When North meet South

~ 9. Speech without Martinus...~

Chapter two

~ 01.08.2027. ~

Martinus's pov:

*As the day of the grand opening drew nearer, Marcus and I found ourselves engrossed in a flurry of activity, making sure every detail was meticulously planned. From selecting the perfect suit to coordinating the logistics of the surprise proposal, we spared no effort in ensuring that everything would be just right for Teodora.*

Marcus: (checking his watch) Alright, Tinus, we've got just a few hours left until showtime. Are you ready for this?

Me: (nodding determinedly) Absolutely. I just... I want everything to be perfect for her.

Marcus: (smiling) Don't worry, bro. With the way we've planned this, it's going to be a moment she'll never forget.

Me: (grateful) Thanks, Marcus. I couldn't do this without you.

*Together, we double-checked every detail, making sure that nothing was overlooked. From the placement of the ring to the timing of my speech, we left nothing to chance.

Me: (taking a deep breath) I just hope she says yes...

Marcus: (clapping a hand on my shoulder) Of course she will, my bro! 

Me: (smiling) Thanks, Marcus. I owe you big time for helping me with all of this.

Marcus: (grinning) Hey, what are brothers for? 

Author's pov:

*As Marcus prepared to set Martinus's plan in motion, a mix of nerves and anticipation churned in his stomach. He knew he had to play his part convincingly for the proposal to be a success. As he made his way to Martinus and Teodora's house, Marcus rehearsed the script he had prepared in his mind. He would explain to Teodora that Martinus was unable to attend the opening due to a sudden commitment, all while keeping the true reason for his absence under wraps.*

*Arriving at doorstep, Marcus took a deep breath to steady his nerves before ringing the doorbell. Teodora answered the door with a bright smile, her excitement palpable as she greeted him warmly.*

Teodora: (beaming) Marcus, it's so good to see you! Are you ready for the big day?

Marcus: (forcing a smile) Absolutely, Teodora. I'm just here to pick up a few things Martinus left at our place. He's tied up with something last-minute and won't be able to make it to the opening.

*Teodora's smile faltered slightly at the news, a hint of disappointment flickering in her eyes before she quickly masked it with understanding.*

Teodora: (nodding) Oh....Is he okey?

Marcus: (nodding quickly) Yeah, yeah, he's fine. Just got caught up with some unexpected stuff. But don't worry, he'll be there in spirit.

*Teodora's brow furrowed with concern, her gaze searching Marcus's face for any signs of deception. Sensing her suspicion, Marcus inwardly cursed himself for not rehearsing his lines more thoroughly.*

Marcus: (attempting to sound reassuring) Honestly, Teodora, it's nothing serious. Just some last-minute business he had to take care of. He really wanted to be here today, but sometimes life just throws you a curveball, you know?

*As Teodora bid him farewell and wished him luck with the preparations, Marcus couldn't shake the pang of guilt gnawing at him. But he pushed it aside, reminding himself that this was all for Martinus's greater plan. Teodora's expression softened slightly, her worry easing as she seemed to accept Marcus's explanation. But beneath the surface, Marcus could see the flicker of doubt lingering in her eyes.*