“He was like a security blanket. I was so attached to him. And then Arielle Gibson started calling meSea Worldin front of everybody. It was horrible.”
“Kids are ruthless!”
“Right,” I agreed.
“I didn’t take you for a dolphin type of girl. I would have thought more Persian Cat.”
“And why a Persian cat?”
“Because they’re elegant, calm. A little bougie, classy cat.”
I lift a brow, and Othello leans back in his seat, holding up those large hands of his in defense. “What? That’s just the vibe you give?”
“I’ll have you know that dolphins are great animals. They’re protective. Loyal. And they actually become friends with one another. They stick together and hang out.”
“Wow, I had no idea dolphins were out here having social lives. I appreciate the history lesson.”
“They are misunderstood. But I love them.”
“Yeah, sorry, I still think you’re a cat.”
I roll my eyes. “Okay, your turn. Tell me something about you? Favorite meal? Are you a mama’s boy?”
His face morphs into something unreadable, and he huffs out a laugh.
“Favorite meal. Everything, honestly. I’m a foodie. And… I used to be. But I was close with my pops at one time too.” He pauses for a second, contemplating. “My parents passed on a long time ago.”
My mouth falls open in shock. “Oh, Othello, I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize.”
“You’re good. It’s not something I usually lead with, so we don’t have to get into that right now.”
“Of course. Let’s keep it light,” I offer.
“Yeah, besides, this moment is about you. I’m trying to know what makes Marley,Marley,” his jaunty voice returns. “And what makes you second-guess a date with me?”
“I have reason to feel how I feel,” I admit.
“I’m all ears.”
I sigh dramatically. “I just like where I’m at in life right now.”
“And where is that?”
“Alone but not lonely. People always think that when you’re single something’s missing in your life. I’m content right now. No mind games or dealing with confusion. Just peace. And I just want it to stay that way.”
He gives me a puzzled look. “Is that how relationships have been for you? Mind games?”
A bit of shame washes over me. “Yeah, more or less.”
“Well, that’s not what I’m offering.”
“Oh?” I pretend to be surprised, and he chuckles. “What are you offering?”
“I’m offering you just one date with me. A good time that doesn’t leave you questioning anything.”
His answer leaves me awestruck.
“So, are you still taking back youryes?”
