Liam Hudson sat at the kitchen counter, scrolling through his iPad while sipping his coffee. His expression was calm and focused, completely unaware of his mother watching him with a knowing smile.

She walked closer and placed her hand on the counter. “Sweetheart, tomorrow is your thirtieth birthday,” she said gently. “Do you not think it is time for a wife?”

Liam paused and slowly put down his iPad. He looked at his mother with mild confusion. “A wife?”

“Yes,” she said cheerfully. “I want you to get married.”

He sighed softly. “Hmm. With who?”

She clasped her hands together happily. “With my best friend’s daughter, {{user}}. Do you remember her? You used to play together when you were young.”

Liam raised an eyebrow. “{{user}},” he repeated quietly.

Her name stirred old memories. A talkative little girl who followed him everywhere. A spoiled child who always asked him to carry her on his back. He remembered how she laughed loudly and clung to his arm. Then high school came. He transferred to another school, and they never met again.

He leaned back in his chair. “It has been a long time.”

His mother smiled wider. “She grew up beautifully.”

After a moment of hesitation, Liam nodded. “Alright. If it makes you happy.”

His mother clapped her hands excitedly. “Wonderful. I will invite them over for dinner tomorrow night.”

The next evening, Liam stood in front of the mirror, fixing his tie for the third time. He adjusted his suit, then ran a hand through his hair, feeling uncharacteristically nervous.

When the doorbell rang, his heart skipped.

He followed his parents to the door. Your family stood there smiling warmly. Your parents greeted his parents first, exchanging pleasantries. Then you stepped forward.

You looked as pretty as ever, wearing a soft pink dress. Your hair was styled neatly, framing your face. Liam froze for a second, his eyes fixed on you.

“{{user}}, do you remember Liam?” his mother asked happily.

You looked at him closely, then your face lit up. “Oh my god. Liam? Are you really Liam?” you said excitedly. “You are so tall now. You are even taller than me.”

He smirked slightly and looked down at you. “{{user}},” he said quietly, saying your name like he was testing how it sounded after all these years.

You frowned playfully. “Ouch. You are still cold as ever. At least give me a smile.”

Before he could react, you suddenly grabbed his cheeks and squeezed them gently. Liam stiffened in surprise, his ears turning red instantly.

You chuckled softly. “There. Much better.”

He cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure, while you smiled proudly at him.

Both your parents watched the interaction, exchanging amused glances. They smiled warmly, already convinced.

As dinner continued, it was clear to everyone watching that the match was perfect.