“For what?”
“For not getting an abortion.”
“Becoming a single mother of two wasn’t on my list of goals for this year, but getting an abortion never crossed my mind.”
“Single? Do we need to revisit last night’s conversation?”
“Kilo, I’m single until I’m married. Ask Uncle Sam.”
“Nyomi, I don’t give a fuck about that shit. You’re not single, and you damn sure won’t be a single mother, because I’ll be here every step of the way and beyond.”
The server arrived and poured water into our glasses that were on the table. She took our drink order, and Nyomi was bummed she couldn’t order an alcoholic drink. Before resuming our conversation, we perused the menu and decided what we wanted.
“Soup and salad. I’m so excited,” Nyomi said sarcastically.
“Be excited, but you’re not about to get out of having this conversation. I need to make sure you understand how I’m coming behind you and however many of my babies you’re carrying.”
“I know how you’re coming, Kilo, and I love and appreciate it. No man has ever been so persistent and intentional in trying to gain and keep my attention. Technically, I’m single, and it was just a general statement that you’re thinking way too much into. I’ve always wanted another child, but these aren’t the circumstances I imagined it happening.”
“You want to get married?”
“I hope that wasn’t a proposal.”
“It was a question, and I want an honest answer.”
“I wouldn’t be opposed to it if the right man came along.”
“The right man is right in your damn face, Nyomi. You think I’m about to let you have another nigga around my—Why do you insist on playing with me today?”
She covered her mouth as she leaned back in her chair and laughed. I hadn’t heard or seen shit funny, so I didn’t know what the hell she was laughing at.
“You’re too serious right now, and it cracks me up,” she said when she gathered herself.
“This is a serious topic, baby, and you playing with my emotions.”
“That’s not my intention. Yes, I’d like to get married, but you’re only bringing it up because I’m pregnant and you feel obligated.”
“Is that what you think?”
The server was back with our drinks and to take our food orders. When she left, I answered Kilo’s question.
“That’s what I know. Had our relationship started differently, marriage wouldn’t be on your radar right now. It’s cool, though. We may be doing everything backwards and moving at lightning speed, but if we get married, it’s forever, so let’s not allow our recklessness to rush us.”
I sat with her words for a minute before responding.
“You’re right, baby. As long as you know I intend to make you my wife, when doesn’t matter.”
“Let’s not get carried away, now.Whenabsolutely does matter, and I shouldn’t have to break it down for you.”
I laughed because this conversation went from one extreme to the next.
“Baby, chill out. I know what you mean, and I don’t need you to break it down.”
“Good. I’ll be back. I need to use the bathroom.”
I stood and went around the table to pull her seat out and helped her stand. I remained there until she disappeared around the corner. When I returned to my seat, my phone vibrated, and the screen lit up with a text from my brother.
Knox:
