“You can admit we’re developing a good rel—working relationship.” I catch myself. Moyo has a goal. I have a goal. Get it together,Saturn.
Moyo’s expression is unchanged. She must not have heard my blunder.
“So, what did you want to talk about?” I ask.
Moyo pulls out a carefully folded paper from her jacket pocket. “I completed the questionnaire.”
Reality sucker punches me harder than Merc hit Vee with the throw pillow.
“That’s amazing.” I infuse as much pep into my words as I can to disguise my disappointment. “I’ll take that and make sure everything is taken into consideration for your second date.”
Moyo withholds the document. “Remember, this is a reciprocal relationship. You don’t get to read my deep thoughts without sharing as well.”
Wanting to be in her company a little longer before our working relationship ends, I give in. “Sure, ask away.”
It takes Moyo a moment to read the first question and her response. Her voice is velvety as she reads. It’s no wonder she works with children. Her response is well thought-out, a proper exploration of both her wants and needs.
I know exactly how to fix the algorithm to incorporate her desires, and my Saturn-side rejoices, but Niyi harbors bittersweet feelings.
“Thank you for sharing,” I say when she’s done.
“What about you? Are you dating? Wait, can I ask that?”
Knowing there’s no future between us, I say, “It’s technically outside work hours. I won’t tell, if you won’t.”
“Deal.”
“To answer your question, I amnotdating right now. Maybe never, if I’m candid.”
“Why not?”
Simplifying the truth, I say, “Work, family, there’s just so much going on. I don’t have the space to be a good partner.”
Moyo’s brows crinkle and I anticipate a question. “But do you want to?”
“Doesn’t matter what I want.”
“Coming from the guy who pushed me to think beyond the generic and reflect on what I’m looking for.”
“Do as I say, not as I do.” I shrug.
“Hypocrisy doesn’t look good on you, Niyi,” Moyo says. “ I know you believe there’s no different path for you, but you’d be surprised by what a strongheaded, iron-willed personality can do.”
“Speaking from experience?”
“You have to ask? I’m Saturnian, baby.” Moyo does a 360, making me laugh. If this is the last night before she meets her soulmate, it’s a good one for me. “What are you? I don’t think I ever asked?” Moyo follows up.
“Also Saturnian. Aquarius sun and moon.” Another reason why my dad made me his successor.
“You’re a stubborn Saturniananda new moon baby, but you’re rolling over and letting your life be dictated by external powers?” Moyo huffs, aghast. “Niyi, not to tell you how to live your life, but come on. You definitely know more astrology than me, but Aquarians go against the grain and new moons are literally new beginnings.”
Coming from Moyo, this familiar information sounds new. For the first time, my placements aren’t spoken in reference to being Saturn for my father or the family business. I might not have The Sight, but I have the Saturnian iron will that helped me maintain my distance from my dad for years.
“You’re right,” I mumble. “Thank you.”
“Simply returning the favor,” Moyo says softly, looking away.
I pause and stand in front of her, not letting the moment simply pass by. “You helped me realize some things, so I mean it, thank you. There’s no need to brush it off. You want to be with someone who will appreciate you? Then it’s time to start accepting others’ gratitude.”
