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Chapter32
Molly
The icy windwhips across my eyelashes through the cracked window of Matthew’s Rivian. Heat pours in through the vents, keeping my body warm.For three hours, my nerves have been pounding in my throat.
I’ve met all kinds of people, from celebrities to humanitarians to politicians and businesspeople. And I’ve gotten pretty good at charming crowds, shapeshifting my way through society with ease.
Right now, however, as we drive through the town that Matthew grew up in, all of that schmoozing and socializing feels entirely useless.
His family’s approval means the world to me. Not in the same way I needed my parents to sign off on my decisions, but in a different way. He loves his parents and siblings. I just want to fit into his life, wholly.
I inhale deeply, watching the rows of snowcapped trees slip past us.
“Robert sent me an almost complete EcoDrones prototype earlier this week.” Matthew breaks through the Christmas carol radio that’s filling the air.
“How are you feeling about that?” I turn to face the stark lines of his profile.
“Honestly, really good. I thought I would’ve been more nervous about handing in my notice at ORO, but it feels right.”
“Yeah, same.” I nod. “I figured Luca would be upset about losing me at the beginning of the year, but I think the replacement résumés I sent put him at ease.”
I’ll only be at ORO for another week after the holidays. Handing in our resignation letters was scary. I loved my job, but it represented another tie to the life my parents chose for me. It was time for me to cut myself loose.
“You were very considerate to do that for him,” Matthew says, keeping one hand on the steering wheel and reaching over with the other to squeeze my leg. “Are you excited for The Griffin?”
“I really am.” I wiggle in my seat. “Look at us go, two entrepreneurs chasing their dreams.”
“Achievingthem,” he reminds me. Matthew makes another turn down a narrow, snow-lined road. Colonial houses and twinkling Christmas lights make it feel like we’re driving through the set of a Hallmark movie.
Am I about to have an Amanda Woods winter like Cameron Diaz did inThe Holiday?
I put my hand on top of Matthew’s and give him a warm smile. Come to think of it, he kind of looks like a way sexier version of Jude Law.
You’re supposed to be the leading lady of your own life, for god’s sake!
I am now. Even if I have to remind myself of that fact repeatedly.
“I have to be honest; I’m really nervous.” I squeeze his hand, which is still on my thigh. “I just want your family to like me.”
“Be yourself, and everyone will love you as much as I love you. I promise.”
Matthew loving me makes me feel invincible.
Be myself.I can do that.
If his family is anything like him, they will all be warm and welcoming.
“Do you mind if we go through everyone’s names again?” I ask. “I’ve been practicing, but I’m pretty sure my head just emptied itself on I-90.”
“Of course, darling. So you already know Aaron, whose mom is Maya.” Matthew flexes his hand on the steering wheel, keeping his focus on the road.
“Maya is married to James, and they just had a baby named Sophia,” I recite from memory.
“Good girl. Maya is the oldest sister too.”
I got this.
Nerves be gone.
