WANTED A FLING BUT IT'S A NIGHT

CHAPTER 20 (HOME WITH YOU)

CHAPTER TWENTY

The road to Asher's family home stretched endlessly before them, winding through sleepy towns and fields that glistened under the golden haze of sunset. The car hummed softly, filled with a mix of excitement, nerves, and an unfamiliar but welcome comfort.

Rhett sat in the passenger seat beside Jude, who'd insisted on driving. Asher and Zane were in the back, Asher half-asleep with his head resting against the window and Zane typing away on his phone.

"You good?" Jude asked Rhett, stealing a glance.

"Yeah," Rhett muttered, his eyes not leaving the road. "Just not used to stuff like this. Trips. Families."

Jude nodded, understanding. "Well, you’re with Asher. That means something."

Rhett didn’t answer. But a small smile tugged at the edge of his lips.

--

Asher's home was tucked away in a quiet suburb, with a red-bricked porch and flowers blooming along the fence. The house breathed warmth, laughter, and love—everything Rhett never really had.

Asher’s mum opened the door before they even knocked. She pulled Asher into a tight hug, beaming. "You finally brought friends!"

Asher laughed. "I told you I would."

"And you must be Rhett," she said, turning to Rhett. "Come in, come in."

Inside, the house smelled of cinnamon and freshly baked bread. Family photos lined the hallway, a mix of childhood memories and proud moments.

Zane and Jude settled easily into the living room, making conversation with Asher’s younger siblings. Jude, surprisingly, clicked with them like he’d known them forever. Zane was a little more awkward but loosened up when Asher's dad offered him a glass of mango juice—apparently Asher wasn’t the only one obsessed with it.

Later that night, after dinner and laughter, Asher found Rhett alone on the porch, looking up at the stars.

"Hey," Asher said softly, joining him.

"Your family… they're different."

"They’re my heart," Asher replied. "But I know it can be overwhelming."

Rhett nodded. "It is. But it feels nice. Confusing. But nice."

A silence fell between them. Then Asher nudged his arm. "Come on. Let’s go in before my mum thinks we’re out here kissing."

Rhett chuckled, then leaned in close. "She wouldn’t be wrong."

Asher turned, caught off guard, but then smiled as Rhett pressed a kiss to his cheek.

It wasn’t fiery like the kiss before. It was gentler. Like a promise.

Behind the curtain, Asher’s mum smiled silently before letting the drape fall back into place.

And the night continued—filled with soft music, inside jokes, and the birth of something that felt like home.