The Merchant and Tavern Master

Confession to His Mother

The first time I arrived at Takahiko's house, we were welcomed by a tall young man who was cutting wood with an axe, whom I correctly guessed to be Takahiko's younger brother, Wakahiko. Since entering the gates of Takahiko's village, we encountered several people whom Takahiko referred to as his neighbors. Every time we passed them, they congratulated us as if we were newlyweds. It was hard for me to contain my smile because, in the eyes of the neighbors, we seemed like a husband and wife! Even Wakahiko thought the same when he saw us for the first time. I couldn't help but be amazed at how Takahiko kept track of the number of people who congratulated us.

Afterward, Takahiko introduced me to his mother. She appeared older than my own mother but exuded the strength and dignity befitting a mother. There was a familiar grace in her gestures that reminded me of my own dear mother, though my mother had a more playful demeanor. Takahiko had shared that his mother had raised them alone since their father passed away, not long after the death of his younger sister. The wrinkles etched near her eyes, cheeks, and lips only emphasized the hardships this woman had endured.

Without hesitation, I offered my best curtsy as a sign of respect for her warm welcome. "Greetings, ma'am. My name is Sofia. It's a pleasure to meet you,"

"You're the daughter of the tavern master in Goldkorb, the one Takahiko often spoke about, right? It's lovely to finally meet you, dear. I am Takahiko's mother, my name is Ayumu. Takahiko has shared stories about you with us, and we've all been quite curious."

"He did? What kind of stories did Takahiko tell?"

I was genuinely curious about what Takahiko had shared with his mother about me. However, he intervened before his mother could reveal anything more, explaining that we had just arrived and I needed some rest.

"Mother, I understand your excitement, but I think we should let her rest first. We just arrived after all," Takahiko suddenly cut off the conversation before she could tell anything.

"Oh, my, you're right. I apologize, dear. Come, please have a seat here," she graciously invited me to sit in the living room.

Shortly after, another of Takahiko's brothers, Kunihiko, made an appearance. He was slightly shorter than his other two brothers but had a friendly demeanor. To my surprise, he took my hand and invited me to join him for tea. Just as his approach caught me off guard, Takahiko stepped in, seemingly a bit jealous, which caused a slight flutter in my heart.

They engaged in playful banter about my small frame and my appearance, but both of them were soon reprimanded by Ayumu. Witnessing this lighthearted exchange before my eyes, I couldn't help but laugh. It was heartwarming to see siblings who got along so well with each other.

"Sorry for the disrespectful behavior of my sons, Sofia," Ayumu apologized on their behalf.

"No, don't worry, mam. Your family seems fun. I don't have siblings at home, so it's enjoyable to see how you all interact with each other," I reassured her.

"Is that so? If you feel alright with it, you can marry Takahiko and become part of this household. You two seem close already, and I'm sure it will work out just fine,"

Ayumu surprised me with her sudden suggestion. Well, she had thought that Takahiko and I might get married before. It didn't feel like a joke, so I replied with all sincerity,

"If you're fine with me, I will be glad, Mam,"

I stole a glance at Takahiko, who appeared lost for words. He seemed confused and blushed slightly. How adorable.

Soon, Wakahiko appeared, calling us for dinner. The room that I had initially thought was the living room was swiftly transformed into a dining area. The house seemed to prioritize practicality. The brothers headed out to fetch the meals prepared by Wakahiko. I wanted to help, but Ayumu stopped me, reminding me that I was their guest. So, I followed her lead.