You + Me and Whatever in Between

2

The book store was emptier than usual. I was so thankful for the job. The owner Francis knew of my origin but didn't care. That alone brought so much peace. No questions of the white house, or of Area 51.

"Mr.Darly where would you like the newer non fiction books? I notice Harbor was written in 2006 so it isn't exactly new to the public but it is new to us."

"Vi, for the millionth time call me Fran and place them in the new book section. I keep getting calls that the public library is out of the book so at least now it's visible."

I nodded my head and walked to the front of the store to place the books in the window. Looking at my reflection I began to notice how different I was. My brown curls were now black. My brown eyes replaced with hazel contacts. Yet, my carmel skin stayed the same. Even with the contacts in my eyes I could still see my fathers blue eyes staring back at me. I was knocked out of my thoughts when I was pushed into the wall.

"Oh my. I am so sorry. I didn't realize the door opened that wide." The voice held concern and when my eyes met the voices owner I think I mentally died. Stood in front of me was this handsome man. A few inches taller than myself. A few tattoos scattered on his arms and a bushy mop of hair on top of his head.

"Hey, no biggie. You're fine. But since you impolitely bumped in me you should buy a book." I chuckled hoping he'd understand it was a joke and I was only being playful.

"Well sweetie, I guess you're in luck. I was actually looking for a book in particular."

"Well follow me. I work here."

"I figured. I don't think just anyone would be placing books in the window."

I chucked after realizing how obvious his statement was. "Well.. Mr.Blue eyes. What book are you looking for?"

"Cooking book. I'm trying to surprise someone special."

"Ahh." My heart kinda dropped. It's always the cute ones that are taken. "Well aisle 3 has are cooking and it ends at aisle 5. There's books on baking, frying, all of the goods." Finishing with my famous smile.

"Well thank you Vida." He says reading my name tag.

"You're welcome-"

"Graham. The name is Graham."

"Well you're welcome Graham. Good luck on your dinner with your special someone." I began to walk away before he lightly grabbed my wrist.

"I know this is super awkward but can I get your number? You seem like someone who knows how to cook."

"It's because I'm black isn't it?" I stood there hands on my hips and watched as his eyes became alarmed. He started fumbling over his words. And I quickly intervened. "I was kidding. Lucky for you I actually cook as a past time." I took a piece of paper I had in my pocket, wrote my number on it and gave it to him."

"Thanks. You mind if I text you right now?"

"Go for it. My phone is in the break room but I'll text you back when my shift ends."

He crossed his arms and licked his lips at me. "When does your shift end."

"Uh.. 10 minutes."

"How about I stay until your shift?"

"Only if your special person doesn't mind. I'm not a drama person."

"She'll be just fine."

I nodded my head and watched as he sat down on the futon in the center of the room. Walking up to the register I admired him. He was so attractive and I bet you he knew it. His energy filled the entire room. I was so deep in thought I didn't hear Fran come behind me. "You're looking at him like I look at Sunday dinner child."

I chucked and shook my head. "Something is fascinating with him."

"Well my dear, get to know him. After since your father passed you've been different. Maybe this could be a good thing for you."

I nodded my head at his response. Maybe this was something I needed. "Hey Graham? My shift is over."

He only smiled and walked towards me. I swear to the heavens I think I just met God.