“Is that right?”
“I think it’s great that you’re educated and you have a job now, but your first priority once we have kids is to be a mom.”
That we’ve jumped from coffee to being the mother of his five children is a massive, flashing red beacon, on top of the flags from before. “That’s an interesting perspective.”
“Can you cook?” Charles asks. “You look like you must be able to cook.”
If I wasn’t sorely in need of caffeine, I would be tempted to throw my coffee in his face. “Thanks. And yeah, I can cook. Can you?” I fire back.
“I barbecue. I’m very traditional.”
“It sounds that way.” I can’t wait to tell Shilpa about this guy.
Charles props his elbows on the table, his expression growing serious. “I’m looking for a wife, Wilhelmina. Do you think you’re good wife material?”
“I am absolutely good wife material.” But not for this guy.What the fuck is happening right now?
“You have great childbearing hips.”
I think this is meant as a compliment.
My phone rings. Thank God for best friends.
“I’m so sorry. It’s my grandma. I need to take this.”
Charles frowns.
“Hi, Grammy, is everything okay?”
“How’s it going?” Shilpa asks. “It’s not too late to join me at the spa.”
“Oh no! And they’re locked in your car? Do you need me to come get you?” I mouthsorryto Charles.
“It’s going that well, huh?” Shilpa sighs. “I’m sorry this one is another dud.”
“Of course. No. No, it’s no trouble. No, don’t call CAA. I have an extra set just for this reason. Why don’t you wait inside the diner? I love you, and I’ll see you soon.”
“I’ll tell them you’ll be here in less than ten,” Shilpa says.
“Bye, Grammy.”
I end the call. “I am so, so sorry. My grandmother locked her keys in the car again, and I have her set of spares.”
Charles gives me a warm smile. “I totally understand. Maybe next time we can have dinner.”
“I appreciate the offer, but I’ll have to pass. Thanks for asking, though.” What’s the point in lying?
His brows pull together. “Excuse me?”
“You jumped straight to children on date number one. I get wanting goals to align but try to focus on the actual connection and a few more dates before you plan the next five years.”
“You don’t have to be a bitch about it,” Charles retorts. “Any woman would be lucky to be with me.”
I’m sure his mother would agree. “I hope you find whatyou’re looking for. Please excuse me. My grandma really does need me.” I try for a soft smile because an angry man can be a dangerous one.
I can’t get out of there fast enough. I speed walk the two blocks to the spa, where Shilpa is waiting. She passes me a glass of sparkling rose water as I take the chair beside hers.
“Sum up your date in one sentence.”