“Dad, please say something,” Clara begged, the insecurity showing in her voice, “I know it's not a nice thing to do to Alex but if it hadn't been for Seattle he would've just gotten hurt even more.”
“That man is my own age,” Dave blurted out.
“I don't care about that,” Clara said honestly, “I love him. John makes me happy. Ever since I met him I have come to realize just how wrong my relationship with Alex has always been. With John it just feels absolutely right.”
“For now. But what about 20 years from now when he's pushing 80 and you're not even in your 50s. Do you want to be babysitting an old man when you've only just lived half your life?”
“We don't know what will be 20 years from now. For all you know I could get hit by a car tomorrow and it's John who's going to have to push a wheelchair for the rest of his life. I don't care, dad. For the first time in my life I can actually see myself getting married and having children and I want that with John. If you don't approve, that's fine, you don't have to, but if you can't at least respect my decision then consider the earlier invitation cancelled.”
Her father nodded. “Fine. I respect your decision,” he paused, “You know, I never really liked Alex and in a way I am relieved you're not going to America with him.”
Clara started to laugh. “Since when do you not like Alex? You never said a thing.”
“The only boyfriend I could ever like would be a eunuch with no hands,” Dave joked.
“Don't be silly, dad, you'd complain he can't help me with the household.”
“True,” he agreed, “But if this John makes you happy I'm going to have to give him a chance.”
“Thank you,” Clara smiled sincerely.