Page 37 of Rules Of Engagement: St. Louis
“No more apartment living,” I said, squeezing her fingers. “You’ve been dreaming about having your own garden.”
“Right? I’m already planning what I want to plant. Tomatoes, definitely. Maybe some herbs. Oh, and I want one of those big oak trees in the front yard where I can hang a swing.”
Trisha appeared with our food, setting plates down. The chicken and waffles smelled so good that I was tempted to askFrankie for a bite, but my salad was how I liked it with extra olives and dressing on the side.
“This calls for a celebration,” Frankie said, cutting into her waffle. “We need to plan something special. Dinner at that fancy place downtown? Or maybe a weekend trip? We could go to D.C. and hit up some museums.”
“Or we could just keep doing what we’re doing right now,” Journey interrupted with a smile. “Having lunch with my best friends and talking about the future. This is perfect.”
That was Journey in a nutshell. While Frankie and I tended to lean toward traveling, Journey found joy in simple moments. It was one of the things I loved most about her, even if her perpetual optimism sometimes made me feel cynical by comparison.
“So what does this mean for your dating life?” Frankie asked, taking a bite of chicken. “You gonna let me set you up with my cousin Philip?”
Journey blushed. “I’m focusing on my career right now.”
“You’ve been focusing on your career for eight years,” Frankie pointed out. “Maybe it’s time to focus on finding someone to share that success with.”
“Girl, you haven’t been on a real date since the Clinton administration,” Journey shot back. “How can you talk about me?”
“First of all, that’s an exaggeration. Second of all, we’re not talking about me. We’re talking about you and your exciting new job and nonexistent love life.”
I laughed and Journey cut her eyes at us. “I appreciate the concern, but I’m fine. Really. I’m not like you two—I don’t need a man to feel complete.”
“Whoa,” I said. “Why am I getting shots fired at me? And I do not need a man. Tuh. That’s the last thing I want.” The lie almostchoked me, but I swallowed it and held it in the deepest part of my gut.
Frankie lifted a finger. “There’s a difference between needing a man to feel complete and having one around for certain activities. And I’m much more desirable of the latter.”
“Frankie!” Journey’s eyes widened as she fought back a smile.
“What? I’m just being honest. Life is short, and good loving makes it better. Speaking of which...” Frankie’s attention suddenly shifted to something over my shoulder, and her expression changed to one of pure appreciation. “Hellooooo nurse!”
She drew out the words in a sing-song voice that floated across half the diner, followed by a low whistle that made several patrons turn in their seats.
Journey and I twisted around to see what had Frankie’s attention. Near the counter, a tall Black man in black scrubs was ordering coffee to go. He was handsome, fine fine, actually, with broad shoulders, kind eyes, and an easy smile. He also looked familiar, but I knew I didn’t know him. There’s no way I would forget that face.
“Frankie, you cannot holler at random men in public,” Journey hissed, sliding down in her seat as if she could make herself invisible.
“I didn’t holler. I simply expressed my appreciation for quality craftsmanship.” Frankie straightened her shoulders and fluffed her hair. “And honey, that is some quality craftsmanship right there.”
The man in question glanced in our direction, probably wondering where the whistling had come from. When his eyes met Frankie’s, she gave him an innocent, yet flirtatious little wave.
“Oh my God, he’s looking over here,” Journey whispered. “I’m going to die of embarrassment.”
“Why? You didn’t do anything. I’m the one appreciating the view.” Frankie took a sip of her coffee, never breaking eye contact with the nurse. “Besides, my baby’s father is on daddy duty this weekend. Mama’s got to eat.”
The nurse smiled, amused at her shenanigans. He raised his coffee cup in a small salute before heading toward the door. As he passed our table, he paused.
“Ladies, I hope you’re enjoying your lunch.” His voice was warm, deep, with that mid-west lilt and a hint of southern drawl. “And thank you for the... appreciation.”
Frankie beamed. “Anytime, gorgeous. You work around here?”
“Barnes-Jewish. Just got off a twelve-hour shift.” He glanced at all three of us, his gaze lingering on Frankie. “I’m Elijah, by the way.”
“Frankie. These are my friends, Journey and Naomi.”
Journey managed a small wave while I nodded politely. Elijah seemed nice enough, and I could already see the wheels turning in Frankie’s head.
“Well, Elijah from Barnes-Jewish, maybe we’ll see you around. I hear the coffee here is excellent.”
