The Grapevine

Chapter Twenty Four

Eric pulled his jacket closer around him, a mix of excitement and nerves making his stomach flutter as he stepped outside. The early morning chill was biting, but he barely noticed it because his mind was still swirling with questions from the night before. 

He'd barely slept, and the bags under his eyes were a small testament to the restless night he'd had, turning over everything Sean had left unsaid. And now, on top of all that, he was about to meet Sean's family, with no clue what to expect.

As he reached the curb, he spotted Sean leaning casually against his car, looking effortlessly handsome in a crisp button-down, his gaze soft and amused as he watched Eric approach. 

The sight made Eric's heart skip a beat, and he almost forgot his own mild annoyance at the lack of sleep.

"Good morning," Eric muttered with a hint of a pout, rubbing his tired eyes as he stepped closer. He couldn't hide the small smile that crept onto his face, though. There was something about seeing Sean like this, in the morning light, looking as calm as ever, that made him feel a bit lighter.

Sean's eyes crinkled with a smile as he looked at him, clearly noticing Eric's tired expression. "Good morning. Didn't sleep much, did you?" he asked, his voice warm and teasing.

Eric gave a sheepish shrug. "You think?" He let out a small laugh, but then he narrowed his eyes playfully. "You know, a little heads-up about your family would've helped me sleep better," he added, folding his arms as he looked up at Sean with a mock pout.

Sean chuckled, shaking his head. "You'll be fine," he replied, reaching over to pat Eric's shoulder. "They're going to like you, I promise."

"That's not even what I'm nervous about!" Eric burst out, unable to help himself. "I mean, who are they? Why does meeting them have anything to do with all the... other stuff?" He trailed off, running a hand through his hair, looking a bit flustered. "You didn't even give me a hint, Sean!"

Sean's smile turned just a little mischievous. "Well, I like to keep a little mystery, you know?" He opened the car door for Eric, his gaze softening. "And don't worry—you'll get all the answers today."

Eric's eyes searched Sean's face, trying to read him, but Sean just smiled, reassuring and calm as ever. With a resigned sigh, Eric got into the car, feeling a bit exasperated but also touched by the care Sean was putting into this.

As he climbed into the driver's seat and started the engine, Sean gave him a sidelong glance, his expression a mix of amusement and affection. "Try not to overthink it," he said gently, reaching over to give Eric's hand a quick, comforting squeeze before he focused back on the road. "You'll understand soon."

Eric felt his pulse quicken, the warmth of Sean's hand lingering even after he let go. Despite the lack of sleep and his swirling thoughts, he suddenly felt just a little bit steadier, like maybe—just maybe—he was ready for whatever lay ahead.

The drive felt warm and lighthearted, filled with easy banter about music and the latest band mishaps. Eric recounted the time Jangjun had misread the setlist, jumping into a guitar solo three songs too early, throwing everyone into disarray. 

Sean chuckled, shaking his head at the memory. "He didn't even notice we were all staring at him like he'd lost his mind. It was legendary," Sean added, his eyes sparkling with laughter.

Eric leaned back in his seat, relaxed as they reminisced. "I mean, it's not like you're perfect either. Remember the time you tripped over the mic cord and almost took Felix down with you?" Eric teased, grinning.

"Oh, please, that was once! And at least I didn't bring down half the stage props in the process," Sean shot back, a playful glint in his eyes as he glanced over at Eric, who was now laughing so hard he was clutching his stomach.