Ethan was finishing his morning jog when his phone buzzed.
The caller ID read: Aria Quinn.
He answered casually. Hey, what's up
E-Ethan… her voice wavered slightly. Can… can you come over My parents are home, and… I want you to meet them.
Ethan raised an eyebrow, smiling faintly. You want me to meet your parents Are you sure you're ready for this
There was a small pause. Y-Yes! I mean… I want you to come. Please.
Pretty Woman Near Host – Target Request: Visit Home
Favorability: 85
Suggested Action: Make a good impression
Ethan chuckled. Alright, I'll be there in an hour. Don't worry, I'll behave… mostly.
Ethan hung up and immediately turned to the system, which flashed in his vision like neon text only he could see:
Money Return System Notification
Suggested Spending: Gift for Target's Family to 2X Return Favorability Boost
He smirked. Alright, let's do this properly.
Within minutes, he had:
A bouquet of fresh flowers
A box of premium chocolates
A small gift for Aria's parents: a limited edition wine
Total spent: $1,500 to Returned $3,000
Favorability Notice: Aria Quinn to 90
Ethan grinned. I like how this works.He arrived at a neat suburban home, flowers in one hand, chocolates in the other, gift bag swinging slightly from his wrist.
The front door opened. Aria stood there, her cheeks slightly red. T-They're expecting you.
He nodded, flashing his signature calm smile. Of course. Let's make a good impression.
Pretty Woman Near Host – Target: Nervous + Favorability: 90
Suggested Action: Charm Boost Active
Her parents were in the living room. They looked a little stern but polite.
Ethan, this is my father and mother, Aria said nervously.
Ethan bowed slightly. It's an honor to meet you both. I hope I can make a good impression.
Her father raised an eyebrow. You're… very confident for someone so young.
Ethan smiled. "Confidence is easy when you know your intentions are sincere.
Suggested Action: Compliment and Gift Double Favorability
He handed the bouquet and chocolates. The parents exchanged surprised glances.
Favorability Increased: Aria's Parents to +20
Charm Boost Active to Social Influence +10
Her mother smiled warmly. Well, he's polite… and thoughtful. That's a good start.
Ethan nodded, keeping his cool. He even cracked a small, charming joke about how the system suggested the flowers. Aria blushed violently while her parents laughed.System Notice: Target impressed. Social Influence
Spend to Earn ×2 Favorability
Next Potential Ability Unlock: Family Favorability Bonus
Ethan smirked quietly. Looks like the system likes me meeting parents.
Aria's hand brushed his accidentally as they moved to sit on the couch. Her warm touch made his heart race in a way no system alert could replicate.
Favorability Notice: Aria Quinn to 95
Dinner conversation went smoothly. Ethan answered every question with charm, intelligence, and just enough humility to impress. He even joked with her father about running into the rain without mentioning the 2X return system's involvement.
When it was time to leave, Aria walked him to the door.
Thanks for coming… I think my parents like you, she whispered.
Ethan grinned. Not just think… they definitely like me. And I'll make sure next time, they adore me.
Favorability Notice: Aria Quinn to 100
Favorability Notice: Parents to Maxed
As he jogged back home, the system pinged again:
System Notification: Family Interaction Successful
Rewards: Social Influence +50, Charm Boost Max
Ethan smirked. Heartbreak made me unstoppable… and now, meeting the parents is too.