Eric and Flora were initially surprised when they found out that Emi and I were getting married, especially Eric, who seemed to take some time to process the news. On the other hand, Flora seemed less surprised, as if she had an intuition about our relationship from the beginning. Eric, on the other hand, seemed to be deep in thought about the matter.
The funny thing was when Eric shared his impression of us. He said he expected Emi to like me, but he didn't expect that I would like her. This observation caught Flora off guard, and she promptly questioned how he could know something like that. Eric simply replied that he couldn't explain how, but somehow he felt that it could happen.
With this totally supernatural explanation about Eric's senses, the atmosphere during dinner remained pleasant and relaxed. We talked about various subjects and answered all the curious questions Flora and Eric asked us. One of Eric's questions was about who fell in love first, and I promptly responded that it was me.
He just nodded, seeming understanding. As the weeks passed, time flew by quickly. Before I knew it, we were already at the end of the month, and today would be the day of the official announcement of my wedding with Emi.
The past few weeks had been extremely busy for both me and the royal family. The wedding announcement would take place at the majestic castle, accompanied by a lavish banquet that would be attended by all the nobles of the kingdom. Moreover, to make the occasion even more special, royalty from other kingdoms was also invited to the event.
I confess that I felt a mix of emotions regarding this encounter with the nobility and royalty of Belfri, Arcolia, and Crystal. The last time I saw them, fortunately, I didn't have to interact directly with them, but this time, as the highlight of the event alongside Emi, that would be inevitable. We would have to approach and converse with other nobles, including members of the royalty.
Furthermore, the cooks were excited about the new recipe I provided them with. In addition to the pizza and crepes that are already part of the menu, now we will have coxinhas and pastéis! They were thrilled with the idea of being able to fill these two dishes in various different ways, showcasing the best flavors at the announcement party.
I confess I was a little worried about their excitement, imagining the crazy things they could come up with to surprise the guests. However, I trusted their culinary talents and hoped they wouldn't put strange or overly exotic ingredients. After all, the important thing is that everyone enjoys a delicious and memorable meal.
"Ren, you look thoughtful"
My mother's voice echoed in front of me in the carriage. As all these thoughts were passing through my head, I turned to her, discreetly observing her outfit. She looked stunning in a beautiful blue dress, matching with a hair clip of the same color.
My sister, by her side, was also wearing a blue dress and a similar hair clip to my mother's. Meanwhile, my father, beside my sister, was dressed in an elegant white tuxedo. I, on the other hand, didn't look much different.
"It's nothing. I was just thinking about how much time has passed since I first met Emi. At that time, I never imagined we would end up getting married. In fact, I didn't even think we would become friends. But look where we are now!"
I said, letting out a soft laugh. Nostalgia takes hold of me as I reflect on all the experiences I've had. While I loved my parents in my old world, it's undeniable that I am closer to my parents in this new world. They are always present, and that's something I didn't have before.
It's not that my old parents didn't love me, but their occupations didn't allow them to be with me all the time, although they visited me whenever possible. These thoughts make me realize how my new life is surrounded by special people, like my best friends, Eric and Flora, and, of course, my beloved Emi.
"So, I just thought I feel truly blessed with the life I have now"
I concluded with a genuine smile on my face. Upon hearing my words, my dad and mom exchanged doubtful glances for a few seconds. It was clear that both of them hadn't understood the true meaning of what I said. In fact, I think no one would understand. However, their next words caught me completely off guard.
"You know, son... the day of your birth remains vivid in my memory with every detail. It was the moment I experienced such intense happiness that it made me feel like I could die from so much joy"
My dad said, giving me a smile filled with energy.
"Yes, since you were born, our hearts have been filled with happiness like never before. And the same applies to you, Anna"
My mom interrupted, embracing Anna afterwards with tenderness and affection.
"You are our greatest treasures, our proudest accomplishments. If both of you live life to the fullest, it will be more than enough for me and your dad"
She added sweetly, conveying all the love and support she felt for us. Hearing the words from both of them, an indescribable joy surged within my chest. In all the years I've lived, considering my past life, this was the first time I felt like I belonged somewhere, that someone truly needed me. In my former life, I only wished to die as soon as possible, not to be a burden to my parents anymore.
Nowadays, though, I bitterly regret thinking that way. I can hardly imagine the pain both of them must have felt when I really died, the pain of losing someone, something I honestly couldn't even imagine back then. That's why I've decided to make the most of this new life in honor of my parents from the past and my current parents. I promised myself to live intensely to honor both lives.