We were only young lads then, not even in our teens. When during the Summer months we spent all our Summers in Xemxija. Three long months of carefree fun and enjoyment. Of children’s idle games and worry free activities.
Much of our days were centred around the sea. Swimming and diving and snorkelling and boating, around Fekruna and the quay where the Gozo ferry used to occasionally berth. It was the epitome of freedom and fun. We only wished that our Summers would never end.
As all the families congregated there every year, many had children of the same age. And over time we all become vey close friends. A large clique about 40 strong. As may be expected, there were all types and characters. Some were reserved and quiet, while some were wild and mad.
But for me there was only one, the one I would fall madly in love with in a classical love at first sight sort of way.
One of those Summers, as I picked up my towel and walked down to the sea, a get a glimpse of this luscious young boy paddling away in the only canoe. He was wearing dark brown speedos. His short rounded blond hair standing out from his lovely tanned shoulders and his little chipped front tooth only adding more charm and attraction. (And I’m doing all this entirely from memory!!!).
He looked up at me with those gorgeous blue eyes. We flirted in our minds and savoured that first moment. I watched him paddle away into the distance. For alas it was not meant to be. Just a distance dream and a fantasy which never YET came true.
I love you Jonathan Bianco – I love you so much Boo.