Upon arriving at the imposing Lancaster Ancestral Home, Emily was enchanted by the size and elegance of the place. It was a historic building that exuded tradition, with classic architectural details and modern touches throughout. As soon as they walked through the ornate wooden doors, Matthew's family welcomed Emily warmly, as if she had been part of their home for a long time.
In the living room, everyone settled comfortably on overstuffed armchairs and sofas. Conversation flowed naturally, with laughter and curious questions about Emily's life.
"So, how's the movie going?" asked Carlos, Matthew's grandfather, as he sipped some tea.
Emily smiled, always happy to talk about her work:
"Filming is well underway, especially with my character. We're on a break right now because the production team needs to adjust the set for the next scenes. But I'll be back on set next week to continue."
"And you really don't stop, huh?" Lara said, laughing and crossing her legs. "Movies, music, events... How do you manage to do all of this and still have the energy to deal with my brother?"
Emily laughed, joined by the others, and answered jokingly.
"Oh, that's easy! Matthew is actually quite easygoing... at least most of the time."
"Hey, I'm here, you know?" Matthew replied, pretending to be offended, but laughing right away.
The conversation flowed for hours. Elisa, Matthew's grandmother, wanted to know more about how Emily started her career. Mariana, Matthew's mother, asked about the songs she had recorded recently. Even Hugo, the youngest brother, was curious, asking if Emily had ever done fight scenes in a movie.
"I haven't had that chance yet, but I'd love to try one day!" Emily replied excitedly. "It must be really fun to train for something like that."
The night passed quickly, filled with stories, laughter, and a sincere exchange of experiences. Emily felt completely at ease, as if she were with her own family.
When the clock finally struck bedtime, Mariana and Elisa began to organize the bedrooms.
"Emily, I thought you could share the room with Lara. She has plenty of space, and you two seem to get along so well!" Mariana suggested, smiling.
Emily nodded politely, but before she could say anything, Matthew subtly grabbed her hand.
"Actually, Mom, I've already organized everything. Emily will stay with me."
Emily's eyes widened, slightly surprised by Matthew's audacity, but she couldn't help but smile. Mariana arched an eyebrow, but only gave a slight smile before turning to Elisa.
"Well, then it's settled, I guess."
Lara, who had witnessed the scene, rolled her eyes with an amused smile.
"Just don't make too much noise, you two," he teased, winking at Emily, who blushed.
Matthew led Emily down the hallway toward his room. As soon as they entered, she noticed the cozy atmosphere. Despite its spacious size, Matthew's room had a comfortable atmosphere, decorated in neutral tones and a large window overlooking the property's gardens.
"You knew this would make me feel awkward, didn't you?" Emily said, placing her hands on her hips and looking at him.
Matthew chuckled softly, closing the door behind him.
"Maybe... but I also knew you'd be more comfortable with me than sharing space with Lara in a house you don't know."
Emily sighed, surrendering to his logic.
"Okay, you win. But don't think I'll get used to sleeping in the same room as you under the same roof as your parents and grandparents so easily."
Matthew approached with a mischievous smile, holding her hands.
"I'm your fiancé now, Emily. They know that. And to be honest, I can't imagine sleeping apart from you."
"And don't be embarrassed, we've slept together before, I've even seen you sleep like a kitten with hair all over the bed."
Emily felt her heart race, but before she could say anything, Matthew leaned over and kissed her forehead tenderly.
"Let's rest. Tomorrow we'll have a lot more to face with the family."
She smiled and agreed, feeling welcomed and, at the same time, slightly anxious about this new stage in her life.
The next morning, the first rays of sunlight filtered through the linen curtains of Matthew's room. Emily woke up slowly, feeling the cool breeze coming in through the open window. When she opened her eyes, she saw Matthew next to her, still asleep, with a serene expression that made her smile.
For a few moments, she just watched him, allowing herself to admire that intimate moment. "How did I get here?" she thought, remembering the simplicity of her life before meeting Matthew and how now everything seemed so grand.
Soon, Matthew began to move. His eyes opened slowly, meeting Emily's. He smiled, still half asleep.
"Good morning, my love," he murmured, his voice husky and soft.
Emily chuckled softly.
"Good morning. Did you sleep well?"
"With you by my side? Always."
She rolled her eyes, laughing at his cliché but sincere answer. Matthew sat up in bed, stretching, and looked at her with an amused expression.
"Are you ready for another day with my family?"
Emily sighed dramatically, but her smile gave away that she was enjoying the experience.
"I guess so. I just hope they don't test me all the time."
Matthew chuckled and leaned in to kiss her on the forehead.
"They love you, Emily. You have nothing to worry about."
After they got up, Matthew led Emily to the bedroom bathroom, where she could get ready. He, in turn, went to the kitchen to get coffee for both of them.
When Emily came downstairs, already dressed in a light and comfortable dress, she found Matthew waiting for her in the dining room, with a tray full of breakfast items. He had anticipated and prepared a simple but special meal: toast, fresh fruit, juice and coffee.
"I decided to bring breakfast for us here, away from the hustle and bustle," he explained, smiling.
Emily sat down next to him, feeling spoiled by his attention to detail.
"You're really spoiling me," he commented, laughing as he took a slice of mango.
"That's the plan," he replied, winking.
Before they could finish their meal, the sound of footsteps echoed down the hallway. Soon, Mariana appeared, with Lara right behind her.
"Ah, there you are!" Mariana exclaimed. "I hope you're ready for a busy day. We have a lot to discuss about the wedding!"
Emily looked at Matthew, a little nervous, but he just shrugged and smiled.
"We'll survive," he said, reassuring her.
During the morning, the family gathered in the living room to discuss the first details of the wedding. Mariana, always organized, had already made a list of possible locations for the ceremony, while Lara gave suggestions for the decoration.
"I think the wedding should be outdoors, maybe in a garden!" Lara suggested excitedly.
"A garden would be beautiful," Emily agreed, already imagining herself surrounded by flowers and lights. "But we also need to think about the weather and how to accommodate all the guests."
Elisa, Matthew's grandmother, smiled and looked at Emily approvingly.
"You really think of everything, dear. Matthew is lucky to have found you."
Emily blushed, while Matthew squeezed her hand, clearly proud.
As the discussion progressed, Emily realized how involved and invested the Lancaster family was in making this moment special for her and Matthew. The feeling of belonging grew, and she found herself smiling several times.
Later in the morning, when everyone decided to take a break, Emily went out into the garden to get some fresh air. Matthew met her there, approaching her silently before wrapping his arms around her.
"Is everything okay?" he asked, lightly kissing her temple.
Emily nodded, looking at him with a serene smile.
"More than okay. I feel right at home."
Matthew smiled and pulled her closer.
"That's because you're home, Emily."
The day still promised many surprises, but at that moment, nothing seemed more perfect.