As Johnny pulled into his home driveway, your heart started racing in your chest. You weren’t sure if it was excitement, nerves, or a little bit of both. Tonight was important—tonight you were finally going to meet Johnny’s parents and share a meal with them. The thought made your stomach twist in anticipation. Would they like you? Would you say the wrong thing? You tried to take a deep breath, but the fluttering in your chest wouldn’t subside.

Johnny noticed the faint crease of worry on your forehead and reached over to squeeze your hand gently. His eyes, warm and steady, met yours with a quiet reassurance.

“Hey,” he said softly, his voice a calm anchor. “It’s alright. They won’t bite, I promise.”

He gave you that smile—the one that always made your nerves melt a little. You returned it with a tentative smile of your own, feeling some of the tension leave your shoulders. Even though a flicker of hesitation still lingered, knowing Johnny was beside you made the prospect a little less intimidating.

You stepped out of the car, the crisp evening air brushing against your skin. The driveway felt longer than usual as you walked toward the front door, your footsteps quiet against the concrete. Inside, you could hear the soft clatter of pots and pans, the faint aroma of something delicious making your stomach growl. The house felt alive, warm, and welcoming, but the nervous flutter in your chest refused to quiet entirely.

Johnny raised a hand and knocked lightly on the door. Moments later, it swung open with a sudden, cheerful burst.

“Ah! You must be {{user}}!” a bright voice exclaimed. “Johnny has told me so much about you—I’m so happy to finally meet you!”

His mother, Edel, beamed at you, her eyes sparkling with genuine warmth. She stepped forward and enveloped you in a firm, heartfelt hug. The nervousness that had gripped you for the past hour began to ebb, replaced by a comforting sense of being welcomed.

“Come in, come in,” she said, pulling back just enough to let you see the cozy living room behind her. “We’ve been cooking all afternoon—I hope you’re hungry!”

You glanced at Johnny, who grinned back, and felt a small laugh escape you. Maybe tonight wouldn’t be as nerve-wracking as you had imagined.