Love with a Twist
One of my favorite love stories is my own.
Quentin and I met in 2016. We were connected through a mutual friend while I was seeking a filmmaker. Quentin is a strong screenwriter and filmmaker/director. My play was being produced by the Women’s Theater Festival that year. I connected with Quentin who brought great insight and perspective for my vision to film the stage play that I had written. The title of this play is Men Always Leave. The piece later evolved into a tv pilot for a series and also a feature film. While many of these projects have taken a back seat they are nearly from over between us we know the correct platform and resources will be provided in due time for us.
Quentin and I developed a wonderful partnership in production. I was able to have so many of my ideas come to life as a result of his insight and we became quite a dynamic duo.
As mentioned in my previous post “Who is NH” I was clear about breaking open and this story will be raw so hold on tight!
When Quentin and I met, I was a mother to my beautiful son Lenox and I was also in a relationship and then engaged in 2017 and planned to be married the summer of the same year. Quentin and I remained close as friends and business partners and our relationship was always platonic at that time. Quentin was the filmmaker for my wedding and his close friend at the time was the photographer. The team filmed and took photos from the engagement up to the nuptials. It was magical even then the overall production came out beautifully. However, marriage is about so much more than the big production of a wedding. The real work is after that and the dreams you have as a couple should be nurtured and blossom over time.
Unfortunately, the wedding was just that, and the marriage was a wreck. Looking back, my ex-husband just wasn’t ready for that level of commitment as I hoped. I also thought he was good for my son Lenox, and he just wasn’t a match for him either. As a stepfather to Lenox, I held him in high regard and was crushed when I noticed my son getting hurt as a result of our union. To move things along, my ex-husband started a relationship with a married woman in Louisiana, and they have an apartment and what I have heard now have children.
Quentin was a rock during this incredibly difficult time. He seamlessly integrated himself into our lives, helping with laundry, grocery shopping, and even cooking dinner for us some nights. My appetite dwindled, and I often skipped meals. Quentin noticed and would gently encourage me to join him for lunch, making sure I ate something. The aroma of his cooking filled the house, a comforting reminder that I wasn't alone. His unwavering support was a lifeline during those dark days. Knowing that he was there for me, even in the smallest ways, gave me the strength to keep going.
During this challenging period, 'Men Always Leave' enjoyed another successful run, and I collaborated with a local Durham artist to create a powerful song and music video that explored themes of resilience and self-discovery and love. I also hosted a book signing for one of my books, a joyous occasion filled with the energy of engaged readers and the warmth of supportive friends. Knowing that Quentin was in the audience, cheering me on, provided an immense sense of comfort and encouragement. Throughout these experiences, I realized that I not only had his unwavering support and understanding as a partner in life, but also the most exceptional collaborator for my creative endeavors.
The late-night air was still, and the only sound was the distant hum of the city. He looked at me with an intensity I had never seen before, his eyes filled with a love that transcended friendship. 'Don't you see?' he asked, his voice husky with emotion. 'I'm here for you every step of the way. I've been through it all, haven't I?' The weight of his words, coupled with the countless acts of kindness he had shown me – from helping me navigate my finances to ensuring Lenox's safety and well-being – finally dawned on me. At that moment, I knew. Tears welled up in my eyes, and I finally allowed myself to acknowledge the depth of my feelings for him. 'I love you too, Quentin,' I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion. It was a moment of profound realization, a recognition of the love that had been blossoming beneath the surface of our friendship.
