Into the car

You put your suitcase in the back of his car, and get in the passenger seat. You fasten your seatbelt and settle in for the drive. Paul gets in and smiles at you as he starts the car.

“Hopefully traffic won’t be too bad getting out of the city.” He say, you can’t tell if he is trying to make conversation or just feeling awkward.

“It shouldn’t be on a Wednesday at 9:45, sorry we’re a little late getting started. Got a little distracted in the shower.” You say , just a half smile.

He looks at you unamused, he knows you’re trying to get a rise out of him.

“Sorry, I was just teasing a little, ” you apologize, “You’re probably real nervous about your parents meeting me, huh? You know you can count on me, right?” You say, touching his arm.

“I know I can Erin, thanks,” he smiles, “you’re right, I’m very anxious. This is a big weekend, but it’ll be fine” he reassures himself. “You look the part, my folks will be happy.”

He trails off. You feel bad for making your departure late, and for giving him such a hard time. “I’m sure they’ll love me, your folks really liked me as Aaron, don’t worry. I know how to charm em. Besides like you said, it’s a big weekend, no one will have any bandwidth to be scrutinizing me. This’ll work, I promise Paul.”