Page 31 of Yellow
“I’m not a racist, Chloe, I’m just very specific when it comes to my women.”
We were sitting face to face, the energy rippling between us, and to anyone in the restaurant it would probably seem like we were having a lover’s quarrel. Chloe raised her right brow in a perfect arch that reached above her sunglasses
“Look, ever since I was twelve, I’ve known that I’ll marry a woman from my tribe or at least of Native heritage. I’m committed to passing on our history and legacy, and it’s just easier if both parents share the same cultural background.”
“And have you found her yet?”
“Who?”
“Pocahontas or whatever your perfect mate’s name is. Have you found her already?” she said, throwing off vibes of irritation.
“Why are you so angry?” I asked, trying to make sense of why we were having this discussion.
“I think I have a right to be offended. You made it sound like I was a horrible person who pollutes the ocean and that you would be disgusted to go out with me.”
“Chloe, that’s not what I meant.”
She held up a hand. “Look, I get it. You said you were going to push my boundaries and you definitely are.”
“Here you go. One large lager and one white wine,” the waiter said. “Did you look at the menu yet?”
“No, I didn’t, but you can just give me a burger.”
“Very well, and how would you like that cooked?”
“Medium,” I said with more patience than I felt.
Finally, he left.
“Could you take off your sunglasses for a second?” I asked.
“No.”
“Why not?”
“Because I don’t want to be recognized.”
“But no one but me can see your eyes. You’ve got your back to the…”
“I said ‘no.’”
“Okay, but it would just be nice to see your eyes when I talk to you.”
“Do you ever stop?” Her nostrils were flaring, and her lips pressed into fine lines.
“What did I do?” I asked with both palms up as white flags, but she pushed her chair back and hissed at me.
“Call me a whiner, but I need a break from your shit.” Her voice was brittle. She left the restaurant in long strides.
“Chloe,” I called after her and got up to follow.
“Is everything all right?” the waiter asked behind me, discreetly reminding me that we couldn’t just both leave. I stood in the doorway watching her disappear around the corner.
