I was fuming with anger and was about to show Jessica her place, that's when Nate gestured me to calm down. He came closer to me and whispered, "Let it go please", almost with pleading eyes.
"You better put a filter on her mouth dear brother, because if you won't then next time, mark my words, I will," I whispered angrily and left him alone with his full of drama girlfriend.
Jessica wore me off in more ways than I could take. I was already very nervous about Barry meeting my parents, and here she was hissing about others, poking her nose in places far from her interest.
I calmed myself a bit and decided to call my girlfriend. Talking to her alone made me feel better.
"Hi, Girlfriend. Hope you are both ready for tonight?"
"Hey Niki, yes Jake and I will be there latest by nine. I can come by early too if you need any help."
"No, it's fine. I have everything under control. Just nervous about making Barry meet my parents."
"Don't you worry. Barry is a sweetheart, a real charmer. Your parents will love him."
"Hope so. Oh, I forgot, even Jake is going to meet your parents for the first time today? How do you feel about it?"
"Yes, I am nervous as hell."
"Relax. Your parents will go gaga knowing their daughter is dating a freaking billionaire. You should just sit back and watch" I giggled imagining all of it.
"Shut Up Niki. It's not funny. A lot comes in the package with that. You know it's not always easy."
"Agreed darling. But your parents don't need to know all that. Just be positive. It will all be great."
"Yes, you are right, I guess. Anyways, will see you in the evening. Got to dash. Love you."
"See you, love! Take care"
The house was all set, it was dazzling with lights, and my favorites lilies completed the overall decor, giving the living hall an elite aesthetic look. The huge white and pink tulip centerpieces complimented the entire setup.
"Wow. This looks straight from one of your paintings Niki. You outdid yourself tonight. Mom dad will be so happy." Nate complimented me as he looked around in awe as well.
"I know, right? Thanks Brother. I hope the food is as good too."
"Yes, it is. I just tasted a few dishes. They are great." He replied confidently.
"Well done then. I think mom dad should be down any minute. They were finally set free from their room arrest." I chuckled remembering how I restricted them from coming down. They kept saying how childish I was attempting to keep it all a secret even by the very last minute, but I just couldn't let them see it until it was complete and polished.
"Here they are." Nate glanced at the staircase, pointing in their direction. I could read the expression on their faces; they looked thrilled. m
"You both did an amazing job. Come here." Dad opened his arm, gesturing us for a family hug.
"How did we get so lucky?" Mom was teary-eyed.
"Come on, you two. No tears. Just enjoy to the fullest, tonight is all about you." I gave them both a slight playful nudge.
"Ya ya, we know. But more so we are looking forward to meeting the guy who keeps my daughter so happy all the time." Dad gave me a bear hug. I will always be his princess.
"True. Tonight, is about him too. He will be here soon." I cooed shyly.
"While we are on point with the family bonding, let me get you all a drink." Nate rolled his eyes. He was not good with expressing sentiments.
Barry was amongst the first few guests to arrive. He looked nervous to me as soon as he entered; but eventually, as I introduced him to Nate, mom and dad, he got at ease. I let them spend some time alone, and started attending other guests who kept arriving. Soon, the hall was full of people. Max and Britney had come too, that gave Barry a breather as Jessica was clinging to Nate and him way too much.
I took my mom inside the kitchen for a bit. I just couldn't wait any longer, "so mom? What do you think? How did you like Barry?"
"Oh, Darling. He is so handsome and well behaved. We love him already. He is a smooth talker. Your dad liked him too". She said lovingly, and I couldn't help but jump in joy, almost squeezing her in a hug.
"I am glad you both liked him, mom. Come let's get back inside, people might be looking for us."
I felt so relaxed after that. Nothing mattered more than your parents approving the guy you love.
I took another drink and was enjoying myself now.
Soon, I saw Emma's family entered the hall. I rushed to welcome them.
"Hello, Mrs. and Mr. Carter." I greeted them both with a warm hug.
"Hi, Niki! Aren't you looking gorgeous, as always?" Emma's mom gave me a loving peck on cheeks. I practically grew up in her household when we were still neighbors.
"And aren't you the sweetest as always?" I reciprocated the gesture.
"Emma is running late. We just got off a call with her. She will be here soon. Her boyfriend had a delayed meeting it seems." Her dad mentioned as we walked inside.
"I am sure they will be here soon. Jake is a very busy guy."
"Is he? Have you met him? How is he?" He interrogated in a typical dad tone.
"Yes, I have. He is great. He cares about Emma. You will see when you meet him today." I replied, finding the best possible words. Not my place to give them a lot of details. They nodded as we walked past the guests and straight to
