CHAPTER 94: CHAPTER 94: MEETING ZAYN’S MOM

Evric was never one to simply obey. He would rather do what he wanted, take the risk, and apologize a million times afterward. But at least, in the end, he’d have done what he wanted.

Even as he nodded, I felt a mix of exasperation and affection. That’s Evric, always pushing boundaries, always mischievously bold, yet somehow managing to make me trust him completely. I sighed softly, letting my hand brush against his sleeve, a silent reminder that I knew him too well. Despite everything, I couldn’t help but smile. He would bend the rules, yes, but only for the moments that truly mattered to him, and somehow, that was exactly why I loved him.

By the time we got downstairs, we quickly had breakfast, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and toast filling the air. Nuala, always full of energy, turned to Evric with her signature puppy-eyed look. "Brother, I need some money. There are new designers I want to buy," she said, half pleading, half demanding.

I watched the interaction quietly, amused by her boldness. Evric, ever calm but with a teasing edge, looked at her and said, "I’m not saying I won’t give you anything, but I know you already collected from your dad, your mom, Chrisly, and now me."

Nuala pouted dramatically and tilted her head. "That doesn’t matter. What matters is you doing your part," she said, whining slightly, clearly enjoying the little game of persuasion.

Evric sighed, though there was a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Alright," he said finally, "I’ll send you the money. But don’t just spend it all on designer stuff. Try to invest a little too."

Nuala rolled her eyes and gave him a cheeky grin. "Why shouldn’t I buy it? I have Dad, Mom, Chrisly... and you. I’m just a baby girl! Please, let me enjoy. Besides, these designers are an investment too."

I chuckled softly at their playful back-and-forth. Watching them argue like this felt oddly comforting, almost like witnessing a routine that always brought warmth to the household. Their voices mingled with laughter and teasing tones, creating a lively but cozy atmosphere.

Once Nuala and Evric settled their playful debate, we finished breakfast, clearing the table quietly and efficiently. Evric’s driver was already waiting outside, and we made our way to the car. Nuala waved from the window, calling something about showing off her new purchase, but he ignored her, smiling at the familiar chaos she brought everywhere.

Sliding into the back seat, I leaned against Evric, letting the seat absorb my weight as I exhaled a little, feeling the calm of the morning settle over us. I had already texted my mom that we were on our way, and her reply was almost immediate, full of excitement. I mentioned I was coming with someone, careful not to say whether it was a girlfriend or boyfriend, and I imagined her curiosity and expectation growing with each passing second.

Evric, noticing my thoughtful expression, pulled out his phone and whispered with a small smile, "Let me take a picture of us. I want to keep this as a memory."

I smiled softly in response and allowed myself to rest my head on his shoulder, the warmth and subtle rhythm of his presence calming my nerves. For the first time that morning, I truly felt ready for whatever lay ahead.

The drive felt longer than I expected. The hum of the tires against the road and the steady rhythm of the engine lulled me into a light sleep, and before I knew it, I was resting my head on Evric’s shoulder. He didn’t flinch or complain; instead, he shifted slightly to make me more comfortable, one arm casually resting on the center console while the other held his phone.

I could feel the faint warmth of his body against mine, steady and reassuring. Every so often, he would tilt his head down to glance at his phone, scrolling through emails, attending calls, or sending quick replies. Even in these ordinary moments, there was a sense of control and focus about him, he managed work, travel, and still ensured I was comfortable beside him.

After several hours on the road, I stretched slightly, rubbing my eyes. Evric noticed and smiled gently. "Babe," he said softly, "maybe we should stop at a restaurant and eat before we get there. Are you hungry?"

I nodded, blinking a few times to clear the sleep from my eyes. "Yeah, a little. That sounds good."

Evric’s eyes softened as he looked at me, the corners crinkling with warmth. "Alright, I know a place not too far from here. We can grab something light and quick. Don’t worry, I’ve got this," he added, his tone both confident and caring.

A few minutes later, the car came to a smooth stop in front of the restaurant. Evric’s driver parked carefully before stepping out, and Evric waved him over. "Come on, join us for a bite," he said, his tone casual but warm.

Once seated, we went over the menu, the smells of freshly prepared food filling the air. Evric glanced at me, his eyes softening, and said, "I’m glad your throat is fine now."

I smiled. "Thanks to you."

His driver sat with us as we ate, the three of us quietly finishing our meals. There wasn’t much talking, just the occasional sound of cutlery and soft laughter between us.

Soon after, we stepped back into the car, and this time the ride felt quicker. The silence was comfortable, and I rested my head on Evric’s shoulder as the car moved.

This time we arrived, pulling up in front of my parents’ house. It wasn’t luxurious, but it was comfortable and beautiful in its own way.

Evric took a deep breath as we sat in the car, and I glanced at him. "Are you ready?" I asked.

He nodded, a small smile on his lips.

The gate opened, and almost immediately, my mom heard the car horn. She hurried outside, Liana standing close beside her.

Evric and I stepped out of the car. Liana’s eyes lit up when she saw me; she rushed over and hugged me tightly. "Finally! Look who’s here!" she exclaimed.

Then her gaze fell on Evric. She leaned toward me and whispered, "Damn... this man is even finer in person. Is he real?"

I couldn’t help but smile. Nuala and Liana were similar in their love for gossip, though Liana was shy while Nuala was bold.

After a moment, Liana recovered her composure and turned to Evric, greeting him politely. I didn’t wait, I went straight to hug my mom.

She held me close, her embrace warm and lingering. I felt her eyes soften as she looked at me.

Finally, I stepped back slightly and gestured toward Evric. "Mom, this is Evric."