“Hang on,” Kimberly says, her hand hovering over the table to stop us. “We don’t want to monopolize your time any more than we have, so let’s just say our goodbyes now.” She gives us a warm smile, then places her hand in Nia’s. “This has been so much fun, and we really appreciate your giving us a taste of the DMV. You’ve been gracious hosts, and we’re excited to make the big move. I’ll be singing your praises when I speak with the firm’s partners next week.”

Kimberly isn’t revealing whether she’ll accept a position with the firm, but I didn’t expect her to; she’s been up-front from the beginning that Olney & Henderson is one of three firms she’s considering. I’ve tried my best to be honest about Olney, pointing out its strengths and its weaknesses; the rest is up to Kimberly. I know one thing, though: If she decides to go elsewhere, it won’t be because Peter and I failed to do our part.

“We appreciate the kind words,” I tell her. “And if there’s anything else we can share, you know how to reach us.”

Kimberly nods. “Absolutely.”

“But tell the truth,” Peter says, swinging a thumb between him and me, his smug grin in place. “Which one of us would you say is going to make the more lasting impression?”

Kimberly stares off into the distance before responding. “I’ll remember you both. For different reasons.” She scrunches her nose. “Let’s just leave it at that, okay?”

“Deal,” I say, smiling as I rise from my chair.

“Can I get a to-go box, though?” Nia asks sheepishly.

Solange laughs. “One to-go box, and if it’s okay with you, two great big hugs, coming up.” The women exchange hugs, then Solange strides to the counter.

“We did good,” Peter tells me, his hands stuffed into the pockets of his chinos. “I never would have imagined it, but we make a great team.”

“No one’s more surprised than I am.”

He leans in so only I can hear what he says next. “I’ll admit, I thought you and Solange were faking this relationship. And make no mistake, I was ready to sing like a canary when I confirmed it. For whatever reason, Henderson’s really got a bug up his ass about you. But seeing as I couldn’t trip you up, I’ll finally concede it’s legit.”

“How big of you. The truth is, our relationship may have started under atypical circumstances, but I care about her a lot.”

It’s the first honest statement I’ve made about Solange and me since forever, and it feels good to say it out loud.

Peter gives me a friendly tap on my arm. “I’m happy for you, then.”

“Thanks, man.”