His Sweet 16 Lover

Part 7-Thanks to You Mr.Robinson

A couple of years later...

"Perhaps, somewhere, some day, at a less miserable time, we may see each other again."

Those were the words that replayed in my mind when I said goodbye to Delena. My Delilah and lover.

Not a day goes by that I contemplate about her. I wish we could still communicate, snail mail or E-Mail. But given the circumstances... Just thinking about this is sad to me. At least I have my memories.

Well, I am no longer married but I became a father.

I wish deep down that my daughter was Delena'. Instead of my self-centered and sham ex-wife!

I don't think a day goes by when I thank God for having my daughter come and go to her mother's safe and happy.

At least she is doing what is right.

Well, I still teach just as an on-call teacher now. My daughter visits me then heads back to be with her mother afterwards.

I became friends with a neighbour by the name of John Robinson. He was a local publisher and screenwriter.

I told him the story of me and Delena.

One day he came over with some startling news.

"Say Boone?"

"Yes John?"

"Remember when you told me about your relationship with Delena?"

"Of course."

"Do you know that it's gonna be published?"

"WHAT?"

"Yes, a colleague of mine gave me a rough copy."

I quickly went into the envelope and read through it. It was indeed our story retold.

'First Cut is the Deepest to a Slow Tango' was the title.

"Are you okay Boone?"

"Yes. I'm fine."

I quickly went to the kitchen and started to go through my phone book.

"Do you need any help?"

"If you receive any more faxes of manuscripts, come over right away."

"Okay."

Never in a million years did I ever anticipate this news.

This author honestly thinks she can get away with publishing this? Well she'll see about that!

I narrowed down my search and found what I believed was the office of the author. I quickly went and looked up their name. Tina Jamison was an acclaimed author who'd written some other books before this one. She was also friends and was mentored by the late Jackie Collins.

I contacted Tina's office. Waiting for the line to transfer was like an eternity for me.

"How did-"

I cut her off.

"As to how I got your number is not important right now."

"May I ask the reason for your call?"

"It's regarding your new book."

"What about it sir?"

I took a deep breath. "I am the "blue eyed Casanova"."

"ARE YOU?"

"If I wasn't I wouldn't be calling you."

Yes, I was identified as the "Blue Eyed Casanova" in the book. Humorous I know.

"Tell me what was the relationship like?"

"We had a very amenable and romantic relationship."

"Did the "Sleeping princess" ever guess you two would be together?"

"She and I NEVER thought we were going to be more than student and teacher."

"Was she really like Lolita?"

"She was like her, talented, full of ambition, happy, beautiful. Not resentful towards her parents and not the same age as Lolita though."

"I see."

"She was incredibly beautiful, that I can assure you."

One burning question was on my mind.

"Have you had any contact with her since?"

"No unfortunately."

"Whenever you do, let me know."

Tina seemed nice enough.

"Can I still publish the book?"

"You can publish the story as you please. But on one condition: names, descriptions, and story setting is altered."

I gave her the fax of John's receptionist. Now, all I have to do is wait.

Later that evening...

Mr. Robinson had come back with another large manila envelope.

"Hi Boone, my receptionist had just sent me this manuscript. I think it's still your story."

"Really?"

"Yes but there's been revisions."

I took out the manuscript and read through it again. The changes I requested had been made.

"John, thanks again for letting me know, and for being a good friend."

"Anytime Boone."

John went back home right after.

I closed the manuscript and redialed the agency Tina worked at.

I left a message on Tina' agency's answering machine. Thanking her for doing me that favor, and for Delena.

I looked at the clock and saw it was time for a night snack.

I checked the fridge and saw that my daughter was running out of orange juice. I drove to the one convenient store down the street.

As I drove home I smiled to myself.

Our story was special and now it has been told.