"Elizabeth, you can call me by my first name."
I blinked in surprise, touched by her openness.
"Thank you, that's very kind," I replied, a small smile tugging at my lips.
She leaned in and hugged me, and I could feel the sincerity in her embrace.
It was a moment that made me feel welcomed and accepted into their family, and it meant more to me than I could express.
As the clock neared midnight and the guests began to bid their farewells, I found myself standing with Alexander near the now-silent helicopter.
It’s a night to remember, filled with joy, love, and unexpected connections.
Alexander wrapped his arm around my shoulders, and I leaned into him, feeling a sense of contentment over me.
"I'm so glad you were able to meet my family. They all adore you."
I smiled up at him, feeling a warmth in my heart.
"I'm glad I got to meet them too. They're wonderful people."
Allan, who had joined us, chimed in with a grin and a wink.
"You fit right in, Elizabeth. I think they'll love you. Not as much as we do, but enough."
I felt my cheeks flush with happiness at his words. Being accepted by Alexander's family meant the world to me, and it was a testament to the love and connection we all shared.
As the three of us stood there, my anxiety from earlier in the evening felt like a distant memory.
I couldn't believe I’d been so worried about Alexander’s aunt’s approval. She already knew about me - Alexander had told her of our relationship long before their arrival.
Alexander’s laugh was a warm, genuine sound that swelled my heart.
"Elizabeth, I love you, so my family already loved you before they even met you."
I couldn't help but laugh at my insecurities.
It seemed I’d worried for nothing, and the night had been a beautiful reminder that love and acceptance often transcended backgrounds and appearances. And in the company of these wonderful people, I felt like I’d found my place.
As we returned to the mansion to join the rest of the partygoers, I knew that this was just the beginning of a new chapter in our lives.
The love and connections we forged would only grow stronger with time, and I was eager to embrace all the joys and challenges ahead with Alexander by my side.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Alexander
As the last guest bid their farewells and the door closed behind them, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me. Our engagement party had been a beautiful whirlwind, filled with joy and love but also exhausting.
Our families were the only ones left, and we were all gathered in the cozy dining room for a relaxed late-night meal.
My family sat on one side of the table, and Elizabeth's family on the other. It was their first time together like this, and I hoped everything would go smoothly.
Elizabeth and I had decided on a simple yet delicious meal – roasted chicken with garlic mashed potatoes and a crisp green salad.
My aunt couldn't contain her excitement as we all sat.
"This chicken smells amazing! You must share the recipe with me."