LOVE WITHOUT END
So, let me tell you about Paul. Ages ago, he married for love and not just any love, but head-over-heels, the-earth-stopped-turning kind. But as the years rolled by, that love slowly started to slip away. It began as a trickle, then a stream, and by the time their daughter was born it was more like a flood draining out of their marriage. Pauls affections scattered in all directions, turning into fleeting affairs, little crushes, and short-lived flings.
It wasnt that Paul couldnt, or even wanted to, devote himself just to his wife. His particular charm a mix of self-assurance and devil-may-care attitude, stirred with some mysterious spark was simply irresistible to women, and he never missed a chance to lavish his boundless love on everyone he fancied. Tall, short, blonde, brunette, chatty or shy married or single, Paul somehow found a way to captivate them all. And, well, the women didnt exactly object.
His wife, Alice, either didnt see what was right under her nose or chose not to. She never argued or made any scenes. Paul gave her enough attention to keep things on an even keel, so she didnt complain.
But then, one day, his wild river of love ran into Joanna. She was stunning and clever, and Paul fell hard harder than before. Every spare moment he had, apart from his time with Alice, he spent with Joanna. For her, Paul was like a breath of fresh air, an entire world apart from her on-and-off marriage. Their relationship, drama and all, lasted a good three years.
Meanwhile, Pauls daughter, Emily, was growing up fast. After finishing school, she moved to America on a student exchange straight to Londons twin city, New York. She never moved back to England. Instead, she married an American bloke in Los Angeles, settled down, and had three kids. Life got busy, and eventually, she called her parents over to help look after her children. Emilys husband only had his dad, Michael, since his mum had passed away.
Paul and Alice hopped on a plane and, just like that, spent the next two years helping raise their grandkids in sunny Los Angeles. But it wasnt long before Paul got itchy feet, ready to swap Hollywood for the comfort of home in London. Alice was taken aback. Why on earth would you want to go back? she asked, completely baffled. With no explanations, Paul dashed back to England and straight into Joannas arms.
Right, Joanna, he said, dramatic as ever, take me back! I cant live without you! Say the word, and Ill never leave again. Youve bewitched me, Joanna!
Joanna just looked at him and sighed, Really, Paul? Have you forgotten Im still married? Dont get me wrong, its lovely to see you, but thats all itll ever be.
Paul wasnt ready for that devastated, he headed off home, licking his wounds, and soon enough, he was back on a flight to Los Angeles. But this time, Alice had a bit of news of her own.
Paul, darling, Michael and I have decided to give things a go together, she said with a smug smile. Not much you can say, is there? Youre free to do as you please. The grandkids and I will be fine without you its not like you have much to teach them. She almost gloated.
You knew this whole time? Paul asked, suspicious.
Oh, come on, Alice laughed, squinting triumphantly, Word always gets round.
So back Paul went, a rejected husband and lover, to his empty house in London. And, not surprisingly, he returned to Joanna again, one last-ditch attempt at happiness.
Changed your mind yet, Joanna? Fancy making a life together? he pleaded, hoping for a miracle.
Absolutely not! she retorted. Youd just run off to the US again at the drop of a hat, and Id be stuck here waiting! You left me, remember? And do you know who pulled me through my darkest days? My husband, thats who. Paul, its over.
So, poor Paul scuffed off home, closed the door, and didnt show his face for three whole days.
Then came a knock at the door. Standing there was a young woman, beaming at him.
Afternoon, Uncle Paul! Dont you recognise me? I was your Emilys mate back in school. Hows Em doing? The woman couldnt have looked more delighted or more embarrassed.
Shes fine, and yes, you must be Marianne I remember you now, Paul said dully, barely stifling a yawn.
Uncle Paul, have you got any salt by any chance? I live just next door now, she said, working up her courage.
Looking her over, Paul realised how sweet and charming she was. Come in, Marianne. Let me put the kettle on, he said, bustling around the kitchen.
Oh, Uncle Paul! Ive been head over heels for you since I was a teenager. Youre everything I ever wanted! I did get married in the meantime, but you were always busy so I waited! And Im not the giving-up type!
So there they were: Paul at fifty-six, Marianne at thirty-three, starting a new family, and now theyve got a baby on the way.
