I absolutely would choose Frank. I agree with both kim.kovacs and Theresa P. Beth wants to go back to the point in time when she and Gabriel were young but both have changed so much. Throughout the book we are shown the depth of love and contentment that Beth has found with Frank. As Theresa says, “..a relationship to be treasured”. But I’m interested in younger readers’ opinions! I’m viewing this from the perspective of a 30+ years married person.
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@Vicki_F that’s a really good point! I, too, am looking at it from the standpoint of having been married a long time (30 years in November). I do wonder if those with less established relationships feel differently.
Being that I am supposed to be more mature, I would choose Frank over Gabriel. Frank gave it all to her when she most needed unconditional love, support with her unexpected pregnancy from another man, accepting to be Bobby’s father, his sacrifice of protecting Leo and assuming total culpability over Jimmy’s death. Also knowing about her infidelity and still willing to forgive her! It’s hard to see men with these characteristics nowadays.
I believe in the end I would have chosen Frank as well. The sacrifices he made for Beth proved his love and commitment!
If I were Beth, then I am not sure that I would have returned to Frank after our first separation, but if I had, then I would have remained in my relationship with Frank. Their love weathered so much that it earned the right to be respected before risking a renewed relationship with Gabiel that would be imbued with past pain.