[Music] David and Colleen the golden couple everyone admired had met at a rockus college party their eyes locking across a room pulsing with music and laughter that night they had fallen hard and fast the kind of love that poets wax lyrical about over the years their bond became a fortress unshaken by life's battering storms but even the mightiest fortresses can crumble their spark once a roar ing Blaze had dimmed to a flicker The Daily Grind work pressures and the numbing monotony of routine gnawed at the foundations of their marriage Colleen restless and seeking the thrill
that once came so effortlessly found herself captivated by the flirtations of a younger man a dangerous game but one she couldn't resist playing David sat in the living room lost in memories he remembered their early days laughter that echoed Like Music Dreams that Soared high now those memories felt like they belonged to another life he watched Colleen Dressed to Kill getting ready for another night out she looked stunning a stark contrast to their increasingly casual and distant interactions at home don't give me that look David Colleen said slipping on her heels women in their 40s
often seek younger companionship David leaning back and swirling his drink responded with a cold Smile and often end up divorced Colleen's eyes flashed with a mixture of anger and arrogance you won't divorce me she said with unnerving certainty you love me and I love you this is just a diversion you wouldn't throw away our commitment over something so small David's laugh was sharp cutting through the tension oh how modern of you he said voice dripping with sarcasm you're right it's practically a trend even Joan Bennett Mrs Picture Perfect herself has A lover isn't it just
darling how everyone pretends their marriages are fine while screwing around behind closed doors Colleen's expression hardened but she said nothing the silence between them was Heavy fraught with the unspoken words that hung in the air David took a long sip of his drink eyes never leaving hers go on then Colleen enjoy your night out just remember every diversion has its price when the doorbell rang Colleen Shot a glance at David can you get that she asked though she knew the answer already David didn't even look up from his newspaper nope he replied flatly as if
she just asked asked him to walk across hot coals I'm not welcoming your boyfriend with a sigh Colleen opened the door to Ryan her 32-year-old date waiting patiently on the porch sorry about that she said gesturing towards the living room where David remained entrenched heun's having a hard time With this whole thing Ryan gave her a reassuring smile the kind that seemed to say no worries I've seen worse he was calm understanding it was part of what Drew her to him back inside Colleen tried to calm the storm brewing in David Ryan's not my boyfriend
she said planting herself firmly in front of him yet and let's not forget we've been together 20 years I've been loyal supportive I deserve a little Freedom David glared at her feeling the sting of Disrespect yeah freedom to do what date some guy you met at Starbucks Colleen nodded unabashed she met Ryan at the Starbucks in her office building where his flirty banter made her feel young and Alive all friends were having affairs with younger men so why not her tonight was just another step in that direction Ryan pulled up in a Sleek late model
Mercedes the kind that screamed I've made it at the restaurant he tipped the valet like it was pocket change and Ushered Colleen inside with an air of easy confidence I'm delighted you agreed to go out with me Colleen you're an incredibly beautiful woman she smiled appreciating the compliment but feeling the need to set boundaries thank you Ryan I appreciate your attention but I love my husband I'm not leaving him Ryan nodded unperturbed all I wanted was an evening out with a beautiful intelligent woman and here we are the evening flowed smoothly their Earlier coffee chats
having laid the groundwork after a delightful dinner they hit a jazz club swaying to the music Ryan grew Bolder his hand resting on her thigh she didn't mind in fact it was thrilling around midnight they finally left the club in the car they kissed a passionate heated exchange that left Colleen breathless but she pulled back I should get home when can I see you again Ryan asked eyes glinting with Anticipation I can't meet you every day maybe Sunday do you like the ballet my cousin can get us good tickets I've never been but I'd love
to go David isn't into artsy stuff I'll meet you instead of picking you up at home what time it's a matina let's meet for lunch at 11:00 a.m. they settled the details and drove back to Colleen's house she kissed Ryan goodbye stealing herself for whatever awaited inside to her surprise David was already in bed asleep in the Bathroom she wiped away her makeup pondering whether to wake him she feared a silent cold morning if she didn't David she called softly he stirred barely awake what do you want to talk no I want to sleep okay
I'll get ready for bed he started to rise but she stopped him actually I have a question she stepped out in her night gown a deliberate choice to show she was still his okay he said his voice laced with suspicion did you have Zex with him David asked bluntly no David it was just a date I've never had Zex on a first date you know that David nodded but his skepticism remained yeah but now you're just looking for a Zex buddy not a husband I thought maybe things had changed are you seeing him again we're
going to the ballet on Sunday and having lunch David scoffed so this isn't supposed to affect us but you're seeing him Friday night and Sunday afternoon our usual time together interesting Colleen sighed realizing he wasn't listening anymore he lay down turning his back to her she finished getting ready for bed hoping against hope that David would come to terms with their new reality the next morning Colleen wasn't surprised David was gone she expected an adjustment period she hoped he'd be back soon as she planned to spend Sunday with him but as the day progressed she
realized he was avoiding her knowing he often worked Saturdays she decided to Check his office she wasn't surprised to find his car there after signing in at the security desk she took the elevator to the seventh floor and went to David's office as she had many times before hello David she greeted Colleen Oscar told me you were coming up what do you want David asked to spend time with my husband she replied really boyfriend busy today David shot backk stop being childish David you've never been the only person in my life I see my friends
Every day Colleen argued unless you're having ex with them it's not the same David countered I'm sorry this is hard for you I've tried to assure you that my actions won't affect our marriage or my feelings for you I love you and want a long life together she pleaded then why are you doing this Colleen is hurting me how you show love you're being incredibly selfish David accused I could say the same my relationship with him is no more significant to our marriage than My friendships I don't understand your objection she stated you can't even
say his name keeping him anonymous doesn't make it less harmful David pointed out you know I don't recall the last time I went on a date with a friend but I did with him last night and will again tomorrow he seems more important David continued as I said last night these are the only times I can get to know him I've never just jumped into bed with someone even in college Colleen Explained until you get to the screwing stage David interjected yes I'll be discreet so you don't know when it happens and I'll keep it
separate from our time together she assured him great at least Youk be discreet David replied sarcastically anything else Colleen winced but didn't protest hoping to avoid further conflict I wanted to spend the day together she added as I told you last week the quarterly reports are due I'm always here all day Saturday before Compiling data I expected us to spend Friday evening and Sunday together but I guess I'm not a priority David said bitterly oh David I'm sorry with everything going on I forgot Colleen apologized whatever I have work to do he dismissed herit matters
to me Colleen insisted okay then how about we go to the coast tonight after I finish we can have dinner at Deo and spend the day tomorrow David suggested well the ballet tickets are paid for I'd feel bad Cancelling now Colleen hesitated that's okay Colleen I didn't expect you to say yes you can leave now David had stopped listening she sighed and left hoping it would go better she thought he'd eventually be glad she was happy and accept her assurances her plan was to spend a few dates getting to know Ryan better before having Zex
intending to meet him only when David was unavailable she didn't want this to interfere with her marriage but she wanted this David Didn't come home until nearly midnight as was usual before quarterly reports Colleen realized he knew she'd choose Ryan over a last minute plan she hoped David might be feeling Amorous tonight he often enjoyed lowkey closeness after long days and sometimes they'd end up making love she loved him and wanted to make him happy happy she waited for him undressed under the comforter her bare shoulders visible how was work honey she asked as He
entered the bedroom same as usual I got all the data compiled and sorted so next week's reporting should go smoothly David replied he began undressing in the bedroom but went into the bathroom to strip down when he emerged in shorts Colleen lowered the comforter to reveal herself darling I thought we could reconnect tonight she suggested are you sure your boyfriend wouldn't mind David retorted David comments like that aren't helpful can't we just enjoy ourselves Tonight as husband and wife Colleen pleaded David was conflicted despite her actions he still loved her and was aroused by her
he believed she hadn't slept with Ryan yet but assumed they had made out he hoped to win her back before she went through with it knowing he wouldn't touch her if she did he dropped his shorts and Colleen smiled they spent the next two hours reconnecting hoping to satisfy each other's needs David hoped she'd abandon her plans for Ryan While Colleen hoped to show she could fulfill David's needs while seeking satisfaction elsewhere the next morning David tried to keep her in bed expressing his love as time passed he sensed her unease at 10:00 Colleen got
up I'm sorry David I have to get ready she chose Ryan over him again sure David put on his shorts feeling particularly offended by being undressed in front of her as she prepared to meet her lover he left the room without another look Colleen felt sorrow watching him leave she enjoyed their time together but reluctantly got ready to meet Ryan she showered not wanting to meet Ryan with the scent of David on her she dressed in a modest but alluring outfit and called for David to say goodbye but there was no answer seeing their Mustang
gone she realized he had left she sighed and drove to meet Ryan not noticing the sedan following her Ryan was waiting and assured her it was no problem she was a Bit late they were seated quickly and she forgot about David and Ryan's presence the lunch conversation flowed and she enjoyed herself the food was excellent and she briefly thought of suggesting David dine there with her sometime the ballet was beautiful and Ryan's knowledge impressed her he explained the story and meanings behind certain movements making her aware of the experiences she hadn't had with David it
Wasn't a criticism just an observation of their differences and how they complimented each other she hoped to get David on board thinking Ryan could be more than just a fling after the ballet they drove to a local Hill Country Overlook with a magnificent view of the city skyline Colleen knew she wasn't the first woman Ryan had brought here but didn't mind you're such a beautiful woman Colleen I feel lucky you're here with me he said Then I guess we're both Lucky Ryan Colleen said as they started making out intensely she felt dizzy with desire for
him and wondered if she could wait until the fifth date reluctantly she pulled away and Ryan was visibly disappointed I'm sorry Ryan I want to but I have boundaries she explained I know Colleen Ryan replied I get that you want to be comfortable before going further but all our coffee dates should count for something you're right we did get to Know each other well before our first official date maybe I'm being too rigid she conceded when can you do a long lunch not Monday but Tuesday works I need time to clean up before going home
so plan accordingly Ryan said I'll bring what's needed I'll give you details tomorrow morning at Starbucks Colleen agreed Ryan drove her back to the restaurant where her car was parked she got home around 6:30 p.m. feeling elated she checked her phone for a message from David but found none quickly changing into loungewear she started dinner when she heard the garage door hi honey have a good drive she asked as David entered it was fine he replied curtly she tried to kiss him but he turned his cheek still upset about her leaving his bed for Ryan
at least he was talking to her though briefly she hoped last night's love making would help but it seemed leaving him this morning had a rased the Goodwill he didn't ask about her Day Dinner will be ready in 20 minutes Colleen informed him that's fine I'll be in the office David said Colleen quickly made Teriyaki stir fry with rice and called David to dinner he washed up and joined her she tried to make conversation where' you drive today she asked nowhere in particular I just drove on the highway he replied did you stop anywhere she
continued I had lunch at a small Deli off the freeway and stretched my legs a few times that's it David said Colleen tried talking about her day the ballet I have no interest in your date Colleen David interrupted this isn't about that I was just not another word about it I just wanted David got up leaving his meal half eaten and went to his office Colleen sat for a few minutes then cleared the table and packaged the leftovers for David's lunch she spent the evening straightening the house hoping David would come out of his office
she wanted to salvage the evening And share the beauty of the ballet hoping it might interest him in the future separate from Ryan later she prepared for bed and started reading still hoping David would join her near midnight she guessed he was waiting for her to fall asleep first she went to his office are you coming to bed she asked eventually I have things to finish he replied please David come to bed lay beside me make love cuddle or just lay quietly please don't avoid me Colleen Pleaded I told you Colleen I have things to
finish if you think that's avoid I can't help it the sooner I finish the sooner I can come to bed so excuse me David said Colleen reluctantly left and returned to bed no longer interested in Reading she wondered if she was feeling guilty and interpreting his actions through that lens but dismissed the idea she believed she was doing nothing wrong and still loved David she thought he was avoiding her on purpose not wanting to Make things worse she turned off the light and closed her eyes quickly falling asleep she woke up alone the next morning
finding that David had already left for work unsure if he had ever come to bed she felt increasingly frustrated with his attitude she had reassured him that nothing would change in their marriage but he remained intent on feeling hurt deciding not to beg him anymore she planned to continue with Ryan while being a loving wife to David She dressed and headed to Starbucks as usual to meet her friends spotting Ryan in the corner she joined him after getting her coffee I couldn't stop thinking about you last night Colleen Ryan said same here Ryan I'm looking
forward to tomorrow she replied he handed her a note here's the info for tomorrow my condo offers more privacy than a hotel Ryan said Thank You For Being discreet Ryan I don't want to hurt my husband more than he already is Colleen said of course they chatted a bit before Ryan left for work Colleen then met with Joan Marge Ellen and Gail although she knew her friends had lovers she hadn't shared her plans fearing it might hurt David if it became public that night David greeted her warmly and they had a pleasant dinner avoiding the
topic of Ryan Colleen felt hopeful that David was starting to understand her relationship with Ryan wouldn't affect their marriage she didn't realize he was Trying to dissuade her from pursuing a lover the next day cleen arrived at Ryan's condo with anticipation as soon as she stepped inside Ryan pulled her close and they quickly became physically engaged within minutes they were making love and Colleen experienced an intense pleasure she hadn't felt in years afterward they relaxed in each other's arms that was amazing Ryan Colleen said breathless better than your husband Ryan asked a hint of curiosity
in his voice Colleen sat up and looked him in the eye my husband is off limits he's a wonderful lover if you turn this into a contest I'm leaving and it will never happen again clear of course I meant no harm just concerned about your satisfaction Ryan replied quickly she settled back into his arms it was very good I enjoy being with you and look forward to more they spent the next two hours in a more affectionate manner Colleen appreciated Ryan's Responsiveness and enjoyed their time together Ryan found her to be a perfect fit for
a long-term mutually beneficial relationship with no intention of marriage after nearly 3 hours Colleen showered using her own soap and shampoo leaving them at Ryan's condo for future visits with a final deep kiss they said goodbye and she drove home home while Ryan returned to work Colleen calmed herself as she waited for David she checked herself in the mirror repeatedly To ensure everything was in place if David didn't know about her meetings with Ryan it would help smooth things over when David walked in at 7:13 p.m. Colleen greeted him warmly with a hug and kiss
initially he responded but then his arms dropped and she felt his body slump concern filled her face as she pulled away you had Zack with him today didn't you David accused what David why do you say that Colleen asked trying to remain calm you're a creature of habit Colleen and I know those habits a midday shower was common when we were younger and active but not in recent years until today I haven't Colleen started to protest the smell of your soap and shampoo is strong the only reason is that you showered recently likely to wash
off being with him I appreciate you not smelling like the other man but it gave you away he pushed past her and went into the office damn it Colleen muttered to herself she thought her plan Had worked and hadn't considered the strong scent she realized she needed to rethink her approach sighing she started dinner making broiled chicken breast with carrots and linguine she set the table and went to the office David dinner's ready she called I'm not hungry he replied curtly you need to eat she insisted I'll get something later I don't want anything you
cooked David said suddenly not hungry either Colleen packed up the food as leftovers she Hated wasting food even though they were wealthy she spent the evening trying to figure out how to see Ryan without David knowing she never considered not seeing Ryan at all she went to bed alone falling asleep quickly thanks to her satisfaction from being with Ryan she woke at 4:00 a.m. to find David asleep at his desk she shook him awake David you can't sleep like this come to bed or go to the spare room this is bad for your back I
know you're angry but I Still love you and want to take care of you please David disoriented allowed her to lead him to their bedroom as she began undressing him he remembered the events and resisted Stop Colleen David I'm just trying to get you ready for bed please just a few more buttons she pleaded Get Your Filthy Hands Off me David said sharply Colleen shrank away David rarely raised his voice in their 25 years together she sat at her vanity trying to hold back Tears I'm sorry I raised my voice Colleen but you wouldn't stop
I just didn't want you touching me with hands that had been on another man's body David said his voice softer but still firm David I've showered and washed my hands but I understand it's more in your mind I'm sorry I'll leave you to it Colleen busied herself elsewhere believing David would eventually come to terms with her affair she never considered ending her relationship with Ryan she saw it as a test of her resolve after a while she checked on David who was asleep she returned to bed and slept well the next day David worked late
informing her via text she realized she couldn't do more to help him through this and knew what she needed to say next time they spoke Thursday morning Colleen was buzzing with anticipation to meet Ryan they had discussed meeting schedules at Starbucks the previous morning Mondays were out due to Ryan's Busy schedule and Colleen avoided Fridays and weekends to not infringe on her time with David they settled on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Ryan's condo the meeting with her friends felt endless and when it finally ended she hurried out making sure to obey the speed limit she
arrived at Ryan's unlocked condo where he was waiting on the bed they skipped four playay and had another intense 3-hour session Ryan's flexible schedule allowed them this time Though she would never admit it she found Ryan to be a better lover than David due to his experience with many women afterwards Colleen checked her phone and finding no messages assumed David would be home at the usual time she drove home showered thoroughly aware this would tip David off but she had a plan she dressed in her loungewear and waited for David who arrived just before 700
p.m. good evening honey will you be eating my cooking tonight she asked I'm Fine I grabbed something on the way home David replied you know fast food is bad for you she admonished yeah well I'll be in the office he said dismissively David I'd like to talk to you when you have a few minutes she requested okay he agreed and went to his office closing the door behind him Colleen worked on the fundraiser but but realized David wasn't going to start the conversation she went to the office and knocked David can we talk now she
asked I suppose he sighed Colleen sat down across from him honey I love you very much I don't consider my new relationship to affect our marriage but I understand you do this is something I need and want I hoped you'd be more understanding but I'll be patient I'll be here every evening and weekend hoping we can move past this if you ignore me I'll accept that but still be here she explained so you plan to keep seeing Ryan he asked yes uh I wait she started did you think I wouldn't Find out his name David
interrupted I thought you'd prefer not to know also I apologize for the shower incident on Tuesday I'll start showering every weekday afternoon to avoid tipping you off I won't be meeting him that often but it will keep things consistent she said and this is your final decision nothing I can do will change your mind he asked his voice tight I'm sorry David but no she confirmed well I appreciate your honesty even if it's not what I Wanted to hear is that all he asked clearly pained I love you David I hope you can separate my
love for you from my physical need that Ryan fulfills she said softly David smiled Riley and nodded ruul Colleen waited to see if he had more to say then quietly left closing the door gently she had been anxious about the conversation but was proud she managed it well she believed David would understand how important this was to her and how little it Affected their life together Colleen spent Friday evening and the weekend at home only leaving for short errands she invited David to join her hoping to elay his fears but he declined they spoke as
needed with no hostility but also no affection she knew he needed time to adjust she tried to initiate love making on Saturday night but David deflected her attempts she remained hopeful believing it was just a matter of time Monday morning David left early Colleen Suspected this would continue for a while but hoped things would eventually return to normal midday showers were inconvenient but a small price to pay to soothe David's feelings she met with her friends and listened to their stories about their young lovers thinking about Ryan and feeling her temperature rise Gail noticed are
you all right Colleen you're getting a little red Gail asked with concern I'm fine just a little warm Colleen replied taking a sip of water and trying to focus on the stories again after another cold Monday night with David Colleen prepared for her Tuesday with Ryan he met her at the door in a robe that quickly fell to the floor and they had a passionate session after 90 minutes they relaxed in each other's arms I know your husband is off limits Colleen but how are things at home do you feel in danger Ryan asked with
genuine concern thank you for your Concern Ryan but David isn't like that heun's having trouble adjusting and seems distant he denies avoiding me Colleen explained so you're still talking that's a good sign Ryan noted in short phrases only as necessary I've assured him I love him and made sure I'm there for him it'll take time for him to see you're no threat to our marriage she said they spent another hour in tender lovemaking before Colleen left she showered and bathed thoroughly then read Her book while waiting for David he came home at 7:36 p.m. hi
honey how was work Colleen greeted him warmly it was fine David replied curtly would you like dinner tonight she offered I had a late lunch I'm fine he responded anything you'd like to talk about she inquired gently no I'll be in the office he said turning away okay I'll be here if you need or want me she added cotile dly noted the door closed softly and Colleen was alone again she wondered how much of His office time was actual work versus avoiding her determined to give him space she read her book confident she was doing
the right thing for the next several weeks Colleen continued to meet Ryan every Tuesday and Thursday enjoying amazing and intense Zex evenings and weekends with David remained civil but distant Colleen offered dinner every night and David always declined spending his evenings in the office she read worked on charity watched TV or browse The internet despite the loneliness she believed she could have both a loving husband and an attentive lover giving her strength to endure the lonely moments after 3 months Colleen noticed a change in David while his schedule remained the same he he was coming
home in a better mood albeit a little later they started having dinner together a few nights a week and sometimes watched TV or R together although they hadn't resumed love making Colleen believed This change signaled a shift in David's attitude however after another 3 months without physical closeness their relationship felt more like that of roommates or friends and she missed their love making that evening Colleen decided to address the issue directly David I appreciate your understanding about Ryan I know it hasn't been easy she began well you didn't give me much Choice Colleen David replied
I know and I'm Sorry but I'm concerned about our lack of Zach's life we haven't made love since I started seeing Ryan and I miss it when might we take the next step she asked I haven't told you this but I have no intention of having Zex with you David said bluntly David that's ridiculous I always make sure I'm very clean for you there's no reason for us not to have Zach Colleen protested you made a choice and forced it on me I can make choices too David retorted he got Up and went to bed
leaving Colleen stunned she hadn't expected him to cut off Zex she thought having a lover might spur him on but now she had to rethink her approach Colleen decided to ramp up the pressure indirectly she had kept her distance hoping David would come around but now she would turn up the teasing she would become more physical wear skimpy clothing to bed or sleep unclothed she was determined to make it hard for him to resist however her plan Failed for two months she tried to entice David but he didn't respond it had been 8 months since
they last made love while Ryan met her physical needs she missed the emotional connection with David and became frustrated after another month she decided to make the most of whatever David offered if he wanted a Zess relationship so be it she would Express her love in other ways and take what he gave this decision set them on A New Path on a warm Wednesday morning Colleen parked her Lexus outside David's building picked up her purse signed in at the guard's desk and made her way to the seventh floor it had been a while since she'd
been there during the day and she had forgotten how busy the office was Terry David's longtime receptionist noticed her as soon as she stepped off the elevator Mrs Lynch It's good to see you again it's been a while since you visited Terry greeted hello Terry is David in his office Colleen asked already walking that way yes ma'am but please wait they're working with confident documents this morning so I need to announce you Terry picked up the phone and called David's extension Mr Lynch your wife is here to see you Terry said Colleen couldn't hear the
response but soon the conversation ended he'll be a couple of minutes Mrs Lynch he needs to secure some documents Colleen nodded and looked around the office noticing a Mix of familiar and new faces she noted Eileen's desk was empty assuming she was in David's office after a couple of minutes David's door opened and a beautiful woman walked out shorter than Colleen with long dark brown hair and a prominent chest she looked to be in her late 20s or early 30s Colleen disliked her instantly Mrs Lynch nice to meet you I'm Alana come on back Alana
said guiding Colleen Down The Familiar hallway Alana lingered at the door as Colleen entered David's office thank you Alana take lunch now we'll continue at 2:00 David instructed yes sir Alana responded and left closing the door behind her Colleen couldn't help but comment how does she manage not to tip over with those things David sigh I assume you didn't come here to insult my assistant what happened to Eileen Colleen asked she got promoted David replied to what position Colleen Continued executive assistant the job was getting too big for her and she needed to slow down
I created a position with less responsibility and no travel David explained so that girl will be traveling with you Colleen inquired yes your jealousy is amusing and ironic considering the circumstances why are you here Colleen David asked to take my husband to lunch Colleen said firmly on a Wednesday David sounded surprised yes because I miss you David I wanted to spend time with you and show that I love you she explained fine they opened a new Vietnamese place nearby letun go David conceded they walked mostly in Silence with a few comments on things they saw
Colleen held David's arm and he didn't seem to mind they were seated quickly and the hostess greeted David by name suggesting he was a regular they talked about nothing in particular and David suggested dishes for her to try Colleen Took his hand across the table and he didn't pull away do you believe I love you David Colleen asked softly Love Me My Kind of Love doesn't allow for what you did but your kind does at least you picked a decent guy David responded his tone tinged with sarcasm what do you mean how do you know
about Ryan Colleen was taken aback I had him investigated I know you go to his condo every Tuesday and Thursday I noticed you came today to not miss your time with him but at least He's not a con man or a gold digger David said cooly heun not like that Colleen defended famous last words but you're right he seems to be in it just for the zeex David remarked David letun change the subject I came to spend time with you and talk about us Colleen pleaded what US Colleen we more like roommates than husband and
wife we haven't made love in nearly a year David pointed out your choice Colleen interjected and David smirked yes my Choice you chose to cheat on me so no Z and our time together is just watching TV or being in the same room that's why I'm here today I'm not happy with this and I want to change it I have no intention of giving up Ryan but I want our time to be meaningful Colleen explained earnestly that's what you don't get Colleen as long as you're seeing Ryan this is the most it can be David
countered I don't accept that David our Marriage can be the same my time with Ryan doesn't affect my time with you I don't love him it's just like spending time with friends Colleen argued but it is different I don't mind your time with friends because no one should revolve around one person but I won't pretend nothing's happening while you're with another man there were two people in our marriage now there are three it's not the same and never will be saying you don't love him and just use him for ZX Makes it worse what does
that make him a toy David questioned his voice Rising with frustration by the end of his rant David's voice had steadily grown louder and Colleen's attempts to calm him were in vain when he finished he took out his wallet placed a $50 bill on the table and stormed out Colleen quickly gathered her things whispered apologies to those around her oblivious to their disapproving looks and hurried out of the restaurant she glanced towards David's office seeing him walking away in a hurry knowing she couldn't catch up so she took her time and walked to her car
she struggled to hold back her tears until she got into the car but once inside she broke down crying she couldn't understand why her relationship with Ryan was affecting her marriage Joan and the other ladies had lovers and were still happily married why was it so difficult for her she thought about discussing it with her friends but Decided against it for now she didn't want them to think she had failed at something they managed so well she went home and took her usual afternoon shower not wanting David to think she had gone to Ryan for
Comfort she hoped to continue the conversation calmly after David had cooled down so she took some time to make herself presentable the reality was that this issue had to be addressed they couldn't continue as they had been David came home late around 9:00 p.m. he had the courtesy to let Colleen know he would be late so she made herself dinner and did some light cleaning to keep busy while waiting for him David can we talk please Colleen asked as soon as he walked in I don't know what else there is to say Colleen you've had
an affair despite my objections and it's been going on for nearly a year you think the problem is my objection not the affair itself we won't agree so what's the point of Talking again David replied his voice heavy with frustration yes I understand that but I still believe we could be more than what we are we've been together for 25 years surely we can be more than this Colleen pleaded we are what we are because of your Affair Colleen it doesn't make sense David Ed David Joan Ellen Gail and Marge all have happy marriages with
lovers on the side why can't we do the same she argued David silently laughed then motioned for Colleen to sit down I spoke to their husbands when this started except Wendell his Affairs are well known and everyone knows he cheated on Joan first but I spoke to the others about what Colleen asked confused initially I hoped you'd get this out of your system I let you go on your dates and even meet Ryan for your afternoon trist a few times but after the second time you made it clear you plann to keep seeing him so
I sought advice from the happy husbands to see How they managed if they accepted it maybe they could offer pointers David explained oh David that's sweet did they give any advice Colleen asked hopefully they did and I've applied many of them David said watching Colleen's reaction Colleen was confused as she hadn't noticed any changes David had made to strengthen their marriage like what she asked did you know that only Rick and Gail continued having Zex once Gail took a lover David began what Colleen Exclaimed shocked Joan started her Affair in response to Wendell's infidelity when
Wendell found out he stopped being with her altogether it didn't affect him much David continued I don't believe it Joan always says they're happy Colleen said shaking her head she's Saving Face Colleen they spend little time together only for public functions to appear happy they have separate bedrooms and communicate via texts and emails David explained That can't be true Colleen protested Marge was next she and Norm didn't have much of a marriage to begin with nothing bad just indifferent when Marge heard about Joan's affair she did the same their marriage didn't improve but they're still
married and Marge is happier David added but Marge always Praises their marriage Colleen said still in disbelief probably like Joan she wants everyone to think everything is great image is crucial for older Wealthy women Colleen David pointed out but they're my friend friends they'd be honest with me Colleen insisted David smiled at this Gil was next Rick said he tried to ignore it and continue his usual but after a few months it was clear she was bored with him ordinary married Z wasn't exciting after her thrilling affair with a younger man they haven't been together
since David explained I can't believe this I can't believe my friends would lie about their Marriages the husbands must be trying to make the wives look bad and I doubt the husbands are going without Zex except Wendell Colleen said struggling to accept the truth oh they're not going without they have a simple solution to meet those needs David replied oh and what is that Colleen asked her curiosity peaked they hired personal assistance David said watching Colleen's reaction Colleen needed a moment to grasp what that meant when she finally understood The new girl David hired seemed
unfazed by Colleen's reaction and had been expecting it I hired Alana shortly after your speech I was truthful about Eileen needing help and creating another position actually I hired Alana for her business qualifications she has a business degree and came highly recommended for her skills for the first couple of months everything was very professional between us David said ignoring his wife's jab her job requires Us to spend a lot of time together and we got to know each other well after a couple of months I opened up to her about what you were doing it
was such a relief to unburden myself I felt like a weight had been lifted David explained that must have been when I noticed your mood improve and to think I believed you were coming around Colleen said A Touch of bitterness in her voice after that no topic was off limits we shared almost everything about ourselves we become Very close David continued when did you start sleeping with her Colleen asked bluntly just a couple of months ago unlike you I'm not the type to jump into bed with someone I met in a coffee shop David replied
his tone sharp Colleen winced at the insult things had been building for some time we developed an easygoing relationship with lots of flirting and some innuendo I was confident she was attracted to me by her actions light touches standing close Things like that and I was certainly attracted to her one night we stayed late to finish a project I didn't feel like going home and she lives alone so she had nowhere to be I pulled out a couple of beers and we drank and talked we were right next to each other on the leather couch
in my office David recounted Jesus David we did it on that couch Colleen interjected her voice Rising David just smiled okay I think I've heard enough Colleen said trying to Maintain her composure sorry anyway that was the start I figured if you could do it so could I but I always do it when you're busy you purposely stayed late to do it David added like I said Colleen we're basically roommates now you made a choice and I made mine David stated matter of factly it's not the same David my time with Ryan didn't interfere with
my time with you you can't say the same Colleen argued true but the circumstances were different you went Outside the marriage first I just responded the truth is you were considerate since you were the first one despite my objection I appreciate that but frankly I didn't think I owed you much consideration David replied his tone cold Colleen was hurting she couldn't get the image of her husband with Alana out of her mind for the first time she realized how her relationship with Ryan despite the boundaries affected David she had assumed it would Be out of
sight out of mind but it wasn't after a few minutes David spoke again there's something else I need to tell you Colleen David said quietly whatk that she managed to whisper Alana's pregnant about 2 months David revealed Colleen's eyes widened and she gasped as if things weren't bad enough it just got worse it's it's yours she stammered she assures me it is I'll be making sure David said firmly of course how did this happen Colleen asked her Voice trembling David took a deep breath it was intentional Colleen's mind reeled from another blow she wasn't sure
how much more she could take but she had to know everything now was the time to get it all out in the open no matter how much it hurt you you got her pregnant on purpose but why she asked trying to understand I have a valuable company Colleen that we solely own currently I have no one to leave it to I had planned to sell the company Eventually but I dislike that idea now my employees are like family and I didn't want to leave their Futures in the hands of a stranger or worse a conglomerate
now depending on the timing I plan to leave it to Alana or our baby David explained are you divorcing me David Colleen asked fear creeping into her voice I'm not planning on it at least not yet I plan to keep things as they are Alana wants to marry me and even paid for a prenup heavily in my Favor but she's also okay with things staying as they are as long as we spend time together so the status quo is you can keep seeing Ryan and I'll have Alana David said this was to yah maybe she
was naive but Colleen never expected things to turn out this way she stood up and picked up her purse and keys David I need some time to process all of this I'm going to take a drive and might be very late I'll keep in touch by text so you won't worry Colleen Said her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her Colleen left the house and drove aimlessly through the city how had things gone this far her husband had a lover who was young beautiful with a dark complexion and long wavy dark brown hair she assumed
Alana was hispan panic but wasn't sure she sent periodic texts to David letting him know she was still driving and his response was always the same please be safe it gave her some comfort that he Still cared about her well-being she finally arrived home around 2:00 a.m. and walked wearily into the house David was asleep but he had considerately left her bedside lamp on she went into her closet changed for bed and found David awake and sitting up when she emerged are you all right Colleen David asked concern evident in his voice yes David I'm
fine but I'm tired letun get some sleep and talk tomorrow she replied she climbed into Bed and slept they never got around to talking the next day mostly because there wasn't much else to say David went to work and Colleen met with her friends she thought about canceling her afternoon with Ryan but didn't and in the end was glad she went through with it he immediately noticed something was wrong and instead of an afternoon of Z they talked when they did have Z it was gentle and slow the next few weeks passed quickly with Colleen
now aware of David's relationship with Alana David stayed late at the office more often while she understood it still hurt Colleen's feelings and she found herself feeling unwell spending several evenings entirely in bed she'd never had a sensitive stomach before so she took this as a sign that the state of her marriage was deeply affecting her she finally decided to see a doctor Colleen Conor's Lynch stepped off the elevator On the seventh floor of her husband's office building and headed straight for office Terry the receptionist tried to stop her knowing that her boss and Alana
were in there alone and potentially in a compromising position Mrs Lynch wait Terry called out Colleen turned to Terry whom she had always liked and gave her a gentle smile it's all right Terry I already know about them but thank you for your kindness and concern Terry could only Watch as Colleen continued down the hallway to her husband's office she entered without knocking finding Alana on her husband's lap the sound of the the door Drew their attention and both heads turned in unison Alana quickly jumped off his lap and ran into David's private restroom Colleen
what on Earth are you doing here David demanded shock and annoyance in his voice we need to talk David Colleen said as Alana emerged from the restroom it couldn't have Waited until tonight David asked exasperated it could have but I wanted to do it here since it concerns Alana as well shall we sit on the couch Colleen suggested they all sat with Colleen on one end David on the other and Alana perched on the armrest behind David Colleen extended her arm handing David a file folder what's this David asked taking the folder I'm divorcing you
Colleen said calmly the look on his face was priceless were it not for the Seriousness of the situation and the pain she felt she would have found it amusing you're divorcing me David repeated incredulous yes David I think you'll find the terms agreeable I've not asked for any part of the company though I added a little extra in the cash settlement to make up for it but it's nothing you can't afford Colleen explained David glanced through the terms outlined in the filing and saw nothing objectionable in fact it was Probably less than the court would
have awarded her the settlement wasn't the problem the only question David had was why or rather why now for a couple of reasons David but mostly because I love you Colleen said softly you'll have to explain that d David said his tone confused I've loved you since I first met you at Sheila mullen's pool party when we were 17 we've been together for more than half our lives almost 26 years and I want you to be happy I made a bad Choice and damaged us Beyond repair so I'm setting you free to be happy with
Alana and your new baby Colleen explained Colleen smiled at Alana as her face lit up with the news that she'd get to marry the man she loved David was more shocked than anything else what about you Colleen David asked still trying to process everything oh your generosity will more than take care of me for the rest of my life I'm embarking on a new period of my Life and I'm a little scared it's exciting Colleen replied lots of women live alone Colleen I'm sure you'll be fine David said dismissively actually that's not what I meant
I won't be alone for long it seems I've gotten myself pregnant Colleen revealed David's jaw dropped and Alana's eyes widened in Surprise the room fell silent as they absorbed the news the folder of papers hit the floor with a thud as David looked at his soon Tobe Ex-wife in shock they'd never had kids together preferring their freedom they had enjoyed living childfree but now as their marriage was ending they were each embarking on a new adventure Parenthood it's Ryan's Colleen clarified even as he said it David realized what he implied since he hadn't had zeex
with his wife in months it had to be Ryan's unless Colleen had another Lover he had no desire to hurt or insult her and was relieved when she took the question in Stride what kind of woman do you think I am Colleen asked with a light-hearted tone and a bit of a chuckle oh I guess we know the answer to that don't we yes it's Ryan's are you two going to make a go of it David inquired Ryan is and always will be a bachelor we would never work out and I don't love him anyway
to his credit he hasn't denied it and has been very agreeable about child support I won't need the money of course but it's the principal he's even said plans To make an effort to be a good father though he has doubts about his ability Colleen explained you're keeping the baby David stated your generosity will allow me the freedom to raise my baby plus I plan to have a full-time livein Nanny which you will be indirectly paying for that's why I wanted to keep the house Colleen responded I did notice which rather surprised me but I
wasn't going to argue you know how much I love that house and I want to raise my baby There I think it'll be a good size for us and the nanny Colleen added I think you're right I must say Colleen I never expected this but it makes sense do your friends know David asked oh yes we had a serious talk about their nonsense and lies they felt bad for leading me down that path but I assured them it was my choice they finally admitted the truth but I'm still the only one going for a divorce
so I guess that's a point in my favor you know if you ever need anything You can call me Colleen said said I know but it's time I stood on my own two feet I went from Dad's house to college to your house I promise I'll call if I need to but I plan to do it myself David assured her with that Colleen stood up and David and Alana did the same Colleen hugged them both then turned and walked out the way she came [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]
