The Educator novel Chapter 19

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

“Don’t stereotype. Just because Elliot’s more of a man than any of your boyfriends, doesn’t mean you could spread hate” Hannah says.

“Guys, please just help me out” I tell them.

“Well, okay, to be honest, it seems like things are 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 would be and hey, who knows, you might actually end up falling in love and all is well in the end” Hannah preaches.

"Yeah, but I was hoping my love story wouldn't be like this” I tell him

“No every love story is perfect and I’m not saying this is it for you. I was just saying, think positive about this” Hannah reasons.