EJ and Robin were bustling around EJ's apartment, making sure everything was perfect for the evening. Tonight was a big night—Karen and Luke, EJ's parents, were coming over, and Robin had reserved a spot for four at an upscale restaurant called San Marino. Though she had met EJ's parents before, this was the first time in such an intimate setting, and her nerves were starting to show.

"Why am I so nervous?" Robin muttered, adjusting her dress for the third time. "I've never gotten this far into a relationship before."

EJ, sensing her anxiety, walked over and gently took her hands. "Hey, it's going to be fine. My parents already love you. You're amazing, remember?"

Robin smiled, taking a deep breath. "Thanks, EJ."

EJ kissed her forehead. "Now, relax. They'll be here any minute."

Just then, there was a knock at the door. Robin and EJ exchanged a look, their anticipation rising. "That must be them," EJ said, heading to the door.

But when he opened it, he found not his parents, but Barney standing there with a wide grin. "Barney? What are you doing here?"

Barney shrugged nonchalantly. "Uh... I'm here to see your parents. They must be dying to meet me after all the legendary Barney stories you've told them."

EJ sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Barney, my parents have met you before. They didn't like you."

Barney's grin faltered. "What?"

EJ continued, "Barney, you aren't necessarily the friend a parent would want their kid to have."

Barney looked genuinely hurt. "But I'm one of your best friends."

EJ glanced at Robin, then back at Barney. "Well, actually Ben's my—"

Barney cut him off, "I'm the most important person in your life."

EJ tried again, "Well, Robin's actually—"

Barney, undeterred, protested, "How could your parents not like me? I'm delightful."

Robin stepped in, smirking. "In very small frequent doses."

EJ sighed and began listing off the reasons. "Barney, you're loud, you're brash, you hit on anything that moves, you've been known to lie for sport, and let's not forget the time you got my dad drunk at Thanksgiving and he ended up in a fountain."

Barney waved it off. "That was one time! And your dad had a great time."

EJ shook his head. "Barney, this isn't about you. I just want to take Robin out and have her meet my folks without any distractions."

Robin added, "Barney, this is a big step for our relationship, and EJ's right. I mean, come on, you're not exactly the kind of friend parents want their kid to have."

Barney looked around, desperate to find a way in. "Oh, really? Then I guess those shoes aren't the thing you're most wrong about today."

EJ sighed, looking exasperated. "Barney, just go home."

Barney held up his hands in defeat. "Alright, alright. I'll go. But this isn't over!"

With that, he turned and left, leaving EJ and Robin to finally greet his parents in peace.

———

Just then, there was a knock at the door. Robin and EJ exchanged a look, their anticipation rising. "That must be them," EJ said, heading to the door.

He opened it and was relieved to see his parents, Luke and Karen, standing there. "Oh thank God it's not Barney," he muttered under his breath before greeting them warmly. "Hey, Mom. Hey, Dad."

Luke stepped forward and patted EJ on the back. "EJ."

Karen hugged her son tightly before turning to Robin with open arms. "Robin!"

Robin smiled, stepping into the embrace. "Hello."

Karen beamed at her. "You look beautiful, dear."

Luke nodded in agreement. "A real looker."

Robin laughed lightly. "That's funny, I didn't even 'look' in the mirror today. That's not anything, is it?"

EJ and his parents chuckled at her joke. Robin felt a bit more at ease. "So, I made a reservation at San Marino tonight for 8:00."

Karen's eyes lit up. "San Marino? That sounds wonderful, Robin. Thank you for arranging that."

Luke smiled, looking impressed. "We've heard great things about that place."

EJ put an arm around Robin's shoulders, pulling her close. "Robin went all out for tonight. She wanted to make it special."

Robin blushed slightly but smiled. "I just wanted to make sure we had a nice evening together."

Karen patted her on the back. "I'm sure we will, dear. Thank you for being so thoughtful."

As they all settled into the living room for some pre-dinner conversation, Robin felt a sense of relief. The evening was off to a good start, and despite the earlier visit from Barney, she felt ready. This was an important step, and she was determined to make it a great evening.

———

As EJ, Robin, Luke, and Karen were about to leave for the restaurant, they were intercepted by none other than Barney Stinson. Luke's face immediately shifted to a look of sarcastic surprise.

"Barney Stinson, what a surprise," Luke said dryly.

"Oh, come on, Mr. Bennett, you had a good time two Thanksgivings ago," Barney retorted with a confident grin.

Luke admitted, albeit begrudgingly, "It was fun, but that doesn't mean I'm thrilled to see you now."

EJ sighed in exasperation. "Barney, I thought I told you to go home."

Ignoring EJ, Barney asked, "Where are you guys off to?"

"San Marino," Robin replied.

Barney laughed. "San Marino! Oh, you're serious? Yikes. No. We have to try Casa A Pezzi. Best salmon risotto I have ever had."

Karen's eyes lit up. "I love salmon risotto."

Barney nodded knowingly. "I know."

EJ and Luke exchanged bewildered looks. How did Barney know this?

Robin frowned. "How are we supposed to get a table at Casa A Pezzi? They're booked for weeks."

Barney smirked. "Well, lucky for you, I happen to know the head waitress, which is ironic because..."

EJ quickly intervened, "Stop it! Don't, don't say it!"

Barney continued undeterred, "Ironic because we both work at a homeless shelter where I serve the food. Where do you volunteer, Robin?"

Robin, frustrated, pulled Barney aside. "What's the matter with you? I'm his girlfriend, and I'm not even trying that hard. Way to wreck the curve, kiss-ass."

Barney shrugged. "Robin, I'm one of his best friends."

Robin shot back, "Actually, Ben is-"

Barney interrupted, "That's a commitment. Girlfriend? That's like a bad flu. Out of your system after a couple weeks in bed. High five!"

EJ, trying to defuse the situation, attempted to get his parents and Robin into the taxi. "Come on, let's get going. Barney, didn't you mention something about that girl you hooked up with last month?"

Barney's eyes widened in fear. "What girl?"

"You know, the one who said she was really into commitment and, uh, wanted to introduce you to her parents?" EJ elaborated, steering his family towards the cab.

Barney's face paled. "Wait, who? No! I need to go. See you later, guys!"

As Barney hurried off, EJ, Robin, Luke, and Karen finally climbed into the taxi. EJ looked at Robin with a grateful smile. "Thank God that worked."

Robin chuckled, leaning into him. "Crisis averted."
———

The taxi ride to San Marino was a mixture of laughter and nervous excitement. Robin couldn't help but feel a bit on edge, but EJ's reassuring hand on hers kept her calm. As they touched down at the upscale restaurant, Robin took a deep breath and led the group inside.

The hostess greeted them warmly. "Welcome to San Marino. Do you have a reservation?"

"Yes, for four under Scherbatsky," Robin replied confidently.

"Right this way," the hostess said, leading them to a cozy corner table with a view of the city.

As they settled in, Robin glanced around the elegant interior, admiring the sophisticated ambiance. Just as she was starting to relax, EJ stiffened beside her. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught sight of Barney entering the restaurant.

EJ sighed, muttering, "You've got to be kidding me."

"What is it?" Robin asked, her eyes following his gaze.

"It's Barney," EJ whispered. "I'll be right back."

EJ slipped away from the table and intercepted Barney at the end of the restaurant. "Barney, what are you doing here?"

Barney grinned. "Oh, just checking out the ambiance. And by the way, real smart move with the fake hookup story. But not smart enough."

EJ rolled his eyes. "Barney, I just want my girlfriend to meet my parents in a more private setting. Can you respect that?"

Barney crossed his arms. "Best friends last forever, EJ. A girlfriend? She's just a short-term thing."

EJ shook his head. "You don't know that, Barney. Now, please, can you just leave us alone?"

Barney smirked. "Oh, come on, EJ. Don't you miss the good old days?"

EJ leaned in, his voice low. "Remember that girl you hooked up with last week? The one who was really into deep conversations about feelings?"

Barney's eyes widened in horror. "Not her! Fine, fine. I'll go. But this isn't over."

With Barney retreating, EJ returned to the table, where Robin was deep in conversation with his parents.

"So, Robin, tell us more about your job," Karen said, genuinely interested.

Robin smiled, relaxing a bit. "Well, I'm a journalist at Metro News One. It's pretty exciting. Every day is different. I get to cover a lot of interesting stories."

Luke leaned in, intrigued. "Interesting stories, huh? Like what?"

Robin thought for a moment. "Well, just last week, I covered a story about a cat that can play the piano."

Karen laughed. "A piano-playing cat? Now that's something you don't see every day."

Robin nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly! And I've also done some more serious pieces, like investigative reports on local politics."

Luke raised an eyebrow. "Impressive. And you're from Canada, right?"

Robin's face lit up. "Yes, born and raised in Vancouver. I miss the snow sometimes, but I love New York."

Karen smiled warmly. "You must really like it here to stay."

Robin glanced at EJ, her eyes softening. "I do. New York has a certain charm. And there are some pretty great people here."

EJ squeezed her hand under the table, grateful for the connection forming between Robin and his parents.

Luke chuckled. "I've heard Canadians are incredibly polite. Is that true?"

Robin laughed. "Oh, definitely. We apologize for everything. I once apologized to a door for walking into it."

Karen joined in the laughter. "That's adorable. And how do you like it here, Robin? Besides the lack of snow."

Robin grinned. "I love the energy. There's always something happening. And the food is amazing. Speaking of which, I heard San Marino has the best tiramisu in the city."

Luke nodded. "It's true. We'll have to make sure to order some."

As the conversation flowed, EJ felt a sense of relief. Things were going well. His parents were warming up to Robin, and Robin seemed to be enjoying herself.

Just then, a waiter arrived with their first course. "Your appetizers, ladies and gentlemen. Enjoy."

They dug into the delicious food, sharing bites and stories. Robin told them about her favorite Canadian dishes, while Luke and Karen shared amusing anecdotes from EJ's childhood.

"So, Robin," Luke said, a mischievous glint in his eye. "What's the most Canadian thing you've ever done?"

Robin thought for a moment. "Well, I once went ice fishing with my dad. We sat out on a frozen lake in a little hut, drilling holes in the ice and waiting for fish to bite. It was freezing, but we had a thermos of hot chocolate and a lot of patience."

Karen smiled. "That sounds lovely. I've always wanted to try ice fishing."

"It's an experience, that's for sure. But you need to dress in about ten layers to stay warm."

EJ chuckled. "That sounds intense. I don't know if I could handle it."

Robin smiled at him. "You'd probably be fine. Plus, the hot chocolate helps."

Karen leaned in, curiosity piqued. "So, Robin, what brought you to New York? It's quite a leap from Vancouver."

Robin took a sip of her water, thinking. "I've always wanted to be a journalist, and New York is the place to be for that. There's just so much happening here. Plus, I wanted a change of scenery. Vancouver is beautiful, but I was ready for something different."

Karen nodded. "It's a big city with a lot of opportunities. We're glad you made the leap."

Robin glanced at EJ, feeling grateful for his support. "Me too."

Just as the conversation was flowing smoothly, EJ noticed Barney lurking near the entrance. He groaned inwardly, excusing himself once more. "I'll be right back."

He intercepted Barney, who was trying to blend in with the other diners. "Barney, what are you doing?"

Barney feigned innocence. "Just checking out the place. It's quite classy."

EJ sighed. "Barney, I told you to leave."

Barney smirked. "I just wanted to see how things were going. And maybe offer some backup, just in case."

EJ crossed his arms, determined. "Barney, I appreciate the concern, but I've got this. Please, let us have our dinner in peace."

Barney looked around, then leaned in conspiratorially. "Alright, alright. But if you need me, I'll be at the bar."

EJ shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "Thanks, but we'll be fine."

Returning to the table, he found Robin animatedly telling a story about a moose sighting in Vancouver. Karen and Luke were laughing, clearly enjoying her company.

EJ slid back into his seat, catching the tail end of the story. "...and there it was, just standing in the middle of the road, staring at us like we were the intruders."

Karen chuckled. "A moose, huh? That's quite the welcome."

Robin nodded. "Yeah, they're huge. You don't realize just how big until you're right up close."

As the waiter arrived with their main courses, the conversation shifted to lighter topics. They shared stories and laughter, the atmosphere growing increasingly comfortable.

Robin took a bite of her meal, savoring the flavors. "This is delicious. Great choice, EJ."

EJ smiled. "I'm glad you like it."

EJ felt a surge of affection for Robin. She was fitting in so well, and his parents clearly liked her. He couldn't have asked for a better evening.

As they continued to enjoy their meal, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Robin found herself sharing more and more about her life, feeling welcomed and accepted by EJ's parents.

———

The dinner had been going so well. Robin was fitting in perfectly, charming EJ's parents with her stories and humor. However, just as Robin was finishing her story about the moose in Vancouver, Luke leaned forward, his expression shifting to one of serious curiosity.

"So, Robin," he began, a hint of examination in his tone, "what are your plans for the future? Marriage, kids, all of that?"

EJ's stomach dropped. He knew where this was heading and tried to interject. "Dad, maybe we should—"

Luke cut him off, not letting go of the topic. "I'm just curious. It's important to know what the future holds."

Robin, feeling slightly cornered but determined to be honest, took a deep breath. "Well, I'm not really planning on having kids, and I'm not too big on the idea of marriage either."

The atmosphere at the table shifted. Luke's demeanor changed subtly but noticeably, and his smile became tighter. "I see," he said, his tone laced with a hint of disapproval.

EJ squeezed Robin's hand under the table, trying to offer support. But Luke wasn't done. "You know, it's traditional for a family to have kids and get married. It's what people do."

Robin's anxiety spiked. "I understand that, but it's just not for me. EJ and I have talked about it, and he's okay with my decisions."

Luke's next comment was more pointed. "Well, I guess some people just don't want to grow up and settle down."

Robin's face flushed, and she excused herself. "I need to get some air," she said, standing up abruptly and heading outside.

Karen immediately followed her, leaving EJ alone with his father. EJ's anger bubbled to the surface as he watched Robin walk away. He turned to Luke, his voice low and furious. "Dad, what the hell is wrong with you?"

Luke looked taken aback. "I'm just trying to understand. If she's not planning on getting married, what's the point?"

EJ clenched his fists, trying to keep his voice steady. "You know my stance on marriage. Why does it matter to you so much?"

Luke's tone became condescending. "When are you going to grow up and settle down? You know, Brooke is—"

EJ's temper snapped. "Okay, can you stop fucking comparing me to Brooke?"

Luke recoiled in shock. "Watch your language! You're making a scene."

"I don't care!" EJ shot back. "I'm tired of you comparing her to the rest of us. I'm glad she's your favorite—she's a lawyer, has a kid, and is out of the city. But it's really shitty when you decide to compare us to her."

Luke tried to interject, but EJ didn't let him. "We all feel like shit when we're constantly compared to Brooke. Rachel and Sam are less successful, and you never let them forget it. Maybe that's why Sam's been acting up—because she tries so hard to impress you and all you give her is criticism. She'll never be good enough."

Luke looked stunned, but EJ continued. "And as for me? I don't care what you think about me. I'm almost 28 years old and could care less what you think. But when you bring someone I care about into this, that's when I'm going to get mad."

EJ took a deep breath, trying to calm down. "I respect you, Dad, but I'm going to live my own life. You can throw in your two cents, but that's it. Now, I'm going to see my girlfriend, and you're going to apologize to her. Not because she needs it, but because you need to show that you aren't a dick."

With that, EJ walked away, leaving Luke standing there, speechless. He found Robin outside, Karen comforting her.

———

Minutes Earlier

Robin and Karen stood outside the restaurant, the evening air cool against their skin. Robin wasn't crying, but she looked visibly upset, her face tight with frustration. Karen put a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"Robin, I'm really sorry about Luke. He can be... well, he can be a bit much," Karen said gently.

Robin took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "It's okay. I just... I didn't expect that kind of reaction."

Karen sighed, shaking her head. "He's always been like this. It's the cop in him, I suppose. He likes things a certain way and has a hard time accepting anything different."

Robin nodded, feeling a bit better. "I appreciate you coming out here. I just needed a moment."

Karen smiled warmly. "Of course, dear. I want you to know, even though I'd love for all my kids to get married and have families, I really respect that you know exactly what you want. That's something special."

Robin looked at her curiously. "Really?"

Karen nodded. "Absolutely. Sometimes, I wonder what would have happened if I never married Luke."

Robin raised an eyebrow. "What would you have done?"

Karen's eyes lit up with a wistful smile. "I would have traveled. I've always wanted to see the world and experience different cultures. I was very young when I got married and had EJ, and then the girls. While I love my family and wouldn't change my life for anything, I do have moments where I think about what might have been."

Robin felt a connection forming. "That sounds amazing. Do you ever regret not doing it?"

Karen shook her head. "No regrets. But I do admire you for knowing what you want. It's something I think about as I get older. There's only so much time to experience everything you want in life."

Robin smiled, feeling more at ease. "Thank you, Karen. That means a lot."

Karen squeezed her shoulder. "I can see why EJ likes you so much. You're strong, independent, and you have a clear vision of what you want. That's admirable."

Robin blushed slightly. "Thank you. I really appreciate that."

Karen looked towards the door of the restaurant. "I'm glad we had this talk. And I'm sorry again for Luke's behavior. He's always been a bit of a hard-ass, but he means well. Deep down, he just wants what he thinks is best for EJ."

Robin nodded, feeling a renewed sense of confidence. "I understand. I just wish he could see that what EJ and I have works for us."

Karen smiled. "Give him time. He'll come around. And in the meantime, just keep being true to yourself. That's all anyone can ask for."

EJ appeared at the door, giving his mother a grateful look. "Mom, Dad's coming out to apologize. Are you okay, Robin?"

Robin took a deep breath and nodded. "Yeah, I'm okay. Thanks to your mom."

Karen gave Robin a reassuring hug before turning to EJ. "She's a keeper, EJ. Don't forget that."

EJ smiled, wrapping an arm around Robin. "I won't. Thanks, Mom."

———

Luke stepped out of the restaurant, his expression somewhat contrite. He approached Robin and EJ, glancing at his son before focusing on Robin.

"Robin, I owe you an apology," Luke began, his tone sincere. "I realize I was out of line with my comments. I can be a bit... old-fashioned and set in my ways. But I understand that what matters most is how much you care about my son."

Robin took a deep breath, giving him a small, forgiving smile. "It's okay, Luke. I know I'm not exactly traditional, and I have different opinions. But the point is, I care about EJ. That's what should matter."

Luke nodded, a bit of tension easing from his posture. "You're right. I want to be more mindful of my behavior moving forward. Thank you for understanding."

With the air cleared, they all returned to the restaurant and resumed their dinner. The mood lightened significantly, and the conversation flowed more easily. Towards the end of the meal, Karen brought up a new topic.

"So, EJ, how's Marshall been?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.

EJ shrugged, smiling. "He's been fine. He's been seeing this girl. We haven't met her yet, but he's been getting better since Lily."

Karen nodded approvingly. "That's good to hear. He and Brooke make a good couple."

EJ blinked, caught off guard. "I'm sorry, what?"

Karen smiled, looking between him and Robin. "Brooke and Marshall have been seeing each other for a month now. You didn't know?"

EJ's jaw dropped. "No, he never once thought to bring it up to me."

Luke, sensing the growing tension, tried to intervene. "Well, now's not a good time to bring up Grace and—"

Karen quickly cut him off, shooting him a warning look. "Luke, enough."

EJ's curiosity was piqued, and he couldn't let it go. "Grace and who, Dad? Grace and who?"

A heavy silence fell over the table. Luke hesitated, but EJ pressed on. "Please don't tell me it's Barney. Or Ben. Please."

Luke shook his head. "It's not."

EJ sighed in relief. "Oh, thank God."

Karen exchanged a look with Luke, then turned to EJ. "It's your friend Ted!"

EJ's face turned red with anger. "Ted? Are you kidding me?"

The table fell silent as EJ tried to process this new revelation. The tension was palpable as the implications sank in. His best friends were dating two of his sisters.

And they didn't even think to tell him.

He was going to have a chat with Ted and Marshall.