My Senegalese Rough Rider

Tales Over Lunch

Chapter 2: Tales Over Lunch
It was nearly noon as a bright glow covered the beach. Tariq stood up after finishing Amani's pedicure and sat next to her under the large umbrella at beachside café. There was a tantalizing aroma of grilled Senegalese dishes and spices in the air, that mingled with the salty sea breeze. Amani smiled and Tariq's gaze reflected a mutual curiosity and an emerging bond.
They settled into their seats, and Amani ordered a generous spread of local grilled dishes, fresh salad, and a platter of fruits. Tariq's eyes lit up at the sight of the feast, and his stomach growled audibly, prompting a laugh from Amani.
"Bon appétit," Amani said with a warm smile as the waiter placed their plates on the table.
"Merci," Tariq replied, his deep voice filled with gratitude.
As they began to eat, Amani encouraged Tariq to share more about himself. "So, Tariq, tell me about your family. What part of Senegal are you from?"
Tariq paused for a moment, savoring a bite of the grilled chicken before responding.
"I come from a small village just outside of Dakar. My father was a respected village elder, and a skilled herbalist. My mother farmed and sold her crops in the little shop my father built for her next to our house. They taught me the value of hard work and the importance of our cultural heritage."
Amani nodded, intrigued. "Do you have any brothers or sisters?"
"Yes," Tariq said, his eyes softening. "I have have three older sisters and three older brothers. I am the youngest. My family mean the world to me. My parents always tried to set a good example for us, even when times are tough, like right now. They are getting older. I am trying to find ways to help them."
Amani sensed a deep sense of responsibility in his words. "How are you coping with so much stress?," she asked, her tone empathetic.
Tariq sighed, nodding. "It is giving me anxiety. I've been looking for steady work as an electrical engineer for the past six months, but opportunities are scarce here in Senegal. This morning I wanted to give up and end everything."
Amani looked at him with a concerned look. "You're being resourceful and responsible, Tariq. You completed a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. That's something to be proud of. I think you have achieved a lot so far, don't you?"
Tariq . "I suppose so. My father always said that we should never give up, no matter how difficult things get. That's something I've tried to live by but no matter what I do, things are not getting any better."
As they continued their meal, Amani thought of ways to change the subject. Her  curiosity turned to Tariq's abilities. "Your massage skills are incredible. How did you learn to give such amazing massages?"
Tariq smiled modestly. "I've picked up a few skills here and there. My grandmother taught me about healing and relaxation techniques using herbs and touch. I've also learned from watching others and practicing on friends and family."
Amani was impressed. "You have a real talent, Tariq. Have you ever thought about doing this professionally?"
Tariq's eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope. "I've dreamed of opening my own shop one day. I would love to be able to sell herbal products but I can see opening Tariq's Royal Spa next door like you said. But that seems so far away right now."
Amani looked across the table at Tariq. "Dreams are worth pursuing, Tariq. You never know what the future holds."
Tariq looked at her with gratitude. "Thank you. Your words mean a lot to me."
After a moment's pause, Amani asked, "If you could do anything right now, what would it be?"
Tariq's expression grew thoughtful. "I'd love to save enough money to buy a motorcycle. It would give me the freedom to travel, find better opportunities, and maybe even start my own business."
Amani smiled, an idea forming in her mind. "I think that's a wonderful goal, Tariq. And who knows, maybe you'll get there sooner than you think."
They continued to enjoy their lunch, sharing stories and laughter. Amani felt a growing connection to Tariq, not just as a charming stranger but as someone with dreams and aspirations that resonated deeply with her own adventurous spirit.
As they finished their meal, Amani leaned back in her chair, feeling content and more intrigued by Tariq than ever. "Thank you for sharing your story with me, Tariq. I'm glad we met."
Tariq smiled warmly. "I'm glad too, Amani. This has been the best day I've had in a long time."
With the sun beginning its descent, there was a promise of new adventures on the horizon, Amani and Tariq knew that their unexpected encounter was the beginning of a beautiful relationship.