Meeting

"Hello, Zachary," a tall and elegant mature African lady spoke in French after approaching his table. She was beautiful, with a pretty face and long braided hair that hung rich and black about her proud shoulders. A soft and warm smile outlined her facial features as she glanced expectantly at Zachary.

"Hello, and good afternoon," Zachary replied, standing up. He couldn't stop his heartbeat from quickening as it was only his second meeting with Céleste Kouame, the lady who was his biological mother. "Welcome!" He extended his hand across the table for a handshake.

The woman seemed disappointed by Zachary's formality. But she still took his hand for a firm handshake. "It's really nice to see you, my dear Zachary. I've been looking forward to this day, like forever."