just pretend

Alone in her room, Issable found solace amidst the tranquility of the summer Afternoon. Mittens, her feline companion, lay curled up on her bed, basking in the peacefulness. The room echoed with a serene quietness, only interrupted by the rhythmic purring of the contented cat.

Having recently started her summer holidays, Issable found herself in a state of leisure but lacking in plans. With Mia off to her hometown to visit her parents, Issable had to be herself. She lay on her bed, contemplating the stillness that enveloped the space.

Mittens, however, seemed to have a different agenda. Playfully, the furry companion engaged in a lively game, occasionally swatting Issable's face with gentle paws.

"Be quiet, Mittens," she chuckled, attempting to negotiate with her playful feline friend. With a soft sigh, Issable gently placed Mittens by her side, momentarily separating the two companions.

As the room settled back into its peaceful ambiance, a subtle interruption came in the form of a doorbell echoing through the hallway. Curious, Issable rose from her bed, her steps carrying her towards the entrance. With a sense of anticipation, she opened the door, eager to discover the source of the unexpected interruption.

As Issable opened the door, she was greeted by Oliver standing on her doorstep.

"Hey, Oliver, what's up?" she asked, offering a friendly smile.

Oliver hesitated for a moment before speaking, "Can I talk with you?"

"Of course, come in!" Issable replied warmly, ushering him inside.

As Oliver played with Mittens, Issable headed to the kitchen to fetch some refreshments. She poured a glass of juice and returned, offering it to Oliver.

"So, what brings you here?" Issable inquired, settling down for a conversation.

Oliver, with a hint of nervousness, asked Issable, "Can I ask you a favor?"

"Sure thing!" she replied, curious about his request.

Oliver then surprised her by bowing and asking her to be his girlfriend.

"Wait, what? It's too sudden," Issable exclaimed, her face turning red with confusion.

"Please, just pretend," Oliver pleaded.

"Pretend?" she questioned, trying to make sense of the unexpected proposal.

Oliver, with a shy smile, began to explain, "You see, I am going to my hometown, and my parents keep pestering me about my nonexistent love life. I thought if you could pretend to be my girlfriend just for that event, it would save me from their constant nagging."

Issable, now understanding the context, chuckled and replied, "Oh, I see! Family gatherings can be quite a challenge. Alright, I can help you out. Just for this event, though!"

"So, where's the gathering happening?" she asked him.

"Well, it's in my hometown!" Oliver replied.

"I don't have any plans for my vacation. Let's go then!" she replied.

Oliver, visibly relieved, expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Issable! You're a lifesaver."

Before embarking on the trip, Issable decided to drop Mittens off at Mr. Thompson's house, knowing he loved the company of the cheerful cat.

She knocked on Mr. Thompson's door, and when he answered, Issable greeted him with a warm smile. "Hey, Mr. Thompson! I thought Mittens might enjoy some company while I'm away. Would you mind taking care of him?"

Mr. Thompson, delighted to spend time with Mittens, gladly accepted the offer. "Of course, Issable! I'll make sure he has a grand old time."

Issable handed over Mittens to Mr. Thompson, ensuring he had everything he needed for a comfortable stay. "Thank you so much, Mr. Thompson. I appreciate it. Be good, Mittens!" she said with a playful pat on the cat's head.

With that, Issable headed off, leaving Mr. Thompson and Mittens to enjoy each other's company during her absence.

As she hopped into Oliver's car, Issable couldn't help but comment, "I didn't see this car of yours."

Oliver chuckled, "Well, I didn't use it much!"

As Oliver and Issable embarked on their journey, the car cruised along the winding roads, surrounded by scenic landscapes. The air inside the car was a mix of anticipation and nervous energy as they navigated through familiar and unfamiliar territories.

Issable, glancing out of the window, commented on the picturesque views along the way. Oliver, focused on the road, shared stories about his hometown, weaving a narrative that painted vivid pictures of his past.

Their conversation flowed seamlessly, shifting between laughter and moments of quiet reflection. The passing scenery became a backdrop to the growing camaraderie between them, transcending the initial pretense of a pretend relationship.

As they arrived in Oliver's hometown, the picturesque village unfolded before their eyes, revealing charming landscapes and inviting scenery. Oliver couldn't help but share the beauty of the place with Issable, pointing out notable landmarks and sharing anecdotes from his childhood.

As Issable stepped into the welcoming ambiance of Oliver's childhood home, Mrs. Eleanor and Mr. Richard greeted her with genuine smiles.

"Oliver, who's this lovely young lady you've brought with you?" Mrs. Eleanor inquired, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Oliver, with a bashful smile, introduced, "Mom, Dad, this is Issable. She's more than a friend; she's my girlfriend, and I've invited her to join us for the family gathering."

Mrs. Eleanor, gracious and warm, extended her hand, saying, "Welcome, Issable! It's a pleasure to have you here."

Mr. Richard added, "Indeed, welcome! Oliver has mentioned you before."

As Issable greeted Oliver's parents, the atmosphere exuded a welcoming warmth. She shook hands with Mr. Richard and Mrs. Eleanor, conveying a genuine smile. "Thank you for having me. It's truly a pleasure to meet both of you," Issable expressed, her words laced with sincerity.

Mrs. Eleanor, a gracious hostess, extended an invitation, "We're just about to finish dinner. Freshen up and join us, won't you?"

Issable nodded appreciatively, "Certainly, Mrs. Eleanor."

"Please, dear, don't call me Mrs. Eleanor. You can call me mother," Mrs. Eleanor insisted, her tone filled with maternal warmth.

Caught slightly off guard, Issable blushed, her face taking on a bright shade of red. With a shy yet genuine smile, she replied, "Okay." The exchange carried an air of newfound familiarity and acceptance, setting the tone for a comfortable evening in Oliver's hometown.