When Paul Bennett brought his girlfriend back home, his dad stared at them, eyes wide, his face breaking into a little sweat.
The first betrayal Paul ever felt a lesson that stuck with him forever
Ever since he was a kid, Paul felt insecure about his short stature. In nursery he was the tiniest one even the girls seemed taller than him. He didnt have any mates, spent his playtime alone, and when other kids snatched his toys he just kept his mouth shut, never complaining to his parents.
School didnt change a thing. The other kids called him shorty, teased him, and he just clenched his fists tighter. When the ribbing got unbearable, he begged his parents to sign him up for a sports club.
A few years later youd barely recognize him. Hed bulked up, got stronger, his body turned muscular and fit. By Year9 the girls started to notice him, but Paul remembered every slight from his childhood and wasnt keen to let anyone get too close.
First romance, first disappointment
When he started university at Leeds, his life took a turn. He grew more confident, slipped easily into conversation, and the girls began to show genuine interest.
Thats how he met Poppy a student who rented a flat near the campus. At first hed just walk her to the lift, but one evening she invited him up. Thats how their intimate relationship began.
It didnt bring him real happiness, though. One night, following his heart, Paul said, Lets get married.
Poppy laughed, Paul, youve got your whole life ahead of you! Youre goodlooking, fit, and trust me, youll have plenty of girls. You can date anyone, then pick the best one later.
Are you serious? Pauls voice turned cold.
Of course! she shrugged. Ive got a fiancé. Hes the most handsome and wealthy bloke in our neighbourhood, sends me money so I dont have to stay in the halls. We only see each other during breaks, and I spend nights with you.
Her words cut him deep.
So Im just a temporary option? he asked, bitterness seeping through.
Paul, I do like you, you know that but you understand what I mean.
Paul stood up and started gathering his things.
Are you upset? Poppy teased, watching him go. Good thing you found out the truth now. Just dont trust a girl straight away. Get to know her before you hand over your heart.
He left feeling used.
Home comfort instead of shattered dreams
Back at his family house, he dropped his suitcase by the door.
Son, whats happened? his mum asked, worried. No wedding then?
Bit of a letdown, he replied shortly, pulling a ring out of his pocket. Here, youll need this more than I do.
Martha looked at him sadly.
Lovely ring. Ill wear it myself, she sighed. Come into the kitchen Ive baked your favourite scones and brewed some mint tea. Lets sit, have a chat.
The warmth and care she gave him were exactly what hed missed these past few days.
Another blow to his pride
At university he avoided seeing Poppy, but she acted as if nothing had happened. After lectures shed stroll arminarm with Connor, whispering, then disappear down a side corridor.
Paul realised her words were just a cover. Hed been a shortterm fling, a placeholder until a better option came along. That thought left an ugly taste in his mouth.
A few days later another test appeared.
Paul, come to my birthday! shouted Harriet, one of the prettiest girls in their year, out of the blue.
Was this a chance at something real or just another trap?
