Family

Clara introduced Sebastian to her parents, told them they were together and her dad’s protective instinct kicked in. ‘Young man, I hope your intentions for my daughter are honorable. We should have lunch one of these days,’ he said. She smiled when Sebastian nodded and kissed her cheek, and her dad frowned. It was how she imagined it was like to have a dad. It made her feel warm and fuzzy inside that he was meddling with her relationship already. But she probably won’t appreciate it later when he tries to step in between them.

Next, she introduced her brothers Jeremy and Max, and she saw her dad’s eyes narrow when Max said hi. ‘Uh oh,’ she thought, ‘my dad does not like Max either?’

They thanked John and Samantha for graciously hosting brunch, and as they all took their seats, she sat between her mom and Sebastian.

Celine sat right in front of Clara with Max beside her, his arm draped around her shoulders. Then Clara saw her dad frown again.