Another Chance For Love

Grandmother

Lisa turned towards the room's double doors as her grandmother walked in. Time had aged her, yet she carried an undeniable presence. Her hair, now gray, still flowed in luscious locks. Her eyes and nose bore the distinct features of her father.

She entered, her gaze fixed on the tall, slender granddaughter with dark skin standing before her portrait. She was captivated by the young woman now standing in her home.

The grandmother noted the Asian characteristics in the young woman's face, an unexpected revelation.

Lisa turned and bowed to greet her grandmother, who extended her hands and beckoned her closer. "Come here, let me look at you," she commanded.

With a smile, Lisa approached.

Observing Lisa's eyes and complexion, her grandmother remarked, "You are certainly beautiful."

Lisa then assisted her grandmother to her favorite chair and helped her sit.

Afterward, Lisa sat opposite her grandmother, facing the garden picture window.
"How was your flight?" her grandmother asked motioning the room attendant to bring them tea.

"It was great... I fly so often that it's become second nature to me," Lisa said, attempting to engage in small talk.

"I'm sure you do... I've been following your career for several years now. You're a very accomplished artist and violinist," remarked Lisa's grandmother, offering praise. Lisa's mind drifted, contemplating her grandmother's perception of her now versus years ago, curious about her thoughts after all this time.

Amidst her reflections, she contemplated when the discussion of the past would surface, or if it was ever meant to. She understood the necessity of this conversation, realizing it might require her to broach the subject for her mother's understanding. "Lisa, I'm aware you're curious about why I've summoned you here after so many years. I'll try my best to address your inquiries, but first, tell me, how is your mother?" Lisa, intrigued, turned towards her grandmother, who was now gazing intently at her.

"What is this?" Lisa wondered.

"Can she be serious? Shouldn't she inquire about my mother before explaining herself for the years of estrangement?" With composure regained Lisa allowed her grandmother to continue.

Lisa was the last direct descendant to continue her family's legacy... The weight of this truth was just beginning to dawn on her. "Grandmother is doing well; she's recently retired and is now traveling the world," Lisa replied to the inquiries.

"That's good to hear. Your mother and I had our differences in the past, but seeing you now, I can rest assured that my son and your mother have raised you well," the elder responded.

"What? You're proud of how I turned out?" Lisa whispered in disbelief. "What would you like for dinner? I want to make your first visit memorable... Let's get the unpleasantness out of the way so we can start fresh," said Lisa's grandmother, sipping her tea.

Lisa chose to cooperate and avoid causing trouble. She was aware that her straightforward and candid manner could exacerbate the situation.