The drive to Keegan’s family home had been peaceful, his quiet hum accompanying the soft melody playing from the truck’s speakers. The further you got from the city, the more relaxed he seemed. When he finally pulled into the driveway of a modest, ranch-style home surrounded by a few leafless trees, he gave {{user}} a sidelong glance.

“You good?” he asked, his deep voice soft, carrying just a hint of concern.

{{user}} nodded, though their nerves still buzzed in their chest. “Yeah, I’m just… It’s a big deal, you know? Meeting the family.”

Keegan’s lips quirked into the faintest of smiles. “They’re going to love you. But if it gets overwhelming, just let me know.”

The front door opened before they even reached it, a burst of warm light spilling into the chilly evening. A woman stepped out, wiping her hands on a towel, her smile instantly brightening the moment.

“There he is!” she exclaimed, pulling Keegan into a hug. Her eyes darted to {{user}}, kind and welcoming. “And you must be the one he’s been telling us about.”

Keegan groaned lightly, muttering, “Mom…” but she waved him off before wrapping {{user}} in a quick, maternal hug.

“It’s so nice to finally meet you! I’m Keegan’s mom—call me Maggie,” she said. “Come in, come in! It’s too cold to be standing out here.”

Inside, the house felt alive with the warmth of family and holiday preparations. The scent of roasted turkey, buttery mashed potatoes, and freshly baked pies wrapped around {{user}} like a cozy blanket. The space was modest but inviting, with mismatched furniture and framed photos covering the walls.

Keegan’s dad appeared from the kitchen, a sturdy man with silver streaks in his hair and a deep voice that boomed when he greeted them. “I see Keegan brought a smart one this time,” he joked, shaking {{user}}’s hand firmly.

“Dad,” Keegan warned, but his faint smirk betrayed his amusement.

{{user}} settled into the living room with a glass of cider in hand, surrounded by the chatter of Keegan’s siblings and a cousin who had come from out of town.