Page 8 of Rules Of Engagement: St. Louis
“Do I mind it or what’s the one place I’d go back to if I could?”
“Both.”
She held on to a smile and I loved, a little bit too much, that that smile was because of me.
“Ghana. I went for a friend’s wedding and felt like I was seeing part of myself I didn’t know existed.”
“I can understand that sentiment. Does your family have Ghanaian roots?”
“You would think I had looked into that, but I haven’t so that’s a question I can’t answer.”
“Hmm… Is your family the reason you're so driven?”
“My father served three tours overseas. He came back with a Purple Heart and a spine that barely works. He taught me that ifyou’re going to do something, you do it with honor. So to answer your question, yes.”
I nodded. “Do you have any siblings?”
“No. I’m an only child.”
“Wow. I can’t imagine being an only child.”
“How many siblings do you have?”
“A gazillion.”
Her eyes widened and I laughed. “I’m just kidding, gorgeous. Three brothers that I know of. Papa was a rolling stone.”
Laughter shot from her lips, and she leaned to the side.
“Oh you find that funny?”
“It’s hilarious.” Tears welled up in her eyes.
“It’s the truth too.”
“I believe you.” She wiped the tears with a napkin.
“My family is huge, humongous even. I’m surprised he doesn’t have more kids with his profession.”
“Which is what?”
“A comedian. On the scale of a comedian fromComic Viewbut the Kevin Hart in this city.”
“Who is your father?”
“Ron Valentino.”
Laughter burst from her beautiful lips, and I couldn’t help but grin.
“Oh he’s a fool.”
“Tell me about it.”
“I can’t believe that’s your father.”
“I’m surprised you didn’t make the connection during your research.”
“I never told you I researched you.”
