They walked to the door together, and Kimberly rang the bell since she didn't want them to barge in on her mother.
Her mother, a petite woman with sharp eyes, opened the door. Her gaze shifted from Kimberly to Nicholas, her expression a mix of curiosity and skepticism.
"Mom, this is Nicholas Vice," Kimberly said, forcing a smile. "Nicholas, this is my mother, Emily Campbell."
Nicholas extended the bouquet. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Campbell."
Emily's eyes softened slightly as she took the bouquet. "These are lovely, Nicholas. Thank you." She stepped aside, allowing them to enter. "Come in, both of you."
Although it was her apartment, Kimberly followed her mother in dutifully like she was a visitor and her mom owned the place.
The tension in the air was palpable as Emily led them to the living room, where they sat down. Kimberly's heart pounded in her chest as she waited for the inevitable questions.
