The Frank & Gary Show
Frank & Gary met in 1960 when both were young adults. They are roughly the same age, and are still together. Their personal net worth exceeds a million dollars. They live in a beautiful house in the country which they retired to before either was 50 years old.
I suppose that makes them an idyllic gay couple, but I wouldn't trade places with either of them!
Though comfortable, neither is happy. I don't think either of them has ever known what joy is. They traded all of life's joys for comfort and security in a series of compromises.
For decades they followed a pattern. Gary kept a lover on the side, who he visited accorded to an established routine. Twice a year, he traded the lover in for a fresh one. Frank's routine was to get drunk enough to be able to let himself relax and to be able to forget afterwards, then drop his pants with whoever was willing. Any bathroom, park or bar would do.
They maintained a facade acceptable to the community to which they belong.
Then Frank met me...
Gary only had to see the same face twice over coffee to know that Frank's pattern was changing.
He recovered from the shock. This, of course, allowed him to start bringing his lovers home. The rooms were rearranged to accommodate the extra guests.
After a while, I figured out that Frank had all the comforts of home, the convenience of seeing me when it suited him, plus regular trips for quick anonymous sex. I resigned my post, which included financial security for the rest of my life.
The position has since been filled by a young man who is now aging rapidly. At least he's smart enough to stay away from the country place, where things have become really strange!
Between me and my replacement, Frank was left with an empty bed. Do you think Gary stopped entertaining his lovers because I left? Not on your life. It's like a union contract. Once the benefit has been gained, there's no way it'll be given up!
So, Frank met Peter. Frank's modus operandi is to meet his lover in a bar, then go home after a few drinks. One night, Peter left him standing at the bar, which wasn't usual. Gary left shortly afterwards. Peter had invited Gary to his home. Then Peter moved in with Gary. So, Frank is now living with his husband and his ex-lover, who dumped him for his husband. Gary and Peter rule the roost. At one time, I suggested to Frank that he just take the money and run. Get a life. Split the assets and live whatever years are left with some dignity, self-respect and freedom.
Frank suffered a heart attack a few years back. His family called me. I asked what hospital and room number. The reply, after the information I had requested was, "That's funny. Gary's first question was whether Frank's will was in order.".
Yeech!
Ain't love grand?
Ironically, Frank's savvy made them both millionaires. Gary would still be working in a factory if it weren't for Frank.
