Maybe, You Will See Me Now

027

For what seemed like a long time, Ijeawele stared at the plate of fried rice and roasted chicken in front of her. She held a fork in her hand and yet, she was unable to take her first scoop. Andrew's words and memories flooded her thoughts. This time, she made little attempt to push the thoughts of him away.

"Ijeawele." The man seated opposite her called one more time. She lifted her eyes to him. He was a dark chocolate complexioned man with a skin cut and light stubble. A man in his late thirties. He looked at her food and went back to her.

"Are you okay?"

Ijeawele hesitated then lightly nodded her head. She remembered how she'd argued strongly with her older brother, rejecting his idea of sending her on a date. But like several times in the past, along with emotional blackmail and playing the older sibling card, he got her to accept. Ijeawele decided to make an appearance, spend a little time and be on her way. She hoped for her decision to be a lot easier when her date shows up incredibly incompatible to her. Unfortunately, he wasn't.

Isaac Eke was pretty much a gentleman. He was at the small restaurant that early evening before she arrived and with a smile on his face, he welcomed her while introducing himself. Taken a little aback, she introduced herself regardless of the knowledge that he might already be aware of that piece of information. He asked what she would like and although Ijeawele didn't feel like eating, she mentioned a dish anyway because he was asking so nicely. Somehow, he reminded her of Andrew. It was silly and Ijeawele was aware of that.

"I'm glad you came." Isaac mentioned, flashing a simple smile.

Ijeawele stared at him. She saw the genuineness in his eyes and felt guilty. The probability that this man believed something might happen between them ate at her.

"I came because my brother forced me."

She saw the momentary conflict on his face that her words brought. Still, she knew the need to say what needed to be said. Ijeawele left the fork on the plate and retracted her hand under the table. She met his direct gaze.

"I've been divorced for over two years and he's worried that I might never move on." She continued then watched for any different reaction. Nothing outstanding showed. So, she went on.

"You seem like a nice man. It would be a shame to waste your time. So, let's end this here and you can tell my brother you didn't find me to your taste, therefore, you've decided to move on."

Ijeawele picked up her purse from the table. "I'll pay for my meal." She mentioned as she dug her hand into her purse in search of her debit card.

"Are you sure that's your only reason?"

She lifted her eyes to him. His question was unexpected. Did she expect him to feel insulted? Yes. Angry? Yes. Not calm enough to try and continue the conversation.

"I don't doubt the pain and sleepless nights your separation must've caused you. But I feel like there's more to your hastiness. I'm not asking for a relationship right away. I mean I'm open to starting little by little."

Ijeawele stared at him. Somehow, his words ticked her off. She was tired of everyone assuming and passing judgement on her case. For once, she would like for someone or anyone to understand the fact that she hasn't gotten over the betrayal from the man she once believed she was going to spend eternity with.

Ijeawele sighed, trying to cool off her annoyance. "Why?"

Isaac raised his brows. "Why? What do you mean?"

"Why are you interested in me?"

Isaac lazily shook his head and shrugged his shoulders as well. "I think you're a fun person and... my gut says to give you a try."