First Come, First serve

Chapter 10-Lyra And Gray's parents

Gray Muller sat alone in his spacious office, the afternoon light casting long shadows across the polished floor. His thoughts churned like a stormy sea—torn between duty and desire. The weight of his family’s legacy pressed heavily on his shoulders. He had no choice but to choose only one woman for marriage—Lyra or Emily. Unbeknownst to either of them, a quiet competition had begun, one orchestrated by Gray himself. A test of character, grace, and love.

As he spun slowly in his leather swivel chair, lost in contemplation, a knock tapped gently on the office door, drawing him back to reality.

“Come in,” he called out, his voice sharper than intended—part anticipation, part tension.

His pulse quickened when Lyra stepped into the room, a sleek folder in hand. She looked effortlessly alluring, her tailored dress hugging her curves, her confidence undeniable. But Gray, determined to remain composed, forced his gaze downward toward the documents on his desk. He couldn’t afford distraction now.

Lyra noticed his cold restraint and smiled to herself, mildly amused. Maybe he’s just buried in work, she reasoned, setting aside her fleeting plan to lean in close, to whisper something teasing. Flirtation had always come easily with Gray—but not today.

“I brought these for your signature,” she said, placing the folder down and taking the seat opposite him without waiting for an invitation.

Gray offered a brief smile as he signed the papers, his expression unreadable. “Thank you,” he said curtly, returning to the first page to double-check a clause.

She picked up the documents, rose to her feet, and turned to leave. But just as she reached the door.

“Lyra, wait.”

She paused, turning to face him, her expression shifting slightly. “Yes?”

“I’d like you to meet my parents this afternoon. It’s important. We’ll leave by 2 p.m., so you’ll need to clear your schedule.”

Lyra blinked, caught off guard. Then a warm smile broke across her face. Meeting the parents? That could only mean one thing. She nodded gently, excitement bubbling under her calm exterior. “Of course,” she replied, closing the door behind her as she left.

Gray exhaled deeply and leaned back, staring at the ceiling. His heart was tangled in emotions, but tradition left no room for uncertainty.

Gray’s POV

Whenever Lyra enters my office, there’s always a spark. In the past, we shared more than just words. But today, I had to hold back. There’s more at stake now. She’s bold, undeniably beautiful, and fiercely passionate. Yet I must look deeper—to who she truly is, not just what I feel.

Lyra’s POV

Gray barely looked at me today. I left the office untouched, unseduced—a first. I was nearly angry, until he told me I’d be meeting his parents. That changes everything. A man doesn’t introduce just anyone to his family. I smiled to myself, already imagining what I’d wear to meet them.

By afternoon, Gray drove her to the Mullers’ residence—a stately home nestled in the hills. Earlier, he had called his parents, informing them that he would be arriving with “someone special.” Mr. and Mrs. Muller were already seated in the living room, awaiting them.

“I think that’s Gray,” Mrs. Muller said eagerly as she heard the car door shut. She walked swiftly to the entrance, anticipation on her face.

“Good afternoon, Mother,” Gray said warmly, glancing toward Lyra.

“Good afternoon, ma’am,” Lyra added respectfully, her tone soft but poised.

Mrs. Muller greeted them both with a smile, but her eyes lingered on Lyra—assessing, curious. The woman was striking, confident. It wasn’t hard to see why her son was drawn to her.

As they entered, Lyra’s heart skipped a beat. She recognized Mr. Muller instantly.

“Good afternoon, sir,” she said, startled but polite.

“Lyra! Welcome,” Mr. Muller responded warmly. “How are you, my dear?”

Gray’s eyes narrowed slightly in confusion. He hadn’t expected his father to recognize her.

“I’m well, thank you, sir,” Lyra replied, sparing a glance at Gray, who was visibly puzzled.

Mrs. Muller chimed in, “Come in, sit. I’ll bring something to eat.”

They all moved to the dining room, where a prepared feast awaited. As the meal progressed, Mr. Muller turned to Lyra.

“How’s your mother these days?”

“She’s doing fine, sir. We speak often,” Lyra replied, her voice steady.

“I’m sorry about your father’s passing. My condolences.”

Lyra’s smile softened. “Thank you, sir. It’s been hard, but I’ve come to peace with it.”

Gray looked at her in surprise. She had never mentioned her father’s death. A wave of guilt swept over him for not knowing—then he reminded himself, this was exactly why the test mattered. To discover the truths hidden beneath the surface.

After the meal, as Gray and Lyra left, Mrs. Muller closed the door and turned to her husband.

“You knew her?”

Mr. Muller nodded. “She’s the daughter of my late friend, John. He had two wives, both pregnant at once. He stayed with Lyra’s mother, divorcing the other. It's a complicated past... one I’ve never forgotten.”

Mrs. Muller gasped slightly, her hands clasped together. “And that’s why you insist on the legacy—one wife only.”

“Yes,” he said firmly. “Our son must choose wisely. I’m glad he’s finally starting to see what’s important.”

She nodded. “Me too.”