✓ 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐔𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍, tom blyth

𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗋𝗍𝗒 𝗌𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗇 !

❛ REPUTATION ༉‧₊˚
chapter thirty seven!

⇢ ˗ˏˋ meeting the parents
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THE MORNING SUN PAINTED hues of gold across the city skyline as Shayla and Tom stirred awake, cocooned in the warmth of their shared slumber. The soft hum of the hotel room's air conditioner and the distant city sounds created a tranquil ambiance.

Tom's eyes fluttered open, and he found Shayla beside him, her tousled hair cascading over the pillow. A tender smile graced his lips as he gently brushed a strand away from her face.

"Morning, beautiful," he murmured, his voice carrying the warmth of the dawn.

Shayla stirred, her eyes meeting his with a drowsy yet contented gaze. "Morning," she replied, her voice a soft melody. "Last night feels like a dream."

Tom chuckled, the memories of the proposal and the joyous celebration lingering. "A dream we'll get to live every day," he said, his fingers intertwining with hers.

They lay there for a moment, basking in the afterglow of the night before. Then, as the reality of the day ahead settled in, Shayla turned to Tom. "What do you think our future looks like?" she asked, her eyes searching his for shared dreams.

Tom propped himself up on one elbow, his gaze fixed on Shayla. "I see a life filled with music and laughter. I want us to chase dreams together, face challenges hand in hand, and create a home that echoes with love."

Shayla's eyes sparkled with agreement. "That sounds perfect. And what about family? Do you see little ones running around?"

Tom grinned, picturing a future that included more than just the two of them. "Absolutely. I want to be a dad who embarrasses our kids with dad jokes and supports them in all their endeavors."

Shayla laughed, the sound a melody that resonated with Tom's heart. "I'd love that. And maybe we can have more cats, I may have a husband but I still want to be a crazy cat lady ."

"Definitely," Tom agreed. "A house full of love, laughter, and maybe the occasional cat mischief."

As they continued to discuss their hopes and aspirations, Tom's expression shifted, becoming more thoughtful. "Hey, Shayla, what do you think about meeting my parents?"

Shayla's eyes widened, a mix of surprise and delight coloring her features. "Really? I'd love to!"

Tom beamed, realizing that their journey was not just about their shared present but also about merging the worlds they came from. "Fantastic. I think they'd love you as much as I do."

The prospect of meeting Tom's parents added an extra layer of excitement to their unfolding story. As they embraced the morning light and the promise of a future together, Shayla and Tom found solace in the shared dreams and adventures that awaited them.

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THE CRISP AIR OF Tom's childhood home greeted Shayla as she stepped through the front door. Tom's parents, Charlotte and Gavin, warmly welcomed her into their abode, the air filled with the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals and familial love.

"Shayla, it's a pleasure to finally meet you," Charlotte exclaimed, enveloping Shayla in a warm embrace. "Tom has spoken so much about you."

Shayla grinned, feeling an immediate sense of belonging. "Thank you for having me. I've heard so much about both of you too."

A little while later, the kitchen buzzed with activity as Shayla and Charlotte gathered ingredients for the cookie adventure. Flour clouds billowed as they sifted, laughter intertwined with the rhythmic tapping of measuring spoons.

"Shayla, dear, have you ever baked cookies before?" Charlotte asked, a twinkle in her eye.

Shayla chuckled, a hint of mischief in her expression. "Well, my expertise lies more in writing songs than following recipes, but I'm up for the challenge."

Charlotte grinned, handing Shayla a mixing bowl. "Baking is a lot like life. Sometimes you follow the recipe, and sometimes you add a little something extra to make it uniquely yours."

As they blended butter and sugar, Shayla couldn't help but admire the family dynamic around her. "Your home feels so warm and inviting. Tom must have had a wonderful childhood here."

Charlotte nodded, a nostalgic gleam in her eyes. "We tried our best to create a haven for our children, filled with love and laughter. Family is the greatest gift."

Shayla agreed, recalling the stories Tom shared about his upbringing. "It's clear how much you all care for each other."

As they added eggs and vanilla, Charlotte leaned in, her voice conspiratorial. "Now, Shayla, let me share a secret ingredient – a dash of spontaneity. It keeps things exciting. In cookies and in love."

Shayla grinned, whisking with newfound enthusiasm. "Spontaneity, got it. I'll make sure our love story has a touch of unpredictability."

The aroma of the cookies baking in the oven filled the kitchen, and Anya popped in with wide eyes. "Smells amazing! Can I help?"

Shayla handed her a spatula, and they joined forces in the cookie-making extravaganza. As they chatted about music, dreams, and life on the road, Shayla extended an invitation. "Anya, how about joining me for Night 2 of the tour in Birmingham? Front row seats, and we can have a blast together!"

Anya's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Seriously? That would be the coolest thing ever!"

With the cookies baked to perfection, Shayla and Charlotte shared a moment of satisfaction. The kitchen, now filled with the scent of freshly baked treats, had also become a space where bonds were strengthened, and wisdom was shared.

As they enjoyed the warm cookies, Shayla couldn't help but feel grateful for the sweet moments she was creating not just with Tom but with his family – a family that had welcomed her into their home with open hearts and a sprinkle of timeless advice.

Charlotte nodded knowingly. "Communication is key. And don't forget the occasional date night – it keeps the spark alive."

As the cookies baked, Shayla listened intently to Charlotte's advice, feeling a genuine connection with Tom's mother. The aroma of fresh cookies filled the kitchen, and Shayla couldn't help but be grateful for the warmth and wisdom shared within these walls.

As the evening unfolded, Shayla discovered not just the charm of Tom's childhood home but the heartwarming embrace of his family. The laughter, shared stories, and newfound friendship with Anya made this encounter not just a meeting of families but the weaving of connections that would undoubtedly endure.

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C speaks!

# one more chapter guys!!!!

have a brilliant day!