Melanie Quinn, a 31-year-old musician from Bedfordshire, has opened up about the surprising bedroom benefit of dating a man 28 years her senior. After vowing never to date older men again, she met Shanks Putwain, 59, on Hinge, and their connection has flourished over two years.
Unexpected Romance
Despite her initial reservations, Melanie found herself drawn to Shanks after they matched on the dating app. They spoke for a month before meeting in person, and sparks flew immediately. However, Melanie had concerns about their public image and the future, including how she would cope when he passes away before her.
Now, after two years together, those worries have faded. The respect they share is unparalleled, extending into their intimate life.
Bedroom Revelation
Melanie shared that Shanks' age brings a unique benefit between the sheets. "Him being old means he takes his time and isn’t rushed or freaky. I’ve never really liked that sort of thing. And [goes in with] no expectations," she said. "Both of us don’t really have a super high sex drive anyway, so it’s great. I’ve never been respected like this."
Their connection isn't just physical. Both musicians, they felt a deep bond from their first date. After he asked to cuddle, Melanie felt butterflies, and their second meeting at his house turned physical. "I think we both knew, then and there, that this was a lasting soul connection," she shared.
Future and Family
Despite their happiness, Melanie worries about potentially wanting children in the future and whether it would be selfish to have an older dad. For now, she focuses on being a step-mum to Shanks' 14-year-old son, who doesn't care about their romance. "I get on well with his son," Melanie said. "He’s at that age where everything is ‘whatever’ so I don’t think he cares. He just wants his dad to be happy."
The couple has received positive reactions from family and friends, though strangers online have accused Shanks of 'grooming' Melanie. She strongly denies this, as they are both consenting adults. "We got together when I was 29, so that isn’t the case," she said. "And he’s the most relaxed person no matter what. When people meet us, they get it, though."
Plans and Privacy
The pair, who have never argued, enjoy their alone time and are saving to buy a place with separate rooms. They also have a wedding to plan, as Shanks proposed eight months into their relationship. Melanie prefers to keep their relationship private, following her previous age-gap relationship, which she described as 'concerning'. "But you can have loving ones, like ours," she added. "We’re perfectly aligned."
