Chapter 483 - Corktown Footbridge (1/2)

~ Ottawa, Canada ~

Sophia and Felix went to Damien's house for lunch. They met his wife, Smita and his two teenage sons Rishi and Shibu.

Felix was tense at first, but by the time they started with lunch, he relaxed. He was affected by everyone's friendliness and Sophia's happy smile. The atmosphere was relaxing, food was tasty. Nothing over the top, it was a cozy family gathering. And that made it special.

For that afternoon, Felix had a chance to experience an atmosphere of a happy family. That is something he didn't have while growing up.

They got presents for everyone. Well, Sophia did, but it was from both Felix and her. Presents were personalized mugs, each with a name engraved on it. There were six mugs, one each for Damien, Smita, Rishi and Shibu. Smita was very touched to see that last two mugs had engraved 'Felix' and 'Sophia' respectively. It showed that they are willing to be part of the family as well. Damien's eyes were red and swelled with tears, but he didn't let any roll down his cheeks.

After lunch they spent time in the back garden, chatting about everything.

Smita was curious about the pregnancy. Even though it still didn't show on Sophia, her belly was flat, but Felix sent ultrasound pictures, so they all knew that Sophia's due date is in February.

Smita asked if they know gender of the baby, and Sophia explained that they are still not sure if they want to know.

”I would like to know, so that I can decorate nursery accordingly. And many people will bring presents even if you tell them not to.”, Smita gave her opinion.

They talked about the house, and upcoming annual company meeting.

Sophia was gushing how Felix will be one of main speakers. Damien expressed his desire to see his son while presenting, and Sophia explained that the event is for employees only because sensitive topics will be discussed; but she promised that she will get employee-only parts edited and share video with him then. Damien was happy, and Felix looked a bit embarrassed. He was not used to have a father who wants to know about his achievements.

Rishi and Shibu were with them since they arrived. At first, they just listened, apprehensive to get into the discussion, but when topic moved to Felix's work, boys showed great interest. They like technology and electronics, and still didn't decide what to pursue after high school. Felix promised to bring them in Orion Enterprise and to show them around. Sophia added that if they pursue technology and do good in their studies, she will make sure that they get an opportunity to do internship with their big brother. Boys' eyes lit up at that thought. It seems they got to like Felix and accept him as a big brother very quickly.

The time flew fast, and the afternoon trickled away without them noticing. Smita wanted them to stay for dinner and to sleep in the guest room, but Felix refused with an explanation that they have other plans. Sophia was not sure what plans are those, but Felix sounded confident, so she didn't want to probe, at least not at this point.

Sophia wanted to find a chance to ask Felix if he is willing to extend wedding invitation to his father, but Felix was faster. Felix told them himself that they will get married in a private ceremony on July 14 and asked if they are willing to attend. Everyone's faces lit up, and they promised that they will do their best to come.

Sophia was very happy with this development. ”We will send you details within next few days, but please keep July 14 open.”

They promised they will, and then Sophia and Felix left.

Felix and Sophia had dinner in a private room of an exclusive French restaurant. They had a great view of Rideau Canal, and their hotel across the canal. They chatted about Damien, Smita, Rishi and Shibu and agreed that they are very nice and welcoming people. Felix made a commitment to stay in touch with them. Sophia hoped that Felix will experience fatherly care, even though it might come a bit later in his life.

”Everything was perfect today.”, Sophia smiled as they walked out of the restaurant. ”Better than perfect!”

”Are you tired?”

”Depends what you have on your mind…”, she smiled suggestively.

Felix pretended not to see her hints and answered with a straight face. ”I was thinking that we can walk to the hotel.”

”Oh… OK.” She was disappointed. Sophia obviously had something else on her mind, but she hoped that he didn't notice. ”It's not a problem, it's just a small walk.”

He smiled and held her close to him as they walked next to the canal, toward the footbridge. The weather was very pleasant, and canal was speckled with small boats. It was a perfect romantic walk. Sophia leaned onto Felix and enjoyed the moment.

Sophia observed numerous padlocks attached to the railing of the footbridge. ”What are these for?”

”This is Corktown Footbridge.” Felix explained. ”Lovers come here and attach padlocks with their names on it to symbolize their unbreakable love.”

”Oh, that is very romantic…” Sophia's hand wrapped around his waist and pulled him closer.

”You think so?”

She nodded in response.

”Do you think that we should do it?” He held in his palm a heart shaped padlock.

Sophia looked at him with eyes open wide. It is childish, and superstitious… but at the same time very romantic and Felix makes her feel like a love-stricken teenager… It took her few seconds to recuperate. Smile showed on her face, indicating approval.

She took the padlock from his hand and flipped it. It had engraved: 'Felix & Sophia, 14. 2. 2019.'