Chapter 46 What If She Doesn't Like Me?
Gracie
It has been a few days since the run-in between Ryland and my dad. I have been avoiding home as much as I can. Needless to say, every time I am home, Ryland is there too, which means my dad keeps his distance. I know it can’t last forever, but despite that fact, I am going to take full advantage of it while I can. Today I have other things to think about.
I am meeting Ryland’s mom! Well, meeting her again, though now officially as Ryland’s girlfriend. I am a nervous wreck. I was surprised when he asked me to join them for dinner so that his mom could get to know me properly. I didn’t think Ryland was the time, but then again, I am learning new things about him every day that surprise me. It is part of the enjoyment of a new relationship, getting to know the other person.
I am trying to work out what to wear. What do you wear to meet your boyfriend’s mother? Our first meeting was brief. This one is more important and personal. I have never been in this situation before. I glance around my room, and it is a mess! Luckily, my dad isn’t home, so it is one less thing for me to worry about.
“Gracie, where are you?” I hear Ryland’s voice ring through the house from downstairs.
He wasn’t supposed to be here for another hour. I am only in my underwear.
“Bedroom,” I call back.
I try to find my hoodie to cover myself up a little. I scurry around and try to find it, or something, but even with all my clothes lying around, I can’t find something quick enough to pull over the top of me.
“Hey, baby girl.” I hear from my bedroom door.
Nervously, I turn to face him. “Um, hello, handsome.”
He is trying hard not to let his eyes wander over my half-naked body. I appreciate him trying. I laugh and stroll over to him. I slip my arms around his neck and kiss him. We parted after a moment.
Ryland looks around my room and laughs. “What has happened here?”
“I am trying to find an outfit for dinner.”
“Brown eyes, you don’t need to dress up. Wear whatever you like and what you feel comfortable in.” He smiles.
I sigh and shake my head. “I don’t want it to seem like I haven’t made an effort. This is important, Ryland.”
“You will look great in anything. My mom isn’t going to mind what you wear.”
“Are you sure?”
Ryland nods. “Yes. Please put some clothes on because I am getting very distracted with you being half-naked around me. I am trying to behave, but you aren’t making it easy for me.”
I did consider covering myself up, but then another idea came to mind. I want to mess with him, only a little. I smirk and close the small space between us. I rest my hand on his chest and reach into his ear. “What is wrong, Ryland? Can’t you handle me like this?” I purr and slowly dance my fingers down his chest.
He swallows hard and can only nod his head rather than use his words. Ryland grips my hips and holds me against him. I cover his lips with mine in a rough kiss, and his hold tightens on me. The more we share kisses, the more I struggle to control myself. It is getting harder every day. I still don’t want to rush into anything.
“Mmm, brown eyes, you are a little tease.” He mumbles into my lips.
I laugh and put a distance between us. “Sorry, I will behave.”
I walk away from him, and she swats my ass as I do. I glance over my shoulder at him. “Naughty.”
He smirks. I couldn’t help myself.
I return to standing before my bed, trying to work out what to wear. I rummage through them again. I pick out a white summer dress, one that stops at my knees. It hides the cits and scars, which is what I want. I don’t want his mom seeing them. I can wear it with flats. I am not a fan of heels. I never have been.
I turn to face him and hold it up. “Is this okay?”
Ryland smiles. “Yes, it is fine, baby girl. You will look beautiful in it.”
Ryland helps me put my clothes on, and then I get ready. I am still nervous. I really hope she likes me. I know how protective mothers can be over their sons. I hope she will think I am good enough for her son.
“What if your mom doesn’t like me?”
“How can she not like you? You are incredible and have a huge heart. Please, stop worrying.” He says and kisses me softly.
I nod as we part. I braid my hair and put a little makeup, only mascara and lip gloss, nothing too much. I do not wear much. Ryland offers his hand to me, which I happily takes and we head out to go next door. The closer we get to the house, the more nervous I become. My stomach churns, and my heart races in my chest. He stops us outside and turns to me, kissing me softly.
“Relax, sweetness. You are going to do great.”
He keeps a hold of my hands and leads us inside. He calls out to his mom, letting her know we are here. She soon comes rushing through, wearing the biggest smile on her lips.
“Gracie, it is great to meet you properly. Ryland has told me all about you. Please call me Melissa.” She gushes.
I relax and return the smile. “Hello, it is great to meet you properly, too, Melissa.”
She hugs me, which takes me off a little guard. Only for a moment, and I hug her back. Melissa pulls away and motions for us to follow her through to the kitchen. She gives us some drinks while dinner cooks. She seems lovely. I will try my best not to do or say anything to mess it up. We are off to a good start, and I can only wish it ends that way too.