First of all, you have a great BF and congratulations on your first road bike! The only thing you can really do is just get out there and ride. Get comfortable changing the gears as they are vastly different from your mtb. This is where I had the most trouble when switching from my mtb to my road bike.

As far as group rides go, I can't think of a better way to meet people in your new community also you will get to know the roads! I would stick with the C or D pace groups to start with. They usually don't drop anyone and are a bit more social than some of the other paces. This is what I've encountered anyway.

Good luck and congratulations!

Andrea