Page 80 of Rematch
Smiling, Tatianna walked towards me with open arms. “How are you, honey?” She asked as she gave me a tight squeeze.
“I’m okay,” I replied, melting into her embrace. “You?”
“I’m good.” Pulling away, she asked, “How’s work going?”
“Fine,” I replied with a shrug. I started placing the plates atop of the place mats around the table. “Always busy.”
She turned her attention to the wine glasses sitting in a box atop the tables. Carefully, she plucked out each one and set them in front of the chairs. “I’m surprised you’re still on your feet. After a twelve-hour shift, I’d imagine your feet are killing you.”
“Oh, they are,” I admitted. “But, I wouldn’t miss setting this table for anything. It’s been so long since we’ve all had Thanksgiving dinner together.”
“Yeah. So much has changed since then, haven’t they?” Her words sounded heavier than I think she intended.
“Not that much,” I said, trying to counter the weight.
“You’re right. Benny and Rashad are still the epitome of a perfect marriage, I am still happily single, and my boy is still making googly eyes at his best friend.”
I laughed. “Not googly eyes.”
“It’s a good thing. He seems better -happier- now that the two of you are hanging out again.” She paused her task to look up at me and smile. “You’ve always bought out the best in him.”
My cheeks warmed from the compliment. “I try.”
“So, should I start saving my money for a wedding or a baby?”
“Ms. Tati!” I exclaimed, almost dropping the dish in my hand.
“What?” She feigned innocence. “You two are grown now. I might as well start asking the real questions.”
“We’ve got time before we even start thinking about all that.”
“Take all the time you need. But, when the two of you are ready, just know we’re balling all out. Big wedding. Big baby shower. Bigger birthday parties for the little ones.”
Shaking my head, I let her and her delusions be.
We finished setting the table, and we all sat around it together to eat dinner.
For the next few hours, it felt like I was transported back in time. Sitting next to Max, swatting and kicking him whenever he started with me, and watching our parents alternate between deep and playful conversations, made me feel like I was sixteen years old again. In the past, I always valued the warmth of thehome I had. Moments like this felt like a snug blanket over my shoulders.
Now, after experiencing loss and reclamation, I appreciated it even more. With my eyes lingering on Dad, I prayed I wouldn’t have to lose anyone ever again. Another blow might knock me down for good.
After dinner, our parents drifted into the living room with their wine glasses while Max and I went into the kitchen to take care of the dishes. He washed while I dried.
We worked in a content silence until I suddenly felt a splash of water on my cheek. “Don’t start,” I scolded, smacking him with the dish rag.
He chuckled. “It’s no fun if I don’t mess with you.”
I yanked the last dish out of his hand and dried it. “Shut up and clean out the sink.”
“Why are you rushing me? Got a hot date or something?”
“Yes, actually.” I almost laughed at the swift turn of his neck and the high cock of his brow. “With my bed,” I finished before he could comment.
“Oh, you’re lucky. I was about to body slam your ass.”
I rolled my eyes. “You weren’t gonna do shit.”
Max’s brow rose again.
