Right after ending the call, Hadley was about to slip her phone back into her bag when another incoming call lit up the screen.
Brady appeared on the line.
“Hey, Hadley.”
“Hi, Brady. What’s up?”
“Remember what I brought up before? It’s Colleen’s mom. Her birthday is coming up soon.”
A little hesitation crept into his voice.
“I’m planning to bring a gift for Mrs. Hayes. Since it’s my first official meeting with Colleen’s family, I thought I’d better make a good impression. I wanted to ask Colleen, but it felt a little awkward, so I figured I’d bother you instead.”
“You’re not bothering me at all,” Hadley laughed.
“Actually, I think it’s the right thing to worry about.”
“I’m stumped on what would be suitable. Got any ideas, Hadley?”
“Let me take care of it. I’ll handle everything. Since this isn’t only about Mrs. Hayes’ birthday, we should also consider something for Mr. Hayes. Stop by my place tonight. We’ll sort it out together.”
“You’re a lifesaver, Hadley.”
“Don’t mention it.”
Once she ended the call, Hadley released a heavy sigh. Brady needed to earn the trust of the Hayes family. When that day finally arrived, they would likely depend on Ernest’s support as well. While the Jenkins family name never carried much weight, mostly because its members faded into the background, the Flynn family always offered an air of respectability. Brady could use that advantage now.
The long-awaited day finally came. After making sure Joy was settled, Hadley joined Brady, bringing along the gifts they had chosen for the occasion, and together they made their way to the Hayes household.
Their early arrival meant Zane was the one to answer the door.
“Hi, Zane.”
Find the magic on g?lnσν?s?
“Hello, Zane.”
“Hadley, Brady, welcome,” Zane greeted them both with a warm smile.
“You two made it ahead of time. Come on inside.”
“Thank you.” Brady gave a polite nod, though his nerves were obvious. He looked ready to jump out of his skin.
“Take it easy.” Zane gave a quick laugh.
“Every guy finds himself in this spot sooner or later.”
“It’s okay.” Hadley offered Brady a reassuring pat on the back.
“Feeling a little nervous is completely normal in moments like this. You’re about to face your future in-laws, after all.”
Turning toward Zane, she added, “Ernest should be here in a little while.”
With an understanding nod, Zane replied, “With Mr. Flynn’s presence, I bet things will be much easier.”
As they made their way further into the house, the three carried on a conversation.
“So, Hadley, how have things been for you lately?”
“I’m doing just fine. What about you, Zane?”
“Same as always. Every day feels routine, but I’m not complaining,” Zane replied, leading them toward the living room.
“Take a seat for now.” He motioned to a comfortable spot.
.
.
.
Message from Noa: Have a great week dear readers. God loves you, and Noa wishes you all the best. (? ? – ? ) ?
.