When Love Hits Like Christmas by Michelle Mitchell

Author:Michelle Mitchell [Mitchell, Michelle]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Michelle Mitchell

Eight

I rested my elbows on the metallic tabletop as Laila and I sat in awkward silence. I’d just arrived at the restaurant and she was already inside waiting for me. At least she was prompt. I tapped my fingers against the table and puffed out air as I tried to unwind to the soulful tunes coming out of the overhead speakers. The diner, true to its retro appearance, played some of Motown’s greatest hits. Smokey Robinson’s voice was a great distraction from the anxious thoughts running through my mind.

“So, this place is… interesting. Is this a local hang-out for you?” she asked. Her eyes roamed around the restaurant and mine followed.

The majority of the walls were white but there were three accent walls which were painted red, teal, and black to add a splash of color. My favorite part of the diner was the pastel portraits of Motown artists hanging around the restaurant.

“It’s just a place to grab a quick bite. The owner, Bobby “Blues” Travis, used to play guitar for Mona Sims and the Soul Singers back in the day.” I gave a half shrug. “I used to come here a lot back in the day. This is an after-hours spot. Most people come here to eat greasy food that will soak up the effects of a long night.”

She cackled. “I know all about those days. In my college years, I used to club with the best of them, but now, my knees and I are no longer able to get down like that.”

I nodded and smiled. I couldn’t help it because I could relate to what she was saying. The only difference might be, I still challenged myself to drop it low on occasion.

“Hi ladies, are you ready to order?” the young waiter asked.

“I’ll have a bacon cheeseburger with fries, water, and would you please bring me a cup of coffee while I wait on my meal? Thanks.”

I studied Laila while the waiter took her order. She was an attractive woman. Her russet complexion was flawless and her wide eyes were animated by her thick lashes. She had a face full of freckles, and a tiny space between her teeth which added some flavor to her smile. Her hair was a wild, free-flowing, bundle of deep waves, which from her bold approach to reaching out to me, seemed to fit her personality.

“I saw your nose turn up when I ordered the tuna melt. Is it not good? Should I change my order?” she asked.

That wasn’t the only reason I had my face twisted but she didn’t need to know. I shrugged. “Sorry, I don’t know anything about the sandwich. I’m just not a fan of tuna. But anyway, how long have you known Davon?”

She chuckled and bit down on her lip. “That’s right, you like to get to the point. I forgot. Listen, I know I got off on the wrong foot with you, but can we both please just let our walls down and be civil? I promise I’m not here to try you—again.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.