Chapter 19
Meeting Lola’s family was great. I got to talk to all of them, and they really do seem like good people. I’d been worried for nothing. Her dad seemed to like me — maybe even think highly of me — which was a huge sigh of relief. I wanted to make a good impression on him and on her older siblings, especially since they’re protective of Lola. She’s the youngest, after all.
Her dad is a down‑to‑earth guy, but protective in a way you don’t see very often. Her siblings were nice too, though her brothers were a little intimidating at first. I’m sure once I get to know them better, they’ll loosen up and probably end up being outgoing.
I love Lola.
I haven’t told her yet, but I know I will.
Next time we’re alone — on a date or just hanging out — when the moment feels right, that’s when I’ll say it.
It’s Sunday afternoon when I text her.
Me: “Hey babe, what are you up to?”
Lola: “Just hanging out with Angela and Jacob, you?”
Me: “Oh fun. How’s Jacob doing?”
Lola: “He’s been doing good and wants to know how you’re doing.”
Me: That’s nice of him to ask. Let him know I’ve been doing good. Ask if he and Angela would like to do a double date.
Lola: I will, and I’ll let you know what they say.
Me: Sounds good.
Then she asks:
Lola: How do you feel after meeting my family?
I tell her the truth.
Me: I was nervous about how your dad would think of me, but it seems like he likes me — and so do your older siblings. I’m glad everything worked out.
Lola: They like you a lot, especially my dad. See? You had nothing to worry about. That’s how I felt when I met your family.
Me: True. And they loved you — especially Mya. She thinks of you as her big sister.
Lola: Aww, that’s sweet of her. She’s literally the cutest.
We keep texting for a while longer, just talking about everything and nothing.
Our relationship is blossoming. We’re doing good — no arguments, no secrets, nothing messy or complicated. Just us. Just steady, healthy, and real.
Maybe next year I’ll propose.
I can see a future with her.
I’m pretty sure she sees one with me too… unless she says otherwise.
We’ll see.