THE ONE

NINE

Thomas's residence,
Cairo Estate, Port Harris.

Barbie was nervous about meeting Nick's mother. She had been down this path years ago with Michael's parents. They had welcomed her with open arms and were ready to kick start the wedding plans. Now, it was different because she questioned her readiness for marriage a second time. She crossed her fingers and hoped to give a good impression at least, he had told her not to pretend but be herself. Lily, on the other hand, was very excited about the prospects of having a new grandmother aside from her other grandparents whom she visited on a regular basis.

They arrived at a bungalow with stone brick walls and a rose garden. It was not fenced and had an open space. She had been living in the same house since his college days and recently, just renovated the house. He rang the bell and smiled as an elderly lady opened the door and threw her arms wide giving him a bear hug. In no time, Barbie found herself also enveloped in a bear hug alongside, Lily.

Nick introduced Barbie and Lily to his mother who could not hide her excitement and joy. "Oh, it's finally nice to meet you," Martha said clapping her hand and hugging them both again.

"Same here, ma. I have heard a lot about you."

"Thank you, dear. Nick never stops talking about you either. I am so glad he finally brought a lady home."

Barbie laughed, "I am sure he had a reason for the delay." She said sitting down beside Nick while Lily sat down with Martha.

Martha smiled, "My son likes to do things at his own pace, and am sure you can attest to that." She said winking at Barbie.

Barbie laughs in response and pecks his cheeks. Martha smiles, "Would you like anything to drink?" She asked.

"Anything is fine ma. Thank you."

Martha called her housekeeper and requested a bottle of wine with glasses and a juice box. She continued with the conversation while the housekeeper got the drinks ready and served them, at the same time asking Barbie questions about herself and getting to know her. After they settled in, she spent her evening with Lily while Nick went out with Barbie to show her around and visit some of his favorite spots.

They had planned on spending the weekend at his mother's before going back home on Monday. So far, it had been interesting and warm even though a part of her feels too good to be true and somehow, Nick's true colors would soon be revealed. Hopefully, she leaves a good impression regardless of whether their relationship works out or not and Lily's attachment doesn't run deep and breaks her heart in the process. All she could do was enjoy each moment and not count her chickens before they hatch or else, she might be at a huge loss.

Onikoye drive,
Barbie's Residence.

"Lily, please pack up before your father gets here. This is the third time reminding you and my patience is running thin." Barbie shouted running down the stairs to get to the door. She exchanged pleasantries with Jasmine and ushered her in with Malia.

"So how was it? Meeting Nick's mum?" Jasmine asked the minute they were alone and had retired to the backyard settee with their drinks.

"It was great. She was so welcoming and nice to me. It didn't feel like our first meeting."

"I am happy it went well. Martha is a very cool person and you will be lucky to have her as a mother-in-law."

Barbie sighed, "Speaking about in-laws, Michael's parents are coming to town this weekend and invited me and Lily to come over but I politely declined."

Jasmine furrowed her brows, "Why?"

"Because everything is different now."

"Would Becky be there?"