1986: My Happy Life in Provence

Chapter 556 Please allow me to be a little 'mischievous'

Everything was ready for the groom; the tractor was parked in the vineyard in front of Ronan's house, ready to set off at any time.

However, the bride has to follow more rural customs this morning, and her makeup and hair will take longer.

According to the scouts, the Zoe family's house is currently filled with the aroma of coffee and toast, and they are still having breakfast. The groom and groomsmen are told not to rush and to wait a little longer.

Ronan was so excited last night that he couldn't sleep, and he was even more restless this morning.

Although he had already changed his clothes, he still personally took Ma Sai and Hu Hu to "connect" and they ran around happily.

Thor thoughtfully prepared anise liqueur and wine for everyone, and also cut up some fresh fruit.

At this moment, dozens of male guests dressed in suits are drinking morning wine, eating fruit, and watching the groom's morning activities.

By exercising every day, Ronando's physique has become more robust and well-proportioned, and he looks fantastic in the custom-made dress brought by Hakimi.

You know what, the first "show" of the wedding was quite pleasing to the eye.

Thor and Cornell served as the best men at the wedding, and like Ronan, they changed into custom-made suits brought by Hakimi early in the morning.

Actually, there were three groomsmen at the beginning, including the two mentioned above and Batistuta.

But Buddy insisted that she was "family" and wanted to stay and help out at Zoe's house.

If it weren't for the gender restrictions and Hakimi's limited abilities, he really couldn't think of what the male bridesmaids should wear. Bati would definitely have joined the 'bridesmaid group' and gotten close to the girls.

Unfortunately, the remaining two groomsmen were not particularly thin, and when they stood next to Ronan, they looked like they were on two different layers.

Theo glanced at Cornell beside him and said in a mocking tone:
"You two don't look like best men, you look more like Ronan's two 'servants'."

Theo, having lost his best man due to his married status, had to wear his own suit. Now he has a chance to 'get revenge,' and he's showing off his two heads:
"If it were me, wearing this suit, I would be just as handsome as Ronan."

Cornell was also helpless about this, and while trying to adjust his clothes to look 'handsome', he said self-deprecatingly:
"You won't even call us Ronan's 'bodyguards,' but rather his servants. Is it because there's someone else who's the 'bodyguard'?"

Under the shade of the trees, Cafu, dressed in a black suit and wearing black sunglasses, was also enjoying the groom's 'morning activities' with dozens of suit-clad thugs.

If a stranger didn't know what these people did, they might think this was a Provençal version of 'The Godfather'.

This group of people looks incredibly imposing when they stand together.

"Those big guys can't be groomsmen, they'll scare the guests," Theo commented sharply.

Lucas threw away his cigarette and pointed to one of the two little ones at his feet, saying:
"Looking at it this way, Xiao Hei looks a lot like a best man."

This morning, Ronan dressed up the little black cat in a 'formal dress' and gave Margaret a cute 'little tuft' of hair, making them look like little boys and girls.

Margaret was already noble, and this hairstyle added a touch of playfulness to her nobility, but she still maintained her queenly aura.

But once Xiao Hei put on the clothes, he immediately went from a poor loser to a rich and handsome man.

You know what, after dressing him up like this, Lucas actually finds his 'son-in-law' more pleasing to the eye. While petting his adorable daughter, he'll also take the time to pat her head.

This never happened before.

"Xiao Hei looks really handsome today," Cornell said in a complicated tone.

Dogs are so handsome, why can't I be?!
"Get ready to go! Batty called and said Zoe's situation is almost ready!" Pierre shouted to everyone from the front door of Ronan's house.

Ronan heard the sound and returned with Marseille and Huhu, ending their morning exercise.

Today's wedding has one main theme—no one can be missing.

Huhu, Marseille, Little Black, and Margaret will also accompany Ronan and the male guests to the castle for the wedding.

Seeing Ronan lead the dog and sheep away without preparing any decorations or clothes for them, Theo asked curiously:

"You're only dressing up Little Black and Margaret? Why are you treating them differently?"

Ronan put on his coat, turned around, and said meaningfully:

"Because they have tasks to complete today."

In the past, when couples got married in Lourmaran, the groom and his male guests would walk to the wedding venue or go to the bride's house (either way). Today, Ronan is going to ride a tractor to the castle, and the men are incredibly excited. This is so 'romantic'!

Henry, who was driving the tractor, took out his best-kept suit and carefully groomed his beard and hair. If it weren't for his semi-permanent captain's hat, which was so distinctive, no one would have recognized him.

Henry was acting all high and mighty today, holding his chin up to everyone he met.

Isn't it a sign of favor and trust that he drives the wedding car?
"I will enjoy the blessings of the villagers along the way alongside Mr. Ronan!"

Henry's dream was shattered.

After Ronan climbed onto the tractor, five or six other people followed suit, crowding together on both sides of the cab.

"Get down, all of you get down!" Henry protested loudly.

Pierre reached out and hit the machine, saying with a wicked grin:
"Let's go, buddy, don't keep Zoe waiting too long!"

It was noisy on the tractor.

Those who couldn't squeeze on under the tractor were even noisier—their voices, bickering, and laughter were so loud they drowned out the tractor's 'putt-putt' sound.

Henry wasn't going to be outdone, and he would honk his horn a few times regardless of whether there was anyone in front of him.

Upon hearing the loudspeaker, the villagers knew Ronan had arrived and ran out of their homes to join the procession to the church. The procession grew larger and the atmosphere became increasingly lively.

Knowing that a formidable creature had arrived, the tourists quickly gave way, allowing them to proceed without hindrance.

After successfully navigating the crowded core area, the castle came into view.

Suddenly, Ronan heard an even louder 'commotion' coming from behind him.

It turned out that the bride's motorcade had 'met up' with them!

In Luberon, the bride must be escorted by her father on her way to the wedding ceremony.

At this moment, the beautiful bride Zoe and Louis are sitting on the tractor, waving frantically at Ronan ahead.

Upon finally seeing Zoe, Ronan felt like a drowning man breathing air, completely drawn to her.

Henry wasn't driving fast; he wished he could jump out and grab Zoe right now.

Pierre grabbed Ronan's shoulder and shouted in his ear:

"Go say hello to your friends! They're waving at you!!"

For the first half of the journey, the road was lined with villagers from the village.

The section of road in front of the castle was where out-of-town friends who came to attend the wedding came out to greet them upon hearing the sound of the tractor and the cheers of the crowd.

Ronan saw Juliet at first glance.

The newly appointed head of the Ministry of Agriculture was smiling and waving at him, holding a wine glass.

Standing next to Juliet were several other government officials from the association. Nearby, Ronan also saw several officials from the Lourmaran government, including Sylvie and the newcomer Contina.

These colleagues, who rarely crossed paths before, gathered together, and I wonder what they were talking about.

After walking a little further, Ronan saw Ines with a smile on his face.

Today, the president has changed his previous 'sexually indifferent' style and is now wearing bright colors.

Ronan saw Mr. Jacques, Gabriel, Theodore and other association members around Ines, and even Jerome, who had gone to Madrid to retire, appeared!
Jerome saw Ronan's shocked expression and gestured for him to tilt his head back and drink, meaning that he had to have a good drink today.

Ronan responded to Jerome with a dance move from 'Battle Song'.

Jerome, who had lived in Papal Newcastle for decades, widened his eyes in surprise as he understood Ronan's reply—"We'll drink until we drop tonight."

Ronan was thrilled by Jerome's appearance. The Vaucluse Rosé Wine Lovers' Association had moved their gathering here today, and there were even more people than usual.

I just didn't see it.
As Ronan was thinking about these things, he spotted a striking red color on the side closer to the castle.

He looked closely and saw that it was indeed Astrid standing there.

Strangely, Astrid wasn't with the association members; instead, Quincy and Ellian from the tourism bureau were talking to her.

"What a strange combination," Ronan muttered to himself.

However, since many elites from various industries in Provence have come today, it's inevitable that he might encounter some unfamiliar interpersonal relationships.

While surprised by Astrid's appearance, Ronan felt a strong sense of anticipation.

“Cornell and Buddy are going to go crazy today,” Ronan said with a wicked grin as he looked at the two of them. “Oh, and there’s Fabian too. That brooding guy also likes Astrid. They’re going to go crazy today.”

Ronan didn't find the crazy Cornell, Batty, and Fabian in the crowd, but he found other 'crazy' guys first.

More than twenty young men and women were yelling at him in the crowd, like monkeys who had wandered into human society.

"God!" Ronan shouted, leaning out as far as he could while ensuring his safety, "Professor Fernand gave you a holiday?"

Even the 'research guys' who live far removed from human society have arrived?

Elden cupped his hands in a tube shape and replied:

"No, the professor told us to come in batches. He's in the forest monitoring the data right now. He said he'll come over to have a drink with you later!"

Ronan also responded loudly:

"The party will continue until the early hours of tomorrow morning. No matter what time you come, there will be food and drinks!"

Elden gave Ronan an OK sign and went back to watch the excitement.

As we approached the foot of the castle, the crowds on both sides suddenly quieted down, because this area was a gathering place for artists.

Besides those living in Lourmarin, Zoe also had pen pals from other places, colleagues she met at various art events, and prominent figures in the Provençal art world.

Ronan discovered Mr. Normand, the director of the Granet Museum, who had given him great help and affirmation among the artists, and also saw Marechal, who had become the new president of the Provence Art Association by relying on the Gold series of art activities.

And standing next to these two absolutely important figures was none other than Cotillard.

It makes Cotillard seem like some kind of powerful big shot.

"But isn't it amazing that Codia brought me and Zoe along?" Ronan thought to himself with a self-deprecating smile.

Seeing so many artists present, Ronan secretly vowed that once the wedding was over, the new store on the shopping street was ready, and everything was settled, he would pick up art again.

You don't need many; just one or two pieces a year are enough to maintain a place in the Provençal art scene.

Otherwise, how could he be worthy of his artist wife, Zoe?

Ronan knew very well that a large portion of the artists here were there because of Zoe, who had been very active in the Provençal art scene recently.

When the tractor stopped, Ronan encountered another important guest.

A sweet little princess emerged, protected by a dozen men in suits even stronger than Cafu.

Ronan quickly went over to say hello:

"Miss Patricia!"

God, this absolute 'mentor' of him and Zoe is also attending their wedding?
Zoe has quite the influence.

Miss Patricia lifted her skirt and gave a graceful greeting:
"Ronan, we meet again!"

Her appearance deeply moved Ronan:
Have fun tonight, feel free to contact me anytime if you need anything.

“You have too many things to do, so I’ll take care of Miss Patricia today.” Marecchall, whom they hadn’t seen in a long time, came to their side. He shook hands with Ronan first, and then said hesitantly, “It’s good to see you again.”

Ronan sensed that Marecchall wanted to catch up with him, but today was not a good time.

Our esteemed Miss Patricia doesn't need Marecchall's care today either; she suddenly rushed behind Ronan, jumping and skipping excitedly:
"Ah! Zoe, you look so beautiful today!"

My idol invited me to their wedding!
Yay! I succeeded in meeting my idol again!!
Accompanied by Louis, Zoe passed by one guest after another who offered her their blessings.

But neither renowned artists nor fan leader Patricia could stop Zoe from pursuing her goals.

The beautiful bride walked straight to Ronan, playfully raising her eyebrows:
"You're driving too slowly."

I can't wait to become your wife.

Ronan took Zoe's hand and walked resolutely toward the castle:

"Then let's speed things up later."

Soon, you will be my legal wife.

Ronan and Zoe completed their legal marriage registration a month ago; all that's missing is the traditional marriage ceremony.

But the procedures of folk customs are far more complex than those that they do in the Lourmaran government.

The guests moved to the outdoor viewing area of ​​the castle, which had been prepared in advance, and the priest from Lourmaran village was already in place in front of the ceremony platform.

According to custom, the priest must first confirm that the couple has completed their marriage registration in their place of residence and that no one has raised any objections.

As the officiant, Blanco was also required to present a series of documents on the stage throughout the ceremony.

As he passed Ronan, he quipped humorously in a low voice:
"If I forgot to bring it, would you want to kill me on the spot?"

Ronan shrugged with a smile, giving him a 'you're funny' look.

With all the paperwork in place, the priest began his work.

The next part of the process involves local religious customs, including prayer, singing hymns, and the priest reading blessings.

Only after all of the above has been done can the climax of the wedding begin.

The priest smiled and said to Ronan and Zoe:
"Children, I know you can't wait to recite your vows. Now please get your wedding rings ready, we're about to begin."

Zoe looked at Blanco.

Ronan said that everything needed for the wedding, including materials and rings, was kept with him.

Ronan also looked at Blanco, meaning to him to hurry up and give him the ring.

Blanco broke out in a cold sweat.

Do I also have another role today: custodian of the ring?
Why didn't anyone tell me?

Blanco couldn't produce the ring for a long time, and the priest's face turned pale.

Below the viewing platform, Lia and Feng Zhen nervously looked around, asking everyone they could if they knew where the wedding rings were.

Zoe was undoubtedly the most flustered person present.

Will the most important day of my life be ruined by a lost ring?

She even wanted to ask the priest if the wedding could continue without a ring.

Just as the atmosphere became tense, a black figure slowly ran over, squatted down in front of Ronan and Zoe, and looked up at them with a firm gaze.

"Look, isn't that dog carrying something in its mouth?!"

Ronan took out the ring box that Xiao Hei had given him, faced Zoe who was still in shock, and smiled as he said:
“My wife loves animals so much, I guess she won’t refuse to give the children a ‘role’ at the swearing-in ceremony.”

(End of this chapter)