Short Story: Al

Short Story: Al

In the beginning my parents didn't mind Al. I'd only just started seeing him and even then, because of work, it was only at weekends. It was nothing too serious. In fact, everyone loved him. He was a great partner, especially at the dreaded family meals, you know, like birthdays, anniversaries and Sunday lunch. He always made everyone feel comfortable and was always very welcome. However as time went on, my parents began to complain about his constant presence. He made things too boisterous and unpredictable.

It was actually amazing how much friction Al caused. Of course I was caught in the middle most times. Defending him became tiring. It became easier to not go to the aforementioned events. Al and I would stay at home and watch DVDs or listen to music whilst smoking numerous cigarettes. It got difficult. People would constantly phone or buzz my flat or text me, wondering if I was okay and where I was. It got very irritating. I was happy being on my own with Al. He was my rock. He made me laugh, he made me face up to things and then I would cry. He also gave me the boost to paint my bathroom in aquamarine with stencilled seahorses and shells. I was quite proud of that. He smiled at me that day and told me I had done a good job.

When I asked my friends round for drinks and pizza, they always asked if Al was going to be making an appearance. ‘Of course!’ I would enthusiastically reply. 'A party’s not a party without Al!' My mates loved him. They thought he gave me confidence and made me more out going. They loved when Al was around. I was the life and soul thanks to him. He was always good for a laugh.

It’s funny actually because when I first met Al I hated him. He was so loud and in your face it was hard to hide him or take him seriously. However, after a while I got used to his daft, mad personality. I mean, wherever there was a party, Al was sure to be there! He would liven things up, bring people out their shell and ensure a good time! Or whenever you were down he was a good listener. Make you feel all cosy and warm. He was a good mate.

However, and I have to admit this, as much as I was his biggest fan, I have started to wonder about his intentions. I always thought he had my best interests at heart but recently his influence has led to some unwise consequences.

His encouragement regarding the contact of an ex boyfriend was initially rather sweet. However his insistence at contacting him at 2am makes me wonder? I know for a fact my ex doesn’t want me to contact him through the day let alone in the wee small hours of the morning.

Actually, Al is beginning to annoy me. I mean I enjoy a good restaurant and pub with the best of them but recently he has started to suggest we get take-away. Fish and chips, pizza, Indian, Chinese! It’s been recommended on a rather regular basis! My jeans no longer speak to me let alone my ex boyfriend.

Cameras are great inventions I agree. They assist in keeping forever those special moments on film. However, I have to admit, Al seems to take great delight in taking pictures of me in all kinds of unusual positions and places. Wigs appear from nowhere, inflatable dolls in grass skirts pose next to me. Traffic cones have appeared more than once in the pictures. Even worse, I get photographed snogging strange men who suddenly become my best friend when the camera is produced.

I think Al has to go. Going out with him is exhausting. I’ve never had so many hangovers. It has got to stop. I don’t mind paying penance for a night’s debauchery but when you’re at work and it hits 3pm and all you want to do is lie down on the keyboard and sleep then something is wrong. I haven’t gone through so much make-up in my life! Under eye concealer, more mascara than you can shake a wand at. Thank God for foundation and blusher! It’s scary. My God. I look like shit. I’ve put on weight and my face looks like I’ve done ten rounds with Mike Tyson.

It’s over. I want to go back to the confident, slim, attractive female I was. Before Al took over my life.

Sometimes, it’s worth more to be yourself and not let anyone or anything control or decide your life.