It gives me a moment to process things with Mom.
“So,” Mom says gently, eyebrows raised, “what did you really think about him?”
I pick at a loose thread on the cushion before answering.
“There were lots of qualities he showed last night that were on my list. I think it’s worth—at the very least—going on another date today.” I pause, then add, “The breakfast basket was a really special touch too.”
She nods slowly. “I saw your dad deliver it and thought it was a good time for you two to talk. But I wanted to tell you what I think of Nate as well.”
I gesture for her to continue.
“He’s had a rough go of it recently. It hasn’t been easy for him. But what we’ve seen over the past couple of years is a man who genuinely loves God. He’s carried himself well through it all.” She smiles softly. “He’s worth his salt, as my mother would say.”
I nod. I saw glimpses of that last night too.
“I saw some of that yesterday.”
“So, you know your father approves,” she continues. “And I wanted you to know that I do too.” She pauses, then adds with a small grin, “Don’t let what we think influence you. Unless it’s to influence you to at least give him a chance.”
I laugh. “Thanks, Mom. I appreciate your input. You know I always value your opinion.”
We end up talking for a while after that—about how she and Dad met and the sweet beginnings of their love story. Gabby eventually joins us, now fully caffeinated and emotionally invested, and Lara wanders in not long after. There’s laughter echoing around the room, overlapping stories, and the comfortable chaos that only exists in a house full of siblings.
It hits me all over again how special this is. Being here. Being with them.
One point for Brazil.
Let’s see how the tally ends. Brazil or Belgium?
I’m standing in my closet later, scanning my options, when my eyes land on the perfect outfit: a red linen co-ord with a wavy orange stripe down the side. It feels summery and just like me.
The pants are flowy enough for the heat but still elegant, and the matching top pulls it all together effortlessly. Nate didn’t say what we’d be doing, so versatility is key.
I lay the outfit neatly on my bed and head to my vanity, pulling out my makeup bag. Light brown eyeshadow, maybe. And a red lipstick to match the set. Bold, but not too bold.
Gabby bursts in before I can decide.
“Well, hello, sis-who-happens-to-have-a-second-date-tonight-and-I-know-nothing-about-it!” she announces dramatically.
I laugh. “Nate’s nice. You were right. He is my type.” I shrug, trying to sound breezy.
“Okay… so now what?” She sits cross-legged on my bed, watching me.
“Well, I’m going on a date tonight and then we’ll see where things go from there. I’m still leaving in two weeks.”
She hesitates. “Do you think you might stay instead?” she says softly.
I turn to face her fully. “Do you want me to stay?”
“Well, duh!” She grins. “Why would I not want my best friend slash sister living near me again?”
I roll my eyes affectionately. “Obviously. But seriously.”
She softens. “I think it’s so awesome you’ve had all these adventures in Europe. I just… I’d really love you to be here. Not miss everything with us as a family.”
Another point for Brazil.
I really need to start listing Belgium’s points soon before this becomes unfair.
