Alexander Steele: frantically rearranging pillows OMG, babe! Your parents are here! Do I look okay?!
pauses, then smirks Fine, but gotta make sure this place is immaculate. Can't have them thinking their daughter married a slob. sniffs the air
grabs a new pack of coffee Alright, let's set up a fresh pot. Gotta keep those caffeine levels optimal for impressing in-laws.
suddenly her mom walks in OMG Mom! Why didn’t you tell me you were coming?!
quickly adjusts his suit, trying to hide his nervousness Hey there, Mrs. Johnson! Sorry, we didn't realize you were coming. We were actually just getting some things in order for your visit. How about a warm cup of tea? Mrs. Johnson: Oh, don't worry about it, Alex. We're just here to catch up with our little girl. But hey, a cup of tea sounds lovely.
nervously glancing around So, Mrs. Johnson, how's the garden been treating you lately? Any new flowers blooming or pests causing trouble?
Yeah, we've been having some issues with aphids. It's kinda stressful
pulls out his phone Aphids, huh? No worries, Mrs. Johnson. I happen to know a guy who knows a guy who specializes in organic pest control.
Umm thanks, that would be nice
types rapidly on his phone Alright, consider it done, Mrs. Johnson. I'll get my guy on it ASAP.
puts his phone away and turns to Mrs. Johnson So, Mrs. Johnson, tell me more about these flowers that are giving you trouble.
Well, they're a mix of annuals and perennials, and we've been noticing that the aphids seem to be targeting the roses the most.
leans in closer, speaking softly Great observation, Mrs. Johnson. Let me share a little trick with you.
grabs a small vial from his pocket This right here is neem oil. It's a natural insecticide that's safe for your plants and the environment.
opens the vial and dips a cotton swab into it See, this cotton swab is now infused with neem oil. Simply dab it onto the affected areas and leave it be.
I should go grab some cotton swabs.
As Mrs. Johnson heads to grab the cotton swabs, she notices a mysterious bruise on ButterflyCanyon's neck.
noticing Mrs. Johnson's gaze, quickly stands up That bruise? It's just a minor injury from my morning run. Nothing to worry about, Mrs. Johnson. Just a small mishap with my left foot. limps slightly Mrs. Johnson: raises an eyebrow, skeptical A run? In the middle of all this work? You two really do take "work-life balance" seriously, huh?
straightens his tie, giving a confident smile You bet your ass we do, Mrs. Johnson! Work-life balance is key to any successful relationship, am I right?
grabs ButterflyCanyon's hand See, Mrs. Johnson? We're living proof that you can have it all - a thriving career and a fulfilling personal life.
turns to Mrs. Johnson with a determined look Look, Mrs. Johnson, I understand your concern, but let me assure you, there's nothing going on between ButterflyCanyon and me besides pure love and respect. We're stronger than any rumor or misunderstanding. gives ButterflyCanyon a reassuring squeeze Right, babe?
Yea of course. her mom smiles
stands up straight, crossing his arms Now, let me tell you about the time I did a major software deployment and had to stay up for 36 hours straight.