“Damn. I didn’t know y’all did it like this in Wisconsin,” I teased.
She rolled her eyes. “You gon’ stop coming for me and where I’m from. Do you know what you want?”
“Catfish and ribs, with greens, yams, and mac.”
“Well, it’s Thursday, so I’m about to get one of these alfredo specials, but I want some yams and mac on the side. Is that greedy?”
“It is greedy, but I won’t judge you.”
“Forget you. I’m getting it.”
We placed our orders, and while waiting for our food, we talked and enjoyed the music. The atmosphere reminded me a lot of restaurants in the city, with a variety of people from all walks of life coming in to dine or pick up their food.
From one minute to the next, it could be a nigga with his pants sagging to his knees, a woman in heels and a business suit, and everything in between. I definitely felt at home.
“I forgot to tell you the wait would be long, but the food is worth it,” Khiya said.
I nodded. “That sounds about right. I know howwedo. At least we got our drinks.”
We laughed just as a woman approached our table.
“Khiya, is that you?” the woman asked.
Khiya looked up at the woman, and her expression wasn’t welcoming.
“Hey, Harmeesha.”
“That was dry, but anyways. I thought that was you when I came in. How you been?”
“Good.”
“For real? I heard you got fired from the dealership and they hired the owner’s daughter to replace you.”
“Oh yeah. Is that what you heard?”
“It’s not true?”
“It’s whatever you want to believe, Harmeesha.”
Harmeesha smacked her lips. “Is this your new man? He fine as fuck, and I know he can’t be from around here. What’s your name?”
“His name ain’t important. We’re trying to enjoy dinner, though. It was good to see you.”
“Y’all don’t even have your food yet. Khiya used to date my brother. At one point, I thought they would get married, but my brother wanted to keep his options open,” she explained to me as if I gave a damn.
“Can you give us some privacy, please? I’m trying to have a conversation with my lady.”
Harmeesha pulled her head back as if she were offended.
“My bad. Khiya, I’ll tell Harlan you said hi.”
“But I didn’t.”
Harmeesha shrugged. “I’ll tell him anyway. It was nice meeting you, I guess.”
Khiya shook her head as Harmeesha walked away. I could tell the whole interaction annoyed her, but hopefully, it wouldn’t ruin the rest of our night.
“Her parents really named her Harmeesha?” I questioned, trying to lighten the mood.
