Snapshot

by Kay Cove

“I thought I’d warn Ms. Lennox that if she wants to stay in your life, not to reveal her feelings for you, keep her hands to herself, and her ass fully covered.” Grandma smirks as she fills two wine glasses halfway. “What makes you think Lennox has feelings for me? You’ve never even met her.” “Oh, Dex. So smart, yet still such a man. She’s spending her Saturday evening having dinner at home with you and your old grandma. What does that tell you?” Cradling the bulb of the glass in her palm, Grandma takes a long sip of wine. In any other circumstance, I’d make an excuse. But I can’t lie to Grandma. I’ve tried. She sees right through me. “Have you ever met someone who tethers you to the earth? All those times before when I wanted a different life… I don’t know. She helps me see the world differently. I like her reality better than my own.” I can’t read Grandma’s expression. Her face tenses as she studies my eyes. Her bright red lips are pressed together but not pursed. She’s silent, so I continue, “That’s why you wanted me to come out here, isn’t it? Perspective?” Grandma sets her wine glass down. “You love her.” It’s a statement, not a question. “No, Grandma. Nothing like that, I just…” Well, I don’t know. What the fuck else is this, then? A lonely, rich boy’s puppy love? Wanting what I can’t have? “I think I could one day,” I admit. “But I also don’t think I’m destined for love. I know how Grandpa treated you. I don’t want that for Lennox or any woman I love.” “Don’t want w...