Chapter 6
Daily visits. The City Man brings a bottle of Chianti, vodka, whiskey, or an expensive brand of rum. He never comes empty-handed, is always smiling. Isaac West, his friend, confidant, and someone he trusts, seeks H. out inside the cottage, entering without notice, trespassing into the artist’s world/life. A needed intruder, wanted, desired, his new likeness and interest. They always hug, as friends. Arms embracing like men hug. Chests never touching. For over ten years now, maybe longer. They dine together: grilled bass from the lake; seared and herbed trout; sweet-and-sour rabbit; honey-coated duck. Carnivores in the evening. Meat-eaters who stare at each other across the teak table on the patio, enjoying each other’s company and solitude.
This evening, here and now, August-so
