Adrian and Gia had become inseparable, their connection growing stronger each day. Whether they were watching movies, going for long walks, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, their bond was undeniable. Adrian had even started spending more time at Gia's house, where her mom, ever the gracious host, welcomed him warmly.
One evening, Gia's mom invited Adrian to stay for dinner. The smell of roasted chicken filled the air as they sat around the modest dining table, which was adorned with a simple floral centerpiece. Gia's mom, an elegant woman with warm hazel eyes and a nurturing presence, served plates while making light conversation.
"So, Adrian," Gia's mom began, setting down a dish of mashed potatoes, "Gia tells me you're quite the gentleman. Always opening doors for her and carrying her bags. It's refreshing to see."
Adrian smiled, his posture relaxing slightly. "I was raised to have good manners, ma'am."
"Oh, 'ma'am,' he says," Gia's mom teased, chuckling. "Please, call me Laura. 'Ma'am' makes me feel ancient."
Gia giggled, nudging Adrian under the table. "I told you she's not that formal," she whispered.
Adrian grinned but stayed polite. "Of course, Laura."
The conversation continued smoothly, with Laura asking Adrian about his favorite hobbies, movies, and music. Adrian answered with ease, earning a few laughs and smiles from both Gia and her mom.
But as the main course was cleared and dessert—apple pie—was served, Laura's questions took a more personal turn.
"So, Adrian," she began casually, slicing into her pie, "tell me about your family. What do your parents do?"
Adrian's fork paused midway to his mouth. The question, though innocent, made his heart race. He quickly forced a smile and set the fork down.
"Well, uh, my family is... complicated," he said vaguely.
Laura raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Complicated how?"
Adrian shifted in his seat. "They're... busy people. My dad's into business. He travels a lot, so we don't see him much."
"What kind of business?" Laura pressed, her tone still warm but more inquisitive now.
Adrian hesitated, glancing briefly at Gia, who was watching him intently. "It's... imports and exports, I think. He doesn't talk about it much."
Gia's mom nodded thoughtfully, though her expression suggested she wasn't entirely satisfied with the answer. "And your mom? What does she do?"
"She mostly stays home," Adrian replied quickly, his voice tightening slightly. "She takes care of the house and... stuff."
Gia noticed the way his hand fidgeted with his napkin and the slight edge to his voice. He wasn't comfortable, and she knew her mom wasn't picking up on it.
"Mom," Gia interjected softly, placing her hand on her mother's arm. "I'm sure Adrian's family stuff isn't that exciting. Let's not grill him, okay?"
Laura looked at her daughter, then back at Adrian, whose shoulders relaxed slightly at Gia's intervention. She smiled warmly. "I'm sorry, Adrian. I didn't mean to pry. I just like to know about the people my daughter spends time with."
Adrian offered her a grateful smile. "It's okay. I get it. My family's just... not that interesting."
The rest of the dinner passed without further probing, and the atmosphere lightened as they shared stories and jokes. By the time Adrian was leaving, Gia walked him to the door, her hand lingering in his as they stood on the porch.
"Thanks for coming," Gia said softly, looking up at him.
"Thanks for having me," Adrian replied, his voice warm but tinged with relief.
Gia tilted her head, her gaze searching his. "You okay? You seemed a little... off earlier."
Adrian nodded quickly, brushing it off. "Yeah, I'm fine. Your mom's just... thorough."
Gia smirked. "She's just protective. But if there's something you want to talk about—"
"I know," Adrian interrupted gently, squeezing her hand. "And I will. Just... not yet, okay?"
Gia nodded, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze in return. "Okay. But you don't have to keep things from me, Adrian. Whenever you're ready."
He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "Thanks, Gia."