Page 31 of Rhett

She hums contentedly. “This is nice. Maybe we could just have a lazy day in? Watch movies, order takeout later?”

I smile, loving how in sync we are. “That sounds perfect to me.” And it does, I love just spending time with her, we don’t have to be doing anything, just hanging out and it’s the best.

We spend the morning cuddled up on the couch, watching movies and talking. Around lunchtime, I whip us up some sandwiches. As we eat, I decide to broach a subject I've been thinking about.

“So, I was wondering if you'd like to meet my parents soon?” I ask, trying to sound casual. “Mom's been asking about you.”

Sofia's eyes light up at my words. “I'd love to meet your parents,” she replies with a smile. “And I know my mom would be thrilled to meet you too.”

I feel a sense of relief and excitement wash over me. “Great, maybe we could do dinner with my parents next weekend? And then we could have your mom over to my place the next forty-eight I’m off?”

Sofia nods enthusiastically. “That sounds perfect. I have to admit, I'm a little nervous about meeting your parents though.”

I take her hand in mine, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Don't be nervous, baby. They're going to love you, I promise. My mom is already half in love with you just from what I've told her.”

She laughs softly. “Well, I hope I live up to the hype.”

“You will,” I assure her. “Just be yourself. That's who I fell in love with.”

Sofia blushes at my words, her smile soft and warm. “You always know just what to say to make me feel better.”

I lean in and kiss her gently. “It's the truth. You're amazing just as you are, Sofia.”

We finish our lunch and settle back on the couch. Sofia curls into my side as we start another movie. As the afternoon wears on, I find myself thinking about the future—our future.

I've never been one to plan ahead or think long term when it comes to relationships. But with Sofia, I can't help but imagine a life together. Coming home to her every day. Maybe getting a house together someday. The thought of marriage and kids doesn't terrify me like it used to.

“What are you thinking about?” Sofia asks, noticing my faraway look.

I smile down at her. “Just thinking about us.”

We settle in and spend the rest of the day together.

18

Sofia

I take a deep breath as I stand in front of the mirror, smoothing down my dress for the tenth time. Tonight is a big night—I'm finally meeting Rhett's parents. To say I'm nervous would be an understatement.

“You look beautiful,” Rhett compliments, coming up behind me and wrapping his arms around my waist. He presses a soft kiss to my neck.

I lean back against him, drawing comfort from his solid presence. “Are you sure? Maybe I should change...” I trail off as I look at myself closely in the mirror.

Rhett turns me in his arms to face him. “Baby, you look perfect. They are going to love you, I promise.”

I bite my lip, still feeling uncertain. “What if they don’t? What if they think I'm not good enough for you?”

“Hey,” Rhett says softly, tilting my chin up to look at him. “None of that talk. Mom and Dad are the best, they’re a bit crazy, but you’re going to love them. I only wish Annie lived here so you could meet her too.” She’s in Florida, where she’s been for the past year.

I smile up at him. “I know, you're right. I'm just nervous. I want them to like me.”

Rhett kisses me gently. “They're going to adore you, just like I do. Now come on, we don't want to be late.”

We head out to Rhett's Jeep and make the drive to his parents' house. As we pull up in front of a charming two-story home, my nerves kick into overdrive again. Rhett reaches over and squeezes my hand reassuringly before we get out of the car.

We walk up to the front door hand in hand. Before Rhett can even knock, the door swings open to reveal a smiling woman who must be Rhett's mother.

“There you are!” she exclaims, pulling Rhett into a tight hug. When she releases him, she turns to me. “Sofia, oh my goodness. It’s so nice to meet you.” She pulls me into a hug and any bit of nervousness I had is gone. “I’m Rhett’s mom, Carol. Come inside and meet his father.” Looping her arm through mine, she leads me into their home.

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