Chapter 6: Proving Our Love

That night, we met Julian’s mother. The dinner was formal, but she tried to put me at ease with stories about Julian’s childhood. I could see where he got his charm. I relaxed.

She was kind and chatty, saying we’d set up a formal meeting next time, since today was too rushed. She hugged me goodbye, her perfume lingering on my coat. I felt accepted.

I thought, just like in the movies, we’d get everyone’s blessing, get married, have kids, and be together forever. The fairy tale seemed within reach. I let myself hope.

But real life isn’t a movie. It always finds a way to slap you awake. Reality has sharp edges.

"I’m sorry, Ms. Carter. I can’t approve of your relationship." Julian’s mother sat across from me, her tone icy. The warmth from last night was gone. My stomach dropped.

She’d set up a lunch with me alone, warning me not to tell Julian—just to say this? My stomach twisted. I felt betrayed.

"So, Mrs. Whitaker, all those blessings last night were fake?" My tone was sharp. I felt like she was treating me like a fool. I bristled.

"Julian’s talked to me many times. We’ve argued about this at home. I didn’t want to hurt him, so I agreed for now." Her eyes were cold.

"But you know your family’s situation. Marriage isn’t just between two people—it’s between two families. I don’t want to hurt you, but we really aren’t a good match." Her words stung.

Looking at her proper manners but disdainful eyes, I saw the same look as the relatives I begged for help when my mom got sick three years ago. It was the look of judgment, of closed doors. My heart hardened.

Family situation? Single mom, different backgrounds? I knew what she meant.

Three years ago, I might have run away, crawled back into my shell. Not anymore.

But now I was different. I had love and family. They gave me strength. I could face anything. I straightened my spine.

I smiled, picked up my coffee, and met her gaze. "Mrs. Whitaker, marriage is between two families, but we’re the ones living the life. I’ll show you that Julian and I are a good match." My voice was steady.

I nodded politely and got up to leave. My hands didn’t shake. I felt strong.

Just as I reached the door, Julian rushed over. His face was flushed.

"Savannah! Did my mom come see you? What did you talk about?" He looked worried, but I smiled. I reached for his hand.

I steadied him, feeling content. "Nothing much. Julian, do you remember our college dream?" My eyes sparkled.

He panted, looking into my eyes. "You mean starting our own fashion company?" His excitement was contagious.

"Exactly! We’ll invest together—you run the business, I’ll design. Our brand will win people over!" I grinned.

"But, the wedding might have to wait." I bit my lip, nervous. I searched his face for doubt.

I clenched my fists, nervous. "Are you in?" My voice was soft, hopeful.

He didn’t hesitate. "Of course! Whatever you want, I’ll do it with you! I believe in you, Savannah. I believe in us!" His eyes shone with pride. My heart soared.