Chapter LXX

On that day, I was helping my grandmother wash clothes. While I scrubbed, she hung them on a clothesline in front of the house. Rosa moved in permanently with me and my grandmother. Andressa returned to the city, leaving the four of us here. After a few months, Andressa decided to return to the city, but for me, it was not an issue; she could come back whenever, as the doors would always be open.

As months passed, my virtual business progressed. Many people were embracing the services of my virtual company, as I called it, to receive photos as they wished. Over time, I also adopted crafting services.

After washing several clothes, I noticed my hands were wrinkled from dealing with soapy water. However, I didn't let it bother me; instead, I thought about washing Alex's clothes since I had forgotten to do so. Leaving the washer, I went to Alex's room and found he had stored something in my drawer, which was unusual as he rarely touched my things.

"Alex?" I called, and he quickly moved away from my belongings. "What are you doing?"

"Well, I..." Alex seemed nervous, possibly up to something. I disapproved of his actions and wanted an explanation.

"Alex, what are you doing?" I inquired, trying to show authority by crossing my arms. Alex looked at me and decided to speak.

With a sigh, he responded, "Open the drawer." I did, finding a shiny ring among my bras.

"A ring?" I asked, impressed. I looked at Alex, and he had a smile on his face.

"Maria, we've been dating for a long time, and I thought about... maybe proposing to you." Alex shocked me with those words. He knelt before me and said, "Besides getting married, I want you to experience some of the Rio Grande do Sul culture. I'm sure you'll love the state where I live, and I want to build my life with you there."

Touched, I couldn't help but cry. It was a dream. Alex, with his stories, had sparked my interest in Rio Grande do Sul.

"Maria, will you marry me?" Alex asked. Overwhelmed with emotions, I dove into tears. I had always wanted to get married, and it seemed my moment had arrived.

"Yes, I accept," I replied through tears, and Alex and I kissed. Later, I shared the news with the villagers, and my grandmother and uncle were overjoyed. They always wanted the best for me, and it seemed like I was getting there.

What more could I want? I might not have parents, but I have my grandmother, uncle, Alex, childhood friend Heloísa, Rosa, Andressa, and my daughter Soraia—they are my family.

Later, Rosa and I discussed setting a date for the wedding, and Alex would know about it. We decided on Sunday, as it was convenient for both of us.

"It can be this Sunday," Rosa suggested.

I looked at her and replied, "Yes, definitely. Sunday is a great day, as it's my day off, and Alex doesn't have classes."

Since it was Wednesday, we had plenty of time to prepare. I informed Alex about the chosen day, and he agreed. We were getting ready for the wedding, scheduled for Sunday.