Yn and Summer had kept things low-key for the past few weeks, meeting up in secret when they could, sneaking into quiet cafes or taking long walks in the park after dark. But the more they saw of each other, the more they realized how much they wanted to share this part of their lives openly.
On their next date, a cozy evening at Summer's apartment, Summer broached the topic.
"Hey, Yn," she began, her voice gentle, "I know we've been keeping this just between us, but... do you think it's time we told our friends and family? I mean, it's starting to feel like... well, something more than just casual, you know?"
Yn smiled, reaching across the table to take Summer's hand. "I was hoping you'd say that. I feel the same. We shouldn't have to hide this, especially from the people who mean the most to us."
Summer's face lit up. "So... how about you come to meet my family? Tomorrow?"
Yn hesitated for a moment, nerves fluttering in her stomach, but she nodded. "I'd love to meet them. I want them to know the real me."
---
The next day, Yn set off for Summer's family home. It was a modest, welcoming house on the outskirts of London. Summer's parents, Christiane and Alan, greeted her warmly at the door.
"So, you're the famous Yn," Christiane said with a warm smile as she shook Yn's hand. "Summer's been talking nonstop about you."
Yn felt a blush creeping onto her cheeks, glancing at Summer with a playful glare. "Has she now? Hopefully, only the good things?"
"Only the best," Alan chimed in, his voice gruff but kind. "Come on in, we're glad to finally meet you."
As they moved into the living room, Yn relaxed, enjoying the welcoming atmosphere Summer's family offered. They shared stories, exchanged laughs, and by the time Yn was leaving, she felt like she'd gained a second family.
On their way out, Christiane pulled Yn aside and smiled, her eyes kind. "I can see how happy you make my daughter. And I can tell you have a good heart, Yn. I really believe you're the right one for her."
Yn's heart swelled, and she nodded gratefully. "Thank you, that means a lot to me."
---
A few days later, Yn was back at Arsenal training. It had been an intense session, but she was in top form, sinking free kicks with precision. As training wrapped up, Yn headed out toward the parking lot with Katie and Leah, still buzzing from the day's workout.
"You've got that free-kick magic going today, Yn," Katie said, nudging her. "You been practicing on the sly or something?"
Yn laughed. "Just trying to keep up with you lot. Can't let my standards drop."
As they approached the cars, Katie noticed someone sitting in Yn's passenger seat. She squinted, then grinned mischievously. "Wait a minute, Yn. Don't tell me you've got yourself a personal driver now?"
Yn bit back a grin, glancing toward her car. "Oh, something like that." She gestured, and Summer stepped out of the car, smiling.
Leah's eyes widened. "Wait, Yn, is this...?"
Yn nodded, feeling a warm sense of pride. "Leah, Katie, this is Summer. She's... well, we're together. We've been seeing each other for a few weeks now."
Katie's eyes flicked between Yn and Summer before a huge grin spread across her face. "Ohhh, so that's why you've been so 'busy' lately!" She pulled Yn into a hug, whispering, "You kept that quiet! But I'm so happy for you."
Leah gave Summer a friendly smile and extended her hand. "It's nice to finally meet you. Yn's a bit of a closed book, so thanks for opening it up a bit."
Summer laughed, shaking Leah's hand. "Trust me, it's been worth it. Yn's been amazing, and I'm so glad to meet her friends."
Katie crossed her arms with a mock serious look. "Alright, well, you better treat her right, Summer. She's one of our own now. And Arsenal family is forever."
Yn laughed, nudging Katie. "Okay, okay, let's not scare her away just yet!"
Summer smiled, glancing between the girls, looking both relieved and touched. "I promise, I'll take good care of her. And hey, any friend of Yn's is a friend of mine too."
Leah nodded, giving Yn a supportive smile. "Well, you two deserve happiness. And if you need us, you know where to find us."
Yn felt a wave of gratitude as she looked at her friends and at Summer, realizing just how lucky she was.
