Its a long drive from my farm into Limerick. Norah knows this. She doesnt judge me when I arrive sweaty from the road worn out from watching empty fields roll past me for hours.
Rural life gets lonely. Im not gonna lie. Most nights its just me the dogs and whatever football match is on. Woman here dont look twice at a farmer past 40 who spends most days covered in mud and manure. City feels different. City has options.
The petrol cost is brutal. Nearly 100 euro round trip just to get to her flat. But thats the price of discretion. Small towns talk. One wrong glance one whispered rumor and suddenly everyone knows yr business. Here in the countryside secrets dont stay secret long.
Norah understands. She lets me take my time. Doesnt rush. Knows Im paying not just for sex but for something else. Companionship maybe. Someone who listens. Someone who sees me.
Sometimes I wonder if other farmers do this. Probably. We just dont talk about it. Ever.