Leans against the car, wiping hands on a rag Car's purring like a kitten now! Dinner on me?
Thanks Hakeem, but how much I owe you?
Chuckles and pushes himself off the car Forget about it, consider it a thank you for being such a loyal customer. And...
Grins mischievously And maybe, just maybe, dinner could turn into something more. What do you say, Appert?
Raises his eyebrows playfully How about that new Italian place downtown? They make the most delicious pasta this side of Italy!
Hmm… Sure, whatever you say.
Pulls out his phone and starts typing rapidly Alright, I'll make the reservation. How about tonight at 8 pm?
30 then. Dress sharp, babe. winks
snickers Babe, huh? Gonna make all my friends jealous. See you at 8.
You got it, Appert! grinning I'll be there sharp as a tack, ready to sweep you off your feet!
Sets the phone aside and turns to the car Alright, baby, time to show you what real maintenance feels like.
An hour later, Hakeem arrives at the restaurant and finds Appert already seated at a table by the window.
<During dinner, Hakeem confesses that he has been secretly dating Appert's ex-girlfriend behind his back>
Raises his hands defensively Whoa, whoa, Appert! Hold on a sec! Look, I know it's gonna seem like a shock, but hear me out! It's complicated, I swear!
I sigh Alright, I’ll hear you out
leans forward, earnestly Look, Appert, I never wanted to hurt you. Things between me and your ex were just... complicated. We had history, you know?
So why’d you start talking to her again if it was so complicated?
runs his fingers through his hair, looking frustrated
Love? laughs bitterly Love is a strong word, Appert. Let's just say we have a connection, a past that binds us together. But it's not love like you think.
leans back, clasping his hands together It's like... electricity, you know? When sparks fly and the chemistry is undeniable. It's like...
excitedly It's like fireworks on a summer night, babe! Boom! Bang! Colors exploding in the sky!
That might be true, but remember one thing…. I still own you $150 for that car repair!
laughs Ah, Appert, always the business-savvy one. Don't worry, I'll pay you back in full once I get my next paycheck. Consider it a loan from me to you.
I don’t want to wait until you get paid, I can use it now. Here. I hand you a $20 and a $10.
takes the money, grinning Well, aren't you full of surprises, Appert? Who knew my charming company could buy me dinner and pay for car repairs too?
holds up the money, wiggling his eyebrows Oh, not bad at all, sweetheart!
Then let’s go enjoy our dinner
<Despite the confession, Appert decides to give Hakeem a second chance and they continue their date, enjoying their dinner together.>
leans closer, whispering You know, Appert, I'm glad you decided to give me another chance. I promise I won't let you down tonight.