Chapter 15
It’s Thursday — the day after I met Finn’s family — and oh boy, let me tell you how I felt during that whole dinner. Before seeing Finn yesterday, I wanted to surprise his little sister Mya and his parents with a few gifts. I tried to think about what they’d like, and for Mya I figured fidget toys and a coloring book would be perfect. When I saw their reactions, the relief that washed over me was unreal. They were thrilled, especially Mya, who was too excited to finish eating because she wanted to play with what I got her. Seeing her that happy made my heart warm.
Meeting your significant other’s family for the first time is important — not extreme pressure, but still meaningful. And they were kind. Respectful. Welcoming. I’d been anxious and nervous beforehand because I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know how they’d treat me or what they’d think. But everything I worried about turned out to be the opposite. After getting to know them, I felt so much better. And Finn was beside me the whole time, making sure everything went smoothly.
Honestly? I love him.
But I haven’t told him yet.
I want to say it at the right moment — not too soon, not rushed, not out of fear. I don’t want to say it and then have him not say it back or tell me it’s too early. I know that’s just my anxiety talking, but still. Ever since we started dating, it’s felt like a breath of fresh air. The pacing feels right. He treats me with respect and love — things I didn’t get in my last relationship.
My dad comes out of his room and sees me sitting in the living room.
“How are you doing?” he asks.
“I’m doing good.”
“That’s good to hear.”
I pause. “Did I or didn’t I tell you I’m in a relationship now?”
He looks surprised. “I believe so… his name is Finn, right?”
“Yes, Finn. Okay, I did tell you — I just couldn’t remember.”
“No worries,” he says. “How are you two doing so far?”
“So far so good,” I say, smiling.
He gives me a look. “You’re not talking to Chase or his girlfriend, right?”
“No, I don’t talk to either of them. But when Finn and I went on our first date, we saw them there. They interrupted our date, and Chase tried to convince me to give him another chance — even though he’s with her. Finn stood up for us. They used to be friends, but not anymore.”
“That’s good,” my dad says firmly. “Good on him for standing up for you and himself. I didn’t like Chase after how he treated you. He broke your heart. I’d like to meet Finn and his family.”
I wasn’t expecting that, but it made me happy.
“That’d be nice,” I say. “I want you to meet them. They’re kind people. When do you want to meet them?”
He thinks for a moment. “How about this Saturday around 3 p.m., if that works for them? If not, we can reschedule.”
“That’s a good question. Let me talk to Finn. Once he talks to his family, I’ll let you know.”
“Okay, sounds good,” he says. “I’m glad you’re happy now and doing better. I’ve seen you grow and mature.”
“Thanks, Dad. I love you. I know I don’t say it a lot, but I do.”
He smiles. “I love you too,” he says, hugging me. I hug him back.
Later in the afternoon, I text Finn.
Me: Hey, I hope work has been going well. I don’t know when you get off. I spoke to my dad and he wants to know if this Saturday around 3 p.m. works for you and your family?
He replies:
Hi love, work has been crazy busy and I didn’t get the chance to text you, but I’m glad you did. Saturday at 3 should be okay. I’ll talk to my mom or dad and see if it works for them. I know I’m free and so is Mya.
Me: Alright, just let me know when you get the chance to talk to them so I can tell my dad.
We keep texting for a bit, then I check my friend group chat. I scroll and see something surprising.
Brianna: Guess what? Me and Nicholas are going out now. We’ve been hanging out and getting to know each other, and one day he asked me out and I said yes.
Angela: I’m happy for you.
Natalie: That’s awesome.
Me: Brianna, I’m happy for you. I didn’t expect that to happen, but I’m glad it worked out. I wish you two the best of luck. We’ll always be here for you if you need us.
Natalie and Angela agree.
Brianna: That makes me happy to hear. I didn’t know how you guys would react.
We keep talking from there.