Both siblings began wandering through the bustling market, exploring the various shops together.
"So, what are we getting her then?" Kai asked, glancing at his sister.
Maribel ignored him, scanning the area intently. It took her a moment, but then she pointed toward a shop. "There."
Kai followed her finger and frowned. "Flowers?"
"Of course. They're classic, thoughtful, and they work for pretty much any occasion," she said, matter-of-factly. "Honestly, you should take notes from Leon—he's got a better sense of these things than you do." She rolled her eyes, scoffing lightly.
"Yeah, yeah," Kai muttered, shaking his head as he followed her to the flower shop.
Once inside, Maribel turned to him. "Do you know what flowers she likes?"
"Nope," Kai said flatly.
Maribel blinked at him. "Isn't that, like, one of the first things you ask?"
"I did ask, but she didn't have an answer. She doesn't have a favorite," he explained.
"What about a favorite color? Maybe we could work with that," she continued, determined.
Kai shrugged. "She doesn't have one. Said it wasn't something she ever thought about."
Maribel stopped mid-step and stared at him, arms crossed. "Are you sure you're not lying? Be honest—did you forget to ask her these things?"
Kai sighed, exasperated. "I'm not that dumb, Maribel. She really doesn't have a favorite. I asked."
"Seriously? Most people have something they like," Maribel muttered, narrowing her eyes. "Did she drop any hints during your conversation? Like, even a tiny clue about a color she might prefer?"
"Nothing," Kai replied, shaking his head.
Maribel stared at him for a moment longer before letting out a frustrated huff. "Okay, fine. Tell me everything you two talked about. No weird stuff—just anything that might help."
Kai thought back to his conversation with Nahlia. "Well… she likes chocolate, she enjoys hanging out with her friends, and she said she likes being with her classmates." He scratched his head. "That's about it."
Maribel raised an eyebrow, her expression equal parts amused and incredulous. "That's it? That's all you got?"
"She didn't really have much to say," Kai defended. "Some people just aren't into specifics."
Maribel frowned, a thoughtful look crossing her face. That's odd. Someone her age should have at least a few interests.
"Alright," she said, snapping out of her thoughts. "Just pick something you think is nice."
Kai shrugged. "You're the expert. You pick."
Shaking her head, Maribel scanned the shop and finally settled on a bouquet. It was a mix of blue, white, and purple flowers, carefully arranged and elegant without being over the top.
"This is good," she said, satisfied. "Now, pair it with just one chocolate bar."
She reached into the bag he was carrying, pulled out a single chocolate bar, and handed it to him. "Don't give her the whole bag. One is enough." She took the bag of chocolates away from as well.
Kai raised an eyebrow. "Why not give her more? I don't mind if she gets used to receiving gifts."
"Sure, that's fine—after you're married," Maribel shot back. "Right now, you're still in the 'getting to know her' phase. If you start giving her too much too soon, it'll either scare her off or set unrealistic expectations."
Kai looked skeptical. "Unrealistic expectations?"
"Listen," Maribel said, turning to face him fully. "If you spoil her now, you'll have to keep topping yourself in the future. A big gesture now will make anything smaller later seem like a disappointment. You'll basically set yourself up for failure."
Kai frowned, clearly confused. "That sounds… weird. But okay, whatever."
Maribel sighed, giving him a light smack on the arm. "Just trust me. I know what I'm talking about."
"So what now?" Kai asked.
"Now, you go to her house, give her the gift, and don't invite her out today," Maribel instructed firmly.
Kai blinked. "But didn't everyone say I should spend more time with her?"
"Yes, but pace yourself. Honestly, giving her a gift the day after a date is already a bit much, but I'll let it slide since you're engaged. Just don't make it a habit."
Maribel turned away, waving dismissively. "I'm going to meet up with my friends. Good luck."
"Thanks," Kai said, but just as he was about to leave, Maribel spun back around and held out her hand.
"Wait. Money. Hand it over."
Kai sighed and dug into his pocket, pulling out a few silver coins. "Didn't I already give you your allowance last week?"
Maribel grinned as she grabbed the coins and darted off before he could protest further. Kai shook his head, muttering under his breath as he turned toward Nahlia's house.
When he arrived, he stood at the door for a moment, then knocked firmly.
A few seconds passed before the door opened.
"Hello, Miss Ulia," Kai greeted his future mother-in-law with a polite smile.
"Oh, Kai! How wonderful to see you." Her gaze fell on the flowers in his hand, and her face lit up. "Such beautiful flowers, wow! Come in, come in." She didn't wait for his response, practically pulling him inside and guiding him to the living room.
"How are you?" he asked, still smiling politely as he settled onto the couch.
"I'm well. And seeing these flowers has made my day even better," she said, her voice warm and cheerful. "Would you like something to eat or drink?"
"Oh no, thank you. I ate before coming," he said, though it wasn't true. It felt awkward to eat here unprompted.
"Nonsense! You can't come here and leave without eating at least a little something. Wait right here." Without waiting for a reply, Ulia hurried off to the kitchen.
Kai sighed softly, leaning back on the couch. His eyes wandered around the room, taking in the family photos on the walls. One caught his attention—a younger Nahlia, maybe around ten years old, smiling shyly at the camera. Another showed her in her teenage years, standing confidently next to a boy who seemed slightly younger.
"That must be her brother," Kai thought. He'd met him once—about a year younger than Kai and working in a nearby town.
Before his thoughts could wander further, Ulia returned, carrying a tray laden with snacks and drinks. She placed it on the table and took a seat across from him.
"Help yourself," she said, her face beaming.
"Thank you." It would've been rude not to, so he picked up a biscuit and took a small bite. "Is Nahlia around?"
"Unfortunately, no. She's at her friend's house." Ulia shook her head, her tone regretful. "Why don't I go and get her? It's just a five-minute walk." She began to rise, but Kai quickly held up a hand to stop her.
"No, no, don't trouble yourself. Let her enjoy her time," he said, offering a reassuring smile. He then extended the flowers toward her. "I brought these for her. If you don't mind passing them along, I'd really appreciate it."
Her face softened as she took the bouquet. "Of course. Let me put these in a vase." She bustled off again, returning moments later with the flowers arranged neatly in a vase, which she placed on the table.
"Mr. Daem isn't home?" Kai asked, looking around.
"No, he's at work. He'll be back later tonight," Ulia explained. "How are your parents doing?"
"They're doing well," Kai replied with a polite smile, though he felt a bit awkward. Despite having spoken to people of varying ranks and positions in his life, talking to his soon-to-be mother-in-law felt uniquely daunting.
Noticing his discomfort, Ulia smiled warmly and leaned forward slightly. "Why don't we chat a bit? It's good to get to know each other better, don't you think?"
Kai nodded, taking another bite of his biscuit.
"I've heard you write poems and stories," she began, her tone curious.
"I dabble in it, yes," Kai said. "Though I think my parents might've exaggerated a bit."
"Don't be so humble," Ulia laughed lightly. "I've seen your stories at the local bookstore!"
Kai chuckled, scratching the back of his head.
"What got you into writing?" she asked, leaning back as if settling in for a proper conversation.
"I've always loved reading," he explained. "One day, I decided to try my hand at writing something myself. It's become a passion of mine over the years."
"That's wonderful," Ulia said, her voice warm.
"What about you? What do you like to do?" Kai inquired, he couldn't sit there and not ask questions himself.
Ulia placed a finger on her chin and thought for a second before replying. "I normally cook or clean. Though cooking would be considered a passion of mine?"
"I love to cook as well." He said, with a smile.
"You cook?"
Kai nodded. "I do. I've gotten pretty good at it over time. Maybe I could cook something for you one day."
Her eyes widened in surprise. "That's incredible! Most young men these days barely know how to boil water."
Kai chuckled again. "It's pretty common in the city. A lot of people live alone, so they have to pick up basic skills like cooking."
"That's truly amazing," Ulia said, shaking her head in admiration. "My son and daughter can't cook at all. I've tried to teach Nahlia, but she just doesn't seem interested. Don't worry, though—I'll make sure she learns before the wedding."
Kai smiled awkwardly, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Honestly, there's no need to worry about that. I enjoy cooking, and I'd love to cook for her."
"That's sweet," Ulia said with a soft laugh. "But a girl should know how to cook—it's part of being a good wife, after all."
Kai hesitated, carefully considering his response. "Well, it's definitely a useful skill. But personally, I'd be happy to handle the cooking myself. Speaking of which, do you know what dishes Nahlia enjoys?"
"Oh, let's see…" Ulia leaned back, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "She loves the rice I make with fish. Lentils, too. And there's this stew I make that she always asks for…"
She went on, listing several dishes with enthusiasm. Kai nodded along, making mental notes.
Maybe Maribel was right—I still need to get Nahlia to open up more.
The conversation flowed easily, drifting from food to daily life. Ulia spoke about her routine—cleaning, cooking, and taking walks when her husband and daughter weren't home. She seemed genuinely pleased when Kai suggested she visit his family or let him stop by more often.
Eventually, the topic shifted. "When are you heading back to the city?" Ulia asked.
"In about a week," Kai replied.
"That's so soon." Her tone was tinged with disappointment.
"I have a lot of work piling up. Otherwise, I'd stay longer," Kai admitted with a sigh. Being home was always a welcome relief, far more relaxing than his life in the city.
"Well, I hope you'll write to Nahlia. She'll miss you terribly." Ulia smiled warmly. "After your date yesterday, she's been so jittery—probably went to her friend's house just to gush about it!"
Kai smiled, warmth spreading in his chest. "I'm glad to hear that."
Realizing how much time had passed, Kai stood. "It's getting late. I should head back."
"It is," Ulia agreed, standing as well. "Please, come by again before you leave. I'd love to see you again."
"I definitely will," Kai promised.
As he stepped toward the door, he remembered the chocolate in his pocket. Giving it to her now might seem odd—and it could melt anyway. I'll save it for later.
If Maribel had heard his thoughts, she'd have given him a proud nod of approval.
"Thank you for the snacks, Miss Ulia," Kai said as he stepped outside.
"No, thank you for coming. It was lovely to chat and pass the time." She waved warmly as he left.
Though they'd said it was late, the sky still held the faint glow of daylight. Kai walked back toward his home, a small smile lingering on his face.
"She's a wonderful person," he thought, feeling a newfound appreciation for the woman who would soon be family.
As Kai walked, he noticed a familiar face.
"Young man!" called out the same man he had encountered the night before—the one smoking.
"Yes, sir?" Kai responded, maintaining a polite tone but keeping a slight distance for safety.
"Would you happen to have any money?" the man asked, his voice gravelly.
Sighing internally, Kai reached into his pocket, pulling out two silver coins. He passed them over with a polite smile. "Here you are."
"Thank you so much. May you be blessed with a long life," the man said, nodding before limping away.
Kai raised an eyebrow, watching the man as he disappeared into the distance. Strange guy, he thought before continuing home.
Upon entering, he found only his parents at home. His father sat at the table, sipping tea, while his mother was bustling about in the kitchen.
"Where were you today?" his mother asked, stepping out with a rag in hand as she wiped it across her fingers.
"I went to Nahlia's and spoke with Miss Ulia," he said, taking a seat across from his father.
"Oh? How was it?" she asked, a smile playing on her lips.
"It was good. We ended up talking for over an hour," he replied, unbuttoning the top of his shirt to breathe more comfortably.
"Was Nahlia not home?" she inquired, placing a small tray of snacks in front of him before sitting beside him.
"She was at a friend's house, so I thought it would be a good opportunity to get to know Miss Ulia in the meantime," Kai explained, picking up a biscuit.
"That's wise. It's good to build a relationship with her. After all, you'll be family soon." She nodded approvingly. "Maybe I should spend some time with Ulia as well."
Kai smiled, grateful for her understanding. "That sounds like a good idea."
"Is Leon still not back?" he asked, glancing at his father.
"Not yet," his father replied, his gaze not lifting from his teacup.
"Hopefully, he'll return soon," Kai said with a sigh.
"Why? What's so urgent?" his father asked, his tone carrying faint curiosity.
"I promised to help him with something," Kai said vaguely. He didn't want to mention his Lawamma status in front of his mother; her excitement would undoubtedly lead to her boasting about it to others. While his father also had a tendency to boast, there were certain matters he kept private.
"I see. And when are you heading back to the city?" his mother asked.
"Next week," Kai replied. "There's also a chance I might take Leon with me."
"What do you mean?" his father interjected, frowning. "He can't leave right now. He hasn't finished his studies."
"I can handle that part," Kai said calmly. "The schools in the city are far better, and he's already training with a Weaver I know. Bringing him with me would be the best option for his growth."
His parents exchanged uneasy glances, their frowns deepening.
"Why don't you both come with me?" Kai suggested, a familiar note of persuasion in his voice. "I've asked you so many times before. You've seen my place—it's big enough for all of us."
"I like it here," his father replied firmly. "The city would make me feel like a stranger."
Kai sighed. This wasn't the first time he'd had this conversation. His parents were adamant about staying in the village, while his siblings were eager to leave. But without their parents' permission, his siblings couldn't make such a move.
"Dad, I understand that it might feel awkward at first, but it's not as bad as you think," Kai pressed. "I could even find a quieter area, with more open spaces. Something that feels less crowded."
"Kai, I'm too old to start over in a new place. I'm happy here," his father said, his voice firm yet calm.
"I feel the same," his mother added. "The thought of moving, meeting new people, and adjusting to a different life—it's exhausting just thinking about it."
Kai rubbed the bridge of his nose, feeling the onset of a headache. "Leon's going to be very upset, you know. The Weaver I know isn't staying in the village for long. His home and base are in the city."
"He can go next time," his father said dismissively. "He's too young, and he should finish his education first."
"You realize this could push him into doing something rash, right?" Kai said, his tone sharp. "If I'm in the city and can keep an eye on him, it's one thing. But if you keep holding him back, he might decide to leave on his own."
"Leon wouldn't do that," his father said, sipping his tea without a hint of concern.
"Trust me, it's not uncommon," Kai said, leaning forward. "I know plenty of Novices and Disciples who left home for this exact reason. It happens more than you think."
His father's calm demeanor cracked slightly as he set his teacup down. "So, you expect me to let my barely grown son leave for the city? He doesn't even clean his own room, let alone take responsibility for his life!"
Kai shook his head, his patience wearing thin. "Fine. You can break the news to him, then. I won't be the one dealing with the fallout."
Standing abruptly, he walked upstairs to his room, leaving his parents in silence.