The Last Genie: A Novella

Chapter 23

After changing, Grace came out of her bedroom and asked Ithel, "What do you want to do tonight?"

"I believe I owe you a dinner."

Grace smiled and asked, "Where do you want to go?"

"Where ever you want?"

"Do you like pizza?"

"I think everyone likes pizza."

Grace smiled again and realized that Ithel was making her smile quite a bit. "That's probably true, but what I should've asked, is what type of pizza do you like? Because I bet you like some weird things."

"Why would I like weird things?"

"Because you've been around for so long. You probably like crazy combinations like liver and anchovies."

"I don't think I've ever heard of that combination, but it could be good. What type of liver are you talking about? Calf? Sheep? Goat?"

"Please tell me you're not serious."

"Liver can be very good when done right."

"Ugh, I hate liver. My mom would always make when I had a kid, and it was just disgusting."

"She might just not have made it right."

"Are you saying my mom's a bad cook?"

"No, I'm just saying she might not be able to cook liver. It is a tricky meat."

Grace was about to ask Ithel another question about liver, but realizing the absurdity of this conversation she burst out laughing causing Ithel to laugh.

Once she had collected herself, Grace said, "Let's get out of here. I know a good pizza place that's right around here."

Ithel, of course, drove them to a charming little pizza place nestled into the side of a hill in a quiet peaceful neighborhood. It had a big wooden porch in the back filled with a variety of wooden tables and benches that offered an amazing view of the city and the river that ran threw it below.

After taking their seats, which were of course on the porch right near the railing with the best view possible because were else would they sit, Grace said, "I think you are going to love this place. In addition to their amazing pizza, they also have their own brewery. They make this blueberry wheat beer in the summer that I absolutely love.

"I've never had a beer with blueberries in it."

"Really? In your crazy long life, you've never had beer with blueberries in it."

"I don't think so."

"You should try it."

"Why not."

Then, the waiter walked up and asked, "Can I get y'all something to drink?"

"We'll both be having your blueberry beer," said Ithel much to Grace's surprise. She didn't know any man who would order that type of beer.

"Alright, and do y'all have any questions about the menu?"

"Yes, do any of your pizzas come with liver?"

"Liver?" asked the waiter as Grace gave Ithel an incredulous look.

"Yes."

"No, none of our pizzas come with liver."

"Too bad," said Ithel.

"So, I take it you'll need some more time to look at the menu."

"Yes, please."

"Ok. I'll be back in a few minutes with your beers, and I'll also get you some waters."

"Thanks," said Grace.