Whisper Destiny

Chapter 10

~ Natasha ~

Sixth months had passed since the Christmas and New Year break, and my life had taken a remarkable turn for the better.

My relationship with my parents had significantly improved. My mother and I now spoke through video calls almost every week, and my father would join us whenever he was around. Reflecting on why I had distanced myself from them, I realized it was partly due to my rebellious teenage years and partly the blame I had put on Catherine. But those days felt like a distant memory now.

Despite my efforts to reconnect with my parents, my relationship with Catherine remained unchanged. We had never been close, and I had no plans to alter that dynamic. The distance between us felt like a necessary boundary, a way to protect myself from the emotional turmoil that always seemed to follow our interactions.

Things with Nicholas had also become more stable and serious. He had grown more affectionate, spending most of his time at my apartment. Occasionally, he would even join in on the video calls with my parents, further solidifying his presence in my life.

I completed my master's degree with flying colors, a testament to my intellect and determination. As I had mentioned before, when I set my mind to something, I could conquer the world. The long nights of studying and relentless focus had paid off, and I was ready to step into the future with confidence.

This week marked a significant milestone...my graduation. My parents were coming to town, staying for a week to celebrate and spend time together with Nick and me before we all headed back home. The anticipation of their visit filled me with excitement and a sense of accomplishment.

Life couldn't be better. These past months had been the happiest of my entire life so far.

******

Finally, the day arrived when my parents met Nicholas face to face. I introduced them on the day of our graduation. Saying I was nervous would be an understatement. My heart pounded like a drum, and my palms were slick with sweat. However, the meeting went surprisingly well, and a wave of relief washed over me.

Tonight, Nicholas and I are having dinner with my parents. Chase will join us as well, despite Nicholas's initial reluctance. He felt that the dinner should be an intimate affair, just the four of us, like a true family gathering. However, I explained that my parents wanted Chase to be there as well, and Nicholas just let it go, still feel dissatisfied.

Chase and I still spend time together now and then, but our time is more limited since Nicholas often stays at my apartment. The tension between Chase and Nicholas remains palpable, as Chase still harbors a strong dislike for him. Most of the time, when I'm with Nicholas, Chase avoids us, and the same happens when I'm with Chase. I hope that one day, they can see eye to eye and find some common ground, because these two is most important person in my life.

As I stepped out of the car, I dragged Nicholas inside the restaurant, the air buzzing with the excitement of the evening. My mother spotted me almost instantly and waved enthusiastically. I walked towards her, enveloping her in a warm hug. My father stood up to do the same, his embrace firm and reassuring. Chase was already there, comfortably chatting with my parents, which didn't surprise me. He always had a knack for fitting in effortlessly. I gave Chase a quick side hug, grateful for his easygoing nature.

My parents and Nicholas exchanged introductions, their polite smiles masking the underlying tension. So far, so good, I thought, feeling a mix of relief and stress.

After we ordered our meals, the conversation drifted into something more casual. Most of the talking came from my father, who directed a steady stream of questions toward Nicholas probing gently, yet persistently.

Nicholas, ever the picture of composure, answered each one with a calm confidence that made me feel oddly proud.

Across the table, I caught Chase rolling his eyes every time Nicholas seized the opportunity to compliment himself.

What could I say?

My boyfriend, soon to be my fiancé was undeniably confident... and completely unashamed of it.

Nicholas began sharing his plans for life after graduation. With unwavering confidence, he outlined his aspirations, painting a vivid picture of a future filled with success and prosperity. His ambition was palpable, each word dripping with the determination to leave a mark on the world.

"I see myself building a career that will be just as successful as yours, sir. If not even better," Nicholas declared, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "And of course, Natasha, you will be right there by my side, my love," he added, turning to me with a confident smile.

From the corner of my eye, I noticed my parents' expressions. Part curiosity, part scrutiny. They were studying Nicholas carefully, weighing his words and quietly judging his character.

I silently willed them to see what I saw in him, to like him as much as I did.

The dinner went better than I had dared to hope. When it ended, we parted ways. My parents returning to their hotel, Chase heading back to his own place. Nicholas and I decided to take a walk before going back to our apartment, the cool night air brushing softly against my skin.

As we strolled along the pavement, Nicholas broke the comfortable silence between us.

"Do you think they liked me?" he asked.

"You nailed it, my love," I replied, giving him the reassurance he was clearly seeking.

Nicholas nodded, a self-assured smile curling at the corners of his lips.