Chapter 64

                                    

                                          
The carriage rattled gently along the cobblestone path, its plush interior filled with a mixture of excitement and nervous anticipation. 
Martina sat nestled between Shikari and Asuka, her cheeks slightly flushed as she glanced around at her companions. Across from her sat Horika and Nanami, with Yumary beside them, all of them sharing the same nervous energy.
"We're almost there," Matrina said, her voice tinged with both excitement and apprehension. "I hope my mother likes you all."
Shikari squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Don’t worry, Matrina. We’ll do our best to make a good impression."
Asuka nodded, though her hands were trembling slightly. "I-I’m sure everything will be fine."
Horika leaned back, her usual confidence intact. "We’ve faced tougher challenges. Meeting your mother will be a breeze."
Nanami crossed her arms, trying to mask her own anxiety. "Yeah, we’ll be fine. Besides, we’ve got you, Matrina."
Yumary, who had been uncharacteristically quiet, spoke up softly. "I just hope she can accept us, especially after everything that’s happened."
Matrina smiled, feeling a surge of warmth and gratitude towards her friends. "Thank you, everyone. Your support means the world to me."
The carriage soon rolled to a stop in front of a grand castle, its towering spires reaching towards the sky. 
The castle's opulent exterior was a testament to the noble lineage of Martina's family. As the door opened, Martina's mother, Lady Evangeline, awaited them at the entrance, her presence commanding yet warm.
Lady Evangeline was a striking woman with flowing chestnut hair and sharp, intelligent eyes. She wore a regal gown that accentuated her noble status, yet there was a playful glint in her eye that hinted at her cheeky nature. Flanking her were a few of her own companions, women who shared the same air of elegance and strength.
"Martina, darling!" Lady Evangeline greeted, pulling her daughter into a warm embrace. "It’s been too long."
Martina returned the embrace, her nerves calming slightly. "Mother, it’s so good to see you. These are my uh....girlfriends"
Evangeline’s eyes twinkled with curiosity as she regarded the group. "Girlfriends, you say? Let’s get inside and get to know each other better."
They were ushered into a grand sitting room, where an assortment of teas and pastries awaited them. 
As they settled into the plush chairs, Lady Evangeline took her place at the head of the table, her wifes standing respectfully nearby.
"So, tell me about yourselves," Evangeline said, her gaze sweeping over Martina ’s girlfriends. "I want to know the people who’ve captured my daughter’s heart."
Shikari, ever the brave one, spoke first. "I’m Shikari. Martina and I have been friends since childhood. I care for her deeply and will always stand by her side."
Asuka’s voice was barely above a whisper as she introduced herself. "I-I’m Asuka. Martina has always been so kind to me. I love her very much."
Horika leaned forward, her smile confident. "I’m Horika. I admire Martina ’s strength and kindness. She means the world to me."
Nanami’s introduction was more guarded, but sincere. "I’m Nanami. I might not show it all the time, but Martina is very important to me."
Yumary took a deep breath before speaking. "I’m Yumary. Martina gave me a second chance, and I’ve fallen in love with her. I want to be someone she can rely on."