Do you belong with me?

chapter 4

After a few days back in college for our last semester, the workload was light, so I spent most of my time at the National History Museum. They even offered me a full-time job once I complete my degree. Meanwhile, Carlos was busy working to expand his father's business in London. We were happy, and I had decided it was finally time to tell my family about him.

On a warm afternoon, I took a deep breath, shared a picture of Carlos and me in the family group chat, and added a message: "Meet my boyfriend, Carlos 😊."

Claire:

OMG, Lando!! How did you manage to snag this Greek god with that face of yours?

Rosie:

So true, Claire! Lando, are you on your deathbed or what? How on earth did that Greek god become your boyfriend?

Nathan:

Hey, you two, stop it!!! But seriously, Lando, how did you pull this off?

Dad:

Enough, everyone! But still, Lando, are you okay? Is this a joke?

I scrolled through their messages, not a single one saying congratulations. I sighed, locked my phone, and tried to focus on my work again. Suddenly, my phone rang—it was my mom.

"Hey, baby," she said warmly.

"Hi, Mom. How are you?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

"I'm so good, love, and I’m really happy for you. He's so handsome," she said with genuine enthusiasm.

"Thank you, Mom!" I felt a smile spread across my face. "He's a great guy. I love him."

"I'm so happy for you, love," she replied. Then she added, "We’re coming to London on the 23rd of this month. Let’s all have a family dinner. I’m so excited to meet Carlos."

"I'll ask him and let you know, Mom!" I said, my heart feeling lighter.

"You two are made for each other," she said before we ended the call.

After hanging up, I couldn’t help but think, Seriously? I wondered if my mom was just saying that to make me happy. Carlos is like a Greek god, and I’m just… Lando.

Later that evening, as we lay cuddling on the bed, I decided to bring up the topic with Carlos.

"I told my family about us today," I said, my voice a bit hesitant.

Carlos turned his head to look at me, his eyes warm with curiosity. "And how did that go?" he asked gently.

I sighed, resting my head on his chest. "They were… well, mostly teasing me. But now they want to meet you."

He smiled, running his fingers through my hair. "That sounds like fun. I'd love to meet them."

"Really?" I asked, surprised by how easygoing he was about it.

"Of course," he said, squeezing me a little tighter. "I’m excited to meet your family."

His words made me feel a little more at ease, and I couldn’t help but smile as I nestled closer into his embrace, feeling grateful to have him by my side.

Carlos made a reservation at a very posh restaurant, wanting everything to be perfect for meeting my family. He dressed in a sharp suit, looking every bit the part of the successful businessman. I, on the other hand, chose my usual casual clothes. As he stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his tie, I walked over and put my hands on his waist.

"How do I look?" he asked, turning to me with a hopeful smile.

"You look perfect, as usual," I replied with a grin. He leaned in and gave me a quick peck on the lips before we headed out.