Tyson carefully kneaded the dough in preparation for the blueberry croissant puffs he was in the process of making. He’d gone by the farmer’s market and purchased a fresh batch of blueberries because only fresh ingredients would do for his pastry creations. He wouldn’t settle for frozen, bagged fruit. The rest of the ingredients – cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla flavoring and milk – were in ample supply at the restaurant.
“Tyson, what’s up man?”
“Hey. What’s up with you?”
“Just running some errands...heard Tamera was in town.”
“Yeah. She said she wanted to do some bonding with Gabrielle so they’ve been hanging out most of the day.”
“How’s she doing?”
“She’s good. Looks happy.”
“That’s good. I know it was rough there for her for a while.”
“Yeah, but she’s made the best out of a new start and she’s doing well. I’m proud of her.”
“No can do, my brother...Gabrielle is going to Chicago this weekend with your mom...leaving tomorrow so I’m going to spend some quality time with my lady before she heads out.”
“What about Saturday?”
“I’ll be in Atlanta on Saturday...be back Sunday night.”
“Okay, so let’s get together Sunday.”
Tyson shook his head. “Nope...Gabrielle is back Sunday night and we’re gonna spend even more quality time together.” He slid a pan in the oven. “Maybe one day next week. “I’ll keep you posted.”
“Okay, man,” Heshan said. “How’s everything else going?”
“Good.” Tyson walked over to the sink. “I’m the happiest I’ve ever been.”
“That’s great. I’m happy for you...got me thinking about settling down.”
“Oh yeah?”
“Yeah, man...been on my mind and I got just the woman.”
“Who’s that?”
“Charity Eason.”
“Yep,” Heshan said affirmatively, thinking of the way he felt when he first saw Charity. Her long, bra-strap length cinnamon hair caught his eyes before her tanned, caramel skin wreaked havoc on his senses – that and the fact that her body was in good, athletic shape. The woman could teach a Zumba class if she wanted to.
“I think she told me she worked odd jobs, one being a lifeguard during the summer,” Tyson said.
“That would explain that sexy tan she has.”
“Yeah...asked her out a few times...guess she’s not into half-Indian guys.”
“Nah, man. You can’t give up that easily. You have to hit her with your charm.”
“Like you did Gabrielle?”
“Yeah, exactly like I did Gabrielle.”
“Yeah...we’ll see. I don’t chase women. It’s usually the opposite.”
“Maybe you need to make an exception. Let me tell you what I’ve learned...love and being in love is a beautiful thing. You just need to make sure you find the right one.”
“Yeah...the ever illusive right one.”
“Most likely you. Dilvan doesn’t know how to treat a woman.”
“Yeah, well Mother has been on a crusade, trying to get her sons back on track...said family should stick together and that Prasad and I were partially to blame for the state of our family. So I’m supposed to reach out to Dilvan and arrange a sit-down.”
“Good for you,” Tyson said.
“What you mean, good for me. You don’t even like Dilvan.”
“Yeah, but he’s not my brother. He’s yours.”
“Like I said...he’s your brother.”
“Guess it’s ‘bout time we sat down as brothers and discussed things. As a matter of fact, I’m going to send him a text right now before I change my mind.” Heshan took his phone from his pocket and typed a message:
Heshan: Dilvan, let me know when u r available next week...trying 2 get together with u and Prasad.
“There...it’s done. Can’t say I didn’t try. Now watch him not even bother to respond.”
“Speak of the devil,” Tyson said. “Is that him?”
Dilvan: free Tuesday...will that work?
“Well what do you know...he actually responded. Said he’s free on Tuesday.”
“That’s good, right? Or were you hoping he didn’t respond?” Tyson chuckled.
“Nah, it’s cool. You know what would be awesome, though?”
“What’s that?”
“If you came along with us.”
“No way.”
“Why not?”
“Because every time I see Dilvan, I want to put a dent in his face. That’s why.”
“Maybe it’s time you called a truce.”
“Nope...not after what he did to Gabrielle.”
“Okay...just thought I’d ask. Anyway, let me get to work so I can get out of here a lil’ early today.”
“Yeah. I need to get back to work, too. I’ll talk to you later.” Tyson walked outside taking a small break before he began on the last batch of pastries. Curious to know what Gabrielle and Tamera were up to, he dialed Gabrielle’s number, then smiled at the thought of her.
“Hey, Tyson,” she answered.
“Hey, you. How are you, baby?”
“I’m good. Tamera and I are out shopping.”
“Nice. She’s treating you well I take it?”
“Yes. She’s been wonderful...glad she’s my sister-in-law.”
“Nice...happy you’re getting along. I’ll be home around four to get started on dinner.”
“Ooh...what are we having?”
Tyson smiled. “I’m not sure yet, but I know what I want for dessert.”
“What time are y’all gettin’ back to the house?” he inquired.
“We’re heading back in a few minutes. I’m sure we’ll be home before you.”
“Okay, sweetie. Have fun. See you in a lil’ while.”
“Okay, Tyson. Love you.”
“Love you too, angel.”