As I finished getting ready, I took a deep breath and called out, "Everyone, the dinner is ready!"
The Blackwoods entered the dining room, and I could see the amazement on their faces. The aroma of the roasted wild boar, vegetable stew, and freshly baked bread filled the air, enveloping them in warmth and delicious anticipation. Their expressions said it all—the rich scents had struck them full force, making their mouths water.
Isabella was the first to speak. "Oh my, Evan, it smells wonderful in here!"
Mira nodded, her eyes wide. "I've never smelled anything so good."
As they took in the sight of the feast, I could see the genuine joy and appreciation in their eyes. The dining room was simple but beautifully decorated. I had arranged some wildflowers in small vases, and the lamp Isabella made cast a warm, inviting glow over everything. The wooden table was set with plates and utensils placed carefully, like I had learned from books and the internet. The dishes were laid out in an appetizing display, with the roasted boar as the centerpiece, surrounded by colorful vegetables and side dishes.
The room itself had a rustic charm. Wooden beams crisscrossed the ceiling, and the walls were adorned with handmade tapestries. The atmosphere was cozy and festive, perfect for our Christmas meal.
Before we started eating, I stood up and said, "I have something to say."
Everyone turned to look at me, their expressions curious and expectant.
"First of all, I want to thank you for taking me in and accepting me as a full member of your family. Even though you didn't know much about me, you gave me love, warmth, and a sense of belonging that I never expected to find. I've never felt this way before, not even with my own family. Thanks to you, I feel alive again. Before, I was just existing, but now, living with you, I realize that I wasn't really living. Now, I know what it feels like to truly live as a person. Thank you for your hospitality."
Isabella's eyes were misty as she replied, "Evan, you've brought so much joy and life into our home. We're grateful to have you here."
"Yeah," Mira added, "You've taught us so many new things, and your cooking is amazing! We're so happy you're part of our family."
Lila smiled warmly. "We can't imagine our lives without you now, Evan. You've become such an important part of our family."
Zane, who had been listening quietly, reached out and gave my shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "You belong here, Evan. We're glad you're with us."
Feeling overwhelmed with emotion, I took a moment to compose myself before responding. "Thank you, all of you. I'm so grateful to be here."
With that, we began to eat. The room was filled with the sounds of enjoyment as everyone dug into the meal.
"This wild boar is incredible, Evan," Zane said, taking a big bite. "You've outdone yourself."
"The vegetable stew is so hearty and flavorful," Isabella added. "It's perfect for a cold night like this."
"These pastries are divine!" Mira exclaimed, savoring the mooncream-filled pastry. "How did you manage to make them so delicious?"
I smiled, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. "I just wanted to make something special for all of you. I'm glad you like it."
As we continued eating, the conversation flowed naturally. We talked about our plans for the trip to Lumina Lake, shared stories from the past, and laughed at silly jokes. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, love, and joy.
At one point, I caught Zane's eye across the table. He smiled at me, and I felt my heart flutter. It was a simple gesture, but it meant so much. Throughout the meal, we exchanged small looks and smiles, silent acknowledgments of the bond growing between us.
Lila leaned over to Mira and whispered something that made both of them giggle. Isabella shook her head with a smile, clearly used to their antics.
"Remember that time Zane tried to catch a two-horned rabbit and ended up falling into the stream?" Mira said with a laugh, looking at Zane.
"Oh, don't remind me," Zane replied, chuckling. "That was embarrassing."
"Well, you've definitely improved since then," I said, smiling at him.
"Thanks, Evan. But I think it's you who's made me better," Zane said, his eyes locking with mine for a moment.
As the meal went on, I couldn't help but think, *So this is what Christmas really feels like. It's so satisfying.* The love and happiness around the table were palpable, and I felt truly blessed to be part of it.
After we finished eating, we cleaned up together, still chatting and laughing. The night was winding down, but the warmth and joy lingered.
Later, Zane and I found ourselves alone in the kitchen. "Thank you for tonight, Evan," he said softly. "It was perfect."
"It was my pleasure, Zane. I wanted to do something special for all of you," I replied.
Zane stepped closer, his eyes meeting mine. "You really are special, you know that?"
I blushed, feeling a warmth spread through me. "You're special too, Zane."
We stood there for a moment, the world around us fading away. It was just the two of us, connected in a way that felt deeper than words could express.