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“So…” Pierre started. “You guys are really going to get married?” Pierre asked. Jeanne let out a heavy sigh. “Yes. I know this is uncomfortable to you, but…” Jeanne trailed off as she gently caressed Otto’s hand. “We really do just… love each other.” Jeanne finished. Pierre sighed.
“I… can’t say I enjoy this arrangement but…” Pierre smiled at his mother. “If you’re happy then… I’m happy.” Pierre said as Jeanne returned his smile. “Thank you, Pierre.” Jeanne said as she got up and walked over to her eldest. “I love you, dear.” Jeanne said as she pulled him into a warm motherly hug. Pierre returned the hug.
Otto smiles at the pair of mother and son. As Jeanne leaves, Pierre approaches Otto.
“Okay… Otto, I know we’ve… had our differences.” Pierre sat down beside him. Otto shifted around a little, feeling a tense aura coming off of Pierre. “But, I’m willing to put them aside. For my mother and brothers. I know they’re all very fond of you.” Pierre continued. Otto nodded in acknowledgement. “I just want you to know that… even though you're going to be my father by law… I’m not going to see you as my father. I just… can’t.” Otto placed a hand on Pierre’s shoulder.
“I’m not here to replace your father, Pierre. If you can’t accept me as a father figure, I’m more than willing to accept it.” Otto responded. Pierre gave him a slight smile. “Thank you, Otto. You really are a great man.” Otto smiled back as Pierre slowly got up and left the room.
The day of the wedding rolled around and everyone had a great time at the wedding. It was held at the town’s local church.
Many people were in attendance, including the Morteaus, the Guiberts, the Bonhours, Lily and her father, the Tissiers, Otto’s friends from Germany and Otto’s mother.
Since Jeanne’s father had passed many years ago, Pierre was the one who walked her down the aisle. He gave her a warm smile as she joined Otto at the altar.
The two exchanged their rings and vows, and finally they shared a kiss and the crowd lit up with happiness for the newlyweds.
Otto was officially part of the family.
Pierre was nervous about this change but he was willing to accept it.
He hugged Otto after the ceremony to show his acceptance.
For his family. Just for them.
As the days, weeks, months go by, Pierre and Otto slowly grew closer and closer to each other. Looking back, it surprised Pierre greatly how much their relationship has evolved over time. His little siblings have already started getting used to calling Otto “Dad”. But Pierre still found the title strange.
He just… wasn’t quite there yet.
Yet.
Pierre and Otto were working on the farm, taking care of the animals as usual.
But unfortunately, Pierre forgot that he had to make a quick run to the grocer’s for his mother, so he had to quickly excuse himself.
“Hey, dad! I just remembered I have to go into town for mom. Could you milk the cow for the Bonhours while I’m out?” Pierre shouted to Otto as he handed Otto the empty milk canteen. Otto looked at Pierre with complete surprise and Pierre looked back with confusion for a moment, until he realized what he said.
“Uh- sorry, I meant-” Pierre stuttered as his face flushed red. Otto let out a small laugh. “It’s okay, you can call me whatever you like. Oh, and don’t be gone for too long.” Otto said to Pierre as he took the empty canteen.
Pierre smiled with embarrassment at the other man and nodded. “Uhm- right. Thanks.” He awkwardly replied as he headed into the house to grab some things for his trip to the grocery shop.
Otto smiled at the young man.
Seems like they’re becoming closer everyday.