Page 48 of Grumpy Orc CEO

As we step out of the car, my mother opens the door and rushes out to greet us. Her face lights up when she sees Lucy. "You must be Lucy! I've heard so much about you," she exclaims, enveloping Lucy in a warm hug.

Lucy looks slightly taken aback but quickly recovers, returning the hug. "It's wonderful to meet you, Mrs. Thraknar."

"Please, call me Gerta," my mother insists with a smile. "Come on in, everyone’s eager to meet you."

Inside, my father stands by the fireplace, his towering presence softened by his kind eyes. He shakes Lucy’s hand firmly but gently. "Welcome to our home, Lucy," he says warmly.

We move into the dining room where my siblings and their families are gathered. They greet Lucy with genuine interest and friendliness, making small talk and asking about her background and interests. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming.

I watch as Lucy begins to relax, her laughter mixing with that of my family’s. The conversation flows effortlessly, filled with anecdotes and light-hearted teasing that make her feel like one of us.

At one point during the evening, as we’re moving from one room to another, I lean in and steal a quick kiss on Lucy's cheek. She looks up at me, her eyes sparkling with gratitude and affection.

"You’re doing great," I whisper, squeezing her hand reassuringly.

She nods, visibly more at ease now. The warmth of my family's acceptance surrounds us like a comforting blanket, making this night feel even more special.

As the dinner progresses, I can't help but watch Lucy with a growing sense of pride. She’s engaging with my family, her laughter mingling with theirs, her charm effortlessly winning them over. My mother leans in closer to Lucy, sharing a story from my childhood that makes everyone burst into laughter.

"I can’t believe he did that!" Lucy exclaims, her eyes wide with amusement.

"Oh, you have no idea," Gerta says, shaking her head. "Jarvin was always full of surprises."

Lucy’s kindness shines through in every interaction. She listens intently to my father as he talks about his latest project and shares a genuine interest in my siblings’ lives. Her empathy and warmth draw them in, breaking down any initial tension.

I catch her eye across the table and give her a reassuring smile. She returns it with a sparkle in her eyes that makes my heart swell with affection. Watching her fit so seamlessly into my family feels like a confirmation of everything I’ve felt since the moment we met.

At one point, during a lull in the conversation, I take the opportunity to lean in close to her. The room buzzes softly around us, but for a moment, it feels like we’re the only two people there.

"You’re amazing," I whisper, my voice filled with sincerity.

Lucy blushes slightly but looks at me with gratitude. I can’t resist the urge to kiss her softly on the lips—a silent promise of my love and commitment. The kiss is brief but tender, conveying all the emotions I can’t put into words.

When we pull back, she looks at me with such depth and understanding that it takes my breath away. The connection between us feels stronger than ever, solidified by the acceptance and warmth of my family. I know without a doubt that she is the one for me.

As the evening winds down, and we share one last round of stories and laughter, I feel an overwhelming sense of contentment. With Lucy by my side and my family’s embrace around us, everything feels just right.

After leaving my parents' house, I can't wipe the grin off my face. Lucy fits in perfectly, and the night isn't over yet. "Ready for our date?" I ask, my voice filled with anticipation.

Lucy nods, her eyes sparkling with excitement. We drive to a charming, intimate restaurant nestled in the heart of the city. The soft glow of streetlights and the gentle hum of evening traffic set a romantic backdrop. As we step out of the car, I pull her close, feeling the warmth of her body against mine.

"Before we go in," I murmur, brushing a strand of hair from her face, "Come here." I lean in and capture her lips in a lingering kiss. Her arms wrap around my neck, pulling me closer. The world fades away, leaving just the two of us in this perfect moment.

We finally pull apart, breathless but smiling. Hand in hand, we enter the restaurant. The atmosphere is exactly what I'd hoped for—soft lighting, cozy booths, and a sense of intimacy that makes it feel like we're the only ones there.

Seated at a secluded table by the window, we take in the ambiance. Candlelight dances across Lucy's face, highlighting her features beautifully. I can't help but stare, completely captivated by her.

As we peruse the menu, our conversation flows effortlessly. We laugh about stories from our pasts and share dreams for the future. "I've always wanted to open a little bookstore," Lucy admits, her eyes lighting up at the thought.

"A bookstore?" I repeat with genuine interest. "I can see that. You'd be amazing at it."

She blushes slightly but smiles warmly. "What about you? Any big dreams?"

I take a moment to consider before answering. "Honestly? I've always wanted to find someone who understands me, someone I can share everything with." My gaze locks onto hers, and I can see she understands.

The chemistry between us is palpable as we flirt and tease each other throughout dinner. Between courses, I steal tender kisses that leave us both wanting more. Each touch and look deepens our connection, making this evening feel magical.

As dessert arrives—a decadent chocolate fondue—we can't stop smiling at each other. Dipping strawberries into the warm chocolate, we feed each other bites amidst her giggles and stolen kisses.

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