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I feel my stomach twist into a knot.
“Oh no! I feel terrible!”
“Why?”
“Can we stop somewhere along the way? I don’t want to turn up empty-handed for lunch. But I’d also like to buy Sarah a gift to thank her for letting me borrow her clothes.”
I was already nervous about meeting his brother and sister-in-law, but now it seems I am meeting the entire family, and I am woefully underprepared. But then, I want to know everything about him, and meeting the family will help to build a solid relationship.
“I’m springing this on you at the last minute, so don’t feel any pressure.”
“I can’t face the idea of not contributing something. It’s my Mediterranean blood.”
Some habits and customs are so deeply ingrained you take them with you forever and can never leave your past behind.
“Sure, but you are my guest, and I want you to relax and enjoy lunch. My parents fuss over him every year, even though he’s an adult.”
“Your family sounds like fun, but I’d appreciate it if we could find somewhere to stop.”
Despite my anxiety at meeting everyone, I am determined to show my appreciation for their hospitality.
“The only place to stop is a gas station. Fresh flowers are out of the question, but they might have candy or something like that.”
“I’ll find something.”
The drive to Easton’s brother’s place is further than I expected but gives me time for reflection. Even in the cold, I can’t help but appreciate the beauty and serenity of the snowy landscape.
When we arrive at the house, the family welcome us with hugs and laughter. Easton introduces me to his brother, Ryan, and his fiancée Sarah.
I give Sarah the hastily purchased gift. “Thanks for inviting me to lunch and lending me your clothes.”
“Oh, you’re so sweet! You didn’t need to do that.” She treats the candy box with reverence as though it’s a precious heirloom.
I may not have any friends yet, but if she is the only person I know in the area, that is a good start.
Easton has two more brothers, Pax and Nolan. They look similar to him, so I feel as though I already know them.
I love watching Easton operate within his family environment. The night we met in the bar, he carried himself with an air of authority and poise, never seeming rushed or flustered.
It isn’t his muscles, the strong planes of his face, or those clever, dark brown eyes that make it impossible for me to look away. He walks and talks with innate confidence. Even when he’s standing still, a certain energy always follows him.
Easton’s parents are friendly and put me at ease as the family gathers around the table for lunch. But I notice their surprise when Easton introduces me as his girlfriend. I drop into the chair next to Easton with a nervous smile. He smiles back, but I see how his mom looks at me, and I’m waiting for the interrogation.
During lunch, the conversation turns to me. Easton’s parents bombard me with questions, wanting to know why I am moving to Lawton.
I tell them what I know about the job and sum it up by saying, “It’s a great opportunity.”
I get the feeling they are not interested in my career but are protective of their son, and I want to know why.
“She’s being modest,” Easton says. He pulls out his phone and shows them some photos we took earlier, singing my praises. “Ivy is a talented photographer.”
He puts his arm around my shoulders, claiming me in front of everyone. It feels bold, but I welcome it, and his words light me up brighter than the Christmas tree dominating the living room. And that’s saying something because that’s one big ass tree.
I see him. I know what he wants from me, and I’m ready to give him everything.
We spent the afternoon catching up, telling stories, and sharing laughter. After a delicious lunch and plenty of desserts, we said our goodbyes and hit the road again, ready to finish our journey.
Even though I am sad to leave, I experienced a day full of happiness, joy, and warmth. It was unexpected, but so is everything to do with Easton.
