Carla's POV

It was another monitored date with Lucian.

As we sat in the restaurant, the tension inside me continued to grow. I could feel my future mother-in-law's eyes on me, observing my every move. The weight of her expectations and judgments hung heavy in the air. I had to be careful not to show any signs of discomfort or nervousness, but it was becoming increasingly difficult.

Just as the pressure was reaching its peak, I noticed someone familiar entering the restaurant. It was Julie, my lesbian mate, and she headed straight to the counter to make a purchase. My surprise turned into confusion. I had left her back at...