The Opportunist: Make Your Mark
Uncle Jake was quite taken aback by the unexpected news. He was against his nephew wanting to get married at such a young age. Besides, he wasn’t too happy with his choice. He felt that his handsome nephew deserved better than this unattractive girl, but she might end up being a devoted wife. He turned to Harry and asked, “Do your parents know you’re getting married?”
“No they don’t, Uncle Jake. They really don’t like me and I don’t know why. They’re threatening to send her to some aunt in California to keep us apart. Boobala and I love each other so much and it would break my heart if she left. Already Since we are of legal age, we have decided to elope. I hope that, as my uncle, you will give us your approval and help us financially”.
Uncle Jake couldn’t understand the rush. “Is she pregnant?”
“No man, she’s not pregnant,” he replied.
Jake was still unsettled about the upcoming marriage. How could he approve of him when he knew Harry was emotionally immature and irresponsible? Of course, he had to painfully admit that he was partly to blame. He lamented that the boy had a bum deal in life, with his mother dying when he was so young and a father who didn’t care about him. Maybe that’s why he pampered him so much. He hoped that Harry would become a responsible adult once he was married. Jake agreed to get them a furnished room and a small kitchen, rent paid for a year. He even bought her a suit for the wedding with all the accessories to match.
Harry never seemed satisfied with what he got. He always wanted more. In planning the wedding, Boobala had suggested to Harry that they take a cruise to the Bahamas for their honeymoon. He had always dreamed of going on a cruise. “It’s so romantic,” she’d say. Harry snapped at her angrily, “What are you crazy? I get seasick easily. Do you want me to spend our honeymoon throwing up? Besides, it would be boring with nothing to do but stare at the sea, so forget it. I’d rather go to Vegas, where the action is. It’s more fun.”
As a last chance, to get some more money out of his uncle, he reminded him of their honeymoon. “Hey man,” Harry famously turned on his charm, “since I’m your only relative, why don’t you send us to Vegas for a week-long honeymoon? I’ve always wanted to go there.” He was looking for a way to escape the consummation of his wedding night, which he wasn’t negotiating.
Uncle Jake was upset. “What the hell do you think I am, [email protected]#[email protected]% ATM? Listen buddy, the money stops here. I’ve already spent enough on this wedding. If you want to go that bad, then you can work and save your money if you want.” “. This was the first time Uncle Jake had blown up at him, and the first time Harry hadn’t gotten his way. He was crazy as hell. Already at age 19, Harry had started drinking and gambling heavily. His best friend, Billie Boy, always had a stock of beer and was on hand when Harry needed it. Uncle Jake had no idea that Harry was drinking and gambling. He only knew that he smoked. In his eyes, Harry was always a good boy, a little crazy but good. There was nothing about him that should cause concern.
No.: 7 (9-7-2011)
To Be Continued: Part 6 of 9 of Boobala Darling Wins a Cruise