The Marionette

Everyone thinks Jim has it all, a career in the best law firm in the City, a loving girlfriend who can launch more ships than Helen of Troy, an athletic physique, a sports car given by his dad and adored by his friends.

But none of them knew what Jim has been through, before achieving what people think is a “perfect life”.

Prior to Jim’s so-called-success, he’s been following orders from his dad. At young age, he was hit everytime when he made mistakes even for the little things, his dad arranged the schools he must attend, meeting the crème de la crème of the city, even his job at the best law firm. Jim even thought his soon to be engagement seems to be a set-up, thanks to his dad. Deep inside, Jim felt like he’s playing a part and he wishes he could escape. Adding to that are the prying eyes of his relatives, always snooping on what he do or where he goes.

What Jim really wanted is either to become a journalist, write in freelance for a magazine or a newspaper. When he was in Fourth Year High School, he’s always been fascinated with European Literature and Culture. He treasured most of the books he collected about Europe, he felt like those were his ticket to escape.

He also dreamt of becoming a Pastry Chef and studying in Le Cordon Bleu in Paris or study and work in Europe. He enjoys cooking so much. Though there were few memories he remember with his late mother, he always enjoys watching his mom cook when he was a kid. He remembers very well the scent of rosemary and lemon with the roasting pork loin or the sweet scent of cinnamon and apples on his pie, tickling his nose while he waits as it cools.

He imagined enjoying the Mediterranean Climate in Athens, touring the remains of different temples. He also dreamt of visiting different Operas in Frankfurt and eating Bethmännchen, a pastry made of marzipan and almonds then after that drinking Pilsner or even watching the Grand Prix or Monte Carlo Rally in Monaco and enjoying the La Condamine harbor view at night.

He loves his girlfriend but for him, he’s not ready to get married yet. Perhaps it’s because he hasn’t enjoyed his life fully. He doesn’t want to break what they have now but he felt it’s too soon for a nuptials. Though he thinks it’s wrong to have those thoughts ‘cause she’s been there for him for almost 8 years.

He felt like he must please his dad all the time. That Jim must continue what his dad wished he had become. The reason why he’s doing all this sacrifices is for his late mom, though he knew what she’ll say if she’s still alive. Someday somehow, he wishes to cut all the strings attached, that he at least can decide and do what he wants. And learn to tell his dad that he had enough.