I don’t need to worry about that now. I’ve run away with someone I love and who truly loves me. His love is pure he doesn’t expect anything in return. We are going to get married and we have taken as much of my father’s money and jewels that we could carry. I’m sure he’s going to be more devastated to be losing his money rather than me. Well not only am I running away to get married I also converting to become a Christian as I am marrying one. My father would never approve. However I think that my father not supporting us is an unintended bonus.
I’m finally making decisions for myself and I’m going to be a wife and live how I wish. I’m finally going to be satisfied with my life and won’t dread waking up in the morning. I am so relieved that I left. I had had enough of his possessiveness and his need to keep me locked up like a prisoner. Now my fiancé, Lorenzo and I are going to live a happy life together without the worries of other people.
However, getting away wasn’t easy. One night my father surprisingly left me the keys to the house while he was going to dinner with Antonio. I took my chance and went for it. I had to dress up like a male torchbearer therefore no one would recognise me. I felt ridiculous. I thought for sure I would get caught but I don’t think anyone suspected.
Lorenzo and I went to Portia’s house in Belmont, once we got away. That was really wonderful because I got a chance to meet Portia who was very kind and welcoming. She even let me and Lorenzo housesit while she went away. House-sitting was lovely because for the first time Lorenzo and I shared a peaceful night together. I didn’t feel confined or locked up. I had freedom. I was my own person. I didn’t feel like someone’s property, being told what to do. It was wonderful. I also felt really accepted by the Christian community. They welcomed me with open arms and for once I felt as if I belonged. That really reassured me that Lorenzo and I are going to be truly happy.
I didn’t once think about my father. However, I heard about him going to trial because of the bond. I honestly think my father asking for pound of Antonio’s flesh was just a ploy to get back at him for all those years of him calling him names and disrespecting him for being a Jew. My father was just being petty and stubborn. Nevertheless I didn’t think he would go as far as attempted murder to settle a grudge. I’m quite glad he lost all his money, especially considering half of it went to me and Lorenzo and our future together. Even so I think it was a bit unfair to make him change his faith. Considering that he had to give up all his money and dignity, which he deserved, but then to make him give up his faith is somewhat unreasonable.
Now my life is so much simpler and I am so glad that my father is no longer part of my life. I can now look to the future
Elizabeth Sima Toorani (10F)
