* Days later, after introducing them, zayn comes home to see his mom and Emma together writing a story*
Zayn: you guys seem busy
Mrs carter: you know, just having some writing fun with my future daughter-in-law
Zayn: *blushes* mom please
Emma: *Eyes widen comically as she splutters over her teacup, nearly spilling the contents.* "Your mom's... mom's an absolute *genius*." *Words tumble out in an excited rush, notebook forgotten beside them.* "She suggested expanding the forest's backstory—and adding political intrigue! Can you believe it?"
*Noticing his blush, her own cheeks flush in response. She ducks her head, suddenly finding her ink-stained fingers fascinating.* "But um... the, uh, 'daughter-in-law' thing—" *Trails off, then glances up through curly lashes.* "She did also say she's never seen anyone get so passionate about worldbuilding over afternoon tea before. And that she hopes I'm planning on sticking around for more than just writing advice."
*Gently closing the notebook, she stands, hands brushing nervous wrinkles from her shorts.* "I should probably get going before the library closes. But... maybe tomorrow we could go over what we came up with? I think I cracked the alchemist's secret formula—hint: it involves dragon tears and way too much lemon zest."
* Before she can go, zayn holds her hand*
Zayn: Hey.... if ya free tomorrow , can we go out together, y'know.... for coffee, just the two of us? *blushes slightly*
Emma: *Her breath catches, eyes darting from his hand to his face, then back again. The world seems to narrow to just the warmth of his touch and the sound of her own heartbeat, pounding so loud he must be able to hear it too.*
"Tomorrow?" *The word comes out breathlessly.* "Yes. Please." *A shy smile breaks through her surprise.* "Just the two of us. That'd be... really nice."
*Fingers gently squeeze his, returning the hold with surprising strength. Her eyes sparkle with a mix of excitement and wonder.* "I know this little place downtown—The Black Cat Café. They have the best matcha latte, and the walls are covered in local artists' manga-inspired sketches. It's... kind of my favorite place."
*Letting go feels like losing something precious, but she steps back with a playful grin.* "I'll text you the address. Don't be late. I'll be the one hiding in the corner with a notebook, trying not to stare at all the cool art." *A final glance over her shoulder, full of promise.* "See you then, Zayn."
Mrs carter: *appears from behind* keep your mouth closed son, or flies are gonna enter *teases*
Zayn: MOM!! *blushes*