***
A month after the birthday, Grandma asked me to visit.
I smiled as they began sharing memories.
When I arrived, she was sitting at the kitchen table with an old photograph.
It was the picture of her and Grandpa Richard at the coast.
“Remember when you asked me about this?” she said.
I nodded.
“I’ve decided I’m going back.”
I smiled.
It was the picture of her and Grandpa.
“Really?”
“Why not? I’ve spent enough years waiting for everyone to have time for me.”
She pushed the photograph toward me.
“I’d like you to come, Kylie. If you’re free.”
“I’d love to.”
“But first, promise me something.”
“I’d love to.”
“Anything.”
“Don’t put your whole life aside looking after mine.”
I took her hand.
“Grandma, spending time with you is something I choose.”
She smiled.
“Then let’s plan our trip.”
“Anything.”
We looked at places to stay and talked about what she’d like to see. I promised we’d plan around what felt comfortable for her.
