𝐀 𝐁𝐞𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐬︱Pablo Gavi

25: Dinner with the past

The evening was quiet, save for the soft hum of the city outside our window. Pablo and I were lying in bed, the room dimly lit by the bedside lamp. We had spent the evening together, enjoying each other's company and savoring the calm after a long day. The tranquility of the night was interrupted when Pablo's phone buzzed on the nightstand.

He reached over, glancing at the screen, and I saw a familiar smile spread across his face. "It's my mom," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "She's calling from Seville."

Pablo answered the call, and I could hear his mother's cheerful voice on the other end. The conversation was in Spanish, so I caught only snippets of their exchange. Pablo's expression shifted from casual to serious as the conversation continued. I watched him, sensing that something significant was about to unfold.

After a few minutes, Pablo hung up the phone and turned to me, his smile replaced with a thoughtful look. "My mom is coming to Barcelona," he said, his eyes meeting mine. "She wants us to join her and my dad for dinner tomorrow night. They're really looking forward to meeting you."

My heart skipped a beat. Meeting his family was a big step, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. "Are you sure I'm ready for this?" I asked, trying to mask my nervousness.

Pablo took my hand in his, his touch both reassuring and comforting. "Of course you are. They've heard so much about you already. I'm sure they'll love you."

I nodded, taking a deep breath. "Okay. I'll do my best."

The next evening, as we prepared for dinner, I couldn't shake the flutter of nerves in my stomach. I had chosen a simple yet elegant outfit—a soft blue dress that made me feel both comfortable and polished. Pablo wore a smart button-up shirt and slacks, looking every bit the gentleman.

We arrived at the restaurant, a cozy yet upscale place that seemed to embody warmth and charm. The soft glow of the lights and the inviting aroma of delicious food created a welcoming atmosphere. Pablo's parents were already seated at a corner table, and as we approached, I saw them stand to greet us.

Pablo's mother, a strikingly beautiful woman with kind eyes and a warm smile, welcomed me with open arms. "Isabella, it's so lovely to finally meet you!" she said, pulling me into a gentle hug.

His father, a distinguished-looking man with a friendly demeanor, shook my hand firmly. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Isabella. I've heard so much about you."

Aurora, Pablo's older sister, beamed at me from the other side of the table. "I've heard so much about you, too. I'm really excited to get to know you better."

The initial introductions went smoothly, and as we settled into our seats, the conversation flowed naturally. We talked about a variety of topics, from favorite foods to travel experiences. I was grateful for the easygoing nature of the evening, which helped ease some of my nerves.

However, as the dinner progressed, Pablo's parents became more curious about my background. They asked about my family, and I felt a pang of anxiety. Meeting someone's family is always a significant milestone, but for me, it also meant revisiting some painful memories.

"So, Isabella," Pablo's mother began, her voice gentle and inquisitive, "tell us more about your family. Do you have any siblings?"

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my voice. "I have a brother named Matteo. He's been my rock since we were kids."

"And your parents?" his father asked, his tone sincere and interested.

I hesitated, feeling the familiar knot of sadness tightening in my chest. "My mother passed away when I was young," I said, my voice trembling slightly. "And my father left before I was born. It's just been Matteo and me."