Chapter 17
Saturday finally came, and honestly, I was feeling nervous. Meeting Lola’s dad and siblings was going to be a whole different dynamic, but I kept reminding myself everything would be okay. Lola would be there, and that alone made it easier.
Before heading over, I texted her:
Hey babe, I’ll be heading over to your house in a little bit, but I’m nervous to meet your family. Hopefully they’ll like me.
Lola: You’ll be okay! Take a deep breath and shake off the nerves. They’ll love you. I’ve talked to my dad and my older sister about you — they’re excited to meet you.
Me: That’s good at least.
Lola: Let me know when you’re here.
Me: I will.
I set my phone down, got dressed, and checked the time — quarter to 3.
I headed downstairs and reminded my parents and Mya that it was almost time to go.
“Dad, I texted you the address. I’m going to head over to her house right now.”
“Okay, son,” he said. “We’ll meet you there.”
I stepped outside, got into my car, texted Lola that I was on my way, and drove off.
Ten minutes later, I knocked on her front door. A moment later, Lola opened it with a bright smile.
“I’m glad you guys made it! Come in and make yourselves welcome. My dad is in the backyard BBQ’ing, and my older siblings are talking while he’s cooking.”
She led us inside and guided us toward the back patio.
“Hey Dad! This is Finn, his little sister, and his parents.”
Her dad looked up from the grill. “Hi, Finn. How are you doing?”
“I’m doing good. Yourself?”
“I can’t complain,” he chuckled, flipping something on the grill. “Food should be ready shortly.”
Not long after, we all grabbed plates, served ourselves, and sat down at the big round table near the grill.
And then the conversation began…