First Come, First serve

Chapter 9-First Come, First serve

"No, Father... I truly have no idea about that," Gray responded, his voice a mix of confusion and concern.

Mr. Muller inhaled deeply, his chest rising as he turned his gaze toward his wife seated beside him. She met his eyes, offered a soft nod, and smiled reassuringly.

"My father once told me when I was a young man," Mr. Muller began, "that in our family, it is tradition—no, a legacy—for each member to marry only one spouse. We believe in monogamy, not polygamy."

Gray's eyes widened, his heart began to thud loudly against his chest. A storm of thoughts raced through his mind. He had made the decision to marry both Lyra and Emily. He loved them deeply—equally—and now, this legacy stood like a mountain in his path.

"But you never told me this, Father," Gray protested, his voice rising. "You never said anything until now."

"I know, my son," Mr. Muller said quietly, the edge of regret in his voice. "And for that, I apologize. But I’m glad you haven’t married either of them yet. This gives you a chance to make the right decision—to choose one, and make her your wife."

Gray’s heart twisted. "I love both of them, Father," he insisted. "They’re both my fiancées. They each believe I’m going to marry them." He searched his father’s face, hoping for compromise, some understanding.

But Mr. Muller's tone turned cold, his words absolute. "No, Gray. You must choose. Pick one and honor her. If you refuse, your mother and I will not attend your wedding." He stood up abruptly, turned to his wife with a brief, “Thank you for the meal,” and walked away toward his bedroom, leaving silence in his wake.

Gray sat in stunned silence, his heart aching. His mother remained beside him, her expression calm, but thoughtful.

"Mother..." he murmured, his voice breaking slightly, "I’m telling you the truth. I love them both so much. I can't picture my life without either Lyra or Emily."

Mrs. Muller smiled gently. Her son was no longer a boy—he was a man in love, preparing for marriage. "It’s our fault, Gray. We should’ve told you about this family tradition long ago," she said. "But let me ask you—do either of these women know you plan to marry both of them?"

Gray lowered his gaze. "No, Mother. They don’t know."

"Then what do you think will happen when you bring both of them into your home, into your life?" she asked. "They’ll clash, compete, fight for your attention. There’ll be jealousy, conflict—and no peace."

Gray sighed, her words hitting home. He knew she was right.

"So what should I do, Mother?" he asked, almost whispering.

Mrs. Muller paused, her eyes thoughtful, and then she smiled. "First come, first serve."

Gray blinked. "What does that mean, Mother?"

She stood, walked over to sit beside him, and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "It means that whichever woman meets the standards you set—character, homemaking ability, compatibility, and whatever else you deem important—she’ll be the one to become your wife."

Gray slowly nodded, beginning to understand. "You're right, Mother. That’s fair."

His mother beamed. "I’m glad you think so. And Gray..." she added, "I want to meet both of them—separately. Your father and I will observe them, learn about them. We want to help you find the right one."

Gray stood up, grateful. "Thank you, Mother. I’ll keep you informed. Please let Mr.Muller know I understand now."

Mrs. Muller laughed as she stood to walk him to the door. "Calling him Mr. Muller already? You’re becoming quite the diplomat."

They shared a warm hug before Gray exited the house. She stood at the doorway, waving as he drove off, disappearing down the road. She smiled softly, closing and locking the door behind her.

The moment she turned, Mr. Muller emerged from the hallway. "What did he say?"

Her smile widened. "He’s agreed to choose one. He won’t marry both."

Mr. Muller raised a brow. "Just like that? How did you convince him?"

"First come, first serve," she replied.

He looked confused. "What does that even mean?"

Mrs. Muller laughed, her eyes twinkling. "It means the one who proves herself worthy in character and compatibility gets to marry our son."

Mr. Muller nodded and pulled her into a gentle embrace. "You're brilliant, my love."

She smiled against his chest. "And you're still as handsome and strong as ever."

They chuckled and walked together back toward their room.

Gray's POV:

I arrived at my mansion after a long drive, feeling mentally exhausted. I dropped onto the couch, my mother’s words echoing in my mind.

First come, first serve... It makes sense, but it’s going to be tough.

I ran a hand through my hair, exhaling slowly.

I’ll study Lyra and Emily. I’ll observe their characters, their habits, their values. And the one who meets the standards I set—the one who fits best into the life I envision—she will become my wife.

I closed my eyes briefly, smiling. I’ll let my parents meet them too. They’ll help me decide, even if the ladies don’t know they’re being watched.

I stood up, determination building within me. Emily will be the first. I’ll invite her out after work next week.

With that decision made, I climbed the stairs toward my room, ready to rest, but more prepared than ever to face the difficult choice that lay ahead.