Page 25 of Real's Love

"Boy, I almost called you a hater, but I know that ain't in your blood," Ramona said, looking at him affectionately before she focused on me again.

"My sister told me your name was Evanie. That's pretty. Kinda unique. Now, what you do, Ms. Evanie?"

I felt guilty about the name, but I had my reasons.

"I'm a labor and delivery nurse," I said.

"Oh! I'm a nurse, too! Retired, but I worked a long time with neurology patients."

"Bet Ev's bedside manner way better than yours," Real said, winking at me.

"Real!" I could feel my face flaming.

Ms. Ramona waved him off. "He act like he ain't got no home training, but I know his mama. Anyway, let me know if you want a real drink. I'ma go back here and check on y'all's food."

I was still smiling as she walked off after mushing Real's shoulder.

"Seems like she's cool as hell," I said with one last laugh.

"She—well, both of 'em—real cool people," he agreed.

I was tense as I waited for him to bring up our previous conversation, but I guess he decided to give me a break. We talked about his coming work week until Ms. Rachel and Ms. Ramona returned with our plates. Real had a steak, eggs, and breakfast potatoes. It looked like it came straight off the pages ofBon Appetit. My own food looked good as hell, too.

"I heard the South in your voice. I had to get you my biscuits and gravy," Ms. Rachel explained.

She'd also given me eggs, grits, and sausage. They slid an array of jellies and syrups on the table before retreating to the kitchen. I didn't think it was possible, but the food tasted even better than it looked.

"Oh, my God," I breathed after my first bite.

I was about halfway done when Real spoke again.

"I'm glad you like it. All these months and this is only like the second time I've seen you eat a whole meal."

My eyes tangled with his and I tried to shrug nonchalantly.

"More than twice, Montréal. Plus, you usually come over after I've eaten," I said.

His eyes pierced mine.

"Is that what it is?" he asked.

I felt like he could see right through me, like he knew what I'd discovered. Some people didn't like to see women like me eat. Others were obsessed with it. Either way, I didn't like their gazes or commentary.

"What else could it be?" I murmured.

"So, if I said I'd come earlier sometimes so we could eat together..."

He waited. I lifted my napkin and dabbed at my lips, hoping he would get the hint. He said nothing. I sighed.

"Real, we don't?—"

"Finish your food, shorty," he cut me off, his irritation evident.

The booth was suddenly quiet. I picked up my fork, but my appetite was basically gone. Ms. Rachel and Ms. Ramona came back as we completed our meal, wanting my opinion.

“Delicious,” I told them. “I’ll definitely be back.”

They smiled at each other, then at me, before Ms. Rachel murmured, “Oh, I’m sure.”

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