The Educator

My friends and I continue to talk but over video call. My friends are frantic about what happened and asked what I was feeling. I take a moment to contemplate, make sure I answer correctly. “I don’t think I love him,” I say “I’m just attracted to him” I tell them. They are silent and after a few seconds, all of them start talking that I could not even understand what they are saying.

“Eli, do you think you could be just forcing the feeling?” Hannah asks.

“I don’t know. I don’t feel like I’m forcing it. Elliot’s just a real gentleman. He’s kind, warm, generous, sweet and considerate”

“How is he all those things?” Venice asks.

I prompt to tell them what happened here in Thailand, all the gestures, the planning and the general idea that he finds my comfort a priority.

“Maybe he’s gay?” Venice comments

because Elliot’s more of a man than any of your boyfriends, doesn’t mean

help me

going great between you guys. For one, Elliot’s not hard to be around with. Second, he respects you and you respect him. Third, living with him wouldn’t be such a burden, you don’t have to pretend or keep any mannerisms from him. You married life will be easier than we thought it

love story wouldn't be like

it for you. I was just saying, think positive about this”

of it as a genuine way for your parents to see that you’re really happy even if it did not

a love story? Eli and Elliot haven’t even known each other long

wanted to marry Elliot. Maybe I didn’t protest because, I secretly had feelings for him all these years? I don’t know. I’m lost.

‘married’ to Elliot. He doesn’t bite, unlike other husbands in fixed marriages” Venice

That’s true.

to all of his credit cards, let’s just