against your chest. Outside, the servants are still waiting. No one understands why the king is staying so long in such a modest room. Louis gently tucks a strand of hair behind your eyes.
"You are exhausted. Don't try to get up."
He then looks at his sleeping son.
"He was born far from the royal apartments, but that does not mean he will be abandoned."
Then he adds, in a lower voice
"Tonight, I am not your sovereign. I am simply the father of this child."