Pen Pals
After leaving Germany, Priscilla and Elvis kept in touch, ultimately becoming pen pals while he served in the army.
The two sent each other frequent letters for two years, so Priscilla’s parents saw they were becoming more than just friends. It was two years before they reconnected in person, during which time Elvis was rumored to have numerous affairs.
It Wasn’t Love at First Sight
While Elvis may have been awe-struck by Priscilla’s beauty, she wasn’t immediately interested in the King of Rock.
She knew who he was and had friends who were fans, but she recalls being disgusted by a photo she saw in a magazine of the musician signing autographs. In the picture, he was signing a rather inappropriate body part of a bosomy blonde, which turned her off. It didn’t take too long for him to win her over though.
Disheartening News
Prior to meeting Priscilla, Elvis also received some disheartening news. While away in the army, his mother had a heart attack and passed away. She was just 46-years-old at the time, leaving the musician devastated.
It was his future wife who he was able to finally open up to about his loss, allowing her to comfort him. This continued until Elvis left Germany in 1960.
Was She the Only One?
During their long-distance relationship, there were numerous rumors about Elivs having romantic relationships with other women. These include his co-star Ann-Margaret and Frank Sinatra’s daughter Nancy.
These affairs convinced Priscilla she would never see Elvis again. To prove his loyalty, he invited Priscilla to move in with him, however, her parents wouldn’t hear of it.
Priscilla’s Trip To Graceland
Even though her parents refused to allow her to move in with Elvis, they agreed to let her visit for two weeks as long as three conditions are met: Elvis was asked to pay for a first-class round trip plane ticket, arrange for a chaperone to be with Priscilla at all times, and Priscilla had to write home every day.
He agreed. However, once Priscilla arrived he surprised her by telling her they’d be going to Las Vegas.