The Bittersweet Experience of Having Two Unfaithful Lovers in Italy
During my service in the U.S. Army from February 1980 to June 1986 in Italy, I was introduced to a world far beyond the confines of military life. My journey began with a curious exploration of the country, leading to a memorable yet complex experience involving two mistresses. Here, I share my story, lessons learned, and the emotional aftermath.
Exploring Italy: A Young Soldier's Adventure
Upon arriving in Italy, my world was young and full of curiosities. Fresh from my eighteen birthdays, I had eight parachute jumps, and I was beginning to master rappelling down cliffs. These experiences initiated my entry into a world where I was torn between duty and the allure of freedom.
One balmy evening, just outside the base, I found myself lost in the residential areas of Rome. Despite my determination to find my way back, I realized that I needed to learn the language. Consequently, I enrolled in the Head Start course to learn Italian, a journey that enriched my understanding not only linguistically but culturally as well.
Striking Up Relationships: A Diverse Family
By the end of my Italian language studies, I had built a surprisingly diverse network of friends and, eventually, lovers. Each woman held a unique place in my heart and provided a different kind of companionship. The term gigolo was often used, a title that was initially flattering but then endowed me with a sense of importance that sometimes clouded my judgment.
Among my relationships were Lela, Layla, and a few others. Lela, in particular, was the one I connected with most deeply. She was a local girl who asked for a child, which initially had me conflicted but then proved to be the pivotal moment that changed my life. Three days before my departure, I agreed to ensure she had the means to start a family, which led to the unexpected and bittersweet conclusion of my Italian journey.
A Return Home and a New Reality
After fifteen months away, I returned to Georgia with a son and a marriage that awaited me. My journey back to America was filled with the joy of parenthood mixed with a sense of loss. One day, I saw my son in the park, pushed by a woman who turned out to be my ex-lover Lela, with a reminder of the life we had shared.
The story didn’t end there. Upon returning to the U.S., my life took another turn when I received a call from that other girl, the one Lela had spoken of. This girl, motivated by her own desperation, had left everything to wait for me. The complexity of the situation left me with difficult choices that ultimately led me to marry her, a decision that defined the next eighteen years of my life.
Lessons Learned: Embracing Responsibility
Reflecting on my experiences, I realized that the most important lessons were about responsibility, trust, and the consequences of my actions. The relationships I had in Italy were a fitting test of my character, and the aftermath was both a reminder of the choices we make and the paths they take us.
While the experience was deeply personal, it can serve as a cautionary tale about the risks of engaging in affairs when embroiled in a marital obligation. The story of my two mistresses in Italy is one of love, responsibility, and the often painful journey toward making peace with oneself and the world.