“I still think this is ridiculous! Couldn’t you just tell me where we’re going?”
“And ruin the whole surprise?” Clara exclaimed indignantly. “No way!”
Enrico chuckled softly, reassuring, as he continued guiding me by the hand.
All my senses were alert, desperately trying to identify where we were by scent or sound—but the only thing I could truly distinguish was the soft fragrance of flowers mixed with Enrico’s familiar, woodsy scent.
Finally, I felt them stop. Clara released my hand quickly, buzzing with excitement.
“We’re here!” she announced brightly.
I sensed Enrico step behind me, his body close as he carefully untied the blindfold.
His fingers brushed gently along my face, sending subtle shivers across my skin.
When the fabric finally fell away, I blinked several times, adjusting to the light.
The scene before me took a few seconds to fully make sense.
Standing there was the large historic manor that had always been a landmark in Tiradentes—the one I’d often mentioned casually to Júlia, saying how wonderful it would be to see it restored and preserved.
And then, all at once, dozens of voices echoed from inside:
“SURPRISE!”
My heart leapt violently in my chest as I stared at the smiling, welcoming crowd before me: Júlia with a huge grin and mischief sparkling in her eyes; familiar faces from the town I loved so much; and—to my complete shock—even my parents, smiling broadly, tears shining in their eyes.
I turned to Enrico, stunned.
“Enrico…? What is all this?”
He smiled, taking my hands in his and holding my gaze.
“Happy birthday, Valentina,” he said calmly. “You deserve more than a gift. You deserve something that reflects who you are—to me, to our daughter, and to this city.”
I swallowed hard, tears threatening as I stood frozen.
“This manor is yours now,” he continued steadily. “But that’s not all. It’s the beginning of a project I designed specifically for you: the Clara Ferrara Institute.”
My heart pounded violently, his words crashing into me with overwhelming force.
“An institute…?” I repeated faintly.
“Yes,” he nodded, pride evident in his voice. “An organization that will take care of the city—its history, its people. A place that will let you do what you’ve always wanted: take care of Tiradentes the way you take care of everyone around you.”
My eyes filled with tears as my heart raced, heavy with emotion. He had understood exactly who I was—and what I wanted.
“And you’re going to be the boss, Mom!” Clara exclaimed excitedly, clapping beside us.
Enrico smiled, gently pulling me against him as our eyes stayed locked with almost painful intensity.
“You’re the only person who can lead this, Valentina. The institute is yours—not just because you deserve it more than anyone, but because you’re the one who will give it life and soul.” His eyes shone with love and admiration that left me defenseless. “It’s your birthday gift. I hope you’ll accept it.”
In that moment, surrounded by the emotional gazes of so many people I loved, I couldn’t speak.
All I could do was nod, letting my tears finally fall as Enrico wrapped me in his strong, protective arms—understanding what he was truly telling me with that powerful gesture.
He truly knew—and loved—who I was.
