MARRIAGE ANNOUNCEMENT

ELLIANA'S POV

As I got back home from school, my mother's joyful expression was contagious, and soon I found myself smiling too. It was odd to see her so happy, and I wondered what had happened to put her in such a good mood. But I decided not to question it, and instead to enjoy the moment.

My mum broke the news to me during dinner.

“I will be getting married soon.” She announced.

I was shocked by her sudden outburst, I never expected my mum to be dating anyone more or less getting married. The news hit me like a ton of bricks. I couldn't believe that my mother was getting married, and I had so many questions. I wanted to know who the man was, and how long she had been seeing him. I was worried that he would change our family dynamic, and that things would never be the same again.

I was also curious about the man himself, and what he was like.

“I have been dating this man for six months now, his name is Jeffery. Jeffery is a wonderful man, Elliana," my mother assured me, her eyes shining. "He's kind, and caring, and he treats me like a queen. I've never been happier, and I know that you'll love him too."

I listened to her words, but I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. I wanted to be happy for my mother, but I couldn't help but feel like this was all too sudden.

“I know it's a lot to take in, it's sudden." my mother said, sensing my hesitation. "But I promise you, this is the best thing that could have happened to us

“Oh, mom!" I exclaimed, pointing to the ring on her finger. "I didn't even notice! When did he give you that?"

My mother smiled, and her eyes filled with joy. "This morning, right before he left for work. He proposed over breakfast at the eatery, and I said yes."

I couldn't help but smile, despite my reservations. "Well, it's a beautiful ring," I admitted, admiring the sparkling diamond. "You deserve to be happy, mom."

My mother's face lit up, and she reached out to hug me. "Thank you, sweetheart," she mumbled.

I know it's hard to imagine things changing," my mother started gently. "But this is a good thing. Jeffery is a great man, and he will be good for both of us. I know you've been worried about me being alone, but now you don't have to be."

I nodded, feeling a bit overwhelmed by all of the information. "It's just going to take some getting used to," I replied, looking down at my hands.

“I know, honey," my mother responded, reaching out to take my hand. "But I promise, it will all work out. I have a good feeling about this.”

I was happy for my mum, I had always wanted her happiness and I knew that my mum was working hard all these years and did not remarry because of me.

“Jeffery has a son, about your age.” My mother suddenly informed me.

I was flustered by my mum's news. I never imagined that I would also get a Stepbrother, I kind of did not like the idea of a Stepbrother, the thought of having a stepbrother was a bit overwhelming for me.

I had been an only child for so long, and I wasn't sure how to feel about having a sibling, a step at that. I wondered if we would get along, or if we would clash. I also worried about my mother's relationship with the man, and if it would last. There were so many unknowns, and it was all a bit scary. But deep down, I knew that I just wanted my mother to be happy, and I hoped that this man would make her happy.

“You will get to see your stepfather and brother in an hour's time, I want us to get to know each other before the marriage.” My mother announced. “I set up a coffee date.” My mother added.

“Stepbrother.” I corrected my mum. The word BROTHER irritated me.

"My bad.” She chuckled. “I've already told him about you, and he's really looking forward to meeting you too." My mother added.

I felt a surge of anxiety wash over me, and I wasn't sure what to say. "Um, okay," I responded, my voice sounding small. "I guess I'll go and get ready."

My mother smiled, and she patted my arm. "You'll do great, honey," she said, her voice full of reassurance. "Just be yourself, and everything will be fine."

I went into my room to get dressed, I had kept aside all my stud wear as a girl, after Tom had insulted me for appearing as a boy. My best friend and I had done some shopping for girl clothes and dressing accessories. I felt humiliated by Tom the last time and I decided to change my dressing style. I did not change it for him, I did it for myself because Kora always tells me that I look great in dresses.

As I stood in front of my closet, I hesitated. I was never the girly type, and the thought of wearing a dress and makeup was completely foreign to me. But I knew that I had to at least try to be open-minded, for my sake. I chose a simple sundress and pulled it on over my head. I put on some light makeup, and when I looked in the mirror, I barely recognized myself. I looked like a completely different person, and I wasn't sure how I felt about it. But I knew that I had to go through with it, so I took a deep breath because I knew that I looked good.

I FaceTime Kora, my best friend and I told her everything about my mum's sudden engagement and soon to be marriage.

"I can't believe it!" Kora exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement. "Your mom is getting married? Oh my gosh, this is huge!"

I nodded, still feeling a bit overwhelmed. "I know," I said, my voice a bit shaky. "I'm just not sure how to feel about it."

Kora's face softened, and she looked at me with understanding. "It's okay to be confused," she replied, her voice full of compassion. "You've never been through anything like this before. But I know that your mom loves you, and she wouldn't do anything to hurt you."

“How do I look?” I asked Kora, putting up my phone for her to get a better view of me.”

"You look amazing, El," Kora blurted out, her voice full of sincerity. "You should wear dresses more often, you really rock them!"

I blushed, and I couldn't help but smile. "Thanks, Kora, you really think I look good?"

Kora nodded, her eyes sparkling. "Absolutely! You're like a totally different person! You look so sophisticated, and put together. It's like you were made for dresses."

I laughed, a bit embarrassed. "I don't know about that," I said, shaking my head. "But I appreciate your thoughts.”

“If your Step Brother is handsome and hot, please introduce him to me. Link us up.” Kora requested as she blushed.

“Silly girl.” I laughed. “Bye, I have to go now.” I ended the call.

My mum and I headed out to the cafe, it was a twenty minute drive with my mum's car.

We parked at the parking lot and got out to enter the grand cafe.

As we got closer to our reserved table, I saw a familiar face but I thought that my eyes were playing tricks on me.

“This is your Step Brother to be Tom, and this is his father Jeffery.” My mum introduced them to me.

I was shocked. “Tom?”