In the days that followed, Deanna lived peacefully and happily. Her relationship with Lance grew stronger.
Perhaps it was because they had been intimate, but Lance often kissed Deanna, leaving her breathless each time. Sometimes, he even kissed her in public, though he always stopped before going too far.
Half a month passed quickly. One day, Lance finished his work early and prepared to go home to be with Deanna and their two children.
As he stepped out of the elevator, he met his father coming out of another elevator. Nodding in greeting, he asked, "Are you heading home too?"
Logan nodded and was about to leave but then stopped as if he remembered something. Turning back, he asked, "When do you plan to formally bring Dr. Deanna to our home?"
Although they hadn't appeared in front of the couple recently, they had been keeping an eye on their situation and knew that their relationship had changed.
They had expected Lance to inform them of his relationship with Deanna, but half a month had passed without any word from him.
Lance was surprised by his father's question and hesitated, "You and Mom don't oppose me being with Deanna anymore?"
"Would it matter if we did?" Logan replied with a hint of frustration and helplessness. They had decided not to interfere anymore. After all, the couple already had children and feelings for each other. If they insisted on being the villains, it would only lead to family discord and possibly losing their son. Moreover, after what happened with Bella, they were wary of introducing any more potential partners to their son.
Lance was momentarily stunned by his father's words but soon understood his meaning. He couldn't help but smile and said happily, "I understand. I'll discuss it with Deanna and arrange a time to bring her home."
Logan snorted lightly and reminded him, "Don't forget about the children."
"I know. Gregory and Chloe miss their grandparents too," Lance replied with a smile.
Logan grumbled, "If they miss us so much, why don't they come to see us? Such ungrateful little ones." With that, he left without waiting for Lance's reaction.
Later that evening, Lance returned to Hilltop Manor. As soon as he entered the living room, he saw Deanna and the children laughing on the sofa. His stern features softened into a smile, and his heart filled with warmth.
"I'm back," he announced to the three on the sofa.
Gregory and Chloe jumped off the sofa excitedly and ran towards him like little rockets.
"Daddy's back!"
"Hug me!"
Lance bent down and picked up both children, one in each arm.
Deanna watched their interaction with a smile and teased, "Aren't you tired? Carrying both of them at once. Gregory, Chloe, get down; your daddy has been working all day."
The children were a bit disappointed but concerned for their father.
"Daddy, put me down."
"I don't want you to be tired," Chloe added, wriggling in his arms.
Listening to their innocent words, Lance's face lit up with a smile. "Don't worry, I'm not tired." Despite his words, the children insisted, so he put them down.
The family played together for a while until it was time for dinner. During the meal, Lance brought up what his father had mentioned earlier.
"My parents know about our relationship and want me to bring you and the kids over for a family dinner tomorrow. What do you think?"
"A family dinner..." Deanna was taken aback. Given the previous disapproval from the Mercer family elders about their relationship, this sudden change in attitude surprised her.
Lance noticed her stunned expression and understood her feelings. He reached out to hold her hand and reassured her, "Don't worry, I'll handle everything."
Feeling the warmth of his hand, Deanna looked into his affectionate eyes and smiled in relief. Yes, as long as this man was by her side, she had nothing to fear.
She nodded gently and smiled, "Alright, we'll visit your parents tomorrow."
Old Ashley cleared her throat softly, drawing their attention.
"Grandma, what's wrong?" Deanna asked in confusion.
Lance remained silent but looked at Old Ashley.
Old Ashley advised, "Since tomorrow is an official visit to Lance's parents, you shouldn't go empty-handed. Remember to buy some gifts and be courteous."
"I understand," Deanna nodded and then looked at Lance with a sweet smile. She joked, "Mr. Mercer, do you have time tomorrow to help me pick out some gifts?"