It was the year 1795 June 17th, and Napoleon had gradually assumed most of the responsibilities that once belonged to Ciela. From the meticulous management of their business affairs to the intricate orchestration of their personal lives, Ciela found herself taking a step back to her major role as the company leader.
"Napoleon...really I can still do some work," Ciela said, pleading to Napoleon in his office who was currently engaged in reading business reports.
"Didn't I tell you that I will handle everything?" Napoleon said, looking up to meet her gaze. "This work will simply stress you and I don't want you to be stressed especially when you are carrying our child."
As Napoleon said that, Ciela brushed her hands on her belly, which had grown noticeably with the progress of her pregnancy. Her due date was approaching.
"Say, Napoleon. Do you think we are having twins?" Ciela asked. "My belly looks bigger than usual, and I've been feeling these strange flutters inside me."
Napoleon's face lit up with a mix of surprise and delight. He put down the reports and walked over to Ciela, placing a gentle hand on her belly.
"A twin? Well, your belly is certainly growing quite a bit, my love," Napoleon said with a soft chuckle.
"It's sad that there's no way for us to confirm it. In my era, the doctors would be able to tell the gender and determine if we are indeed having twins," Ciela said, her tone tinged with a hint of wistfulness.
"Really? That's convenient," Napoleon mused.
As they were enjoying their moments, Beaumont arrived at Napoleon's office.
"Sorry, sir. Is it not the right time?" Beaumont asked.
Napoleon turned his attention to Beaumont who had interrupted their intimate moment.
"It's quite alright, Beaumont," Napoleon replied, giving him a reassuring smile. "What brings you here?"
Letizia recovered first, a radiant smile gracing her features. "What should I say, but support your decision? And she is pregnant. How long has it been?"
Napoleon smiled warmly at his mother's words. "It has been six months, we are expecting she will give birth in September."
"I have no objection to your decision, brother," Joseph chimed in. "I have heard a lot about her. You were the one that made your company to where it is now? I must say, you are a shrewd businesswoman."
Ciela's cheeks flushed with a mixture of pride and gratitude at Joseph's compliment. She had worked tirelessly alongside Napoleon to build their industrial empire, and it meant a great deal to her to receive recognition from his brother.
"Thank you, Joseph," she replied sincerely. "I heard that you were also a member of the Council of Ancients."
Joseph nodded "Yes, that is correct. I have been involved in politics and public service. It seems we both have a passion for making our mark in the world, albeit in different ways." He paused for a moment, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I must say, Ciela, it takes great strength and determination to achieve what you have in the business world. I can see why Napoleon holds you in such high regard."
Ciela's smile widened, touched by Joseph's understanding. "Thank you, Joseph. Your words mean a lot to me."
"How are my siblings?" Napoleon asked.
"Oh they are doing great," Letizia replied with a fond smile. "Caroline and Elisa are both flourishing. Caroline has taken a keen interest in politics and has been actively engaging in social causes, while Elisa has shown great talent in the arts and has been pursuing her studies in music. As for Jerome, Lucien, Pauline, and Louis, they are thriving in their own pursuits as well," Letizia continued. "Jerome has joined the military, Lucien is excelling in his legal career, Pauline has become quite the socialite, and Louis is showing promising talent in literature."
Napoleon listened attentively, a sense of pride swelling within him as he heard about his siblings' achievements. As expected from his siblings, they had each found their own path and excelled in their chosen fields. In the future, he knew that two of his siblings, Lucien and Joseph would play a major role in his ascent to power.
"So when is the wedding?" Joseph asked.
"I want it to be held next week. The situation in France is volatile, and at any moment, the National Convention might call upon me for active service," Napoleon replied, his voice tinged with a sense of urgency. "I don't want to delay any longer. I want Ciela to be my wife before any potential disruptions arise."
Ciela looked at Napoleon, her cheek flushing after hearing his words.
"Well, where is it going to be held?" Letizia inquired, her eyes filled with curiosity.
Napoleon took a moment to think. "A simple wedding venue would do, so I think the Hôtel de Mondragon would be a good fit."
"Very well, Napoleon," Letizia nodded her head in agreement.