My husband and I had decided to return with our two teenage children to my country of birth, Australia. There had been problems with my husband’s visa, so he was staying in England to tie up loose ends, such as selling the house.
It all started at my leaving party; I met this really nice guy, Jack. At first I put it down to the drink and the atmosphere — I have never considered myself attractive and I don’t know why, but we just clicked. We had a connection. That night I went back to his place and we talked into the small hours. I finally left to go home at 4am. My husband and I had been having problems — more arguments than loving times. Meeting Jack that night, I had found what I believed to be my soulmate.
Jack called the next day wanting to meet for a coffee. I thought in the cold light of day it would be different, but it was the same connection — we talked and talked. He was divorced with a child and was a recovering alcoholic. I knew that in less than two weeks I would be gone with the children and out of his life but there was this pull and for the next 14 days it was as though we were meant to be. We met up at every opportunity, finally giving into our desires. I confided in a good friend and she said things would change, feelings would change … just put it down to a lovely experience that isn’t meant to be and treasure the memories.
On the day of my departure for Australia, there was a tearful phone call to Jack from the airport; I then realised that I loved him, but tickets were booked and I went. I had left a forwarding address and number for Jack, hoping for some contact and he did contact me — within 72hours of our arrival. He was missing me like hell. I had no thought for my husband, I felt as though he had snatched this happiness out of my grasp.
But my thoughts turned to my children. I got them settled in school, found a place to rent and made do with letters and phone calls from Jack. Each time I urged him to move on … I would always love him but it was the wrong time. All the time my husband was ringing me, Jack was in my thoughts — then out of the blue Jack said he was coming over.
He arrived in the new year and we spent a full month together. He stayed at a hotel and we met up every day — there was not one guilty thought for my husband. Jack went back to England and I have decided to stay here. I will always love him.
My husband is due out in a fortnight for good. I’m prepared to make a go of it and as my friend said, treasure my memories. Jack and I have decided to write to each other, to keep in touch. I know this will be difficult and I think about him every day, but he is there and I’m here and he will always be in my heart.
