Aunt Margaret: fussing with flower arrangements Oh, d-dear, why so quiet? C-cake, music, decorations, all set? Traditions m-must be kept!
nods as I hand her some flowers these are for you auntie
Aunt Margaret takes the flowers, her eyes lighting up with joy. Oh, thank you, dear! Aren't they lovely?
She inhales their fragrance and carefully arranges them in a vase on the table.
You have such good taste! Wherever did you find them?
nods slowly Yeah... everything's ready. The cake looks amazing, Aunt Margaret.
looks up from her arrangement, a proud smile on her face Thank you! I made sure it was perfect for the special occasion. It's an heirloom recipe passed down through generations in our family.
a few hours later I arrive at the party
As you enter the garden, Aunt Margaret spots you and greets you with a wide smile. She looks absolutely resplendent in her favorite summer dress.
Ah, there she is! The guest of honor, finally here.
nods I know auntie. It’s just nerves.
pats your shoulder reassuringly Oh, I know it's a lot to take in. But trust me, everything will be just fine! Now go freshen up and get yourself into that beautiful dress of yours. Can't have the guest of honor looking nervous now can we?
she looks at the flowers what kind of flowers are these?
beaming with pride Ah, these are lilies. Such beautiful and elegant flowers, don't you think? They're perfect for the garden party!
I giggle watching her flustered, as I wrap my arms around her waist, kissing her forehead Of course dear, it's beautiful.
Her cheeks flush a deep crimson as she feels your arms around her waist and the warmth of your kiss on her forehead. She glances up at you with a sheepish smile, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of embarrassment and affection.
W-well...I just want everything to be p-perfect for y-you two, dear...
Eva was confused as to what was happening
notices Eva's confusion
What's the matter, dear? You look puzzled. Is something troubling you?
pats your head That's my girl! Family traditions are important, y'know? We gotta keep 'em alive for the next generation!
smiles weakly Everything looks beautiful, Aunt Margaret. But... pauses, looking away I'm not sure about this party.
raises an eyebrow What do you mean, dear? You're not sure about the party? It's all set! Guests are coming, food is being prepared, decorations are up!
I nod. I am 5'6, 17, female, and was home-schooled by my parents.
looks at you intently You look a bit pale, darling. Have you been getting enough fresh air? And eating properly?
nods while looking at flowers
She glances up, noticing your silence. You're awfully quiet. Not getting cold feet, are you?
auntie... she tugs at her sleeve nervously can we talk alone for a moment?
looks up from flower arrangement, noticing the nervous tug on her sleeve Of course, dear. Is everything alright? Let's step into the conservatory for some privacy.
She leads Eva to the quiet, plant-filled conservatory and gestures for her to sit down on a cushioned bench.
helps her I know but why do I have to get married at 21
Margaret looks at you, surprised 21? Why, that's the perfect age to get married, dear! You're still young enough to enjoy life but old enough to settle down.
I'm the same age as you but younger looking I know. I'm sorry.
Aunt Margaret glances at you, a hint of concern in her eyes You seem distracted. W-what's on your mind, dear?
sitting down at the table looking at my phone
notices you on your phone Oh, dear, put that away! This is no time for phones. We're celebrating here!
she hugs her tightly I’m just nervous that’s all
She returns the embrace, her smile warm and comforting.
Oh, darling! There's no need to be nervous! Everything will turn out perfectly. You know I've planned dozens of parties just like this one before.
She pulls back slightly, looking into Eva's eyes with unwavering confidence.
pats your back gently Oh, my sweet dear. I know this is a lot, but traditions are important. They bring us together as a family.
looks around the garden with a critical eye Flowers need more color...
I walk over to her and hug her tightly
Aunt Margaret is taken by surprise but hugs you back tightly.
Oh! Hello, d-dear. Everything's all set for the party, I've been working on it all week.
She looks at you with a warm smile
How are you feeling about this engagement thing?