Page 73 of Falling for Finn

“You tell me, Mr. Grumpy.”

He buries his face in my neck, and his warm breath feels good against my cold skin. “I have to ask you something.”

“Hmm?” My heart hammers as he keeps me waiting.

“Will you come to my family’s dinner tonight?”

“What?” I wasn’t expecting that at all.

He leans back to meet my confused eyes. “My grandparents are hosting a big get-together tonight and demanded I invite you. You don’t have to, so don’t feel obligated. It’s going to be a lot, and I know how they can be sometimes. I can make up an excuse that you’re working or too tired, if you prefer.”

I give him a puzzled look. “Do you not want me to?”

“Of course I do, but they’ll ask a ton of questions. I didn’t want to put any more pressure on you.”

“I think I can handle them.” I wrap my arms around his neck. “I survived Levi’s inquisition, so I think I’m prepared for anything at this point.”

“God,” he grumbles, leaning his forehead against mine. “I knew he would.”

Smirking, I cup his face. “Your friends and family love you. I don’t mind the questions. I’m good at winging it.” I shrug proudly.

“Not sure if I should be proud or scared of that.”

I laugh. “Come on, fake boyfriend. Let’s parade our relationship all over Maplewood Falls, then have dinner with your parents.”

This day has been one of the most fun I’ve had in months. After I warmed up, we walked all through town, greeted everyone who smiled our way, and tried all the sweets.

At five, we drove back to Finn’s to get ready to go to his grandparents. He dressed in nice black slacks, and I wore the same dress Jessa let me borrow.

As soon as I’m ready, Finn takes my hand and kisses me. “I can’t wait to peel this off you later.”

“Mm…no dirty talk before dinner, or I won’t be able to think about anything else.”

He grins, brushing a thumb over my cheek. “Ready to do this?”

“Yep. Let’s go.”

I’ve met most of Finn’s immediate family, but Willa and James invited over their other siblings, who brought their kids. The house is jam-packed, and there’s so much going on, I can hardly keep up.

Everyone I’ve met has been kind—with the exception of Finn’s jealous ex—and it’s honestly a nice change from what I’m used to. Since I have no family in California, I never get to experience this. It’s something I’ll miss when I’m gone.

“Did you have fun at the festival?” Willa asks as she finds me after dessert.

“Oh, it was incredible. I’ve never experienced anything like it.”

“I’m glad to hear it. Trick-or-treating is a fun time too. You’ll have to make sure to go down there on Monday.”

“Oh, I will. That’s when I’m presenting the painting for the town hall.”

“I bet everyone loves it.”

The self-doubt and pressure never go away, no matter how much experience I have, and this time is no different. “Thanks, I hope so.”

“It’s a shame you have to leave so soon.”

I frown. “I know. I’ve loved being here. I can’t thank you enough for the opportunity.”

“I know about your little…arrangement,” Willa whispers.

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