The next morning arrived slowly, with the first rays of sunlight entering through the bedroom's half-open curtains. Emily was the first to wake up, feeling the warmth of Matthew's arm around her waist. A soft smile appeared on her lips as she remembered the previous night, marked by affection, laughter and kisses that seemed endless.
She slowly turned to face him. Matthew was still sleeping, with a serene expression that made her sigh with happiness. Unable to resist, Emily leaned in to leave a soft kiss on his forehead, which made Matthew slowly open his eyes.
"Good morning, my wife," he murmured, his voice hoarse with sleep, but with a smile playing on his lips.
"Good morning, my husband," Emily replied, feeling warm from the words. She laughed and tried to get up, but Matthew pulled her back to the bed, wrapping her in a tight hug.
"Where do you think you're going so soon?" he asked, his eyes shining with amusement.
"I was going to make us breakfast, but apparently, I'm stuck here," she replied, smiling as he caressed her face affectionately.
"Exactly. I want to enjoy this morning with you some more," he said, kissing her gently. The kiss started out light, but soon became deeper, filled with all the passion that connected them.
Minutes passed as they exchanged soft caresses and kisses, laughing together and talking about their plans for the day. When they finally decided to get up, Matthew looked at Emily, who was already starting to get dressed, and said:
"Do you have any idea how lucky I am to have you in my life?"
Emily blushed, laughing lightly as she pulled on her blouse. "I hope you know that luck is mutual."
They went downstairs together for breakfast, ready to face another day.
After breakfast, Emily and Matthew decided to spend the day together, enjoying the rare break from their responsibilities. Emily, always curious, suggested exploring the surroundings of the Lancaster estate, which Matthew enthusiastically accepted.
"Have you seen the rose garden here?" Matthew asked as they walked down the long glass hallway that led to the back of the house.
"No, but it seems like a good start," Emily replied excitedly, holding his hand.
They went through the double doors that led to the garden. The place looked like something out of a fairy tale, with rows of roses in every color imaginable, surrounded by arches of ivy and stone paths that snaked through the space. In the center, an ancient fountain poured water in a peaceful rhythm, creating a gentle melody that filled the room.
"This place is amazing," Emily said, looking around in wonder.
"It's one of my grandmother's favorite songs. She used to bring us grandchildren here to tell stories," Matthew explained, his voice thick with nostalgia. "Now, it looks prettier with you here."
Emily smiled, squeezing his hand. They walked to the fountain, where they sat side by side. During the conversation, Matthew began talking about the next steps to integrate Emily into the family.
"I know you have your career and your responsibilities, but I also want you to feel part of it all. If there's anything you want or need, let me know," he said, looking at her seriously.
Emily stared at him for a moment, touched by his concern. "Matthew, you've already done more than enough. I feel welcomed, and your family has been amazing to me. I'm more worried about how to maintain a balance between our lives and my career."
Matthew smiled, pulling her into a hug. "Let's deal with this together, one step at a time."
After some time in the garden, they returned to the house, where they found Lara and Hugo in the games room. Hugo, always energetic, challenged Matthew to a game of pool, while Lara took Emily to talk about the wedding preparations.
"Have you thought about the style of the dress?" Lara asked excitedly.
"A little," Emily replied, smiling. "I want something classic, but with a personal touch. Maybe I'll include some embroidery that my mother used to teach. That would be special to me."
"That sounds beautiful! I'm sure it will be perfect," Lara said excitedly. "What about the place for the ceremony? Have you decided?"
"Not yet. Matthew mentioned something more intimate, maybe right here at the Lancaster estate, but we're still thinking," Emily explained.
The conversation continued, with Lara helping Emily write down ideas while Hugo and Matthew laughed and competed in a game of pool. The atmosphere was light and full of joy, with everyone feeling connected like a true family.
When night came, the family gathered for dinner. Carlos took the opportunity to tell funny stories about his youth, making everyone at the table laugh. Emily felt more and more part of that world, embraced by the Lancasters' generosity and love.
After dinner, Matthew and Emily went up to their room. She sat on the edge of the bed, admiring the ring on her hand. "It still feels surreal," she said, looking at him.
"What?" Matthew asked, sitting down next to her.
"Being your wife. Being here with you. All of it," she replied, smiling.
Matthew held her hand, intertwining his fingers with hers. "I feel the same. But I wouldn't change a thing. You're my reality now, and I'm grateful for that."
They leaned in for a kiss, a moment that seemed to encapsulate all the happiness and hope they shared. When they finally went to bed, Emily closed her eyes with the certainty that the future would be bright with Matthew, while he hugged her, protecting her as he always promised to do.
The next morning, the first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, and the alarm clock rang softly. Emily, still cradled in Matthew's arms, slowly opened her eyes, feeling completely at peace. The warmth of his embrace and the light woody scent of the perfume he always wore made her want to prolong that moment, but their schedule didn't allow it.
Matthew also woke up, kissing her forehead and whispering, "Good morning, Mrs. Lancaster."
Emily laughed softly, hiding her face in his chest. "I still haven't gotten used to hearing that, but I confess it sounds really good."
After a few minutes, the two finally got up, and Matthew went to the window, opening the curtains completely. Light flooded the room, and Emily stretched out her arms, stretching as she watched her husband. "We better hurry. We have bags to pack and a flight to catch."
While Emily picked out her clothes and essentials, Matthew had already finished organizing his things. He entered the room with two cups of coffee. "Here, to help with the rhythm," he said, handing one to her.
"Thanks. You're always one step ahead," she joked, taking a sip. "I hope this continues when we are traveling."
"I'm a prepared man," he replied with a confident smile. "And, speaking of which, did you remember to include lighter clothes? The weather will be very different from here."
Emily shook her head, showing him the options she had set out. "I have everything under control, Mr. Planner."
After they finished packing, they went downstairs for breakfast. The table, as always, was impeccably prepared by the Lancaster team. Warm croissants, fresh fruits, assorted cheeses and natural juices decorated the surface. Hugo and Lara were already at the table, while Carlos was reading the newspaper and Elisa was talking to Mariana about a charity event.
"You two finally decided to show up," Hugo teased as they sat down.
"Preparations for the trip," Matthew replied, pouring Emily a cup of tea. "What about you? Still playing online late?"
"Maybe," Hugo replied, shrugging. Lara just rolled her eyes, laughing.
During the meal, Emily participated in lively conversations with Elisa about the places they would visit, while Carlos told stories of trips he and his wife had taken in the past. It was a warm moment, full of laughter and good advice.
With their bags packed and their stomachs satisfied, Matthew and Emily took the car to the airport. Matthew drove while Emily admired the scenery through the window, feeling grateful for every moment she was living.
When they arrived at the airport, Matthew's efficiency was evident. They were quickly taken to the VIP lounge, a luxurious space with comfortable armchairs, large windows overlooking the planes and an exquisite buffet. Emily, enchanted, looked around, exploring every detail.
"This place is amazing," she commented, pouring herself a glass of juice.
"It's one of the privileges of flying this way," Matthew replied, sitting down next to her with a coffee.
While waiting for the flight, Matthew pulled Emily closer, and they started talking about the destination of the trip and the plans they would make together.
"It's weird to think we're leaving everything behind for a few days," Emily said, resting her head on his shoulder. "But I also think it's exactly what we need."
Matthew nodded, stroking her hand. "Sometimes, getting away from the routine for a bit is the best medicine. I promise it will be an unforgettable trip."
A short time later, a VIP lounge attendant approached, announcing that their flight was ready. Emily and Matthew exchanged a knowing smile.