28-Homecoming

65 13 10
                                    

I am home again.

But I am me no longer.

When I left the village, ten years ago, I was but a poor farm boy.

I am a big shot now. A businessman, worthy of her in every way.

She won't have to be ashamed of me.

Screeching red letters assault my eyes: "Everyone is invited!"

It's the ultimate party or so it says on the poster.

I step out of the car and enter the locale, curious.

The image is blurred, but nevertheless clear.

It's a wedding. Her wedding.

And me, ever the farm boy, standing in the corner, skulking in the shadows.

I break into pieces.

Around me, I see many friends, enemies and acquaintances.

Him ... I don't know him. Who is he? Who is the man who took her from me?

She ... I can't see her face. And I need to. I must see her face.

How can I know what she feels on the inside if I can't look into her eyes?

Ifanyonecanshowjustcausewhythiscouplecannotlawfullybejoinedtogetherinholymatrimonyletthemspeaknoworforeverholdtheirpeace, I hear.

I want to shout it out loud: "Stop! We love each other! I won't allow it!"

Everything is over.

I go outside.

I start the car and drive away.

They will live together, now. They will have three children, a small house and many debts.

I will live bitter and alone, forever. My three children will be Migraine, Ulcer and Rheumatism. I will have a Manhattan apartment and a useless heap of money.

***

A/N: Theme song: "Abba: The Winner Takes It All."

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