Cheating Wife Claimed I'm Not The Owner Of Her & Opened Marriage - I Filed For Divorce. Year Later..

[Music] life had a way of settling into patterns some comforting others mundane I often woke Before Dawn savoring the Stillness before the rest of the house stirred in those early hours with only the soft hum of the fridge and the occasional Creek of the floorboards for company I felt most at ease it was my time to reflect to remember why I had chosen this life with its moments of Joy interspersed With the weight of responsibilities Katie and I met in college a whirlwind romance that felt too good to be true she was all fire and

determination the kind of woman who made you feel like you could conquer anything with her at your side we married young and within a few years Jill and Jenny came along our daughters were the heart of our world bright vivacious and occasionally maddening in the way only teenage girls could be as the years Passed our family found its Rhythm Katie managed the logistics of Our Lives ensuring that birthdays were celebrated and dentist appointments weren't missed meanwhile I found joy in the simpler things fixing the leaky faucet organizing Sunday BBQs and being the constant presence my

daughters could rely on it wasn't perfect but it was ours Father's day was one of those rare occasions when the spotlight turned to me Katie and the girls made sure I felt Special even if the celebrations were modest a homemade breakfast a heartfelt card and a few hours together it was all I ever wanted I never needed grand gestures the love we shared was enough yet beneath the surface of our seemingly happy life I'd started to notice subtle shifts Katie worked later smiled less and seemed distant even in her moments of presence at the time

I dismiss these changes as the inevitable result of a busy life in hindsight those moments Were signposts I chose to ignore guiding me toward a truth I wasn't ready to face last year's Father's Day began in the same unremarkable way as every other I Rose early quietly leaving the house to avoid waking Katie and the girls who would undoubtedly sleep in Mother's Day was my time to shine I would whip up a hearty breakfast curate a light midday snack of wine cheese and fruits and end the day with a steak dinner paired with a rich

Cabernet when the girls were Younger they'd eagerly help me in the kitchen though as teenagers they left most of the work to me in contrast Father's Day meant Katie taking over the breakfast duties a gesture I appreciated even if I often skipped the meal altogether preferring to keep my appetite in check for later that year I waited for her to wake up so she could make me breakfast something she didn't know I usually skipped in the mornings to avoid being too hungry she kissed me Wished me a happy Father's Day and immediately went to prepare

breakfast we had lunch at a quirky Doctor Who themed Cafe which turned out to be a fun way to spend the day my wife is extremely organized always keeping track of the calendar from holidays to the kids schedules she rarely misses anything except when I forget something the following year she pointed out while going over the calendar that my birthday happened to fall on Father's Day I Wasn't shocked joking that I hoped I wasn't going to get short changed on presents she laughed and promised something extra special I couldn't help but wonder if that meant

more than the usual birthday and Father's Day treat a routine that had developed between us over time she would always start it during foreplay and only finish it on those two days but as the weeks passed leading up to that Year's Father's Day I noticed a change in my wife's Behavior She started working late snapping at the kids and me and dressing up more often she wore makeup scarves and low cut shirts at work things she had never done before the Friday before my birthday she put on a short skirt stockings and heels she told

me she was going out with some co-workers which was unusual since we normally spent Friday nights together I was surprised and asked if I had forgotten any plans but she claimed it was a last minute thing her response Felt off though I was taken AB back when she rushed out the door far more dressed up than usual something didn't sit right with me but I couldn't figure out why I tried to shake off the feeling but it lingered she came home just before midnight her hair and a simple ponytail instead of the styled look she

had earlier she walked past me without saying anything and went upstairs a few minutes later I heard the shower running I couldn't help but but wonder what she Had done that required a shower before bed she didn't come downstairs to say good night and that's when I realized something was off the next morning I left for work early but there was no kiss goodbye something that had never happened I was unsettled but I tried to focus on the day ahead at the store Missy the morning Barista was waiting by the entrance she was a pretty

redhead with striking blue eyes and even though I was happily married I couldn't help But notice her hey Bill she greeted me good morning missy I replied she could tell something was bothering me and asked if I was okay I told her I had a lot on my mind she offered me a coffee which I gratefully accepted as she prepped for the morning rush I checked in with my team I made sure to visit every Department even though my managers were competent I wanted to build strong relationships with the staff my last stop was the

coffee shop where Missy had My usual black coffee ready here you go boss she said with a smile thanks Missy I said leaving a $2 tip she tried to refuse but I insisted I can't risk a complaint I joked referring to how even the smallest issue could lead to a corporate call she laughed it off and I went back to work trying to focus on the day ahead the day was mostly uneventful with the most memorable part being when an elderly woman was caught trying to steal cat and bird food it was a Distraction I

needed something to keep my mind off the strange situation with my wife when I got home my wife and daughters were getting ready to leave for a concert a plan they'd made weeks ago but which I had completely forgotten about my daughter gave me a kiss goodbye but my wife didn't acknowledge me at all I still couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't right and I couldn't stop thinking about the odd events from the night before later that evening I Tried to dig a Little Deeper I checked her email but there was nothing suspicious she

had a cell phone so I couldn't check her messages or call logs I even peaked in the laundry hamper but since it was Saturday she'd already done the laundry I didn't find anything and after watching a movie I went to bed feeling just as uneasy as before on the morning of my birthday and Father's Day I went through my usual routine coffee toast and some quiet time outside Enjoying the nice weather when I went inside to refill my coffee I was surprised to see my wife and daughters already up and packing lunch we're going to

the beach my daughter Jill said I went upstairs to get dressed but as I was putting on my shirt I heard my daughter Jenny yell bye daddy and the door slammed I looked out the window as they drove off it hit me they had remembered my birthday but I never expected Katie to forget standing In the living room I heard my phone ring it was my mom happy birthday and Father's Day Billy she greeted me thanks Mom I replied Kathy has big plans for you today she said no she took the girls to the beach

a while ago I explained that's unusual she doesn't usually do that Mom remarked I don't know she's been acting strange lately I confessed don't worry she's probably got something planned for later love you Billy mom reassured me love you too Mom I said I Was still trying to wrap my head around everything my mom had said when the phone rang again it was Anne my assistant Bill we had an issue at the shop Anne said what's going on I asked already feeling anxious Missy was pushed on the stairs by a customer she fell and might

have broken her arm Anne explained is she okay I asked the concern rising in my chest they took her to the hospital for x-rays Anne replied damn that's awful is everything covered on Your shift I asked trying to stay calm yeah we're all good here just didn't want to catch you off guard Anne said thanks for the heads up B I hung up my mind still reeling from everything that had been happening I assumed my wife and kids wouldn't be back anytime soon so I decided to go out for breakfast on my own I headed

to IHOP but as soon as I walked in I knew I'd made a mistake the place was packed with families celebrating Father's Day and it hit me Hard I left almost immediately and ended up at McDonald's instead eating alone in the park I thought about the lake I used to take my daughters to when they were younger they had loved it back then but as they grew up I started to feel like a stranger to them by 1: p.m. I still hadn't heard a word from my wife I figured dinner plans were off and I

found myself at the Doctor Who Cafe posting a picture of my lunch online as usual I got a bunch of likes and Father's Day wishes but then I noticed a comment from my mother-in-law she assumed I was with my family at the beach since Katie had posted a few pictures from there I finished my sandwich and decided to head to a nearby sports bar to unwind with a beer the place was packed so I slipped next door into a cigar lounge treating myself to an expensive $60 cigar happy birthday to me I muttered as I

lit it I sat at the bar turned on the Socks game and a Couple of guys invited me to join their card game I'm Bill I said introducing myself I'm Lance and this is my brother Jerry the older man said they finished their hand and delt me in help yourself to a drink Bill Lance offered grabbing a cooler I grabbed a Miller Light and Jerry asked no kids today or is the ex with someone new I felt a wave of discomfort my wife and daughters are at the beach they didn't even remember today that's rough

Lance said my boys are both in the military my daughter's in California Jerry added my grandson just turned two I'm visiting next week sounds nice I replied forcing a smile when my girls were younger I used to take them to the lake they loved it they nodded and after a few minutes the conversation veered back to my situation do you think she really forgot or is she just avoiding you Jerry asked I explained the changes I had noticed in My wife recently and they exchanged looks she's cheating on you Lance asked bluntly the question hit

me like a slap in the face and I I tried to brush it off but the idea started to Fester I didn't want to believe it but it was hard to ignore Lance leaned forward look I've been there the dressing up the late nights out my wife did the same thing and when I found out I divorced her it was the biggest mistake I ever made I frowned not understanding how is Divorcing her a mistake if she cheats that's it Lance sighed his voice softer now I was paying alimony for years I was broke I

missed her every damn day eventually we got back together and we're happy now I couldn't believe what I was hearing if she's cheating there's no way I could forgive that I couldn't stay with someone who betrayed me like that Lance shook his head you don't get second chances at love when you're our age Bill if you still love her you'll Find a way to forgive I was still processing it all as I excused myself thanks Lance I'll think about it I said though deep down I couldn't imagine ever forgiving her I shook their hands and

left when I got back to my phone I saw more posts from Katie and the girls at the beach my heart sank forget it I told myself stop being a sufferer it stung that my wife had forgotten my birthday and Father's day but deeper than that I Had a growing suspicion that she'd been seeing someone else for weeks I needed to focus on something else so I decided to go to dinner at my favorite Steakhouse I knew there'd be a wait but I didn't care I showered put on a jacket and went out to treat

myself I arrived and ordered a glass of champagne the older man next to me eyed my drink before ordering a martini the bartender refilled my glass and the man asked celebrating alone or am I taking Someone's place no I'm alone I replied he nodded my wife's helping my daughter she broke her arm today you don't expect your grown kids to still get hurt I chuckled looks like I'm going solo for a while my wife's caught up with other things then a little girl ran up to him shouting Grandpa she jumped into his lap hugging him

tightly a few moments later I heard someone call my name Bill I turned and saw Missy with a woman who looked a lot like her I assumed it was Her mother how's your arm Missy I asked trying to mask my discomfort it's fine she said smiling faintly the painkillers are helping but it hurt like hell when they set the bone Missy introduced me to her parents Jack and Mary and her little girl Mia where's your wife Bill Missy asked innocently I'm not sure I answered she took the girls to the beach this morning and I

haven't heard from them since really on Father's Day Missy said surprised that's pretty rough Mary looked shocked she blew you off on your day what kind of person does that I Shrugged not wanting to go into the details forget about her Mary said dismissing it you're with us now I understood Jack's earlier comment about Red Rage I don't think I can I said come on don't let it get to you Jack said with a grin it's your day too but it's your day Jack I protested I don't want to crash your celebration nonsense he said

this is our Day too grandpa Mia called cutting our conversation short I know pumpkin Jack said with a chuckle I'll be in trouble later Daddy Mia said looking up at him jack winked at me as their buzzer went off pay up Bill and meet us at the table I slipped a $20 bill on the counter following them to their table I'm sorry Bill Missy said as I sat down my parents can be a bit much no worries I replied it's better than being alone during dinner we swapped stories about Our kids and Mia laughed at

the funny anecdotes about her mom's childhood as my phone buzzed I saw it was Katie calling I let it ring leaving the phone face down on the table your wife Mary asked noticing yeah I said quietly it's more than you think isn't it Missy asked gently I think so I said my voice barely above a whisper but I don't have any proof everyone makes mistakes Mary said glancing at Jack maybe you can forgive her Missy shot her a look but I didn't comment I signaled the waiter to bring the check and paid for the meal

thanks for inviting me Bill Jack said with a handshake it was a pleasure I said Happy Father's Day when I left I still didn't have the proof I needed but I felt unsettled two people had suggested I might be able to forgive her I wasn't sure I could when I got home the girls ran up to me apologizing for forgetting Father's Day don't worry about it I said hugging them both I didn't expect you to remember Jill ran inside to tell Katie it's your birthday today we didn't know I'm so sorry she broke down in

tears pressing her face into my chest you must hate us no sweetheart I love you both I reassured her your mom suggested the beach and we didn't think she trailed off it's fine I said don't worry about it I didn't mention the anger I felt toward their mother that was something I'd deal with later letun go inside I said softly after changing into something comfortable I came downstairs to find Katie sitting alone crying I'm sorry she whispered but I didn't respond I walked outside to the deck cracked open a beer and tried to focus on

something other than her tears then I heard the sliding door open bill I what's his name I interrupted not looking at her she stayed silent Bill what's his name the Man you were with on Friday my anger surged as soon as she didn't deny it that was it I knew I was going to need a divorce lawyer nearly two decades of marriage gone I had been such a fool as my mind raced I couldn't help but wonder how long this had been going on whether he was the first or if I even knew him betrayal

has a way of making everything spiral out of control I made up my mind I'd request a paternity test for the girl during the divorce it would give me Some peace of mind and force Katie to face the consequences of her actions the rest of the night was spent scouring divorce laws online and by the time I drifted to sleep it was on the couch that's how I spent my birthday I woke early to find Katie still in bed curled up around her pillow looking peaceful she looked beautiful even though she wasn't mine anymore I

grabbed what I needed showered quickly and slipped out of the room without waking her as I Walked down the hallway Jill was standing there waiting how bad is it Dad she asked her face filled with concern I let out a heavy sigh this is as bad as it gets can you forgive her it's just one day right Jill pressed she didn't just forget my birthday her father's day I answered my voice breaking she cheated on me Jill shook her head in disbelief her voice trembling no daddy she wouldn't do that She did but I won't

forgive it I said firmly Jill paused then spoke slowly as if trying to reason with me think about it the last few weeks she's been different Friday after getting a tan and doing her hair she dressed up like she was going to a club that wasn't for me I nodded my frustration growing she barely spoke to me all weekend she was clearly avoiding me Jill seemed to soften her voice quiet but insistent when is she ever taking you to the beach without me What if it wasn't an affair just a mistake can't you find a

way to forgive her I should shook my head I don't think I can look at her actions she hasn't treated me like she loves me for weeks when Grandma asked why she didn't call grandpa on Father's Day she screamed no so loud we thought he was having a heart attack dad he's fine Jill said quickly but Mom was sobbing she kept saying she loved you over and over Jenny even wanted to call an ambulance for her I Don't know what to say Jill you can't cheat and still claim to love someone it's selfish not love

she chose him over me Jill hugged me tight tears streaming down her face please don't divorce her I need to go to work we'll talk more later I turned to leave Jill walked into Jenny's room I'll tell her what we talked about no more secrets I couldn't help but wonder how long we'd still be a family Cathy had been too busy to reach out so I kept my composure the only Thing out of the ordinary was filling out Missy's accident paperwork she was going to be compensated for her vacation and I H she wasn't too

stressed out I didn't know much about her personal life only that she wasn't married Missy came by to sign the forms she couldn't use her left hand so I filled out the accident report for her how's everything at home she asked her voice cautious not good I replied she didn't deny the affair when I confronted her damn bill I'm sorry Missy said I know you probably don't want to hear this but I get it my ex cheated on me while I was pregnant I kicked him out before our daughter was born your mom said she

forgave Kathy last night it felt strange I I said she looked right at your dad when she said it yeah I noticed makes me wonder if one of them was cheating too Missy mused I'm sorry I muttered you don't have to be Missy replied they seem happy enough so they're free to do what they want I Don't trust Liars I said flatly after work Cathy wasn't home I assumed she was with her new guy and it pissed me off I drove to her grocery store and saw her car in the parking lot to my surprise

she was sitting in the car with a younger man when she saw me she yelled no and jumped out of the car but I didn't stick around if she wanted to cheat let her she could have him I was done I went home packed a bag and planned to stay at a hotel until I found A place of my own before I could leave Jenny and Jill came running to me crying and begging me to stay sorry girls but your mom was about to cheat on me I saw her with a guy in her car

Dad this has to be a mistake Jenny said desperation in her voice I saw what I saw she was with a man after work why else would she be with him in the car please Daddy don't break up the family Jenny sobbed your mom did this not me I said hugging them both tightly I love you both I'll Stay in touch every day I whispered kissing their cheeks I left them crying in the bedroom and went to the garage as I pulled out Cathy nearly ran me off the road speeding away I shook my head

but kept driving the following week was a nightmare Kathy bombarded me with calls every hour for three straight days she must have taken vacation since she couldn't call from work her voicemails were desperate but I deleted them all after a few days my mother mother-in-law Both daughters and Cathy's sister all begged me to talk to her they kept telling me it wasn't as bad as I thought but when I asked them if she cheated they went silent they all knew but none of them would admit it I stopped answering calls altogether I told the girls

I'd talk to them but not about their mother they didn't believe me until I hung up twice by the end of the week I'd met with a lawyer I wanted a 50/50 split of the house with her Staying there until the girls moved out then selling it the lawyer said I could get more but I didn't care the best part I wouldn't have to pay her alimony she made enough money to support herself and I wasn't about to fund her relationship with her lover the problem was I didn't have concrete proof of the affair without

that the judge might classify it as irreconcilable differences but my lawyer had the divorce papers ready and I felt a sense of relief no forced Mediation no long battle just a fair split Cathy fought back once she received the divorce papers claiming she only slept with one man the Friday before my birthday her family turned on me again saying I was the bad guy for not letting her explain as if any explanation would make it okay my mother called me weak for not fighting for my marriage my mother-in-law said I'd broken my vows too my

daughters begged me to stay saying the divorce would scar Them it was Unreal I hadn't done anything wrong yet somehow I was being blamed I even asked my daughters for DNA tests telling them it was a court order Cathy sent me a letter admitting to the affair but trying to downplay it claiming it was just one time with a 21-year-old and that he was worthless she also claimed I told the guy to never contact her again after I caught her it didn't matter she had cheated that was enough and the best part her letter gave

Me the evidence I needed I didn't even need to prove infidelity in court despite her resistance the judge approved the divorce within 60 days and I was labeled the bad guy my family stopped speaking to me but I stood firm I called my daughters every day leaving voicemails but they never picked up I refused to let them blame me for the silence on Sundays I started meeting Missy for coffee it was a coincidence at first when I ran into her and Mia at a Local cafe I invited them to join me and we spent a

while talking with Mia busy playing on my iPad Missy tried to reassure me that my daughters would eventually come around even though I feared Cathy's influence might have a stronger pull on them the following Sunday I saw them again missy teased me asking if I was stalking her I laughed and told her that I just appreciated the quiet mornings it wasn't intentional but we ended up meeting each week her Company was easy to enjoy and Mia's energy was a welcome distraction the day my divorce was finalized I went to the house where I'd spent almost

two decades with Cathy she answered the door her face blotchy from crying without saying a word she gestured for me to come inside are the girls home I asked they're at the school play Cathy replied her voice breaking slightly I know why you're here she said her voice low really I shot back a bitter smir Crossing my face you waited until it was too late to stop this didn't you I knew you'd try to get me back she admitted but I couldn't let that happen you broke my heart I said my voice flat I'm not

forgiving you Bill it was just one mistake AK why can't you forgive me didn't you love me like you used to she cried tears streaming down her face I laughed Darkly did you love me when you were flirting with him did you love me when you ignored me on my birthday if That's love then I don't know what to say I never wanted any of this she sobbed I never wanted a wife who cheated on me I snapped but here we are she gasped but I cut her off before she could say anything else not

only did you break my heart but you turned my family against me I'll never forgive you for that it's your fault for overreacting she shot back defensively I could feel my anger flare again if you don't get my family To apologize to me I'll tell every man you date what you did I'll make sure no one ever trusts you again you can't blame me for this she said almost pleading oh really did I cheat on you I retorted you've taught our daughters that cheating is fine they'll grow up thinking it's acceptable and I'll be the

villain well I'm done I'm not going to keep playing the fool while you chase some guy's attention I pulled my hand out of hers Rot in hell I spat turning and walking out as she cried behind me a few weeks later Missy stopped by my office got a minute Bill she asked her voice light sure I replied unsure of what was coming next does the company have any rules about dating employees she asked and I immediately understood what she was implying I was hoping to ask you out I admitted unable to hide my smile we

do have a strict Mal treatment policy I continued if things don't work out it's On us not the company good she said handing me a folded note with her address and phone number dinner tomorrow night Mia's coming too I grinned I'm looking forward to it she left with a light-hearted step and I couldn't wait for the evening to come later I left a voicemail for my daughters letting them know I missed them and giving them an update on my life I knew it might stir things up but I was ready to move on Missy seemed

like a good place to start Missy was not only beautiful but also genuine and I'd already met her sweet daughter and her warm parents it felt like a fresh start something I desperately needed then just 15 minutes later I got a text from Kathy I can't believe you're already dating you're a fool I laughed to myself realizing how delusional she was I wasn't mourning our marriage at 41 I was still young enough to start over Missy was in her early 30s and maybe she'd want more kids down the Road road but for now I knew

she was looking for something serious not just a fling that evening I prepared for dinner with Missy I felt good about myself fit successful and ready for a new chapter but as I thought about dating again I realized how much things had changed dating was different when you weren't married anymore back then everything had been so easy I even found myself worrying about how to please a new partner but I shook off the anxiety I Was ready to move forward even if it would be awkward at first with a bottle of wine a bouquet of

flowers and a stuffed bear for Mia I headed to Missy's House I figured it wouldn't hurt to win her daughter over two when Missy opened the door I was struck by how beautiful she looked her fiery red curls framed her face and her sundress just above her knees showed off her long legs she was barefoot her toes painted bright pink do I pass the test she asked her eyes Twinkling with humor absolutely I said without hesitation she laughed then took the flowers and whin from me Mia's watching TV go say hi to her I'm sure

she'll love the bear as Missy went to the kitchen I knelt down next to Mia hey there sweetie I brought you a bear Mia hesitated for a moment then smiled and grabbed the bear running off to show Missy the whole scene reminded me of when my own daughters were that age and a wave of nostalgia Hit me hard are you Okay Missy asked noticing the wistful look on my face I forced a smile just thinking about my daughters when they were little is it really that bad she asked softly they wonk talk to me Cathy

turned them against me but I'm not giving up I leave the messages every day I explained I'm really sorry Bill Missy said quietly I know it's tough but I also know they listen to my messages I told them about our dinner plans and Katie texted me saying I'm an a-hole for Moving on so fast sorry is that too fast I joked Missy bitter lip looking cute and unsure maybe but I'd be happy to figure it out with you she smiled and took my hand dinner's ready hope you like pasta with meat sauce sounds perfect I

said grinning I also brought garlic bread so get ready for some serious couch time later Mia giggled and I was surprised by how relaxed and open Missy had become she caught my awkward expression and said Bill we're both Adults here I like you and I'm not shy about it you're a great guy and I think it's worth giving us a shot you think I'm hot stuff I asked still processing the shift in our conversation yep she said with a playful glint in her eyes you've been causing quite a stir at the store you're good-looking in

shape and smart and we all know how you feel about loyalty I sat there feeling better than I had in a long time so I'm getting in line early She added with a wink I squeezed her hand I like you too Mia noticing that she wasn't the center of attention anymore piped up sk's my favorite I love skety too I said with a smile the fattier the better I spotted the parmesan on the table you must have really stinky cheese she laughed it's not stinky it's parm parm stinky cheese I teased sniffing it dramatically wow

this is really stinky Missy shook her head as I handed the jar to Mia she Sniffed it Shrugged and then poured it over her pasta we kept things light chatting about Mia's preschool and her little circle of friends Mia had a lot of stories to share and I enjoyed every second of it eventually Missy became quieter just watching Mia and Me Talk as the evening wore on she started cleaning up and I offered to help no need Missy laughed she hasn't told you about her favorite TV shows yet after getting Mia settled for the night

Missy joined me on The couch with a glass of wine she leaned back sighing contentedly and propped her feet up I love being a mom she said her voice soft but some times this right here is the best part of my day without thinking I wrapped my arm around her as she relaxed into me it's harder with too I said thinking of my own experience with the girls definitely she agreed with a knowing smile after a moment of silence I asked do you think your girls will ever come around I hope So Missy said thoughtfully

it's still new for them I'm doing my best but I know it'll take time she kissed my cheek her touch gentle you're a great father Bill don't give up on them she set her glass down her expression turning serious Bill I've already told you how I feel I'm not one for games I want us to keep seeing each other and that includes being exclusive I have Mia to think about and she needs a solid Father Figure in her life I need a partner Someone steady I opened my mouth to respond but she held up her

hand I know what you're going to say usually this conversation scares the guy off but I don't think you're that kind of man I'm giving you the chance to back out if you're just looking to date around I'm not your girl but if you're serious then I'm here wow I said surprised was that a rehearsed speech Missy's expression faltered and I thought for a moment that she might think I was rejecting her Missy I said quickly we've known each other for years the last few weeks have been great I'm a family guy always have been

I don't really know how to be single and honestly the idea of dating again scares the hell out of me if Kathy had been faithful I'd still be married I'm not looking for something casual she smiled and squeezed my hand you're a good man Bill smart funny and you make the best spaghetti I've ever had she laughed giving me a playful shove I'd Like to be your girlfriend let's make something real out of this for both of us and for Mia that night we didn't sleep together as tempting as it was I felt it was

better to take things slow Missy had pretty much laid her feelings on the line and I wanted to respect that a few days later I got a break when a guy applied for a managerial position at the store I didn't know his name but I immediately recognized him as the man who' played a part in ruining my Marriage he was interviewing for the night manager position and I told an to hire him on the spot on his second night I was waiting in the parking lot when he arrived for his shift I slipped a 40-in

TV into the back of his car a model I knew we had in stock at the store the next morning I timed it so I could catch him when his shift ended I casually walked him to his car asking about his team when I noticed the TV in the back seat Jeff I said figting surprise did You buy that TV before your shift we not even open yet no bill that's not mine he stammered looking flustered I don't know how it got there we need to head back to the store I said calmly he tried

to insist on checking the security footage so I played along and took him to the security room I'd already disabled the cameras and when he saw the system was down he panicked I called the cops and though he was convicted of a misdemeanor he didn't serve jail time he got Community service and had to pay a fine which was more than I'd spent on the TV the company stepped up security after that but Jeff never figured out I was behind it all a week later Missy and I were standing outside my office when I pulled

up she greeted me with a kiss are we still on for dinner tonight she asked her voice warm definitely I replied I'm making something special just then Katie's voice came from behind us is that the I Turned around surprised excuse me Missy remained calm facing Katie Katie what do you want Katie crossed her arms frowning I've been trying to call you did you block my number Missy's tone turned sharp yes after your 30 messages calling me an a-hole for living my life what do you want I need to talk about the girls and their college

plans Katie said her expression softening just slightly they can go wherever they want I've already set aside the money for them I said Flatly I'd like to be involved but since you've poisoned them against me they won't even talk to me Katie said her voice Rising they're just worried you won't pay for their tuition I said keeping my cool of course I will I still love them despite everything Katie insisted because you can't keep your legs closed I shot back I lost them in the divorce Katie retorted Missy couldn't hold back a laugh but Katie

shot her a glare it was one mistake Katie said trying to justify herself one mistake you destroyed my family I said coldly you should still be my husband Katie argued delusional I muttered you ruined everything if I find out you're seeing anyone else I'll make sure he knows exactly what kind of woman you are Katie yelled something as I walked away Missy had shoved her up against the car jabbing her finger in Katie's face stay away from my man witch you tossed him aside and I picked him up I rushed over To pull Missy off

her putting a stop to it let it go Missy she's not worth it Katie was shouting insults as I walked away please Katie just go away it's over and it's your fault I left her there sobbing and caught up with Missy who was breathing heavily she apologized but I couldn't resist teasing her a bit I have to admit I like it when women fight over me I grinned does wonders for my ego we laughed and went inside later that night I got a call from my mom she barely Spoke before the line cut off I

tried calling back but there was no answer a quick call to emergency confirmed that paramedics were already on their way without thinking I bolted from the store telling an to cover for me Missy called after me but I didn't stop to explain I ran straight to my car by the time I reached my mom's house the ambulance was already leaving I followed it to the hospital but when I got to the emergency room I found out she had passed before They even arrived she must have fainted while we were on the phone I sat alone

in the waiting room tears streaming down my face thinking about the last conversation we had what was she trying to say was it am I in trouble am I having a heart attack I'll never know my phone rang it was Missy hey I said quietly my mom just died oh Bill I'm so sorry Missy replied softly yeah thanks I said my voice thick I don't think I'll be great company tonight no I'm coming To you you need me Bill let me come please I didn't want to be alone okay I agreed I'll be home soon

I'll see you when you get here after hanging up I got in my car instead of heading straight home I drove to my old house I had to tell the girls whether they wanted to see me or not as I pulled up I saw both their cars in the driveway my stomach sank I never thought the first thing I'd have to tell them would be something like this I didn't care that I didn't Live there anymore I entered the code for the garage and stepped inside Cathy's car wasn't there and that was a relief I

wasn't sure I was ready to f her in that moment the house was quiet I went upstairs and found the girls rooms daddy Jill called as I walked in what do you want Jenny shouted from behind her did you come to beg Jenny added with a sneer well you can go to hell I said cutting her off Grandma had a heart attack and died this morning both girls Froze their faces filled with shock I just thought you should hear this from me I added now I'm going to hell I muttered as I turned and walked

out Jenny yelled after me but I didn't stop I went straight to my car and drove away I ended up at the small Lake where I used to spend so much time with the girls the air was cold and the water was just beginning to thaw perfectly still I sat on a bench and cried not just for my mom but for the distance that had grown Between me and my daughters Jenny's anger echoed in my mind it was clear she didn't want me in her life I couldn't help but wonder if I had made a

mistake somewhere along the way what had I done done to make them hate me so much Katie was the one who had destroyed our marriage why couldn't they see that I don't know how long I sat there but then I heard footsteps I turned and saw Katie and the girls approaching how did you find me here I asked staring at the Water you didn't turn off the Find My Phone app Kathy said Bill I'm really sorry about your mom yeah well I spat do you regret her end or the fact that you turned her against

me and she died without making up with me she didn't respond leave me alone I can't deal with you right now I said I'll never forgive you for what you did to me the last time we talked she told me she wouldn't speak to me again until I backed out of the divorce she didn't even say she loved me When she hung up I'm so sorry Bill for everything Cathy said her voice soft I heard her walk away and then Jenny spoke Dad we're sorry too please forgive us for being witches I turned around and

both girls rushed to me wrapping their arms around me we cried together a long silent moment of grief and Reconciliation it's not my fault girls I said trying to make them understand why can't you see that your mom is the reason we're not Together we're sorry Dad Jill said her voice thick with emotion we just thought you should forgive her she still loves you it's so obvious not enough to stay faithful I replied my voice bitter I'm sorry girls I'm really sorry I added holding them tighter we embraced again while Cath watched from her car

parked in the distance girls I need you I said my heart heavy Youk be leaving for college soon and I'm going to miss you so much we've wasted so much time we get It Daddy Jenny said softly we're not going to shut you out anymore Jill added I just wish Grandma had a chance to make things right Daddy can we come with you Jenny asked we haven't seen your new house yet maybe we could grab some pizza sure I said smiling through my sadness tell your mom and let's go when we pulled into my driveway

I saw Missy's car I'd completely forgotten she was coming over looks like you're going to meet Missy I told the girls is she your Girlfriend they asked in unison making me laugh yeah I said I mean we've only just started dating look at you blush Jenny teased grinning the girls jumped out of the car and ran to Missy's door bombarding her with questions I could tell Missy wasn't quite sure what to make of the situation girls give her a break I said laughing let's carry her inside and I'll introduce you all properly they gave me

quick kisses on the cheek and rushed off I walked over To Missy who looked surprised sorry about all that I said as she opened the door she smiled warmly and kissed my cheek your daughters come on I said let me properly introduce you I must look a mess Missy said glancing up at me I laughed you look fine they'll like you Jill Jenny this is Missy I called to the the girls they both hugged Missy and as usual cheekily said you're super hot Jill jumped up and said good for you Daddy Missy laughed and I

was too Stunned to say anything let's take a quick tour of the house then I need to handle some things for Grandma's funeral I said bill I'll order the pizzas while you show them around Missy offered sounds perfect I said you're reading my mind oh the girl said in unison their eyes wide I shook my head as Missy smiled I decided to wait until the next morning to share the news about my mom I'd write an obituary for the paper and post the Funeral details on Facebook after visiting the funeral home the next day after

dinner we spent hours telling Missy stories about my mom the girls in their mischievous way added a few embarrassing stories about me to keep Missy entertained it wasn't my fault the pier was wet I didn't mean to fall in the lake I defended myself before long I noticed the time it was already 10 girls time's getting away from us I said It's getting late they frowned can we stay the night I don't have the guest room set up yet I replied okay here's the deal I said trying to lighten the mood I'll pick you up

in the morning and we'll go out for breakfast but if you don't mind I could really use your help sorting through Grandma's things of course dad we'll help however we can they replied thank you I said grateful for their support Missy would you like to go for a ride or do you need to head Back to Mia I asked she's with my parents tonight Jill shot up from her seat who's Mia Mia is my four-year-old daughter I explained both of them squealed oh my God I can't wait to meet her Jenny exclaimed Missy laughed at

their excitement I promise soon okay letun go I said after we got back to my house Missy and I sat on the couch they're great girls Missy said smiling I'm glad we're finally getting along I replied with a sigh I just wish it Didn't take losing my mom to make it happen Missy snuggled into me and I wrapped my arms around her I fell asleep with her there feeling the warmth of her Embrace when I woke up the next morning missy had covered us with a blanket still curled up against me I couldn't remember the

last time I'd felt so close to someone I kissed her forehead gently sorry I fell asleep on you I said softly M she mumbled stretching it's fine baby you've had a long emotional day Would you like to join me and the girls for breakfast I asked only if I can bring Mia my parents have plans this morning she replied of course my daughters will love her I said smiling I texted the girls and asked them to meet us at IHOP when I walked in holding Mia's hand the girls immediately rushed over to her in no

time Mia was lifted into the air twirling and laughing surrounded by kisses I have to go to the bathroom she squealed the girls chorused We'll take her and hurried red off to the bathroom I don't know Missy I said with a grin do you think they'll get along she playfully gave me a tap on the shoulder and kissed my cheek I hope it stays that way for years to come she said it was a little unnerving to hear her say that considering we'd only been on one official date but I had to admit I was

starting to feel the same way as we sat down to eat Mia and the girls talked non-stop Mia asked so many Questions about their lives that even the girls seemed surprised by her curiosity she wasn't n just talking about herself she genuinely wanted to know everything about them the girls were pros at interacting with kids they were neighborhood babysitters after all they knew all the best kids shows in movies and Mia was eating it all up I noticed how quickly she bonded with Missy too there was no jealousy or hostility despite the rocky past with

my Daughters they had warmed up to Missy almost immediately they hadn't spoken to me for months after the divorce yet they embraced Miss without hesitation I didn't quite understand it and I was going to have to ask the girls about it later after making a few calls sorting through my mom's things and visiting the funeral home I finally had a moment to relax the girls came over for dinner and Missy and Mia had left after breakfast to give us some space Missy didn't want To be around during the emotional stuff at my mom's house she

thought it would be too hard for Mia with all the questions while we were still processing everything Daddy are you in love with Miss Missy Jenny suddenly asked her tone serious we've only been out a few times I said trying to keep it light it's too soon to say that Jill raised an eyebrow okay Dad you ever seen those cartoons where the girl looks at her prince with hearts floating around I nodded Chuckling as I bit into my pizza well she looks at you like that Jill said like she's got hearts in her head before

I could respond both girls looked at me and said in unison we like her I I went from amused to frustrated I tossed my pizza slice back on my plate wiped my hands and walked to the sink to collect myself daddy Jenny said softly how can you break my heart all this time then tell me you like her what did I do to make you shut me out to ignore me and Tell me to go to hell when I needed you how many times did I cry over messages you didn't care to hear Jill spoke

quietly mom made us what I asked stunned it started when Mom said if you want to be a family again come back to me we're sorry the words hit me like a punch I turned around and saw a tear on Jenny's cheek and she rushed to hug me Dad we're sorry she whispered when it didn't work mom told us you left us and wouldn't pay for college she said your messages were Just a way to look good in the divorce Jill explained and you believed that I asked my voice thick with disbelief how could we

not Jill said softly we thought you were being unreasonable what about me I asked would you let your boyfriend cheat on you they didn't answer where do we draw the line I asked firmly they both started crying and we embraced again the weight of it lifted and I felt anger sorrow and relief I'm sorry girls I whispered holding them tight I missed You so much after a while I said time to go home you've got school tomorrow don't forget to tell Mom about the wake and funeral we hugged one last time before they left watching

them drive off I looked up at the sky and whispered you didn't have to go mom but thanks for bringing them back to me I'll miss you the Wake was tough especially since I've always felt awkward around bodies mom looked peaceful and part of me was relieved she'd be with dad again he had Passed away a few years ago and didn't want a traditional wake he thought it was weird for people to gather around a corpse mom had planned everything even picking out her own casket I was by the front when Katie and My Girls

arrived they gave me warm tear-filled hugs Katie stayed back giving me space after the prayer Cathy placed something in the casket a photo of the three of us with Kathy holding mom and our babies in her arms it made me tear up I gently Placed it next to her hands and lost it for the first time that day later the priest began the prayer service and Cathy stayed at the back talking to everyone you can't be part of a family for as long as she was without forming bonds the immediate family was supposed to sit

in the front row my girls were on my right Missy on my left but something felt off I looked around and saw Katie standing in the back wiping her eyes it didn't Feel right mom would have wanted Kathy up front too she was like a daughter to her I walked to the back of the room and people followed me I held out my hand to Katie come here you don't need to stay back there Katie sobbed and hugged me thank you she whispered we went to the front where Uncle John gave her his seat Missy

kissed my cheek you're a good man Bill she whispered it felt strange holding Missy hand with Cathy only a few feet away but I hoped I wouldn't regret It later as I said goodbye to the last guests Cathy approached with Missy beside me I wondered how Katie would react I hoped there wouldn't be any tension Bill thank you for letting me be part of today Cathy said she loved you like a daughter it was the right thing to do I offered Cathy a ride in the limo the next day she hugged me and cried I

felt Missy's hand on my waist fearing tension Katie breaking the hug said if you don't want anything from me I'll go Home she smiled briefly at missy I'm glad you're here for him you may not know it but he was a mama's boy it's going to be really hard on him without her with that she left the room Missy hugged me let's get you home back at the house Missy sat at the table with a cold beer things with Cathy went better than expected I was worried she'd start something with you I said relieved well

the girls helped with that we just need to get through tomorrow I hoped she was Right I don't know why I was so uneasy about Katie maybe I'm paranoid will you stay the night with me I asked she smiled took my hand and said you couldn't kick me out if you tried we didn't make love but having her spoon with me was the best sleep I'd had since the divorce as we waited for prayer to begin Cathy whispered I'm not going to cause trouble I know I lied I'm just comfortable she scoffed how do you

think I feel I'm an outcast here no one thinks That about you I said trying to reassure her Jean my mom's friend patted me on the shoulder your mom was wonderful we'll all miss her after the funeral we went to my mom's favorite Polish restaurant Cathy seemed uncomfortable searching for a seat I led her to the table where Missy and the girls were sitting Cathy you'll always be family no matter the divorce you're welcome here she thanked me and A Tear rolled down her cheek I'm not sure when I got over The pain Kathy caused

but eventually I did life went on the girls went to college and Skype with me every week Missy and I are still together and I'm close to proposing Katie and I still talk occasionally but we're on good terms she's dating a nice guy and I hope things work out some may think I should have forgiven Kathy but I just couldn't maybe I'm the bad guy but I can live with that [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]