4 weeks later, his wounds were better but not completely healed. His request to contact his family members was granted, and the first person he called was Claudia.
The pain he felt listening to her cry was way worse that what he had been through the past week. He was thankful that he made it back safe. He would use the rest of his life to make it up to her.
The doctor said what was left of his scabs should fall off in a week, so he had to hold on for a little bit more. He called her everyday, but they didn't talk about the letters.
"She shouldn't have read the 5th one yet," he said as he smiled to himself.
One week passed, and once again Claudia had to leave town to manage her other salon. It was a bummer for the couple, but they didn't mind the wait.
Upon his arrival, Justin and his family went over to Claudia's home. As usual, the 3 stooges and the rest of the family were present.
It took a while for Justin's parents to take in the scene.
"Mom, dad, this is Claudia's family..." Justin introduced the James', Jenkins', and Jacob's.
The atmosphere was very warm and welcoming.
"To what do we owe this occasion, boy?" Granpa James asked. He liked this young boy very much.
"I would like to ask for your permissions to propose to Claudia," he replied in a calm voice.
His parents nodded, agreeing with their son's action.
That was the first thing they had spoken about when he returned. He wanted to marry Claudia and give her a warmer home than she already had. They liked her just as much, so they agreed instantly to his idea.
The parents took a step back and let the grandparents take the lead.
"What do you have to offer our Winnie?" Barbara had already approved of him, but the fear still remained that his safety wasn't guaranteed.
"I've liked Winnie for as long as 5 to 6 years now. Back then, I wasn't able to do anything for her. Now that I have the ability, I want to take care of her. I want to make her happy. I want to be the wall she relies on."
His words touched them, and they had no way or reason to refute him. He was sincere towards their granddaughter, and she loved him also.
"I already acknowledged you since the videocall, bigfoot, " Janet said in a naughty tone while winking at Justin.
"Control yourself," Grandpa Jacob warned. His wife sat back obediently without trouble.
Justin got everyone's permission, but his nervousness didn't go away. It was one thing for her family to say yes, it was a totally different thing for the bride to agree.
He had a plan in mind. With his fingers crossed, he prayed for a positive answer.