Happily Ever After

Chapter 4

Alois POV

"Let's take Jim and Luka back to our manor, please," (Y/N) said.

Wait, what!?  My eyes widened in shock. I turned towards (Y/N) and shot her a surprised look.

As if Luka could hear my thoughts, he took the words right out of my mouth. "Wait, what!? What do you mean, (Y/N)? You want to bring us to your manor? But we just met yesterday and- ... and I- I mean we are friends but-"

"Well, there is no one left to look after you, right?" She asked.

"Yes," Luka replied. He looked down and began fidgeting with his fingers.

"Your small house is old and worn down," (Y/N) stated, getting straight to the point. "It doesn't have a heating system, proper lighting, a good bathroom... The list goes on and on."

"Yes, that is true," I admitted. "All in all, we're not in a good situation and... surviving just keeps getting harder and harder for us." I sighed in defeat, hanging my head low.

"Yesterday, I was also in a bad situation, but you helped me." (Y/N) put a hand on my shoulder in a comforting manner. "So, I want to return the favour and help you too." She gave us a sincere smile.

Oh my, she looks so pretty with a smile on her face. Wait, hold on. What am I thinking? Well, she does look pretty indeed-

I was pulled out of my thoughts when she continued speaking. "Since the two of you are orphans, I'm thinking of helping you find a new family, one that will love and take care of you. You can stay in our manor in the meantime while we search for a suitable couple who's willing to take you in. Of course, I won't force you if you don't want to-"

"Thank you, (Y/N)." Luka suddenly got up from his seat and hugged her. "Of course, I'll go with you! I want to go with you, (Y/N)!" Luka looked back at me and asked, "Can we go with them, Jim? Can we? Can we?"

"I- oh wow. I'm... speechless. I don't know what to say, (Y/N). You have a kind heart." I smiled at her, tears beginning to form in the corner of my eyes. "I've made up my mind. Yes, we will go with you, (Y/N)! Thank you so much." I came closer and hugged her too, burying my head in the crook of her neck.

"Why are you two crying?" She asked, confused. "Hey, it's alright." (Y/N) gently patted our backs, her sweet comforting tone putting us both at ease.

I barely noticed that Luka and I were crying tears of joy. I took a handkerchief from my pocket and wiped them away. "This is the first time someone has offered to take us in. I'm just so grateful right now." 

"Not only that, but you'll also help us find a new family. I want to have a Mother and Father too! Right, Jim?" Luka nudged my shoulder.

"Mhm!" I nodded in agreement.

"Jim, Luka, go home and pack your bags if you must," said Mr. (Y/L/N).

"We don't... have bags. Luka and I only have a pair of clothes each."

"In that case, why don't we take a trip to the market?" Mrs. (Y/L/N) suggested. "I saw a lot of merchants passing by the window earlier. I'm sure there'll be plenty of stores to choose from."

"That's a great idea, darling!" Mr. (Y/L/N) kissed her cheek and stood up. "We shall buy you whatever you need, whether it be shoes or clothes."

"Come along, children." Mrs. (Y/L/N) also got up from her seat and beckoned us to leave the dining hall.

Who knew shopping was such a terrific activity! Roaming around the shops and stores, trying on different clothes — I love it. Perhaps my most favourite part of it all is actually purchasing the goods themselves. Having to own the item you want is such a great feeling. It is certainly better than getting yelled at by the baker whenever Luka and I used to steal a loaf of bread. Oh well, time to say goodbye to that old life now. I can get used to this.

After an hour or two of what seemed like an endless shopping spree, all the walking and strolling made us feel hungry. So, (Y/N)'s father treated us to eat at a nearby restaurant. It was a quick lunch since we had to leave before noon, but I should say that I enjoyed it very much.

Soon we found ourselves heading back to the inn. The nobles went straight to packing their things, and Mr. Robinson was left to carry their luggage to the carriage. Luka and I carried our own belongings, even lending Mr. Robinson a hand. He appreciated our help and gave us both a piece of candy as a way of saying thanks. 

We all boarded the carriage just in time before the clock struck twelve. With a flick of the whip, Mr. Robinson got the horses moving towards our destination, each step bringing us closer to our newfound home and a newfound life.