Bitter and Sweeter

Chapter 5 - Lamb

He put down his fork and let out a low and vivacious laugh. "You really said that to the chef?"

"Yes!" I exclaimed. "Only psychopaths like their meat burnt."

He laughed. "Ah, thank you for taking me out today, Julian. I haven't been able to catch a break since I've come back to New York."

I put my hand over his. "C'mon, Holi, we're friends. It's really nothing."

He nodded. 

I arrived back in New York this morning and didn't hesitate to make dinner plans with Khalid. 

Taking another bite of my lamb, I examined him. 

His shiny hair was pulled back into four cornrows and shaved on the sides. His burgundy-colored suit complemented his skin so well. It really brought out his muscular and lean figure. 

He was so pretty, it's like the gods made him especially for me. 

I rested my chin on my fist. "So, tell me about Cameroon."

He sighed and put down his fork. "There's so much to say. The place is just laced with so much life and culture."

"Oh?"

"Yes, it's truly been an honor to work there. Not many people are willing to, anyway."

If we get married, would I have to move there?

He looked at me earnestly. "Once you look past all the poverty and stereotypes, it truly is a great place. The people actually care about one another."

How much would it cost to build a mansion in Cameroon?

"Of course," he sighed, "I'm biased."

He was very attached to his father's country. 

"There's nothing wrong with taking pride in your country," I said. "Besides, I believe you." I squeezed his hand. 

He withdrew his hand. "Thank you. I'm actually planning on going back later this year."

My heartbeat picked up. "You're leaving again?"

"Only for a few weeks. It took a lot of resources to get my hotel bars set up in Cameroon, it's weighed on my conscience. I want to give back. I'll be going back on some humanitarian work."

"Oh, that's so cute of you...what days?"

I pulled out my phone. 

Would it be creepy if I coincidentally have to meet a business partner in Cameroon on those exact days? 

Meh, I don't think so. 

"I don't know yet. I'm still trying to work everything out."

"Oh." I put my phone down. "What you're doing is so admirable. I really have a lot to learn from you."

"Your father actually inspired me. He was involved in a lot of charity."

I leaned back. 

"Are you planning on continuing some of his projects?"

I sipped my wine. "Of course. The tax reduction benefits you get from charitable work are amazing."

He went silent. 

Oh no? Was that too harsh of me?

Suddenly, he let out a little chuckle. "You must be joking. right?"

I laughed along. "Of course, yeah, that was totally a joke, haha."

"Well," he adjusted his suit jacket. "This was nice, Julian, thank you."