Cheating Wife Wanted To Pass Her Affair Baby As Mine. I Got Revenge & Vanished. Sad Audio Story

[Music] life as I knew it had always felt predictable yet fulfilling growing up in Byron Bay I basked in the serenity of a close-knit community where each face was familiar my high school years however were anything but typical amidst balancing teenage dreams and responsibilities Shauna entered my life she became my Confidant the friend who understood my quirks and silences better Than anyone when Maddie our daughter was born my world shifted dramatically at just 18 I embraced fatherhood believing that love and determination could anchor us through life's challenges Shauna and I tied the knot soon after

convinced we were building the perfect family but as the years pass cracks began to form we transitioned from high school sweethearts to businesslike co-parents our connection morphing into an enduring friendship rather than a romantic Partnership in my early 20s I founded other Gam a company that grew beyond my wildest dreams amidst expanding operations and sleepless nights I found myself pouring all my energy into my work shaa and I amicably divorced learning the hard way that love and compatibility aren't always synonymous yet we emerged stronger co-parenting Maddie with the mutual respect that characterized our bond life

seems stable until Bridget entered the picture a Whirlwind romance that felt like a fresh start are you aware she's betraying you you shaina's voice sliced through the chilly air her intense gaze holding mine in place her question struck with unexpected weight shattering the Tranquility of our afternoon on her porch we sat in the lingering light of a gray Byron Bay day the Cool Breeze tugging at our sweaters and I grasped for words to respond though her statement wasn't entirely unanticipated Hearing it out loud left me stunned after a few moments I met her gaze wishing

I could rewind the last 30 seconds shaa wouldn't say this without reason my shoulders tightened and I looked up at the cold gray sky for those of us from Byron Bay Australia this was the coldest season the chilly Ocean Breeze swept over us as we sat bundled in sweaters sipping hot chocolate in the late afternoon I avoided her eyes studying the clouds that signaled rain In the coming hours with a sigh I picked up my half-empty mug focusing on the shifting Cloud shapes the fleeting Blue Sky felt as unreachable as my happiness no matter how

hard I tried the weather couldn't distract me from Shauna's words I glanced at Maddie my 8-year-old daughter happily pushing her half brother Greg on the swings in Shauna's backyard minutes passed in silence Shauna waited for me to process it she knew I had sent something off for a While the excuses distance arguments that led to nights in the spare room had turned me Moody and withdrawn but I avoided conflict whenever I could I sighed again watching Maddie and Greg play as long buried emotions surfaced the tension I'd carried for months tightened into a painful knot

I swallowed hard and looked back at shanana who wore an expression of mixed guilt and support she reached into the oversized bag beside her and pulled out An envelope I'm sorry but Bridget is cheating on you she repeated she held the large envelope for a moment her eyes filled with sympathy setting it on the table she placed her hand over it it's all in here I debated telling you but you need to know do you want it now or later she asked her voice strained she could see the desperation in my face this pained her

as much as it did me she'd been my closest friend for most of my life and knew me better than anyone My name is Timothy but everyone calls me Tim I once believed I was happily married to Bridget but as I stared at the envelope shanana held I knew it contained proof that shattered that illusion thinking back over the past year nothing specific stood out yet doubts about Bridget's loyalty lingered I glanced at the envelope in shanana hand dread building this wasn't my first experience with infidelity we sat in silence as I Focused on the

envelope knowing whatever it contained would hurt how's Rick I asked my voice trembling as I clutched my cooling hot chocolate Rick she replied simply Rick Shana's husband and a respected family lawyer had a complex relationship with me despite our shared history with shanana he'd become a reliable friend over the years the envelopes contents would determine if Bridget and I were truly over and reveal if Rick had intervened for my sake or Out of resentment a wave of nausea hit me as I stared at the envelope I can't go through this again I thought Tim you're

not alone shanana said sensing my emotions we were only 25 and the thought of a second divorce before 30 was daunting Maddie my 8-year-old daughter appeared holding her one-year-old half-brother Greg mom Greg needs a diaper change she announced nose wrinkled at the smell Shauna took Greg from Maddie shot me a knowing glance and Put the envelope away Maddie didn't need to see its contents Maddy climbed into my lap hugging me are you okay Daddy what were you and Mom talking about you're not fighting again are you her voice held a mix of worry and curiosity

though Shauna and I weren't together we'd always been close friends in her eyes years ago Maddie asked why we weren't together if we loved each other so much we explained more as she grew but stories of past fights bothered her Shaa and I had met in high school becoming best friends then dating teenage pregnancy shocked our families but they supported us we married after Maddy's birth believing it was the right move however marriage wasn't right for our friendship despite the love we shared small issues piled up and pulled us apart I was a programmer and

gamer who started my first business at 16 by 18 I was married with a child working 80 90h hour weeks I tried to give shanana And Maddie everything but it wasn't enough we were too young for the stresses we faced our parents though supportive doubted we'd last and made us sign a prenup mine tied to Startup funds hers to protect against potential failure the business succeeded leading to my next venture other gaming by my early 20s I had a staff of 50 spread across three countries including programmers testers marketers and admins my company other gaming

generated around $180 million annually from Mostly free-to-play games with microtransactions purchases for extra resources time or powerups while our profits weren't as high as some larger gaming companies investors were always satisfied with our performance Shauna and I loved our daughter and were best friends but we weren't in love the way soulmates are small overlooked issues chipped away at our marriage and my long work hours contributed to its downfall The fights became frequent about chores my work and Maddie one night I had a late meeting with investors but forgot to tell Shauna meanwhile she hadn't told

me about Matty's daycare meeting when I got home tensions exploded after yelling at each other shanana stormed out spent the night drinking and woke up in a stranger's bed to her credit shaana was honest and remorseful when she confessed my world shattered I lashed out calling Her names she retaliated accusing me of being a neglectful boring husband and father the moment the words left her mouth she knew it was a mistake I moved into the spare room that night our fights continued for months I filed for divorce citing infidelity per the prenup shanana hurt and

frustrated oscillated between apologizing and lashing out when I didn't forgive her only around Maddie did we find moments of strained peace our parents finally stepped in Confronting us and forcing a truce one night after they lectured us for hours they left us alone we sat in silence for 15 minutes before we started talking really talking for the first time since everything fell apart I'm so sorry Tim Shauna said Tears In Her Eyes I shouldn't have left that night I disrespected you I was stupid and hurt you I sighed pained but sincere I'm sorry too Shauna

it hurt but you're my closest friend I had to forgive you she Touched my cheek gently thanks Tim but where does that leave us we talked for hours and agreed that we could only rebuild trust as friends not as a married couple for the first time in months shanana cried in my arms we never shared a bed again but spent more time together deciding that co-parenting his friends was best over 18 months the divorce process un folded and shaana and I became close friends again letting go of bitterness and regaining trust though We hugged and

occasionally shared a friendly kiss romantic love had faded I still loved Shauna deeply but valued her more as a friend our marriage had broken us and Trust couldn't be restored I started dating Bridget less than a year after the divorce just after Maddy's fourth Birthday Bridget worked with shanana and that's how we met she had hinted at dating for months and finally asked me out Shaina gave her hesitant approval though I I could tell it hurt Her despite that she supported me even when she had tears in her eyes after hearing about my dates Bridget

and I grew closer and 3 months in she changed everything for me in bed 6 months later she admitted she'd ended an intense but unhealthy relationship around the time of my divorce she saw me as a kind and stable person compared to her past Bridget petite and fit eventually moved in with me we had fun shared laughter and enjoyed staying in or going out a Year in she hinted at marriage and I soon proposed we married 8 months later though not without conflicts over a prenup after tense discussions and pressure from my board she signed

it while Bridget and I prepared for marriage Shauna met Rick who I couldn't dislike he was older supportive and balanced her in ways I couldn't their relationship started slowly unlike the passionate start Bridget and I had shanana and I talked through our Feelings to avoid letting jealousy ruin our friendship as Bridget and I and Rick and shanana became couples everyone respected our bond early on Rick once reacted to seeing shanana hug me after I dropped Maddie off but shanana told him to accept our friendship or leave by then Bridget and I were married and Shannon

and Rick were engaged 6 months later I stood as Rick's best man at his wedding to shaana it felt surreal how our relationship had evolved shanana and I had always been close and with MD in the picture that connection was permanent once Rick accepted that we became close friends he saw that while I loved shaa it wasn't in the same way he did meanwhile Bridget and shanana shared an amicable though not deep friendship back in the present Maddie my Restless daughter stole a chocolate chip from a cupcake I kissed her cheek no honey I said

trying to explain without revealing too much Mom And I aren't fighting she's just talking to me about something difficult it's about Bridget isn't it Maddie said looking defiant I was surprised Maddie you need to respect Bridget you like Rick and he's not your dad she picked at the muffin and muttered yeah but Rick respects you and Mom Bridget doesn't like Mom or me and she doesn't respect you her words Hit me hard Bridget and I had been together for 4 years married for three and it dawned on me that I had Ignored signs of her

behavior I've been passive trying to make it work after a silent moment shanana returned with Greg and told Maddie to take him outside Maddie protested but obeyed when shanana used her mom voice we watched Maddie and Greg play in the sandbox MADD sees too much for her age Shauna said she must get it from you I replied sadly looking at Shana the woman I had loved for so long I felt despair without seeing the envelopes contents Yet I already knew Shana sat beside me and embraced me as tears fell I knew deep down that Bridget

hadn't loved me the same for a while I reached for the envelope opened it and found two documents and a USB drive Shana placed her hand on mine Tim this is only going to hurt inside were detailed reports and recordings that confirmed everything I returned the contents to the envelope feeling numb why I asked broken Shana didn't respond sensing my pain Tim she Began but stopped am I so pathetic that the women I love cheat on me I regretted the words as soon as they left my mouth shanana quickly kissed my cheek and hugged me

crying I'm sorry Tim I shouldn't it's not you Shauna I interrupted I'm sorry for comparing it to us will you forgive me she pulled away smiled weakly and kissed my forehead of course a voice interrupted us well well well what do we have here Rick approached us trying to Keep a serious look but failing as a smile played on his face his expression shifted to concern when he saw the envelope in my hands oh he said sitting beside me and placing a supportive hand on my shoulder sorry man I started this after talking with Shauna

and Maddie a couple of months ago I had a private investigator look into it and got the report yesterday Rick explained concern clear on his face have you seen it I asked Rick shook his head no just the Basics but it seems you both have we nodded and Rick leaned back so what's next he asked divorce I Shrugged we watched Maddie and Greg playing in the sandbox Matty glancing at us occasionally despite the heavy moment we smiled babe shaa said to Rick Rick should we introduce Tim Rick finished shanon nodded and I agreed handing the

envelope to Rick you'll need this I said Rick returned it I have a copy on my desk this is yours I quickly emailed a Copy of the prenup Bridget and I signed to my new family lawyer feeling ironic Amusement as I sent it to my ex-wife's husband Shauna smiled what's that for for my lawyer time to move forward with the divorce I said as Rick gave a knowing smile after a pause shanana hugged me and Rick patted my back good to see you haven't lost your humor Rick saidwe talked about my next steps Bridget's spending

a week with her mother on the Gold Coast I said Realizing she probably wasn't there the looks Rick and shanana exchanged confirmed my suspicion okay I said feeling the sting of betrayal deepen we spoke for a bit before Maddie returned with Greg as the sun set after many hugs I left in my arctic white 2016 Machan Mustang a reward for reaching $5 million in Revenue surprised to the board when I spent only part of my budget at home the security gate closed behind me the house rented from a subsidiary of other gaming Was Modern spacious

and what Bridget wanted I only needed an office and a bed the house had seen its share of parties and memories the thought of Bridget and Brad here made me uneasy dropping the envelope on the counter I poured a double shot of bunder BG rum mixed it with Coke and prepared to read the report and review the USB contents the report confirmed Bridget and Brad's history they had dated before Bridget and I met but had a rough breakup the Investigator's findings proved my suspicions true the report confirmed Bridget and Brad had dated before she and

I got together breaking up months prior reading through it I saw that while their breakup was rough they hadn't been in contact for 6 months before my wedding but less than 3 months after our honeymoon Bridget restarted her relationship with Brad the report included transcripts of conversations and USB with video and audio evidence Showing their full-blown Affair one conversation detailed them at Brad's apartment a month ago I played the video and watched as Brad emotional said why don't you leave that loser and come back to me you're in my bed as much as his Bridget

laughed Tim has two things you don't brains and money she replied Brad scoffed and Bridget explained Tim successful and I can use that while I'm his wife that's why I took my chance when shanana left him if Tim ever Catches Us I'll end up with nothing Brad complained but you're still with him I have to be Bridget said if I don't act like a good wife this she gestured around ends Brad groaned but accepted it Bridget then added with a grin Tim and I might start trying for kids soon what if I stop taking the

pill and pass it off as his when the baby's 18 you can tell him it's yours before an accident happens Brad cheered and I rushed to the bathroom nauseous I barely slept haunted By the report and video by 8:30 a.m. my phone woke me Bridget's cheerful voice greeted me hello big guy are you home while I'm gone I paused Unsure how to respond Tim are you okay she asked concern in her voice Fain I decided yeah just a late night dealing with complicated work I replied oh I'm sorry baby I'll be back Monday night maybe

we can start working on that baby she said confirming her plans with Brad sure I said flatly Tim she sounded Uncertain I'm fine Bridget just tired I sighed okay I'll bring something nice back for you she said sounds good I replied feigning affection love you she said goodbye I responded and ended the call the thought of Bridget trying to get pregnant with Brad's child while passing it off as mine haunted me a few weeks ago she'd made a show of throwing out her birth control claiming it was time to start a family I was Furious

I spent the day taking Action cutting off Bridget's access to my bank accounts cancelling joint credit cards and having my accountant and lawyer remove her from my insurance and will I also drafted letters introducing Rick to my team to set things in motion the net was closing around Bridget and I felt a grim satisfaction around lunchtime Rick and shanana brought food and Maddie took Greg to play in her room while shanana prepared lunch and Rick and I talked thanks for the letter Rick said studying Me you look exhausted I nodded barely slept the dreams Rick

nodded in understanding do you think Monday's too soon to act he asked no I want this done fast I replied Rick agreed offering to work that day for an extra fee not a problem I said we talked about the investigator's report and I revealed that Bridget was planning to pass Brad's child as mine Rick's eyes widened and Shana looked shocked are you sure she asked yes and I saw her say it on video I said slumping don't worry Tim Rick assured me I'll prepare a restraining order for Monday I'll help pack her things Shauna added

I spent hours packing Bridget's belongings keeping only what she owned before our marriage shanana and I boxed up her clothes and personal items while I planned to donate the rest Rick called a few times to discuss details and by the time he returned with takeout that evening his serious demeanor showed he'd reviewed The evidence he hugged me showing genuine friendship I handed him a note what this he asked the new front gate code I reset everything and remove Bridget's access I explained perfect Rick said we talked briefly before he found his son and shanon and

I prepared dinner they stayed the night and most of Sunday with Rick discussing divorce steps unlike my amicable split with Shauna this time I was determined not to let Bridget gain anything on Sunday Morning Shauna admitted I never thought she loved you Tim I'm sorry I didn't speak up sooner I get it I said understanding her hesitation due to our history shaa added you allowed her freedom but she took advant AG I'm glad this ended before the pregnancy we talked until Maddie came in leading a smiling Greg by the hands we spent 15 minutes entertaining

the kids before Rick put on a movie for them Maddie really picked up on everything shanana Said she never liked Bridget no one messes with her dad except her mom I joked earning a playful punch Shana's expression turned serious Tim I'm sorry things didn't work out but that doesn't mean I love you any less she said her eyes sad I know I nodded feeling a lump in my throat you're my best friend we made Maddie together went through so much and you showed me true character Shanah continued you never treated me poorly even when I

deserved it rick Overhearing added Tim you're one of the few people I trust when shaana told me to stop being jealous I realized you were just a decent man wanting to raise his daughter and stay friends Rick looked at me Tim you're not submissive I've seen you stand your ground with shanana and others Shaina nodded you play by your own rules Bridget underestimated that Rick turned serious you did everything right as a husband and Bridget's betrayal is her loss not Yours we calmed down and shanana offered to let Maddie stay with me for support but

I declined not wanting her caught in any Fallout on Monday I worked at the office on a major project anxious about what was to come by late afternoon my phone rang Tim my code isn't working at the gate Bridget said sweetly I know I replied firmly what do you mean she asked concerned I know everything Bridget about Brad your plans your time Off the apartment I paid for and that you don't love me she stayed silent your access is revoked you don't live here anymore but Tim I love you she insisted fear creeping into her

voice look behind you I said seeing cars pull up through the window a man's voice came through her phone Mrs Bridget other yes she replied voice shaking you've been served he said detailing the divorce petition the prenup the eviction notice and the restraining order effective tonight Bridget stood Frozen as reality hit the man who served Bridget left in his car he was worth every penny I paid Rick Bridget's next conversation was with her mother Maran who had just arrived mom Tim she started but Marian slapped her the sound audible over the phone oh Maran said

I know what you did to Tim I've never been so disappointed mom whatever Tim told you isn't true Bridget protested touching her cheek Maran looked ready to slap her again but Walked back to her car stop Bridget Tim showed me a picture and I know the truth he asked us to take you in I can't believe you got involved with Brad again HEK a loser compared to Tim Marian said still listening on the line I heard Maran add Tim moved your things to our place if I were him I'd have burned them get in ignoring

Bridget's protests she got in the car Bridget realized our call was still connected Tim she said hesitantly Bridget I replied coldly There's no fixing this is there she asked a mix of Hope and despair in her voice I laughed bitterly not a chance follow the divorce terms and you'll be fine cross me and I'll leave you with nothing I did love you I added quietly but you ruined it for money oh and Bridget I said pausing she held her breath take a pregnancy test if you're pregnant we both know it's not mine try to claim

otherwise and I'll make sure you regret it I hung up to the sound of Her sobbing I felt empty but better the next month was tough I buried myself in work and spent time with Maddie nights were restless filled with bad dreams Bridget's lawyer planned to challenge the prenup aiming for a 5050 split Rick put forward a $30,000 settlement but no response came that weekend I took Maddie to the beach we ate ice cream outside an old fish and chip shop after a swim the Cool Breeze hinted at winter but the sun kept the water

Pleasant suddenly I was Pulled backward off my chair Maddie screamed as I fall on the ground gasping for breath Brad hton loomed over me saliva on my face you couldn't satisfy Bridget he taunted he glanced at Maddie with a twisted smile I bet she isn't even yours Brad stepped toward me you got me kicked out I was fine with Bridget playing house with you all you had to do was stay in line I tried to dodge but caught his punch in my shoulder spinning into a garden bed Before he could punch me again Maddie jumped

in front shouting leave my dad alone he hasn't done anything help police I was later told I was unconscious for about 30 seconds when I came to a small crowd surrounded me and my arm was wrapped protectively around Maddie Brad was gone someone said they had called emergency services and help was on the way ignoring the pain in my back and arm I sat up and asked for my phone and keys an older man looked at me Sympathetically sorry son he took your phone and keys I nodded feeling the throbbing pain with a towel pressed

to my head I asked for madd's bag a younger man brought it over and I used MD's phone to call Shauna she answered on the third ring cheerful Shauna I coked Tim what's wrong she asked her voice tight with concern we're hurt mty's okay but shaken the police and ambulance are on their way call naen to track my phone it's urgent what happened she asked her Voice breaking Brad attacked us I said Maddie fighting tears stayed silent beside me he has my phone in keys he might have my car too I'm on it take care

of Maddie Shauna said I will I replied and hung up paramedics arrived and checked Maddie and me they suspected Matty's arm was broken and said she'd be worse off if I hadn't intervened they moved us into the ambulance and took an initial statement from me as we headed to the hospital in the ER Maddie and I Were treated in the same bed she clung to me until Shauna rushed in found Maddie and hugged her she then turned to me kissing my cheek gratefully x-rays confirmed mti's small arm fracture and she was treated with a childsafe

anesthetic and bandaged I had a concussion five broken ribs and a fractured arm the doctor warned me about severe bruising on my back painkillers were administered and clips were applied to a wound on my head I lay in bed Looking at Mattie's Brave smile through her tears Shauna stood by eyes wet as she said thank you I'd do anything for you to I whispered leaning back painfully Shauna kissed my forehead I love you too Tim she said making me smile despite the pain suddenly I coughed noticing a faint metallic taste and Shauna's concerned voice called

out as I felt a sharp pain in my side before everything faded to Black I woke three days later in a Private hospital room with Rick beside me he buddy how are you feeling he asked terrible I coked is Maddie okay Rick smiled she's fine with a cast and all shek be back at school next week telling everyone about her hero Dad I tried to laugh but winced Rick handed me a device press for morphine if the Pain's too much what else I asked Rick's face turned serious a rib punctured your lung they did minor

surgery but you'll recover a nurse checked my vitals and Adjusted my meds before leaving any news on Brad I asked Rick Rick pulled out his phone showing a news clip from the night Maddie and I were brought in the anchor announced a Manhunt for Bradley hton who attacked me stole my car and phone and was last seen heading toward Newcastle he was considered dangerous and the public was urged to call Crimestoppers if they saw him they caught him yesterday in Wallen gong Rick said he ran a red light in your car and got Arrested the

car is total but at least he's caught I nodded glad he's caught mty's safe that's what matters Maddie soon ran into the room with Shauna and Greg behind her daddy she cried climbing onto my bed with concern I'm feeling better princess I said smiling you were so brave my doctor said I was Brave but I told him you were the brave one she said glancing at our matching casts thanks sweetheart I said holding back tears wek have another Beach day when We're better Rick took the kids for a walk leaving Shauna with me you scared

us she said holding my hand I'm sorry I replied just glad you're okay naen and colleagues later visited with cards and chocolates which Greg had already sampled after over a week in the hospital police took my full statement and soon arrested Bridget as an accessory during questioning Brad revealed she encouraged him to damage me out of Revenge Brad was sentenced to 15 Years for attack theft and property damage with a Chance of parole after 12 Bridget received a 5-year sentence with probation facing the full term if she broke any rules the Jud judge granted me

an immediate divorce saying no one deserved to be tied to someone like her surprisingly I offered Bridget $10,000 to start fresh with the condition she left Byron Bay during recovery naden worked with me at home often joined by Shauna naen my executive assistant was Married and in her 60s so romance wasn't in the picture one day seeing Maddie with her sign cast I was inspired to run a charity campaign in our games for every $10 pack bought we' donate $1 to charity the finance team initially resisted as it cut 30% of profit but revenue soared

and we raised nearly $500,000 for charities in Australia Poland and South America this campaign became an annual event by summer Maddie and I had healed and we returned to the Beach joined by Shauna Greg and sometimes Rick it was a great summer but I felt lonely Shauna suggested I start dating again I just don't feel it I admitted my few dates had gone poorly either no chemistry or they were after money like Bridget I wish I could find someone like you Shauna I said she smiled knowingly but stayed quiet at 31 I had time to

figure it out a year later Bridget made occasional contact mostly seeking money or forgiveness each time I Refused and ended the conversation life was about to change again I had turned 32 and shanon naen and my team planned a birthday party at my house I stayed in that house post divorce having invested so much in into it and appreciating its beauty over a 100 guests attended my birthday party including co-workers local business people and even Carly Evans family members like my parents and shaunas were there along with some of Rick's relatives the atmosphere was Lively

with food drinks and music and I was enjoying the buzz as people kept handing me fresh drinks I had just seen Maddie playing when I bumped into a woman and muttered an apology that's all you have to say just sorry she snapped I turned to face her a striking tall woman with deep blue eyes long red hair and a floral jumpsuit she held an unlit cigarette where can I smoke she asked annoyed there's no smoking here and you'll need to go outside I replied is The owner really that strict she asked mockingly yes I said

she pointed to a quiet spot by the pool but I shook my head not here especially with kids around At The Mention Of kids she tucked the cigarette away just then Maddie walked up with her friends and Greg daddy said no smoking so don't smoke Maddie declared is this man your dad the woman asked uhhuh Maddie said hands on her hips mirrored by the other kids the woman stepped back surprised before Maddie could escalate Greg thinking I was about to act pushed the woman standing at the Pool's Edge and heels she lost her balance I

reached out to catch her but we both fell in with a splash I surfaced laughing while she sputtered and glared at me how dare you laugh she scolded it's funny I said holding back a grin we fell in classic slapstick Karen I joked and she looked confused who's Karen she demanded as the cigarette floated between us sorry I Don't know your name but with your attitude and wanting a smoking spot I figured Karen fit I said with a grin her face turned red with anger my name is Lily she corrected with a hint of pain

in her eyes Tim Rick called walking over with Shauna and towels knew you get into trouble he muttered glancing between Lily and me I helped Lily out of the pool thinking this night had taken an unexpected turn as the pool incident settled guests Resumed their conversations laughing as we climbed out Shaina smirked at me dripping wet you got in sooner than expected happy birthday water boy she teased grabbing a towel I did my best blue steel impression and joked merman merman strutting away like a model Shaina burst into laughter Rick handed a towel to Lily

who muttered who is Tim anyway the most arrogant man and no smoking allowed that's our host the birthday boy Rick said giving her bag Back Lily's Eyes widened as she saw me reenacting the fall with guests and caught my glance not again Lily groaned as Rick chuckled and I went inside to change the evening continued smoothly with Greg getting a gentle reprimand for pushing and Maddie receiving a talk about understanding situations before reacting later I saw Maddie apologize to Lily who was drying off with clothes Shauna had lent her as the evening wound down I

noticed Lily with Rick and shaa Most guests had left or were watching a movie with the kids I poured a drink and joined them so Karen I teased do you work parties like this or just special ones she smiled only for arrogant men whose kids push me into pools I laughed they Rick and Shauna's kids Lily looked confused but Maddy's yours right and Greg is Shauna and Rick's yes Tim and I were married and Maddie is our daughter shanana confirmed Lily's expression shifted to sadness how do you handle it She asked a of pain in

her voice Rick spoke up Lily Tim and shanana are best friends I learn not to be jealous they share Maddie and I trust them completely he smiled at shanana who giggled it's unusual shanana added but we were friends before marriage and Tim's always supported Maddie and me we realized we weren't meant to be married but I trust him as I would a brother Lily's expression softened that case Rick was involved with a couple of years ago was That you yes I said taking a sip madd's protective because of what happened she saw me get hurt

and Greg was just copying her bravery when he pushed you I'm sorry for that Lily nodded understanding if you need to smoke feel free I offered but I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable she sighed it's a bad habit I picked up again recently a tear formed as she glanced at Rick and then walked to a quiet Corner Rick shook his head Slightly that's a story for another time he said when Lily returned her eyes were red from crying we shifted the conversation to Star Wars Rick and shanana weren't big fans but had watched some

episodes with me like the Mandalorian I joked about future plot lines when Lily surprised Us by joining in smiling for the first time and showing her hidden warmth are you a Star Wars fan I asked more of a general sci-fi fan she admitted as midnight Approached most guests left leaving just us and the kids asleep in lounge chairs I settled Shauna Rick and Greg in their room while MD went to hers and Lily stayed in the guest room as I fell asleep I recalled Lily's striking figure in the pool but noted her smoking habit the

next few days were spent at my house with Shaina Rick and Lily we went to the beach swam and had fun despite her smoking habit Lily turned out to be kind one evening while watching shanana Rick And the kids in the pool I asked Lily what's your story she glared none of your business she snapped I raised my hands apologizing I was curious since you never actually smoke Lily hesitated but finally spoke I lost the baby she said quietly I nodded listening as she recounted how she'd gotten pregnant 6 months into her relationship her boyfriend

Aaron was initially reluctant and as she began showing he came home drunk more often one night an argument Escalated and he pushed her when he heard approaching Sirens thinking she had called the police she lost the baby 2 days later and needed surgery I'm so sorry Lily I I said my voice heavy with sympathy thank you she whispered wiping her eyes and handing me a tissue which I accepted as my own eyes grew wet she explained that she fell into depression and was put on medications sometimes I can be a bit cocky she added with

a small laugh I Joined in lightening the moment you started smoking to cope I asked lightly Lily nodded my friends and I smoked in college it's a bad habit but it helps can I give you a hug I asked gently she looked at me surprised the police ins surgeon couldn't offer that I said softly Lily stood and walked over arms open like Maddie when she wanted Comfort I hugged her and she stiffened at first but then clung to me breaking down in sobs I glanced at shanana and Rick by The pool Rick frowned but shanana

led him and the kids away to give us space I guided Lily to a quieter spot and she rested her head on my chest still crying as I held her like I would Maddie when she was upset after about 10 minutes Shana and Rick brought the kids inside passing us quietly Shana returned with tissues and water setting them down before leaving Lily looked at the setup her eyes puffy and makeup smudged I wiped her tears poured water and handed It to her are you okay I asked Lily shook her head then nodded yeah thanks I

needed that I smiled it's okay when I divorced Bridget Shauna comforted me too I probably looked worse than you Lily laughed glancing at the tissue Shauna is really special to you huh she asked she's my best friend we' been through everything together even during our divorce I said what about Bridget Lily asked I sighed marrying Bridget was a mistake she cheated for a long time and While I thought I loved her she just saw me as a meal ticket I'm sorry Tim Lily said despite my rough start with you you're a good person Bridget was

foolish any girl would be lucky to have you any girl I raised an eyebrow Lily nodded yeah if only I could be that girl before she could finish I leaned in and kissed her her eyes widened then closed and she kissed me back this time not with Comfort but genuine attraction when we broke apart she smiled that was Unexpected she said then quickly added but not unwelcome exactly I said we talked as the sun set sharing stories of past pain Lily mentioned her ex was now in jail for attack in DUI the night he attacked

her he was driving well over the legal limit as night fell shanana and the kids returned with Rick carrying a hot pizza the mood was tense for a moment until Lily told shanana and Rick we had discussed Old Wounds without details I knew shanana would ask me for More later after dinner we all went home Maddie stayed with me while shanana and Rick took Greg and Lily to their place the hug with Lily was awkward but there was an undeniable affection that didn't go unnoticed by shanana or Rick as Maddie and I were getting ready

for bed she asked me a serious question you like her don't you Maddie said brushing her hair I think I do but we've only known her for a couple of days let's give her time okay we don't want another Bridget I replied Maddie snorted I don't think Lily's like that she said catching herself sorry I meant that undeserving woman I laughed it's okay Bridget was a bit of a witch we shared a smile but just watch your words and Lily well we'll see what do you think Maddie chewed her lip she's not like Bridget mom

and I noticed how she looks at you she's been through stuff too yeah she has I agreed then changed the subject as we settled into the bedtime routine Later I was in my office when shanana called I don't know what you said but Lily can't stop talking about you she said teasing but concerned I chuckled hi to you too I replied multitasking by reviewing the development schedule I'm serious Tim she told Rick all the way home that you're great apparently her ex was abusive shanon continued she told me I confirmed quietly Shauna paused shek been

through a lot hasn't she yeah a lot I replied but she told me in confidence I can't share more even with you after a pause Shauna said so you like her I hesitated yeah I do she's smart funny loves sci-fi and doesn't mind that I'm a geek shanana laughed and gorgeous too right I hadn't noticed I replied trying to stay Sirus we both laughed Shana shifted back to sirius she likes you more than just a flirtation she's asked me about you and Maddie and she's worried about us I smiled she doesn't need to be after

talking with her and Maddie I'm starting to think there's life after Bridget shanana agreed there will be do you mind if I speak for you I know what to say sure go ahead I said I'm not sure it's going anywhere but let's see three days passed without word from Lily or shanana Maddie seemed quiet and during dinner I caught her glancing at me like something was up I buried myself in work then Wednesday night I came home to find Maddie shanana and Lily in my living Room shanana and Lily were drinking wine and the smell

of carbonera wafted from the kitchen after dinner I excused myself to my office to plan my evening work once Maddie was in bed I kept a low profile Unsure how things would play out with Lily Lily she said as she entered stopping to look around at my computer setup her gaze lingered on the posters and awards lining the walls reminders of My Success with other gaming I know this game she said pointing to one I spent a Lot of money on the bonus packs she continued to recognize others and showed me a game on her

phone that had helped her during a tough time in the hospital do you work for the people who make these games she asked intrigued open Puzzle build and look at the bottom right I said when she saw the name other gaming her eyes widened that's me I confirmed Med I started the company when I was 19 and all of these games are mine Lily was stunned you own the company the Games she asked disbelief in her voice I chuckled yeah I guess that makes me more than just another guy Lily's face went pale I just

came to tell you dinner's ready she muttered dinner was excellent with Lily preparing a delicious carbonera garlic bread and vanilla ice cream the mood was warm but Lily was quiet despite the compliments from us all afterwards Shauna took Maddie to bed and subtly signaled for me to talk to Lily I Poured us each a glass of dessert wine and sat with Lily you okay Lily I asked the dinner was amazing but you didn't seem to enjoy it she sighed and slouched on the couch Tim if you ever felt like you can rise above everything but

then you realize it's impossible the Gap is just too wide I thought for a moment I felt that way with Bridget I loved her but when I found out the truth it broke me something still feels off but I know I need to fix it Lily nodded you're my Ravine she said softly I was confused I don't understand how can I be your Chasm she smiled then blushed brushing a strand of hair behind her ear I think we both know there's something between us that kiss she paused but the smile faded as she grew more

serious but after spending time with everyone I realized I can't bridge the gap between us I can't be the one for you why I asked puzzled Lily looked at me her eyes filled with emotion I'm just an administrator from Nowhere I make under $60,000 a year I can't compare to your world I don't want to be a gold digger sometimes I feel like I'm nothing she teared up and I reached out unsure of how to comfort her Lily poured her heart out worried I'd see her as a gold digger like Bridget she'd lost a child

and was angry but for some reason she opened up to me I knew what I had to do Lily come with me I took her hand and let her outside as we walked by the pool I suddenly picked her Up and jumped in fully clothed as we surfaced I started laughing and Lil hissed just like the week before Lily I don't care about your past you're not nothing to me you're beautiful talented and you cared enough tonight to cook an amazing dinner before you came into my office I assumed Shauna and Maddie saw you liked

me and they encouraged you right she nodded if they thought you were a gold digger you wouldn't have even been here tonight I continued they Don't think about you if you'll let me I'd love to date you and see where it goes Lily kissed me again okay Mr other but only if you promise not to throw me into pools again I laughed sorry no deal before we could say more shanana entered dropping towels on the table if you need them I'll leave towels here Maddy's in bed and won't bother you Shana smiled and sat down

watch out for Tim Lily he's good better than Rick she teased I blushed good night we're going out Tomorrow Shaina said as she left Lily turned to me confused what did she mean by that shaa is protective of those she cares about I explained she never really liked Bridget but she tolerated her for me and she just gave you her blessing to pursue me trust me no one else has gotten that I pulled Lily out of the pool and we wrapped ourselves in towels we tossed our wet clothes in the laundry and went to my

room as we pass Maddy's room she called out good night Daddy Good night Lily the next month was magical Lily moved in and we spent lots of Time dating and enjoying each other she applied for a job with the local Council and fit in just fine meanwhile I kept a low profile and avoided the glamour of my Social Circle when I had to travel to Sydney for a night Lily panicked she was worried if I wasn't back by midnight she'd be alone again so I arranged to take her with me she Charmed One of the

board members and fit Right in a few months later after a playful pool push before dinner we exchanged I love yous a year after that I proposed Maddie and Shauna were thrilled our backyard wedding was perfect with Rick as my best man and Shauna as my maate of Honor after saying I do they pushed us into the pool and it made for the best photos for our honeymoon we toured Europe for a month discovering how well we suited each other we fought sometimes but always Worked things out Lily was fiercely protective and a bit jealous

but it never got toxic the only women she tolerated were Shauna Maddie and naen anyone else faced her fiery side if I had worried after two failed marriages that loyalty would be an issue two events during our first anniversary put those fears to rest the first happened on a rare night when Shauna and Lily went to a local club with a group of women most were married though a few Were single while the single women accepted dance invitations neither Shauna nor Lily danced with any men two men approached and wouldn't take no for an answer

even trying to escort Lily out she handled it herself elbowing one in the stomach striking him with her purse when he refused to back off she shouted I'm married and my body belongs to my husband until security intervened the case went to court where CCTV footage confirmed her story and the charges were Dropped the judge gave the men probation emphasizing that no means no the second incident occurred a month later we were camping on Fraser Island enjoying the Sun and surf a week later Lily ran into Bridget by chance at a cafe Bridget who hadn't

seen me since our divorce had somehow found out about Lily my wife told me about the encounter while we relaxed by the pool Rick and Shauna were on the other side and Maddie and Greg were playing nearby I just had an Appointment with someone named B Brown Lily started when she sat down she stared at me for a long moment before speaking Bridget hadn't changed she was still confrontational and her smirk spoke volumes now I see why he likes you she said Lily assuming it would be a polite conversation replied thank you Miss Brown I

like to think my husband Tim finds me attractive Bridget's smile Twisted into something malicious oh I didn't mean Tim she snapped I meant Aaron Lily gasped stunned why did you mention Aaron how do you know him Bridget's eyes sparkled Aaron and I know a lot about you after he got out of prison I tracked him down her voice dropped with Venom I was Mrs other before you and I want him back the realization hit and Lily's shock turned to anger Bridget she said evenly Bridget nodded I'm a witch but Tim is mine I made mistakes

but I'll fix them he loved my body my curves you're just damaged Goods a broken woman who lost a baby Lily's fists clenched instead of lashing out physically she composed herself and stood up but Bridget wasn't done she yanked Lily's hair screaming you'll leave Tim I'll take him back and everything will be mine again Lily fought back Landing a punch that knocked Bridget down and tripped her to the ground someone called the police police Lily said to the cafe patrons who had already done so when the police arrived They took statements and arrested Bridget Lily

acting in selfdefense was cleared after several witnesses corroborated her story later Lily admitted she regretted telling Bridget about the pregnancy before telling me I just laughed and reassured her that Bridget's reaction was insignificant compared to her safety and our unborn child Bridget was later served a restraining order against all of us and we never saw her again years later we Learned learned she had married a criminal and faced prison herself the real surprise came when we found out Lily wasn't carrying twins but triplets it was 3 a.m. on a Wednesday when Lily went into labor

Connor Adam and their Sister Jesse were born via C-section the doctors were cautious to avoid complications I was with Lily the entire time holding her hand through the procedure she was incredibly Brave and my love for her deepened I took a 3-month leave from other gaming with the help of a nanny madd's big sister instincts and Shauna and Rick's support changing diapers for three babies brought chaos the house often smelled but life went on and we found our Rhythm we had our disagreements especially when tired once I left to cool off at Rick and Shauna's

but we worked things out now the triplets are three and Saturday afternoons by the pool have become our tradition 15 minutes ago I threw Lily Into the pool after she joked that I should act more like rker from Star Trek she grabbed me and pulled me in with her the kids joined us and soon everyone was splashing around later Lily and I climbed out drying off while Shauna and Rick joined us Shauna was still my best friend and had been a pillar throughout everything years later we all sat down sharing stories and memories one afternoon

as we played cards Shauna leaned over with a Sly smile shek Cheating you know she whispered for a split second my heart raced the last time she'd said that my life nearly fell apart but this time I smiled I know I whispered back catching Lily's play smirk as she eyed the mirror showing my cards he knows what's good for him Shauna Lily called out laying down her cards if I win now he wins later she added with a teasing look at me and yes I did win later twice [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]