But Eugene did not leave but continued, “Your age and other people’s opinion are external factors, so don’t think about them. Think about yourself, Mom. Would you consider Mr. Gedding if you’re going to start a new romantic relationship?”
Ellen felt a hot sensation surging in her cheeks.. Her upbringing had made her used to restrain her emotions. Even if she thought Hector was a good man, she would habitually hide her real feelings. However, she felt extremely shy when talking to her son about this topic.
“Alright. You don’t have to worry about me. I’m doing fine alone.”
However, Eugene refused to give up. “Mom, you can be honest with me. Everyone has their right to happiness. You’re only 54, and according to the average lifespan of Criecians, you still have at least twenty years to live.
You’ve been living half your life full of grievances; do you still want to continue living like that for the next twenty years of your life? I’m not saying that you must accept Mr. Gedding as your partner. I just want you to be happy and have someone to accompany you for the rest of your life. If you don’t like him, I can help you look out for others.” Ellen hurriedly declined. “No. No need for that. I- 1…”
Eugene laughed. “Are you saying Mr. Gedding is a good match?” While glaring at her son, Ellen scolded, “Do you think it’s appropriate to say that? It’s so embarrassing.
“Mom, you have to change your perspective. You should know that good things are limited, and you won’t be able to get them if you don’t fight for them. I can see that Mr. Gedding treats you well, and that’s something you can’t just ask for!”
By now, Ellen was blushing. “Stop with the nonsense. How can you tell he treats me well? What’s more, I’m Olivia’s mother-in-law and his soon-to-be in-law, so stop thinking that he’s nice to me because he always talks to me.”
Eugene was unconvinced. “We saw it today. When we startled you just now, Mr. Gedding subconsciously protected you behind his back. Such subconscious behavior precedes the perception of one’s brain, which happens in the absence of rational analysis. So, it is a clear sign.”
Those words made Ellen inexplicably blush because she had seen it too. Although she was quite touched back then, the feeling wasn’t as strong as how shocked she was now. Why did she feel Hector was a rare and valuable man after listening to Eugene’s explanation?
Eugene continued, “Mom, I can see that you feel happy whenever you’re with him and that happiness is something we as children can’t give you. I just want to tell you that if you think he’s a good man, then be brave and pursue him. You should do whatever you want to do. That’s your right, and no one can interfere with that. Also, there’s nothing to feel embarrassed about, and you have our full support.”
Hearing that, Ellen choked up and felt like something was stuck in her throat, rendering her unable to talk. She had been alone for many years. Was she lonely? Of course! Especially during quiet nights. She would ask herself what she did wrong to deserve all those suffering. Her husband cheated, plotted against her, and almost killed her.
She could not figure it out, nor could she let it go. There was no one she could talk about her grievances with. It was so tiring that she previously felt like ending her life, but her rationality told her she had to continue living to make up for her son’s efforts. She had been adding restrictions upon restriction onto herself, forcing herself to do this and that. However, she had never asked herself what she wanted.
Having been without desire and at peace with herself for many years, she was used to suppressing her emotions. But now her son told her she could be herself and do whatever she wanted. Also, she had their absolute support and good wishes. That feeling instantly made her forget all the sufferings she had experienced over the past few decades.
Eugene grabbed her hand and patiently wiped away her tears, coaxing her, “Don’t cry. Didn’t Mr. Gedding tell you that your happy days are coming? He’s alone, and you’re alone. Olivia and I can rest assured if you two can be together. Isn’t that the best of both worlds?”
