He wobbled down the stairs seconds later, with his nurse following closely behind him.
“Licia, darling. Can you tell Cassie that I can walk unaided?” He turned, eyeing the nurse.
I chuckled, “Gramps, you know we can’t risk you tumbling down the stairs.”
“Mr. McKenzie, I am sorry to be a thorn in your flesh, but I need to keep a close eye on you,” Cassie replied. She was doing a terrific job taking care of him.
Cupping the corner of his mouth, he leaned towards me. “She’s such a nag,” he tried to whisper, though it barely passed as one.
Cassie replied with a smile. “I can hear you, Mr. McKenzie.”
“Whatever,” he waved it off.
I pulled out his seat and got him settled in before taking mine beside him. He gently placed his napkin on his lap and picked up his cutlery.
He noticed that Cassie was still standing beside him and turned to face her. “Cassie, my grandkid is here, so you can back off a little. Or do you want to watch me eat as well?” He glared at her from his glasses, but she didn’t budge.
I had to step in. “Cassie, you can go. I will call you when we need you.” I assured her, still smiling at Gramps' tantrums. He is cute when grumpy.
“Okay, Licia,” Cassie concurred before exiting the dining area.
“Finally, some peace,” Gramps muttered.
He took a bite of the egg. “Hmmm… nice. I love the fluffy texture.” He nodded in approval, taking more bites.
I smiled proudly, “I’m glad you like it.”
“Yeah, I do. So tell me, when are you coming back for good?” His tone became serious all of a sudden.
I didn’t see the question coming. “I… I…” I racked my brain for a suitable answer, but none was forthcoming.
“You need to be around more often and acquaint yourself with how things work around here. There is a need for you to learn the ropes fast, and I will equally have to introduce you to the board.”
He wasn’t kidding around.
I was yet to tell him that I was considering applying to UCLA for my program, as opposed to the private university he had been subtly pushing for. He would literally lose it if I told him about it.
“Gramps, let's talk about that when I visit next.” I needed to buy more time, and I was glad he appeared to be falling for it.
He smiled widely. “That’s perfect. How about your boyfriend?” He asked, completely taking me off guard.
I became defensive. “Gramps, who said I had a boyfriend?” I tried sounding serious, but I was already turning beet red.
“Licia, I have been around far too long to miss that glow of teenage love. So I know someone is in love when I see one. Is he good to you?”
I blushed harder. “Yes, he is. And handsome too.” I felt the need to add that part.
“That’s nice. Tell me all I need to know about this boy who stole your heart.” He requested, giving me his full attention as he took a sip of his coffee.
I happily told him everything about Kevin, and even the tournament they just won. I prattled on for over ten minutes and he let me, without interruption. He was impressed.
“You should probably bring him during your next visit.” He submitted, picking up the last piece of egg with his fork.
“I will, Gramps,” I replied giddily. Elated that he wanted to meet Kevin.
I couldn’t wait to get back to Half Moon Bay. I had missed Kevin a great deal. Gramps tried stalling me for more bonding time, but I had already spent a week with him. It was finally time to leave.
I had tried Kevin’s line over a million times since I got home, but it just wasn’t connecting and kept redirecting me to voicemail every single time. Quite strange. So, I decided to payhim a visit, on the premise that he was probably swamped with practice.
