Hers to Love

Chapter 6

As Maria drove toward Amir's home, her grip on the steering wheel tightened. The familiar city streets blurred past her, but her mind was elsewhere, replaying the unexpected encounter she'd had with Amir's father at McDonald's.

It had been an exhausting day—she'd spent hours in mediation, fighting tooth and nail for her client. By the time she stepped into McDonald's, all she wanted was a quick bite to eat before heading home. But as she waited in line, something—or rather, someone—caught her eye.

A man stood a few people ahead of her, his profile oddly familiar. When he turned slightly, Maria's heart skipped a beat. It was Amir's father. She recognized him from the photos Amir had shown her during their conversations.

Without overthinking it, Maria found herself walking toward him. She hadn't planned on introducing herself in such a casual setting, but something about the moment felt right.

"Excuse me, sir," she said, her voice steady despite the fluttering in her chest. "I'm Maria, a friend of Amir's."

His father turned to her, and for a brief moment, Maria worried he might not recognize her. But then a warm smile spread across his face.

"Maria! I've heard so many good things about you from my son," he said, his voice full of genuine warmth. "My wife is so thankful for the gifts you sent us. She's been wanting to meet you."

Maria felt a wave of relief and surprise wash over her. She had expected polite acknowledgment at most, but Amir's father spoke as if he already knew her, as if she were already someone significant in their lives.

"I'm so glad to hear that, sir," Maria replied, her nerves beginning to settle. "It's really nice to meet you in person."

They chatted briefly, and as they parted ways, Maria promised to speak with Amir about arranging a proper introduction to the rest of his family. "Don't worry, sir," she'd said with a reassuring smile. "I'll talk to your son about it."

Now, as she navigated through Amir's neighborhood, Maria couldn't help but replay that conversation in her mind. The fact that Amir's father knew so much about her and had spoken kindly made her feel a bit more at ease. But the anticipation of meeting the rest of his family had her stomach in knots.

She pulled up to Amir's house and took a deep breath, her fingers lightly drumming on the steering wheel. This wasn't just a casual visit—it felt like a significant step forward, one that could shape the future of her relationship with Amir. She wasn't just meeting his family; she was stepping into his world in a more profound way.

Maria glanced at the package of sweets on the passenger seat, the same ones Amir's mother had thanked her for. She had packed another small gift, wanting to bring something thoughtful for this visit. She hoped it would be a good icebreaker, something to ease the tension she felt.

As she walked up to the front door, her heart raced. But she reminded herself of the kindness Amir's father had shown her in that unexpected encounter. His words replayed in her mind, grounding her nerves.

The door opened before she could knock, and there stood Amir, his warm smile instantly calming her. "Hey, you made it," he said, his voice filled with the same easy warmth that had drawn her to him in the first place.

"Yeah," Maria replied, trying to keep her voice steady as she returned his smile. "I'm really looking forward to meeting everyone."

Amir's gaze softened as he stepped aside to let her in. "They're going to love you, Maria. I promise."

As she stepped into the house, the familiar scent of home-cooked food filled the air, and the sound of laughter echoed from another room. Maria felt a wave of both anxiety and excitement wash over her. This was it—the moment she'd been both dreading and anticipating.

But as Amir took her hand and led her into the living room where his family was waiting, Maria realized that maybe, just maybe, everything would be alright.

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