When Heather’s parents arrived in Woodhaerst, they immediately ran to hug him. Her mother, a thin, religious woman with a penchant for intruding on others' lives, heaped praise on him. Her father, a stout and stoic man, marveled at the lifelike quality of the world and the human characters. After the heartfelt hugs, Henry and Heather gave them a tour of the Woodhaerst.
Heather’s mother couldn’t stay quiet for long. She expressed her discontent about the separation from her daughter over the past two years and her frustration at having to use this virtual world to see her children. Her remarks were tinged with a passive-aggressive edge. After the tour, Heather and Henry led them to the manor, where they were introduced to Lindsey and David.
The manor was alive with both families. Hosting both families tested Henry and Heather’s patience as no question proved out of bounds. Despite their best effort to break away, it was not until the preparation for dinner they earned a hard-fought reprieve.
The household staff moved efficiently, setting the table and ensuring everything was perfect for the special meal. The aroma of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and a variety of vegetables filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Henry stood in the doorway of the dining hall, watching as the final touches were made. He turned to see Heather approaching, a smile on her face. "Everything’s prepared, now let’s hope our families get along," she said, slipping her hand into his.
Henry nodded, squeezing her hand gently. “I’m sure they’ll be fine. At least your mother seems impressed by the town and manor.”
“I’m surprised she hasn’t flat out asked how much money you make” Heather chuckled.
“Oh, she has. Right after we left the cathedral?” Henry laughed.
Soon, the guests began to arrive. David and Lindsey entered first, greeted warmly by the staff. They made their way to Henry and Heather, hugging them both. "Dinner looks incredible," David said, his eyes wide with admiration.
Lindsey nodded in agreement. “Living with you these past days has been a dream. I'm so proud of you both."
Heather's parents arrived shortly after, looking around with curiosity and awe. Eva, Heather’s mother, immediately began to comment on the beauty of the manor. "This is all so magnificent," she said, her tone a mix of genuine admiration and lingering skepticism.
Her father, Thomas, nodded in agreement but remained quiet, taking in the surroundings with a thoughtful expression.
With everyone gathered, they made their way to the dining table. The staff had outdone themselves, and the table was a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Candles flickered gently, casting a warm glow over the spread of food.
As they sat down, Henry raised his glass. "Thank you all for being here tonight. It means a lot to have our families together in this special place. Let's enjoy this meal and celebrate the wonderful times ahead."
The clinking of glasses and murmurs of agreement followed his words. The first course was served, and the conversation flowed easily. They talked about the impressive virtual world of Heaven's Gate and the incredible realism it offered.
David and Lindsey shared stories about Henry's childhood, much to Heather's amusement. "He was always so curious and determined," Lindsey said with a smile. "Always had to know how things worked."
David chuckled. "And once he set his mind on something, there was no stopping him."
Eva listened intently, occasionally glancing at Heather. "Heather was the same way," she said, her tone softening. "Always exploring, always asking questions.
Thomas nodded, his stoic demeanor softening as he spoke. "It's clear that you two are very well-matched. It's good to see our daughter so happy."
The main course was a sumptuous feast, as the conversation shifted to the future. Heather's parents asked about their plans, and Henry and Heather spoke about their dreams and aspirations, both in the virtual world and in reality.
Henry and Heather looked at each other, neither wanting to tell Heather’s parents the truth of the Earth’s eminent evolution.
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"We plan to live in this world permanently,” Henry replied, carefully choosing his words. “My goals is to promote Ironwood and Woodhaerst to cities while expanding my company Iron and Oak." Henry said.
Heather nodded. "Same, I want to keep developing my alchemy, and help Henry turn Ironwood and Woodhaerst into cities.”
Eva looked somewhat unsatisfied but didn’t say anything more.
As dessert was served, the mood lightened even more. Stories and laughter filled the room, and the bonds between the two families grew stronger. The evening was a success, filled with warmth, love, and a sense of unity.
As the dinner came to an end, Henry stood up, looking around the table at the faces of those he loved. "Thank you all for being here tonight. This has been a wonderful evening, and I couldn't be more grateful to have you all in our lives."
Heather's eyes shone with happiness as she looked at Henry. "Yes, thank you all. This has been truly special."
With heartfelt goodbyes and promises of future gatherings, the families began to leave for their bedrooms as Henry and Heather exchanged hugs and good nights.
As the manor grew quiet once more, Henry and Heather stood together, reflecting on the evening. "That went better than I could have hoped," Henry said, a sense of contentment in his voice.
Heather nodded, leaning into him. "At least our families are getting to know each other, and it feels like everything is falling into place."
They stood there for a moment, savoring the peace and happiness that filled the air. The embraced as the sun dipped below the horizon, the twinkling lights of Woodhaerst grew brighter. Henry’s heart full of anxiety and excitement discreetly found Heather after dinner.
In contrast to the serene backdrop, Henry brimmed with excitement and nerves. The past few days were nerve racking as he meticulously planned his proposal. The excitement he had felt when they discussed their engagement now seemed distant compared to the anxiety of choosing the perfect engagement ring. The vast array of choices and arrangements made his palms sweat as he pondered over which one would be just right.
“Want to go for a ride?” Henry asked with an anxious grin.
Heather’s suspicious about his request, smiled innocently, pretending not to have any clue. “Of course.”
Henry kissed her firmly and took her hand. Together, they walked to the waiting carriage outside, the setting sun casting a warm glow over their surroundings.
The moon, painting the town in silvery white hues, Henry led Heather on a leisurely stroll through Woodhaerst. They talked and laughed, savoring each other's company. Heather had no idea what was in store, and Henry was determined to keep it that way until the perfect moment arrived.
They rode through the familiar streets, past the bustling market stalls and friendly faces of the townspeople. The chilled air was filled with the scent of cinnamon pinecones and the snow was crisp under their boots, crunching pleasantly like biting into a fresh apple. Henry felt a sense of pride and belonging as he guided Heather toward a clearing, the trees tall and stark around them, the moonlight bright above. There was no wind, which let the moon’s spotlight directly overhead.
When they reached the cabin in the grove, by the gentle stream, Heather gasped at the sight. Her big eyes were roaming everywhere, taking in all the new shapes and colors, her breath puffing out in tiny clouds. Dim lanterns cast a magical glow over the scene. The gentle babble of the stream added a soothing backdrop to the enchanting setting.
“Henry, this is beautiful. “What’s all this for?” Heather with a wry grin, her cheeks pink from the cold.
Henry took her hands in his, his heart racing with anticipation. “Heather, there’s something I’ve been wanting to ask you.”
He dropped to one knee, pulling out a small, ornate box from his coat pocket. He opened it with a snap to reveal a stunning ring, sparkling in the light. “Heather, from the moment we met, you’ve been my rock, my confidant, and my partner in every adventure. I can’t imagine my life without you. Will you marry me?”
The ring was beautiful and understated. White gold, like she preferred, with a cushion diamond in the center surrounded by a ring of pinkish stones that she didn’t know the name of, but they twinkled like stars in the night sky, and she loved it immediately. Tears welled up in Heather’s eyes as she looked at Henry, her heart swelling with love. “Yes.”
Henry slipped the ring onto Heather’s finger and brushed the snow from his legs to embrace her. “We’ve been through so much together, and I don’t know if I could’ve done half of it without you by my side. But I do know we’ve come out stronger, together, because of it.”
Heather returned the kiss, then rested her head against his shoulder, sighing contentedly. “I feel the same way. Whatever the future holds, I know we can face it together.”
Henry kissed her gently. “I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.”
They stood there in silence for a moment, simply enjoying the peace and beauty of the night. The challenges and uncertainties of the merging worlds seemed distant, overshadowed by the love and hope they felt for their future.
They stood together, looking out over the water. The lanterns’ soft glow reflected off the surface, creating a scene that felt almost magical. Henry wrapped his arm around Heather’s waist, pulling her close.
“I knew you were up to something,” she said.
“Oh, did you know?” Henry smirked quizzically.
“Yes.”
“Was it that obvious I was going to propose?”
“I didn’t actually suspect a proposal,” Heather said honestly. “I just knew something was going on.
When they came out from the grove the townspeople erupted in cheers and applause, emerging from their hiding places to celebrate the joyous moment.
Heather’s parents, who had been observing from a distance, rushed forward to join the celebration. “Congratulations, you two!” her mother exclaimed, hugging them both tightly.
Henry’s friends and the townspeople gathered around, offering their congratulations and best wishes. The clearing was filled with laughter, music, and dancing as everyone celebrated the newly engaged couple.