Beautifully Broken

“No, strangely, Hails and I never spent any time down here. She thought it was too touristy but I’ve always loved the vibe.”

I look around, taking in the eclectic group of people mixed with the charming architecture and breathtaking landscape. “It does have a good vibe.”

“Right?” he smiles. He tugs on my hand and points to the large Ghirardelli sign in the distance. “C’mon, let’s get you some real hot chocolate and the perfection that is an Earthquake Sundae.”

“You had me at hot chocolate.”

After spending an incredible afternoon in the city, we’re now pulling up to Gavin’s family home. Nestled in the heart of Sausalito’s Historic District, the house is a stately affair; a tri-level with dark shaker siding and sweeping views of the bay and city lights. He parks our rental car on a sunken parking slab beneath the house and turns off the ignition.

“Are you ready to do this?”

I take a deep breath. “I think so.”

Gavin pops the trunk and exits the vehicle to grab our luggage. I step out with my carry-on bag over my shoulder and look around.

“So…electronic gates and underground parking, huh? Pretty fancy.”

He shrugs like it’s no big deal. “It’s pretty common for the neighborhood.”

“A swanky neighborhood.”

My nerves ratchet up quite a few notches when I realize how outclassed I am. Gavin clearly comes from wealth. He grew up in this posh neighborhood filled with multi-million dollar homes. I would’ve never guessed; he’s such a simple, laid-back guy. What if his family isn’t the same? What if they take one look at me and decide I’m not good enough for them? I’m suddenly feeling very out of place. Gavin senses my hesitation when he grabs my hand and I dig in my heels.

“What’s wrong, Kat?”

“I don’t know about this…how do you feel about staying in a hotel?”

He laughs. “Yeah, right. My mom would kill me.” His expression sobers when he takes a good look at me. I’m sure my face is broadcasting how uncomfortable I am right now. “Kat, seriously; it will be fine. They’re going to love you.”

I fling my arms out, gesturing to our surroundings. “Gavin, look at this place!” I spot something to the left of the parking area and gasp. “Oh my God, is that an elevator? Your house has a freaking elevator?”

He obviously senses my impending meltdown because he drops the bags and grabs both of my hands.

“Kat, look at me. Breathe.”

I take some much needed air into my lungs and look into his eyes pleadingly. “Gavin, this house is so…extravagant. I couldn’t be more out of place if I tried. Your parents are going to take one look at me and want to throw me out with the trash. Can we please stay somewhere else?”

His jaw hardens as he grabs my face with both hands. “Kat, please don’t do this. Don’t lessen your worth just because they have money. My parents couldn’t care less if you were homeless or deep-ass in debt as long as you make me happy. And you do. I’m happier than I’ve ever been and they know that. They can’t wait to meet you.”

“But…”

“But, what?” he challenges.

“But…I can’t possibly live up to their expectations.”

He sighs. “Kat, think about what you’re saying for a minute. You’re telling me that you think my parents are going to judge you based on your bank account?”

“No, that’s not what I’m saying.” I shake my head furiously.

“That’s exactly what you’re saying,” he argues. “Do you honestly think I was raised by people who are that shallow?”

“No, of course not.”

“Kat, they’re good people. Some of the best people I know. They adopted me for Christ’s sake—they took me into their home when they had no need to other than the fact that I had a need and they wanted to help.” He pulls on the ends of his hair. “Look, my dad is a software developer…he got into the business at the right time and did very well financially. But there’s much more to them than their money. Quite frankly, Kat, it’s judgmental of you to assume the worst of them.”

His words shock me. Mostly because they’re true.

I hang my head in shame. “I’m sorry, Gavin. I don’t know why I’m being so anxious.”