“And did your father understand why?” “He added Granddad believed 85 was the age when people either close up for good… or ultimately let go.” “That sounds like him,” I remarked, letting out a quiet laugh. “A little theatrical. A little too poetic for his own good.” “He was a bit too poetic for his own good.
Michael grinned, relaxing just slightly. “You know he wrote a lot about you?”Did he now?” I grinned. “Your granddad was the love of my life.”He took out a second folded piece from his coat pocket and said, “Would you like to read it?”The love of my life was your grandfather.
I didn’t reach for it. Not yet. “No,” I answered quietly. “Talk to me instead. Tell me about your father, dear.”
Michael leaned back. “He was quiet, usually thinking about something or the other. However, not in a typical manner. It was like his thoughts overpowered him. He enjoyed old music, the kind you could dance to with bare feet. He claimed Granddad loved it too.”
I didn’t reach for it. “He did,” I whispered. “He used to hum in the shower. horribly and loudly.”
We both smiled. Then there was silence for a few minutes, the kind that didn’t feel awkward. “Michael said, “I’m so sorry he didn’t tell you about us.”I’m not, dear,” I murmured, surprise myself. “I think… I think he wanted to give me a version of him that was just mine, you know?”
We both grinned.Do you despise him for it?”
I touched the new ring on my finger; it was warm now. “No. If anything, I think I adore him more for it. Which is maddening.” “I guess he thought you’d say that.” “Do you despise him for it?” “Next year, would you like to see me here once more?
Gazing out the window, I enquired.Same time?” “Yes. Same table.” “I’d like that very much,” he remarked, nodding. “My parents are both gone. I don’t have anyone else.” “Would you meet me here again next year?” “Then, would you like to meet here every week, Michael?”
He looked up at me, and for a second, I thought he’d cry. But he only bit his lower lip and nodded again. “Yes, please, Helen.”
Sometimes, love waits in places you’ve already visited, calm, patient, and still wearing the face of someone new. “Yes, please, Helen.”
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