radicalducati Chapter 241
Chapter 241
Avery and Ryan had naturally fallen into a comfortable rhythm. They spent more time together, slipping easily into a routine that neither of them had expected to feel so right.
Their favorite nights were spent at Avery’s house, where movie marathons had become their unofficial tradition. It started with one night of debating over action versus rom-coms and spiraled into weekly rituals where they’d argue over the best films and snack endlessly on popcorn and chocolate.
On one such evening, Avery sat cross-legged on her plush couch, scrolling through the streaming platform while Ryan reclined beside her, tossing popcorn into his mouth.
“I’m just saying,” Ryan began, throwing another piece of popcorn with precision. “The Die Hard series is objectively better than any rom-com you could name.”
Avery snorted, not looking away from the screen. “Objectively? Did you just use that word about Bruce Willis running around barefoot?”
“Absolutely,” Ryan said, grinning. “It’s an American classic.”
Avery finally turned to him, an incredulous look on her face. “Have you even seen The Notebook?”
Ryan laughed, leaning closer. “No, but I feel like I’ve been forced to absorb it by cultural osmosis. Girl meets guy. They kiss in the rain. Someone dies, right?”
“That is not how it goes!” Avery said, swatting his arm with a pillow.
“Alright, alright,” Ryan said, laughing as he raised his hands in surrender. “You pick tonight’s movie, but I’m holding veto power if it’s too sappy.”
“You’re impossible,” Avery said, rolling her eyes, though her smile gave her away.
Ryan leaned over and kissed her forehead. “And yet, here you are, stuck with me.”
She smiled, her heart warming as she turned back to the screen.
It was during one of these cozy nights that Ryan brought up the idea of introducing her to his family. They were halfway through a movie when he paused it, turning to Avery with a thoughtful expression.
“So, I was thinking…” Ryan began, his tone casual but hesitant.
“That’s dangerous,” Avery teased, reaching for another handful of popcorn.
He rolled his eyes, nudging her playfully. “I’m serious. My parents are in town this weekend, and I’d love for you to meet them.”
Avery froze, her hand halfway to the popcorn bowl. “Meet your parents?”
Ryan nodded, his hazel eyes watching her carefully. “Yeah. I mean, I’ve already told them about you, and they’re dying to meet you.”
“You’ve told them about me?” she asked, her voice soft.
“Of course I have,” he said, taking her hand. “You’re important to me, Avery. And I think they’re going to love you.”
Avery felt her cheeks flush, but she nodded. “Alright. Let’s do it.”
On the day of the visit, Ryan picked Avery up and drove her to his parents’ house, a charming two-story home nestled in a quiet neighborhood. Avery’s nerves were bubbling under the surface, but Ryan kept her grounded with his steady presence and constant reassurances.
“They’re going to love you,” Ryan said as they walked up the pathway. “Just be yourself.”
“That’s what everyone says,” Avery muttered, adjusting her jacket. “What if myself isn’t good enough?”
Ryan stopped, turning to face her. “Avery, you’re more than good enough. Trust me.”
His words settled her nerves slightly, and she managed a small smile as he rang the doorbell.
The door swung open, and Ryan’s mother appeared, her face lighting up with a wide smile.
“You must be Avery!” she exclaimed, pulling her into a warm hug before Avery could even respond.
“Yes, I am,” Avery said, slightly startled but smiling nonetheless.
“And I’m Cathy,” Ryan’s mother said, pulling back but keeping her hands on Avery’s shoulders. “It’s so nice to finally meet you. Ryan hasn’t stopped talking about you.”
“Mom,” Ryan said, groaning slightly.
“Well, he hasn’t,” Cathy said, giving her son a pointed look before turning back to Avery. “Come in, come in. Dinner’s almost ready.”
Ryan’s dad, a tall man with kind eyes, appeared in the hallway, offering Avery a firm handshake. “Nice to meet you, Avery. I’m Mark.”
“Nice to meet you too,” Avery said, her nerves fading under the warmth of their welcome.
The dining room was cozy and filled with the smell of home-cooked food. Cathy had made a roast with all the trimmings, and as they sat down, the conversation flowed easily.
“So, Avery,” Cathy began, passing her the mashed potatoes. “Ryan tells me you run a company?”
“Yes,” Avery said, nodding. “I’m the CEO of Kane Enterprises.”
Cathy’s eyes widened. “Well, isn’t that impressive! Mark, did you hear that? She’s a CEO!”
“I heard,” Mark said with a smile. “Ryan clearly has good taste.”
Ryan smirked, nudging Avery under the table. “See? I told you they’d like you.”
Avery laughed, feeling more relaxed than she expected. “Thank you. It’s definitely a challenge, but I enjoy it.”
“She’s underselling herself,” Ryan said, leaning forward. “She’s brilliant at what she does.”
Avery shot him a look, but Cathy beamed. “Well, we’re just thrilled you’re here, Avery. Anyone who can make Ryan this happy is already a favorite in my book.”