“Honestly, I need it all.”
“Hmm. I guess I can help you out since you helped us out. Thank you for dinner, by the way.”
“No thanks needed, but I appreciate you joining me after I lied.”
“Honestly, if it weren’t for Keelan, I probably would’ve declined.”
“Why?”
“I’m no fool, Graham. I know you’re attracted to me, and?—”
“Are you saying the attraction isn’t mutual?”
“That’s not the point. I don’t want you to think anything can happen between us.”
“Why not?”
“I’m not interested.”
“You’re attracted to me but not interested in me.”
“I didn’t say I was attracted to you, but that doesn’t matter. Romantic relationships for me are a thing of the past.”
“Wow. That’s quite a statement.”
“It is what it is. My last relationship was hell, and I’m not going through that again.”
“I hate that your ex ruined your desire to find love with someone else.”
“I hate it too, but it’s my reality. I’m not willing to risk the peace of mind I’ve gained since leaving him.”
“I don’t know your whole story, but based on the behavior I observed from your ex, I’m sure it was hell. It’s unfortunate that you’re still allowing him to dictate your happiness and your future. Every man ain’t him, baby.”
She didn’t respond, and we sat quietly, watching Keelan and Que exert energy we could only wish to have. After the experience with his father a few hours ago, I was glad Keelan was able to relax, enjoy a good meal, converse with his mother and me, and have fun with his dog.
“I’m sorry if I overstepped,” I finally said after I couldn’t take the silence anymore.
“It’s fine. We should probably head home.”
She leaned forward, preparing to stand, but she paused when she felt my hand around her wrist. Her questioning eyes met mine, and I had to quickly decide how honest I wanted to be in that moment.
“I respect everything you said and where you stand on relationships, but let me be clear, and I mean this in the most respectful way. The first time I saw you, I was drawn to you, and after a short conversation, I wanted to know everything about you. In all honesty, I don’t give a fuck about none of that shit you said. I’m a different breed, baby. Give me a chance to show you.”
Although her eyes stayed locked on mine, and she didn’t look away like many women would, I could tell my words affected her. The way her breath hitched, her pulse quickened, and her nipples hardened under the thin shirt she wore were all signs.
Suddenly, she snatched her arm away as she stood and shouted to Keelan, “Let’s go.”
Her desire to get away from me was strong because she didn’t even wait for Keelan and Que. By the time they realized what was going on, Naryah had walked around to the front of the house.
“What’s wrong with Mom?” Keelan asked.
“She’s good. I’ll see you later.”
He nodded and took a few steps before turning around to face me.
“Thanks for being so nice, Mr. Graham.”
A few beats passed before I responded because I was a bit surprised by his words. I hadn’t done anything special, and if I were completely honest, my reasons were more selfish than anything else. I’d do damn near anything to spend time with his mother.
