Computer Issues...STill... Ughh!

My computer has been down since December 2010. Although, I'm able to still write, I cannot install my Adobe Program to publish the novels that are ready to go. So, until I get that fixed, I'll continue to just update and write when inspired as well as work on the stories that have been waiting patiently for me to pay attention to them. Frankly, I just need a new computer, unfortunately, I can't afford one just yet. Til Next Time...

Sci-Fi Interracial stories....

Octavia Butler created such awesome alternative realities while pointing out our Societies shortcomings in her novels. Not only being an African-American woman in a genre that was dominated by men, but she won awards for her creativity. She was taken far too early, but left behind such great works.

It's been awhile since I've read a good Sci-Fi story that has an I/R couple in it. I've created many characters in my Romance fiction, even delved into the Paranormal aspect with my alter ego. Sci-Fi Romantic fiction is a balance for those who like both genres. Personally, I want to be the type of writer that can write a host of genres within a genre. Giving readers the opportunity to have their cake and eat it too. So, I've been working on a Sci-Fi I/R for a couple of years now and frankly, I'm excited to complete it. Although it may be a longer novel than I had intended, in the end, I'm hoping that my diversity as a writer comes through so that I'm not missing anyone.

Happy Valentine's Day

Hope all the lover's and friends enjoy each other today and everyday. Ladies show your Fella that he's most appreciated. Fella's show your Lady that she means just as much as she did the first day you saw her.

Whether you just met or been together for decades, loving someone for who they are and what they inspire in you is truly a gift that will continue to give back. Love knows no color and reaches across all cultures. The only barrier is you.

Love and Peace!

R.

Be Mine: A Valentine Tale - Chapter Six

CHAPTER SIX

Valentine’s Day was busy from the time she opened up that morning, til she closed that evening. Every flower, plant, and teddy bear along with balloons that dealt with the day was gone. She had a few floral displays here and there, but frankly, she was afraid that her orders would go undelivered even with her part-time worker helping. She was ready to leave by the end of the day.

Faith closed the gate and locked it, walking to her car, she noticed the balloons on the side mirror. She took them off and opened her door to put them in so they wouldn’t fly away. Taking the note off, she read it. “555 West 89^th St 2nd floor”. Faith looked around expecting Joe to be around, but he was no where. She was too tired for games, but she would play his.

Faith went to the address and knocked on the door. The area was fully lighted and she could see Joe’s car sitting in the parking area. The door opened slightly and she went in. Noting the smell of vanilla and spices, she also smelled the fragrant aroma of food. Her shoes squeaked on the hardwood floor and she saw his shoes on the side area and a pair of pink slippers with a note on them. “Put me on, please.” Faith laughed, but did as she was told. The slippers were comfortable and she soft.

She was taking off her coat when Joe’s figure appeared in front of her with a single yellow rose between his teeth. Faith laughed. He wiggled his eyebrows and took it out his mouth, giving it to her with a soft kiss on the cheek. Joe took her coat.

“Thanks for coming.” He grinned.

“Did I have a choice?” Joe nodded. “Hmmm, then thank you for inviting me.” She replied. She watched as he went to a closet near the foyer and placed her coat and purse up. Joe pulled her into the rest of the spacious apartment. Hardwood floors covered with a beautiful black and beige, navy, Persian rug. Two black leather chairs with a love seat in the middle. A mahogany stained coffee table centered in it. Toward the left end of the room, were his entertainment center with flat screen on the wall, a fish tank near the hall which he led her through toward the kitchen. A cozy two seat glass table was covered with yellow and pink rose petals and two standing white candles candles. Two plates were covered with silver covers.

“Have a seat, madam.” Joe pulled her chair out and she thanked him. Joe gave her a hot towel to clean her hands and he sat on the other side. “Dinner is served.” He exclaimed, pouring them both a glass of red wine.

“Wow, I can’t believe you did this!” Faith exclaimed. She pulled the top off her plate and a loud laugh escaped. “Oh my goodness, Joseph! What the…?” she laughed, picking up the heart shaped construction paper. Faith opened the heart and looked at the squiggly decorated inside. With huge box letters spelling out the words “BE MINE, AGAIN”. Faith chuckled and looked at him. “You’re too much.” She tittered.

“Well?” he asked, pulling his top off his plate and exposing a huge plate of food for two people, but clearly for a reason.

“Yes, again.” She answered. Joe held up his wine glass and they toasted. Joe shared the lamb chops, roasted fresh mixed vegetables. “Mmmm, good. Did you make this?” she asked.

“I would lie and say yes, but then you’d see the bag that I ordered it from and be mad.” He grinned. Faith laughed lightly.

“At least your honest.” She noted, teasingly. “I’m so surprised by all of this. I really didn’t expect you to do this.” Faith told him.

“Faith, I know when you saw me in your shop and recognized me you weren't expecting this to happen, right?” he asked.

“Of course not.” She agreed.

“Neither did I, although I did think you were the cutest thing ever.” He noted. “Maybe you peaked my interest before you pointed out that we knew each other a long time ago. Who knows, but I like you, woman.” He ended. Faith giggled.

“I like you too.”

“Good, so let’s enjoy getting to know one another, again, and see where it takes us. How about it?” Faith looked at her plate, then him. “I’d like that.” She whispered a wide smile on her cherubic face. “I’d like that, a lot.” Joe reached across the table and opened his wide hand. Faith put hers in his and felt comforted, relaxed, and at ease when he gently squeezed it.

*****

Valentine's Day, Mrs. Donovan's Fourth Grade Class - 20yrs ago

The classroom was a buzz with everyone passing out their Valentine’s Day cards to one another. Faith had given hers all out and was counting the lollipops, chocolate, and sweetheart candies from the other children. Sitting beside her was Joseph, watching her quietly, deciding whether to give her his Valentine’s or not.

“Faith.” He whispered. She looked at him, chewing the gum that had come with one of the cards. She smiled widely at him, showing the whites of the two teeth that were coming in. Joseph handed her a big red heart. “I made this for you.” Faith giggled and took it.

“Thank you, Joey.” Joey smiled and watched while she opened the card and read it. It was simple, with a drawing of both of them holding hands on one side and the words “Be Mine” on the other. Faith giggled again. “Do you want a chocolate?” she asked him. He nodded. Faith handed him a few pieces. “Yes.”

“Yes, what?” Joey mumbled opening up the wrapper. Faith waved the card in her hand and raised her eyebrows. Joey nodded, understanding, but focused on the candy mostly.

Recess was called a few minutes later and everyone lined up to go outside before going home. While outside, Faith held out her hand and Joseph took it. They walked together to the swings, where they took turns pushing one another.

Later that day, Faith arrived home bursting in the door screaming to her mother that Joey asked her to be his Valentine.

“Oh really!” her mother laughed.

“Mmmhmmm” Faith nodded and showed her the big red heart. “See!”

“Oh, wow!”

“I’m going to marry him when we get older.” Faith told her. Her mother’s mouth made and “O”

as she held in her chuckled. “Yeap, we’re going to be like you and Daddy. Together for a long

time, but instead of one baby, like me, we are going to have a whoooole lot of babies.” Faith

continued on as her mother listened to her daughter recite her future with “Joey”. Her mother

replied positively, “oh really?”, “Of course, sweetheart”, and surprised laughter at her

excitement. She tried to put a face to the young child, but then decided that if what Faith said

was true she'd meet her future son-in-law soon enough.

The End

Be Mine: A Valentine Tale - Chapter Five

5

Faith’s week went by quickly; she was too busy to think about Joe and what going out on a date with him meant. She wasn’t going to think about it truthfully. Although she was clearly falling in love with him, something she had not planned or expected, she would not expect more from him. She found it amazing she’d met him again after all these years, but to see a future with him was a lot she was hoping for. Not only that, but the fact that they would have obstacles when it came to just their ethnic backgrounds. She knew he was American, but Faith was no stranger to interracial/ethnic relationships. They could be challenging, on top of that, she’d never dated a man of Asian descent. Rarely had she seen couples of the two ethnic backgrounds around either, but it had to be challenging, if not moreso, than the basic black and white. Although nowadays it wasn’t that big of a deal, still, it was something they all had to think about whether you were planning a future or not.

Faith was watering her plants and reassembling the flowers in the refrigerator when Joe

came to pick her up for their date. Faith swore he must have become more handsome in the

past few days. His hair was styled perfectly, his normal suit was replaced with a pair of

denim jeans and polo shirt. His wool trench coat was exchanged for a down jacket and instead of

dress shoes he had on tennis shoes. He definitely was relaxed, which meant the date would be

relaxing also. Joe leaned over and gave her a hug and kiss on the cheek when she set the

watering pail down.

“Wow, you dress down nicely.” She teased. Joe smiled.

“You’re a comedian too, I see.” He laughed.

“Sorry, I couldn’t resist.” Faith grinned.

“Aaaha!” his tenor voice was amused, slightly. “Are you almost done here?”

“Yes, let me clean up and close the store down.”

“Alright. Take your time.” Joe looked around the store and grinned. Valentines day was actually in two days. “How fitting.” He noted quietly.

“Ready!” Faith came out from behind the counter and Joe helped her close the gate and lock it. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and walked her too his car. “My car?” she began.

“Leave it, I promise, I won’t kidnap you and take you to a wooded area.” He grinned. Faith hit him playfully.

“Ha..ha…” she replied.

“Come on, I promise we’ll have a good time.” He grinned as if he had the biggest secret ever.

“I’m scared.” She whispered.

“Be afraid…be very afraid…” Joe teased. He opened the door for her and closed it before going to the other side.

A classic dinner at the Diner with ice cream for dessert, they ended the evening with ice skating in the city. Faith wasn’t sure she noticed anything but Joe that whole evening. They were breathless and Faith was hot from all the activity. Joe helped her off with her skates and they decided to get a cup of coffee before ending the evening. Breathless, Joe looked up at her as he slipped her skate off. He smiled before rubbing his fingers over the bottom of her foot. Faith shook her had and laughed as he tickled her softly.

“Stop, please…” she snorted, then covered her mouth. Joe chuckled. “Oh my goodness!” she laughed. “You’re so mean.”

“Sorry. I couldn’t resist.” He sat up when done and watched as Faith’s eyes shone in the lighting around the rink. Faith’s lips spread in a smile that had never faltered that evening. Joe didn’t even think about the next few seconds.

“What?” Faith whispered. Joe shook his head, leaned closer to her face, their eyes still locked , faith’s smile finally faltered, but she didn’t move away. Joe kissed her lips lightly, when he saw her eyes flutter close, the warm air from her nose stopped, he pressed his lips against her again, then again, before keeping them. Joe pulled her body closer to his, coaxing a deeper kiss from her, until he heard it. That small moan that clearly told him he better stop, for his own sake. Joe let her go, slowly, and waited for her to look at him. He could tell she was not upset, hell, not after that kiss, he thought cockily. Faith finally opened her eyes to a grinning Joe.

“You’re just so proud of yourself.” She noted. Joe smiled wider. “Sickening. My feet are cold now.” She pointed to her shoeless feet and Joe chuckled.

“Oops, didn’t want to pass up that moment.” He laughed and helped her with her shoes. He changed his own, looking back at her every now and then. Faith’s smile was pasted on her face again. He stood up and held put his hand. Faith let him pull her up, noting that Joe didn’t release it afterward. They didn’t talk for a long time as they walked back to his car. Joe drove her back to her flower shop.

“Faith?” he began.

“Yeah.”

“Something’s happen for a reason.” He stated.

“I know.”

“Good.”

Faith drove home, less in thought, more excited about what tomorrow would bring. Joe kissed her! Faith giggled excitedly in the car. It was cold outside, but she felt warm and comforted at the moment.

She called her parents as usual, her mother taking the phone from her father after a while.

“So what happened?” she asked.

“It was great. I had a wonderful time with him. We ate, went ice-skating, and…” she stopped. “Mom, what were you so secretive about earlier this week?”

“Nothing. I just had a thought, that’s all.”

“About what?”

“Not much, I just remembered about that school year and the young boy you constantly went on and on about. I thought it was just you being fanciful.” She sighed, laughing lightly. “You don’t remember what you said, did you?”

“Not really.” Faith snorted.
“I’ll tell you later, then.” Her mother was smiling, Faith knew. She didn’t press her though. They said their “I love you’s” and good byes before hanging up. Joe also called, making sure she was home safely. They didn’t get off the phone until well after the early morning hours.

Be Mine: A Valentine Tale - Chapter Four

CHAPTER FOUR

Faith was losing her mind. She had to be. She looked at her phone and willed it to light up with a text or a call. It had only been 24hours since her dinner with Joe, but who cared. She had called her mother and father as usual, letting them in on her day and meeting with a classmate. Now she lay in bed staring at her cell phone as if it was Joe himself. She felt ridiculous and instead of acting like a lovesick girl, she shut off her light and went to bed.

The next morning as Faith finished dressing she was startled by her phones ringing. Although she had plenty of friends and family around, they rarely, if ever, called her in the morning. She answered it to a soft deep “good morning”.

“Good morning.”

“I hope I didn’t disturb you?” he asked, Faith could hear the afterthought in his voice.

“No, I was up already. How are you?”

“Good. Now.” He ventured. Faith smiled. “So, um, what time do you go to lunch?” he asked.

“I usually eat at the shop, since I’m by myself on most days.”

“You don’t have a part time helper.”

“Yes, I do, but she goes to college, so she only comes in three days out of the week to help out and my other worker does deliveries.” Faith said.

“Oh, well, could I stop by with lunch, then?” he asked

“Of course. I wouldn’t mind if you don’t mind eating near a bunch of stems and glue.” She joked.Joe chuckled.

“No, I don’t. Is noon okay? Do you want anything specific?”

“Noon is fine. And anything is good with me, I'm not particular.”
“Wow, impressive.” Joe teased. “Then I’ll see you later, have a good morning, Faith.”

“You too, see you later.” They both hung up at the same time and Faith knew her day would be perfect.

*****

“So, you know I’m going to ask this, right?” Joe started. They both were sitting at a small side table in the back area of Faiths shop, away from the large table with flower clippings and baskets that she used to decorate orders and wrap bouquets. He’d come for lunch as promised, bringing them both something hot and filling in the cold February weather. The conversation was safe and light, but Joe wasn’t a very patient man. He also wasn’t the shy, awkward boy that she remembered.

“No, I don’t know, you have to ask me first.” She replied.

“Smartypants..” Joe sucked his teeth. “Are you married?”

“Married?” Faith blinked. She had not expected that. Nope not at all. “Oh, no. Haven’t done that yet.” She laughed. “You?”

“My mother is still breathing down my neck about that. I’m not sure she knows what she’s getting into if she continues.”

“Oh…gawsh.” She laughed. “You’re enjoying your bachelorhood, huh?” Joe smiled widely. Faith couldn’t blame him, the men her age were happy with being single and playing the field. There were many choices and technically they were still young, with more than enough time to think about those “little things”. “I don’t blame you. I really haven’t thought about it either. It’s just been me and this business for the past five years.”

“Why an floral shop?”

“Because I like flowers?” she replied. Joe chuckled. “I started as an Interior Decorator. I took a Floral Design class as just another part of the Interior design course and enjoyed it. I worked for the previous owners while I was in college, so whenever they were ready to sell this place, I jumped at the chance.” She shrugged. It was Joe’s turn to be impressed. “I’m not sure how long I’ll keep it, I thought to turn it into my Interior Design business later. What do you think?” she asked.

“I have no idea, but it seems you’ve been successful with this venture thus far, I wouldn’t put it past you to succeed there also.”

“Awesome answer, Joseph!” they both laughed. Their laughter died down as they continued to look at one another, both feeling the undercurrent of attraction. It was unexpected, refreshing, and frightening at the same moment. Faith had no idea how long they sat smiling and staring at each other before the sound of the doors bell broke the spell. Faith was visibly startled and excused herself. Joe nodded in understanding and continued to eat, deep in thought as he did so.

There had to be a reason for this scenario to be playing out. Joe hadn’t given a thought to his past classmates throughout the years. A High School reunion had come and gone and he never bothered to attend the yearly gatherings they had always invited him too. It was an effort to stay in touch with everyone, but Joe hadn’t bothered to try. Faith had mentioned that many of the classmates from elementary school came to the yearly reunions and he should come to one.

Faith re-entered the break/office room, almost hesitant and feeling a tad bit awkward. She definitely was not expecting the surge of feelings to envelope her in such a short amount of time and so few meetings with Joe. Was it residual gratitude from twenty years ago, or was it genuine interest? Faith was so confused at the moment, she scared herself. Joe seemed to be thoughtful himself, so she would take her cues from him.

“Sorry about that.” She said as confidently as she could. Her hands resting in front her, then she began to clean up her side of the table. "There are a few customers, Joseph, I have to get back to work. Do you mind?” Joe shook his head.

“No, no…I guess lunch is over, huh?” Faith looked at him apologetically. “Don’t feel so bad!” he chuckled. Joe picked up the leftovers and grabbed his jacket, standing up simultaneously. “I should be getting back to work myself. I’ll call you tonight, alright?” He said, finishing putting on his scarf and picking up the bag.

“You don’t…” she began, but Joe cut her off with a look. Dark brown eyes seemed to let her know that he didn’t do anything he didn’t want to. “Okay.” She whispered quickly. Joe leaned over unexpectedly and kissed her cheek.

“Enjoy the rest of your day, Faith. Bye.” He gave her a lopsided grin and winked at her before turning to leave. Faith raised her hand and touched her cheek. Maybe she wasn’t crazy.

*****

Joe was crazy. Yes, that was his problem. He was just crazy. He looked at his phone and went through his text messages, all of them from his brother. Joe had been repeating the past few days to him and although his brother should be taking advice from him, he needed some married man wisdom at the moment. He quickly texted him back, making plans for the evening to go out for a few drinks. He’ll have to sort out this situation.

*****

Faith sat at her little table staring at the computer screen. The letters and numbers were a jumble amongst the white background. She had some soft R & B playing in the background of her apartment. She really wasn’t even thinking about anything, it was someone. Joe was a curiosity at the moment. What was he thinking? That look was one that even she knew meant business.Her eyes slid to her cell phone and then re-focused back on the computer screen. She would call one of her girlfriends, but Faith never got excited about something and began to spew it to the masses. She was careful to make sure it was settled and firm before bragging. Joe was not settled or firm. He was soft and unsettling. The sound of the cell phone had her quickly picking it up and answering it without looking at the caller id.

“Yes!” she nearly yelled in the receiver.

“I take it you were expecting a phone call from someone?” her mother’s voice was clearly amused, but Faith didn’t bother to aid in it.

“Hi, Mom.”

“You sound almost disappointed, sweetheart.” She laughed.

“No!” Faith tried hard to cover it up, but her mother was no fool. “Not really. But, I am expecting a call, so ummmm, can we keep this short.” Her mother’s laughter almost made her hang up on the woman.

“I’m sorry, Faith, but I’m wondering if you realize that you have never shown this much excitement over a man. I actually haven’t seen you this excited over another male since grade school when that boy gave you a Valentine.” She chuckled.

“That’s the same boy, Mom!” Faith grumbled.

“Oh, really!” her mother grew thoughtful. “But, I thought you said he was just an old classmate?”

“Yes, he is, they are one and the same.”

“Hmmm…”

“What?”

“Nothing…” her mother replied. “Nothing, nothing at all. I’ll talk to you later, sweetheart. Let me allow you to wait for you “Phone call”. I love you, dear.” She chuckled and hung up before Faith could say good night back.

“What is she giggling about!?” she muttered.

Joe called her as promised a half hour later, they didn’t talk long, as he was out with his brother, but Faith agreed to a dinner and entertainment that weekend. She went to bed smiling, but still wondering what her mother was so in awe about.

******

“So, what is this whole old classmate deal?” Sam was a male version of their mother. Although they had the same oval shaped face, his brother hair was longer and his eyes were much smaller with softly rounded chin. He was what they call, adorable. He hated it, so he dressed as adult as possible which did nothing for him. His pale blue dress shirt looked like it had baby vomit on it, Joe observed. He was twenty-five and already married with a three month old and two year old.His parents had not wanted him married so quickly, but given the situation of his girlfriend at the time, he’d wanted to do the right thing and be responsible. After their father passed away, he was more motivated to be a successful family man. In a way, Joe was very proud of his younger sibling. He was mature and took his role as a man seriously.

“I mean, you either like the woman or you don’t.” He simplified. They were sitting in a booth of a nearby bar in Sam’s neighborhood in case he had to run home. Joe accommodated him by coming out this way.

“It’s not that easy. I mean, yeah. No!..” Joe quieted, confusing himself. “Look, she clearly wasn’t thinking along this line when she spoke to me. I almost feel like a predator, Sam.” He cried. His brother laughed.

“Okay, okay, clearly you weren’t expecting this, but come on! This is cool as shit, Joe. How crazy would this story be when you tell your grandchildren.”

“Oh, come on!” Joe laughed. “Why are you going there, you’re worse than Mom!” he shook his head as his brother laughed at his suggestion. “Not funny, Sam.”

“Ok, I’m sorry. But, come on. How does she look? Is she a cute?” Joe nodded.

“She beautiful, but that’s not it.”

“Okay, what, she’s not Korean?”

“Would it matter?” Joe said thoughtfully. This was the first time he actually thought about how ethnically different they were. Of course, her skin was lovely, soft when he’d kissed her cheek, and warm. It was a wonderful earthy brown.

“Maybe, depends.” Sam shrugged.

“She’s not Korean, but who cares.”

“Mom, maybe.”

“Oh please, she should be glad I finally bought a woman home, much less what ethnicity she is.” Joe sucked his teeth. “Even so, she knows I’m not going to allow her to exert too much say in this part of my life.”

“True.” Sam agreed. “Okay, what does she do.” Joe gave him the run down of Faith’s credentials.“So, what’s the problem? Sounds like she’s independent, focused, all that good shit. Hell, she’s got the three B’s!”

“Oh, geez, Sam, come on!” Joe rolled his eyes as his brother snickered. “I just want to know, should I go for it. Should I date her, because I’m sure this was not the outcome she expected when she saw me a few weeks ago.”

“I say, yes, what could it hurt. I also think you like her more than you’re admitting.” Sam noted, drinking the rest of his beer. “Anyway, I gotta run. I smell like baby stomach contents and I need a shower.” He smelled his shirt and wrinkled his nose. “Seriously, Joe, take her out, and go for it. If she responds, you know you’re in. Why am I telling you this?” he raised his hands in exasperation. “You taught me the same thing. Really, how long has it been since you got laid, bro?” he laughed and left before his brother could kick him under the table.

“Obviously too long…” he muttered and sipped his beer.

Be Mine: A Valentine Tale - Chapter Three

Again, this is a short story, at least I'm trying to make it a short story...but I hope it is very thorough and entertaining.

CHAPTER THREE

Two weeks later, as Faith prepared to close her shop, the sound of the doors bell jingled as she placed her deposit slips in the safe. She looked up and saw Joe walking toward the counter, looking around curiously as if he had been in the store for the first time. She picked up her coat as he stopped in front of the counter, a wide grin on his mouth.

“You’re leaving?” he asked. She just nodded in response. Faith was too surprised at seeing him again to utter a sound. She’d looked for him that first week, then came to terms with maybe he wasn’t interested in seeing a very, very, old classmate. She was sure Joe had better things to do and she had not thought about the fact he might have a family to take care of. Finding her voice, finally, she answered him.

“I’m actually surprised to see you came back.” She laughed. Joe shook his head and waited for her to come from around the counter. She placed on her coat and scarf, then a knitted hat. She looked like a teenager, Joe was hard pressed to believe they were the same age.

“Really, I’m sorry I took so long to then.” He said. “Do you have time to get that coffee?” he asked when they walked out the door and Faith had finished locking up the gate. She turned to look at him, but before she could answer he continued. “Or better yet, how about dinner?” Joe suggested, a bit of hope filling him more than he thought was possible.

Joe had spent the last couple of weeks nervous and going back and forth with when he should come back to the shop. He knew he'd come back for that coffee, he just felt a bit apprehensive all of a sudden and had no idea why. Seeing Faith again, maybe he feared it would become a deeper interest than just friendly curiosity. How could a casual meeting of an old classmate do that? Joe did not know anything about her, including having a family and such. He needed to keep this casual, but blurting out dinner wasn’t what he expected to come out.

“Really?” Faith asked, she was truly surprised now. “Sounds like a plan.”

“Did you drive?” he asked. Faith nodded and they headed toward her car. Joe saw that the parking was not metered and looked at her. “Do you mind leaving it here or do you want to follow me?”

“Oh…well…how about I follow you. After we eat, I can just go home. I don’t want to inconvenience you.” Faith was glad to see him again, but she was still aware he was a stranger. No matter how cute he was becoming as the minutes went by. Joe nodded, understanding, and suggested a popular restaurant that they both knew. She promised to meet him there and watched as he walked back up the block . Faith felt suddenly nervous, but quickly shook off the feeling, telling herself it was just dinner with a old friend, nothing to be excited about. But she was excited, and until the evening was over, she couldn’t feel otherwise.

*****

Joe waited patiently for her in the waiting area of the restaurant. He saw her walking up and held the door for her. Relief filled him that she did come and didn’t go straight home instead.

“I already put a name down on the waiting list.” He told her. “Do you want to get a drink while we wait?” he asked. Faith nodded, and followed him to the bar. After taking off their coats, they both ordered a light drink.

The restaurant was busy, but it was to be expected. Valentine’s day was around the corner and just as the floral shop was busy, the surrounding area shops were also. Faith liked this restaurant. The food was good and nicely priced, but it was the atmosphere that made it a good place for friends or a date. Faith reminded herself, this was not a date.

“So I take it you remembered?” she teased.

“Yes, when you called me “Joey”.” He laughed. Faith opened her mouth and closed it.

“Sorry, I know how much you hated it when we were kids. I figured it would jog your memory, but I didn’t think that much.” She noted, between giggles.

“You were the only one who called me that then.” Joe told her. Faith looked shocked and shook her head.

“Wow, I’m very surprised now.” Their drinks were placed in front of them and they each sipped before continuing.

“But, yes to your question. I do remember now. I asked my mother where my old photo albums from elementary school were and looked through them. You’ve changed….a lot!” he noted.

“Yes, I know. I’m no longer, Fatty Faith.” She muttered, but with humor. Joe smiled in return.

“Well, if they could see you now.” He exclaimed.

“Thank you! They have, and you should see them now!” she laughed. Joe could imagine and they lapsed into light hearted conversation trying to remember the past until their table was ready.

*****

Dinner went by too quickly for Joe's taste. He'd insisted that they ordered dessert, then after dinner coffee, just so he could prolong it a little bit longer. Faith was engaging and they didn't lack for conversation topics. His cellular had been vibrating like crazy from missed meetings with friends. Joe had ignored them all, turning off his phone entirely so that he could concentrate on what was in front of him. Joe watched her quietly as she leaned over to sip her coffee. Her long lashes nearly touching the top of her cheeks. If he thought he was interested in her before, he was really interested now. Faith was funny, open, and wholesome woman. She liked people, socializing, and seemed happy within herself. Flowers did that and she knew her stuff. Joe told her what he did for a living, a CPA, nothing major and working for a firm that kept him busy but otherwise, it gave him the weekend off sometimes so that he could have a social life. It wasn’t what his parents wanted him to be, but it paid the bills and made him comfortable.

“So, how did you know it was me?” Joe asked, curious.

“I wondered myself, but I saw you standing their looking so intent, it reminded me of this boy I used to know. He would be so intent on deciding should he play this or that, should he use this color in art or the other color, should he eat his sandwich first or eat the cookies…” they both were laughing by the time she’d finished. “But, seriously, you haven’t changed too much for me. I remember you because you impressed me.” Joe raised his eyebrows.

“How so?” he asked. "I'm doubting a nine year old could impress anyone!" They both laughed.

“You were always nice to me and…” she stopped embarrassed suddenly. Joe chuckled at how she looked, a small blush appeared on her skin and he grinned. “….I’m so embrassed now.” She laughed.

“Don’t be! I’m curious, really, Faith. Tell me.”

“You asked me to be your Valentine.” She put her fingers on her forehead and shook her head, beginning to laugh at how silly she was being. “Oh goodness, I can’t believe that.” She sipped her coffee and looked at Joe over the rim. His smile seemed to broaden much more and they looked at one another for a moment before he said something.

“I think I remember that.” He nodded. “I feel bad for not remembering you, now.” He stated.

“No, really, it’s more than okay.” She laughed. “I’m a girl, thinking of girly things and I’m sure your life after Mrs. Donovan's was busy.”

“Yes, yes it was. No fun at all.” He wrinkled his face, both finding it funny. They finished their coffee and Joe insisted on paying the bill when he saw Faith was prepared to go dutch. As they walked outside, Joe following her to her vehicle, they both thought the same thing. They didn't want the night to end.

Joe felt they'd gotten to the car too quickly and held the door for her after she opened it. Faith looked up from the drivers seat and smiled.

“Thanks for a wonderful evening, Joseph. I’m glad I spoke up and we had the opportunity to catch up.” Faith expected never to see him again, no matter how much she wanted to see him after this. She just wasn't that confident at the moment.

“Same here, but I hope this isn’t the last time.” He asked, noting the finality of her voice. He was correct in that when he saw how surprised she looked after his statement.

“Oh, of course. Hold on.” Faith pulled out her cellular and looked at Joe expectantly. They exchanged numbers.

“Get home safely, alright?” he told her. Faith smiled and nodded. “Night, Faith. I had a great time too.”

“Goodnight.”

Joe watched her pull off before heading to his own vehicle. He never asked her if she was married, but he highly doubted it. He didn't see an engagement ring and being a “girly girl” as she said, Joe was sure there would be one on it if she was. Maybe she had a boyfriend, though.

“Why do I care!?” he muttered getting in his car. “Damn, really, answer me that….please.” he sighed and knew that he would definitely see Faith again, he just didn’t know in what aspect it would lead to. Joe was sure by the end of the evening that he liked her immensely and wanted to know her better, spend time with her and if he was honest with himself, he wanted to kiss her too.

Be Mine: A Valentine Tale - Chapter Two

By the way, this a BW/AM storyline - Joe is Korean-American and Faith is Black American. FYI... Enjoy

CHAPTER TWO

Valentine’s Day came every year with a flurry of customers. The floral shop was busy during this time with orders, deliveries, and restocking of many of the plants and flowers. Faith's days passed by quickly, but then it was time for Mother’s Day and it would begin all over again. She smiled and wondered what he’d get his mother then. Faith checked the time and began closing.

Two hours later, Faith pulled the gate down over the floral shops windows and door, locked the pad lock, and walked toward her car. Seeing Joe after all these years surprised her, but she felt something was guiding this ship because she had just been wondering what he was doing in his life just that weekend. Of course she had been looking at old school pictures for a reunion yearbook they were preparing, thus starting the wayward thoughts. But, Faith remembered he made every day at school tolerable. Children were cruel little beasts, but Joe was the most kind-hearted boy she'd ever met, so she never forgot him.

*****

Joe parked his vehicle in the driveway of his mother’s home. He was excited, but dreading this visit. Although his mother was the light of his life, he adored the woman, she nagged constantly. It gave him a headache to listen to the same mantra over again. Marriage, grandchildren, settling down, blah, blah, blah. His younger brother seemed to be covering that already, why he had to be bothered with it was beyond his knowledge.

Entering the foyer of the home, he slipped off his shoes and headed to the back of the house. His mother’s house was two levels of space that she had bought when he left for college. Her constant dream was that he and his family would live in the house. She had a extra room ready for herself and the four bedrooms upstairs where for him to fill with children. Joe did not comment on any of it, he just allowed her to do as she pleased. His mother was very old school, to an extent, or as she deemed necessary. His parents were first generation Korean-American, and his grandmother lived with his parents until she passed. He grew up with two cultures and traditions that he’d learned to juggle and enjoy. His parents were more American than Korean sometimes, but he knew the importance of passing it on to each generation. His brother was lucky. Joe didn’t know what would happen in the future, maybe he would succumb to his mother’s pressure, but as for now, he would listen quietly and respectfully.

“Joseph?” his mother’s voice yelled from the kitchen before the sound of her feet began walking to meet him in the hallway. She began speaking in a tirade of Korean before Joe cut her off by pulling the bouquet from around his back and she stopped mid sentence. “What? Oh my!” smiling broadly, she chuckled at the huge flowers. “They are gorgeous!”

“Good, I’m glad you like them. Happy Birthday.”

“Oh, you're just reminding me of how old I’m getting.” She tittered, turning to find a vase to put them in.

“No one would ever know, everyone thinks you’re my sister.” He teased. His mother shook her head and pulled the crystal from the cabinet. She filled it with water as Joe looked on.

Joe glanced near the stove and began to look at what she was cooking. He grinned at her birthday dinner.

“Is Sam coming over?” he asked.

“Yes, so before you ask why all this food....” She laughed.

“Ahhh, I wasn’t going to.” He twisted his mouth. Joe knew later that he would get an earful when they left. He’d have to leave before they did to escape that terrible fate. “Mom, where is all of my elementary pictures at?” he asked.

“Why?” she laughed, as she prepared the flowers, before placing them in the vase.

“No reason, I think I ran into an old school friend, but I couldn’t remember. I just wanted to see if I was right. I didn’t want to embarrass myself.” He grinned. His mother smiled and nodded.

“Check the attic, there should be some photo albums on the bookshelf. I haven’t looked at them in a long time. “ Joe gave her a quick kiss on cheek and ran upstairs.

In the hall he pulled the ladder to the attic down and climbed up. The space was small, but he could easily maneuver. His mother was orderly to say the least. Everything had a place, label, area, and he quickly found the photo albums. Many were old heirlooms from his Grandmother before they came to the States, his Mother’s family she made sure to visit once a year, then him and his little brothers childhood albums came into view. He flipped through several albums before finding the class photograph. He looked like just another skinny Korean kid with the prerequisite bowl styled haircut. Small eyes, corduroy pants, and solid white shirt and tie, with black shoes. His parents had made a uniform for him during those years. He only wore sneakers when it was a gym day. Eventually they had put him in private school and every weekend he went to Korean school.

Joe pulled out the photo and scanned the faces of Mrs. Donovan’s class before finally stopping at Faith’s. There she was, with her yellow dress and little pink flowers all over it. She was a chubby child, but she always was smiling showing her dimples. Joe grinned at how she couldn't pronounce his name, her missing teeth hadn't fully came in yet. He remembered the "seph" would come out as "ses" so she settled on "Joey". He never liked it, but somehow he let her get away with it.

Joe was amazed at the coincidence of their meeting again after all this time. He couldn’t remember much during those early years, but that he had more fun back then than after. The school years afterward were strict and studious. He went through the rest of the photos and found a couple more during plays, concerts, and classroom parties. Faith was in some of them and Joe could see that she grew up into a very pretty woman. The only thing was she still had those chocolate eyes and warm smile. Joein promised himself to take her up on that cup of coffee. Soon.

*****

Faith went through her regular routine when she finally made it to her small studio apartment. Her bed was separated by a Chinese-style accordion screen. The living room was tidy and mostly empty save for a small rectangular table and pillows surrounding it. She was a minimalist at best. Faith had no time to clean and decorate. The apartment was mainly a place she ate, bathed, and slept. She didn’t own a television, since she wasn't home to watch it. Her computer was enough, but it was more of a work computer than entertainment. She called her parents as she did every night. Being the only child, they often worried about her welfare. They were miles away, across the country enjoying their retirement. Although she was old enough to take care of herself, not being married or even a boyfriend in the picture, they still worried for her safety. After saying goodnight, she fixed her dinner, went through her business reports and receipts. Her small floral shop had been open for five years now and doing well. It was small, but she did a lot, including weddings, funerals, baby showers, and everyday orders.

Later she showered and prepared for bed, throughout the evening though, Joe remained in the back of her mind. He grew up to be just as cute as he was when they were nine. His small eyes were wider and his hair no longer a bowl cut, but now tapered professionally, with a soft wave pattern, and grew tens of inches. He had filled out his suit nicely and Faith wondered what he did for a living now. Probably something productive and well to do, Joseph was always prepared if she remembered correctly. She sighed aloud and wondered if he remembered her now. Maybe not, but she was hoping to see him again. Soon.