Maria and Raymond drove up to the Woods' family house, a beautiful two-story building with a lush green lawn. Maria's parents, Mr Clinton Woods and Mrs Debora Woods, were waiting outside, along with her brothers Van and Daniel.
"Hey, sweetie!" Mrs Debora exclaimed, rushing over to hug Maria. "We're so excited to meet Raymond."
Mr Clinton Woods, a tall, imposing figure with a kind smile, extended his hand to Raymond. "Welcome, young man. We've heard a lot about you."
Raymond smiled, shaking Mr Clinton's hand. "Thank you, sir. It's great to finally meet you."
As they walked into the house, Maria's brothers Van and Daniel eyed Raymond with interest. Van, the older brother, was a bit more reserved, while Daniel, the younger brother, was more outgoing.
"So, Raymond, tell us about yourself," Mister Clinton said, as they sat down in the living room.
Raymond launched into a brief history of his life, including his childhood, education, and career. Maria's parents listened attentively, asking questions and making supportive noises.
As they chatted, Maria couldn't help but feel happy and relieved. She had been worried about how her parents would react to Raymond, but they seemed to be getting along great.
After a while,Mrs Debora brought up the topic of the wedding. "So, Maria, have you and Raymond set a date yet?"
Maria smiled, glancing at Raymond. "Not yet, Mom. We were thinking of discussing it with you and Dad."
Mr Clinton nodded. "Well, we're happy to help in any way we can. What are your thoughts on the wedding, Raymond?"
Raymond leaned forward, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. "I was thinking we could have a summer wedding, maybe in July or August. And I'd love to have it outdoors, maybe at a vineyard or a beach."
Maria's parents exchanged a look, and then Mr Clinton spoke up. "That sounds lovely, Raymond. We'll need to discuss the details further, but I think we can make it work."
As they continued to chat, Maria's brothers Van and Daniel started to open up to Raymond, asking him questions about his interests and hobbies.
After a while, Mrs Debora suggested they have dinner together. "Why don't we plan a dinner party for next week? We can discuss the wedding details further, and get to know Raymond better."
Maria's face lit up. "That sounds like a great idea, Mom."
Raymond smiled, nodding in agreement. "I'd love to come to dinner next week. Thank you for having me."
As they wrapped up their visit, Maria's parents walked them out to the car. "We're looking forward to seeing you again next week, Raymond," Mr Clinton said, shaking his hand.
Miss Debora hugged Maria tightly. "We're so happy for you, sweetie. We'll see you next week."
As they drove away, Maria turned to Raymond with a smile. "I think that went well, don't you?"
Raymond grinned, putting his arm around her. "Definitely. I think we're off to a great start."
The next week, Raymond arrived at the Woods' family house, bearing a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of wine. Maria's family was already seated in the dining room, looking elegant and refined.
As they sat down to dinner, Maria's best friend Andrew, was also there, chatting with Sophia, Sofia and Richard, Raymond's siblings .
The dinner conversation was lively and engaging, with everyone chatting and laughing together. Maria's parents were delighted to see how well Raymond fit in with their family.
As the night wore on, they discussed the wedding details further, deciding on a date, venue, and guest list.
As they finished dinner and prepared to leave, Maria's parents hugged Raymond tightly. "Welcome to the family, son," Mr Clinton said, his voice filled with emotion.
Mrs Debora smiled, her eyes shining with tears. "We're so happy to have you as a part of our family, Raymond."
As they drove away, Maria turned to Raymond with a smile. "I think we're really going to make this work, aren't we?"
Raymond grinned, putting his arm around her. "Definitely. I love you, Maria."
Maria's heart melted at his words. "I love you too, Raymond."