the last book I ever read (Jamie Quatro's I Want To Show You More, excerpt seven)

from Jamie Quatro's I Want To Show You More: Stories:

You look hot, babe, it says. You could pass for twenty-five.

Quintessence of dust, I say. The reflection turns to preen its backside, taut in black spandex.

I quote First Peter: The holy women of the past used to adorn themselves with a gentle and quiet spirit.

Women over fifty, the reflection says, are the only ones who believe that. I know why you’re down here. You’re looking for some action before you get old.

That’s not it, I say. I’m trying to mortify all that.