[Music] growing up I often felt overshadowed with my parents distant and preoccupied with work books became my refuge offering an escape from the loneliness that followed me into my teenage years I craved connection someone to fill the emptiness I carried with me that all changed when I met an Marie Santos in middle school she brightened my life and our friendship quickly evolved into a romance that lasted through high school college and eventually marriage I knew from the start that I wanted her in my life forever despite my parents concerns we were close but maintained our
own lives yet the moments we shared were always the most special she was my best friend and I made her my wife an Marie and I were opposites in many ways she was outgoing I was reserved she was athletic and I was more academic despite our differences we had a genuine connection that kept us together we never forced our relation relationship but we always prioritized each other sharing everything from dreams to fears I wasn't sure if I believed in soulmates but if they existed she was mine when I asked her father for her hand in
marriage he questioned everything and I had to prove my love for her I made a choice to love her through good times and bad unfortunately the worst came only 3 years later I still loved her and wanted her happiness even if it meant sacrificing my own in recent months an Marie had had become distant coming home late and no longer smiling when she saw me the realization that the person you love no longer loves you is devastating one evening she quietly entered the dining room and I noticed the change in her demeanor hi Annie hey
Gavin are you okay not really please sit so I can explain I had rehearsed this moment knowing I had to make the hardest decision of my life letting you go Annie I love you and always will I don't want to argue or accuse I just want us to decide together what's best okay of course Gavin what's going on her anxious eyes gave her away Annie I've always wanted your happiness but I know you're not happy with me she teared up and oddly it was a comfort to see she was upset I don't want to dig
into details it'll just hurt more but if we can agree you're unhappy it would mean a lot she whispered yes Gavin I know thank you your honesty reassures me I'm making the right choice I want a divorce Miguel s was a man I respected deeply he and his wife Maria raised eight kids in a small house in a tough neighborhood he was strong and tough but it was his loyalty to his family that impressed me most I owed him an explanation so I sat with him on his porch over a few beers and finally told
him Mio why are you here it's harder than I thought sir I've Loved no one but your daughter since I first met her I promised you I'd always put her first and that's what I'm doing now even though I'm leaving an Marie as a expected he was angry mixing English and Spanish in his demand for an explanation I couldn't fully give sir I love your daughter but some things have to stay between us it hurts to admit our marriage has failed but I believe it's for the best I wanted you to hear it from me
eventually he calmed down enough to let me share some details though upset and embarrassed he allowed me to leave without further confrontation anmarie didn't cry or argue and while I was relieved a small part of me wished she'd beg me to stay but she didn't and that confirmed my decision her only reaction was when I mentioned talking to her father I spoke to your dad today and explained what I'm about to tell you I hope we can part ways quickly I don't want Financial ruin on top of everything else I've prepared the paperwork for dividing
our assets especially the house please review them and let me know by next week okay Gavin I'll review them I can already hear the criticism why not go after her and her L her first I don't have those skills the last fight I got into was in high school when someone made anarie cry I almost got expelled for it but Miguel Santos helped keep things quiet the second reason was my own mental health I was a wreck losing sleep and almost got fired I had no one to turn to my mom died of chest cancer
in college and my dad who became an hard Drinker moved to Florida and cut off contact I needed a fresh start and to do that anarie had to agree to the divorce I was was only 255 and needed to rebuild my life Revenge wasn't on my mind 2 weeks later we sat in the attorney's office anarie gave up the house which we agreed to sell we split our accounts and she kept the new car while I kept my old truck everything was settled except for the 90day waiting period the only thing I regretted was lying
to anarie where are you going to live Gavin I rented a small apartment near the office I'll stay there until I figure things out good I guess I'll see you at the house closing right absolutely see you soon Annie in reality I wasn't staying my truck was packed and I left my wedding ring on the kitchen table with a note that read goodbye I will always love you be happy before leaving town I said goodbye to Miguel Santos Mio you and an Marie belong together can't there be forgiveness remember your vows yes it's too fast
sir I've forgiven her in my heart I love your daughter but I need peace Maria Santos hugged me at the door as she let me go she softly said God bless you Miho I will miss you I left quickly before I broke down when your spouse is unhappy it's helpful to know why but I had no clue little things had come up like leaving the toilet seat up but recently we hadn't even argued I thought maybe she was stressed with work but she said she'd be fine trying to improve things I did more around the
house cooking dishes laundry hoping she'd notice after a few weeks I even cleaned the bathroom a chore I hated if I hadn't cleaned it I might not have found out I wouldn't have emptied the trash and discovered the pregnancy test I dug deeper and found a positive test then checked the birth control pills they were untouched that's when I realized another man had gotten my wife pregnant but who it didn't take long to figure out I called an Marie intending to ask but her number was forwarded to the front desk they said she had already
left her car was still in the lot so I drove to her office about 20 minutes later my hope that she had an accident vanish 30 minutes later I had my answer her boss Michael James pulled up next to her car they kissed openly my smile once hers was now for someone else that was all I needed to know I got home ahead of her and hid my feelings that night she barely looked my way in just over 2 hours I knew my marriage was over and realized it was a 20-hour drive to Las Vegas
I made the trip in 4 days driving through Nebraska Colorado and Utah the peaceful scenery slowed me down and I wasn't sure if my truck could handle the terrain on the fourth day I checked into a hotel slept for 18 hours and spent the next day filling out housing applications less than a week earlier I was a newly divorced 25-year-old with no family now I was a first year law student in a dorm room starting a new life I wish I could share stories of new adventures after college but the reality was different I had
no experience dating Gavin and anarie had always been a pair I had no idea where to start during law school I never went on a single date or made close friends if anyone showed interest I missed the signs instead I buried myself in studies using school as an escape I spent four years earning my jurist doctor and MBA aiming for a 4.0 GPA an Marie and I once talked about going back to school when we were financially stable so when I moved on I took the LSAT applied to schools and got accepted in Las Vegas
with a full scholarship I didn't know much about the school or the city just that was far from home once a month I'd write to Mr and Mrs Santos about my studies it was a habit I picked up for my parents perhaps out of routine or a need to feel someone cared 13 weeks into my first semester I received a package confirming the exact value of my broken heart really was and they never asked they'd share updates about their other children but never about an Marie letting me imagine I still had a family that cared
for the first six or seven months I kept in touch they never explicitly mentioned forgiveness or reconciliation but hinted at it until suddenly the hint stopped I never doubted anarie would keep her baby but I wondered if she'd tell her parents the truth before it became obvious I also wondered if Michael James would leave his wife and three kids to do right by anmie I didn't have the courage to ask but I knew a child born to a black man wouldn't look like me I felt like a coward when I sent flowers balloons and a
gift basket to the James home congratulating them on the baby I sent a duplicate to an Marie's office addressed to the company president I promised myself I wouldn't stoop to hurting anyone even Michael James but the pain was too much I didn't spread rumors just offered my congratulations I was genuinely happy for anmarie knowing she was working toward her dream of a big family but I couldn't ignore that her happiness came at the cost of my pain without knowing what happened after my gifts I imagined a disastrous outcome for Michael James however unlikely this small
cowardly act allowed me to close that chapter of my life I was still hurting but it was over my social life suffered for years after the divorce my first real friend was a colleague 20 years older I joined a small Law Firm specializing in real estate where I found I had a knack for contracts numbers and eventually people Gavin people need to trust you to solve their problems they hand you the keys to their dreams and you have to deliver you've got a gift and I'll help you use it David Rothschild the senior partner became
more than just my boss he was my mentor and life coach a legend in real estate law he was known for negotiating multi-million dollar deals he made me his next project and just 90 days into my career he gave me my first evaluation Gavin you're dedicated and meticulous you do excellent work thank you Mr Rothchild but as a person you're completely out of touch are you 30 or 90 let's go for a walk that's how our weekly Gavin project meetings began Rothschild was brilliant he'd ask questions let me talk and share stories I opened up
about everything my life parents law school and anarie we have a lot to work on but also a lot to work with now let's get back to the office at first I didn't understand his motives but after 3 years the results were clear his subtle guidance helped me grow I started going to the gym learning to cook making better Investments and buying real estate without his help I might have had a nice middleclass life with it I became a confident successful business person Rothchild never wanted credit saying watching you succeed is thanks enough I worked
with Rothchild for almost 5 years after helping me Succeed in Business he turned his Focus to my personal life one day he casually asked Gavin what are you getting your parents for their anniversary I was confused since both my parents had passed away and he knew that come on Gavin next month Miguel and Maria Santos will be married for 50 years only a jackass wouldn't mark an event like that he was right the Santos were like parents to me I kept in touch with them sending messages and gifts for their 50th Anniversary I gave them
the best first class airfare a five-star hotel stay a limo fine dining and VIP Show tickets in Las Vegas Vegas I sent it with a note happy anniversary use these As You Wish love Gavin I didn't expect anything in return so I was surprised when I received a call at noon the next day Gavin o Conor I answered oh Miho what a wonderful surprise but this is too much Mrs Santos exclaimed Mrs Santos it's lovely to hear from you but you and your husband deserve this and I'm honored to give it to you I replied
warmly oh Gavin you've always been such a wonderful boy un momento Miguel wants to talk she said handing the phone to her husband Gavin Mr Santos began yes sir I responded knowing what was coming Gavin this is too much I can't let you go to such lengths I can't imagine the cost it's too much he continued his words rushing out seor Santos Miguel Papa I interrupted gently yes Gavin he replied finally pausing this gift doesn't even begin to repay the kindness you've shown me over the years it brings me joy to give it to you
please accept it in the spirit it was intended I said sincerely after a brief silence he responded see Miho we accept wonderful happy anniversary I said feeling relieved the conversation shifted to the trip details and I explained all the highlights I thought they'd enjoy after exchanging many words of gratitude and love we ended the call and for the first time in nearly a decade I felt a sense of Peace as I reflected on that I noticed Roth's child standing in my doorway with with a big grin on his face damn ungrateful kids he teased shut
up old man I shot back with a smile the Santos vacation didn't unfold as I had expected I assumed they'd use the gift for sightseeing fine dining and relaxation they did but they insisted I join them every step of the way it was clear they hadn't even been in their room for 5 minutes before my phone rang Gavin o Conor I answered again Miho when are you coming to see us Mrs Santos asked eagerly hello Mrs Santos how was the flight I inquired trying to buy a moment to think good good Miguel says we need
to rest for a bit but then we're ready to goh will you be here she pressed I can be there in about an hour I replied realizing I'd have to rearrange my day great Miho see you then she said cheerfully before hanging up honestly I hadn't planned on spending much time with the Santos during their trip they had plenty to do and I had a pile of work on my desk I was figuring out how to manage my schedule when Rothchild walked in with two pargal Gavin I've given you some time off you need a
break now get out of here and don't come back for a week or you're fired Rothchild commanded leaving no room for argument the pargal quickly packed up my work and cleared my desk Gavin spend time with your parents I'll handle the rest Rothchild said his tone softer but firm so I did the Santos insisted on visiting my office though Roth's child who rarely joked about work seemed ready for us when we arrived he gave gave the Santos a personal tour introducing them as my parents in the conference room he spent nearly an hour talking about
my work praising my accomplishments and treating them like royalty it was heartwarming to see the Santos beaming with pride especially Maria who kept patting my hand every time someone complimented me we're so proud of you Miho the rest of the week followed the same pattern Rothschild's influence was evident everywhere we went I had chosen the limo resort restaurants and shows based on my business connections but Roth's child ensured we were treated like VIPs we were welcomed by owners and directors who shared stories of how I'd help them and offered us the best seats wine and
service it was impressive Mr and Mrs Santos I have to admit this week has been more eventful than I expected I know these people but I've never received this level of service before my daily life is much simpler Gavin it's wonderful that you have so many friends who wanted to show us how special you are we always knew you were special and we've always been proud to call you that Maria couldn't finish so Miguel stepped in our son you are who you are and always will be you took an oath before God that made you
part of our family and you fulfilled that vow you've been a constant in our lives since you were a baby and we've had the honor of watching you grow into a fine man a father couldn't ask for more Gavin we love you and are very proud of you Miguel Santos had aged but his strength was still formidable his hug felt like he might break a rib and moments later Maria joined in giving me a long awaited family moment that filled me with joy their visit flew by and I was sad to see them go but
I promised to visit them soon after handling some business Roth's child knew exactly what I needed I returned to work motivated and when I shared my idea he just smiled and gave his approval the project was small and wouldn't generate long-term income but it was probably the most important one I'd ever undertaken in 6 weeks I completed almost all the title Deeds secured a buyer with full financing and made a few Key phone calls armed with new information I booked a flight back to my hometown for the first time in nearly 10 years at the
airport I met Amy and Lydia who worked at a coffee kiosk I overheard them talking about their broken appliances and unresponsive landlord when Amy handed me my coffee I gave her my card with instructions I overheard your conversation I think I can help call the number and ask for Marcus tell him Gavin sent you and that you need Melvin's help he'll take it from there if you need help finding a new place Marcus can assist I've written everything on the back as my flight was called I added don't worry about the cost just use the
number good luck why did I offer to help them simple I've seen a lot of bad landlords in real estate and Roth's child taught me that real estate isn't a zero sum game the best deals benefit everyone a few calls a letter and some work from a par illegal could get these girls out of a bad situation we did pro bono work from time to time and this was no different I sent Marcus a quick email so he wouldn't be caught off guard when the call came the flight to Omaha was short I got my
rental car and Luggage then drove around the city not much had changed though it no longer felt like home I passed through the Santos's neighborhood where most houses were in disrepair except for theirs the area had clearly been neglected my destination was a new condominium complex with condos above retail spaces restaurants a theater and stores including a grocery store the design was unique to the area and everything seemed perfect the apartment I had was brand new with two bedrooms a spacious open living area a den and a large balcony overlooking a park the master suite
was spa-like with a jetted tub and a large tiled shower the place was beautifully furnished with top-of-the-line fixtures and appliances a few personal touches and it would feel like home the Santos met me for dinner at one of the restaurants arriving on time and dressed for a night out we had a great dinner filled with laughter hoping the rest of the evening would be just as enjoyable Miguel and Maria Santos both 67 had been married for 50 years they were still young at heart but showed signs of a lifetime of hard work during our time
in Las Vegas I learned they were ready to retire but worried about their finances and living in a neighborhood surrounded by crime and abandoned houses my goal was to change that as Rothchild reminded me this is what children do for their parents I invited the Santos back to the condo for a late night party when we stepped into the elevator they look surprised I didn't know this was a hotel Miho these rooms must be expensive yeah we need to talk about that when I opened the apartment door they were impressed with the room I had
asked their seven children to describe the Santos's dream home and I made sure to cover all their preferences their attention then shifted to the champagne are we celebrating yes I hope so what's the occasion I popped the cork your retirement and new home I raised my glass and gestured around the room oh my goodness this is too much we can't accept it it's not a gift but you'll have more than enough to buy it please sit down and let's discuss it they were hesitant but things were going well when we sign these documents we'll form
a partnership the Santos Investment Group first we'll close on 19 properties near your house then we'll package those with your current home request a zoning change and sell them to Property Management International which plans to build a hotel and retail space next to the new Arena we receive the sale proceeds within 90 days I showed them the highlighted dollar amount on the paper they were shocked this apartment is rented for the next 3 months with an option to buy here's the cost I handed them another paper half of the remaining profits will fund a lifetime
annuity for you both with monthly dividends I showed them the third paper you'll be able to retire comfortably in your new home I'm just offering business advice and free legal services they wouldn't become rich but they'd never never have to work again it was a silver parachute and it would be enough Gavin how did you manage this so quickly buying the property next to yours took some effort but Roth's child found a buyer through his connections a new casino is being built across the river in Iowa so we negotiated the price based on that the
zoning change will happen with the help of our buyer contacts on the city council the rest is just a solid investment Maria cried but smiled and Miguel shook his head in disbelief it's a miracle more than we could have imagined an Marie's voice echoed with genuine surprise no one deserves it more than you to I replied offering sincere congratulations I hadn't seen or heard from anarie in 10 years her parents and siblings never mentioned her and she had faded from my thoughts long ago but when I saw her again it was as if I had
awakened from a deep sleep I had loved her throughout my youth and early adulthood but now I felt nothing our meeting was in entirely coincidental I needed to pick up a few things for an upcoming trip and the new mall had one of my favorite stores while browsing I heard a familiar voice behind me you have great taste anarie said her tone a mix of surprise and Nostalgia I turned to find her looking much as I remembered older with a less radiant smile and a few extra pounds she was simply a more mature version of
the woman I once married hi anarie I greeted her not quite sure what to expect why are you you here she asked her voice tinged with curiosity I'm shopping and you I responded keeping the conversation light oh I work here now she explained I meant why are you in town just finishing up some business and visiting old friends I answered was I on your list of friends to visit she asked her tone half joking but with a hint of Hope honestly no I admitted oh okay nice to see you Gavin she said A Touch of
disappointment in her voice you too anarie I replied thinking that would be the end of it awkward but manageable I didn't expect to see her again but as I was leaving I noticed her at the cash register after finishing her transaction she approached me again Gavin how long will you be in town she asked a bit more tentatively this time maybe a few days I replied still unsure where this was going do you think we could get together and talk at least a little she asked handing me her card I'll think about it I said
taking the card but not committing to anything I walked away without another word I had moved on and didn't have anything more to say to her yet against my better judgment two nights later I found myself sitting alone in a booth at one of my favorite bars this was a place where an Marie and I used to meet friends after work on Fridays it felt different now when she arrived she was dressed up wearing a little black dress that showed off her curbs black heels and carefully done makeup if she'd been a stranger I might
have bought her a drink she looked good I didn't stand when she slid into the booth across from me she waited a few moments before speaking you lied to me she began her voice tinged with accusation and you lied to me first I retorted both of us knowing exactly what the other meant she looked momentarily embarrassed before continuing I didn't think you'd actually leave town I hoped we'd have a chance to talk she confessed what would have been the point I asked genuinely puzzled I don't know but I wasn't happy when you left she admitted
her voice softening well you didn't give me a choice so I don't feel guilty about your unhappiness I replied my tone blunt but honest she seemed surprised by my frankness but I wasn't interested in sugarcoating the past Gavin I never stopped loving you even after what I did she said her voice trembling slightly I sighed sensing that she was about to revisit Old Wounds an Marie the only good thing about our divorce was that you never lied to me probably because I didn't give you a chance but I won't sit here if you're going to
lie now what do you even want why are we sitting here nothing will change what happened but you never fought for me you just gave up without even arguing it was so unexpected why did you leave without trying I thought you loved me we'll have to agree to disagree from my view you gave up on me without a word you abandoned me without a chance to fix things I just put it in writing that was a mistake Gavin I made a huge mistake and I'm sorry okay an Marie's voice wavered as she spoke her eyes
pleading for forgiveness I groaned inwardly the years apart had given me Clarity but it seemed they had left anmie clinging to delusions nonsense I shot back refusing to let her rewrite history her eyes watered but I knew everything she said was a lie just because things didn't turn out as you hoped doesn't mean you can rewrite history I continued don't insult my intelligence by pretending you care I did care Gavin I loved you I still love you she insisted her voice thick with emotion you honestly believe that I asked incredulous it's true Gavin she affirmed
her gaze steady okay letun explore that I said leaning forward was it you or Michael James who decided I should be deprived of sex with my loving wife she looked me in the eye a flicker of Shame Crossing her face but mostly reluctance to answer it was him she finally admitted so your Endless Love for me let you sleep with another man and follow his wishes knowing it would hurt me I said my voice dripping with sarcasm Gavin I she started but I cut her off how long did you wait before stopping birth control I
demanded what well I she stammered you didn't accidentally get pregnant you wanted him to Father your child when were you planning to tell me or were you going to pretend it was mine I pressed watching her squirm she didn't bother to answer why aren't you with him where is he I asked Shifting the focus he didn't want me she confessed her voice barely above a whisper his wife found out and so did his boss his wife divorced him and he had to resign he left me I had to quit my job too it was too
embarrassing and I'm supposed to feel bad why I asked my tone icy I don't know Gavin she said her voice breaking I made a mistake got involved in something bad and couldn't stop I know I was wrong can't you forgive me I love you I died the day you left and missed you ever since I wanted you to come back to give me a chance to apologize to tell you I'd never do it again I'm all alone Gavin my parents barely talk to me my siblings avoid me and I have no friends I'm all alone
anarie I forgave you a long time ago but there's no going back I said firmly you have your child he can keep you warm at night that's cruel Gavin she said her voice tinged with Hurt No More cruel than the lies you're telling me I responded unyielding I'm not lying Gavin I want another chance it's what I've dreamed of all these years she pleaded it's never going to happen I stated leaving no room for doubt why Gavin I know you love me you said you always would she reminded me desperation creeping into her voice I've
always loved you but that's not enough I admitted feeling the weight of the truth why not she asked her voice trembling two reasons first I'm not the same person who married you I've changed and you don't know me anymore I certainly don't know you if I ever did I explained you do know me Gavin I'm still the same woman you loved so what's the second reason she asked clinging to hope that's the first honest thing you've said but here's the second reason then a question you wanted someone else and I let you have him without
a harsh word because I loved you since I left I've gone to law school passed the bar started a new career and built a new life but I haven't been with another woman since our last time together so tell me how many men have you been with while you've been pining for me anarie couldn't even look me in the eye you see anmie I knew you were telling the truth but back then I didn't realize that the woman I loved was a lying cheating person how could I ever trust you again why would I even
want to give me one reason why I'd let you back into my life that wouldn't just benefit you if you can do that maybe we have a chance she cried quietly as I stood up to leave that's what I thought goodbye an Marie 3 months later I saw them again while heading back to Omaha for business everything was going smoothly and Miguel and Maria were enjoying their new home seeing them so happy warmed my heart the women serving customers at the coffee kiosk giggled and smiled this time I was deep in my phone when they
called my name Mr oconor a voice called out catching my my attention yes can I help you I responded turning to face them at first I didn't recognize the two women but then it clicked oh right how did it go I asked recalling our previous interaction fine Mr oconor the brunette replied we wanted to thank you but we didn't know how it's Gavin and no thanks are necessary I'm just glad it worked out I said with a reassuring smile the brunette a pretty woman named Amy with curly hair and a friendly smile spoke while her
cousin Lydia a shy blonde stood quietly beside her as my flight was announced I began to gather my things preparing to board nice to see you both again I said ready to leave just as I was about to step away Amy ran up and handed me a napkin with a phone number scribbled on it we'd like to thank you properly will you call when you get back she asked her tone hopeful caught off guard I simply nodded sure no problem I replied tucking the napkin into my pocket on big holidays the family always gathered Easter
Thanksgiving Christmas 4th of July and Cinco de Mayo it was unusual to ask everyone to gather in September but that's what I did I was surprised everyone fit into the Santos's new apartment the space was cozy but comfortable for the Gathering they all looked at me waiting for what I had to say it was going to be one of the hardest things I'd ever done maybe they wouldn't think it was my place to speak but it felt right as Rothchild always said I was following my gut I wanted everyone here so I only had to
say this once and you all could hear it at the same time being treated as a full member of this family has been one of my greatest Joys Miguel and Maria your love and support help me through tough times and I'll always be grateful but I also remember that an Marie was part of this family too she shared in the Joy and Pain like the rest of us she cheated on me and I made hard choices because of that but she didn't cheat on any of you a few months ago I spoke to her for
the first time in 10 years it was a painful conversation I said harsh things to her but what hurt most was what she told me about all of you so with all due respect I need to say this you all need to stop being little a-holes and stop ostracizing your daughter and sister until she's back where she belongs I want nothing to do with you Mr and Mrs Santos I won't contact you and you shouldn't contact me until this nonsense is over the shocked Expressions on their faces didn't bring me any satisfaction with those words
I walked away from my foster family unsure if I'd ever see them again the next year was hectic both professionally and personally in the office we worked at a Breakneck Pace that was unsustainable after almost 8 weeks of 14-hour days and non-stop deals Roth's child had enough one evening in the conference room he let us know that's it I'm done I can't stand the of any of you we're closed everyone get out of here and don't come back for a week I'll pay you if I don't have to see you then he walked out of
the building on the first day of my mandatory break I cleaned my apartment and discovered Furniture buried under piles of papers clothes and takeout containers I sorted my laundry emptying my pockets as I went and found the napkin with Amy's number on it by the third day with a clean apartment and updated closet the napkin was still sitting on my dining room table like a centerpiece so I decided to call I sounded like an idiot hello Amy answered the phone uh yes can I um speak to Amy please I stammered suddenly feeling nervous this is
her she replied oh hi Amy this is Gavin oconor we met at the airport you gave me your number I reminded her hoping she remembered yes I Remember You Gavin she said her tone warm and familiar well I know it's short notice but would you and Lydia like to come over for dinner tonight I thought I'd cook for you both and hear how things went with your apartment we got kicked out of the office for a week and I'm bored I explained trying to sound casual she giggled and I felt a bit embarrassed by my
rambling Gavin we'd love to have dinner at your apartment tonight Amy replied enthusiastically fantastic great um can I get your address I asked realizing I hadn't given her the details yet I provided my address feeling a bit flustered but excited later when they arrived I felt much more comfortable talking to Amy and Lydia in person person Lydia was still quiet but she made eye contact and smiled which was more than enough to put me at ease this is a great apartment Gavin do you host parties here often Amy asked looking around appreciatively my apartment was
impressive mostly because it was part of a project Rothchild and I were working on I had jumped at the chance to buy a three-bedroom Penthouse with a fantastic view of the strip but I didn't mention that I also owned the building actually you're the first visitors I've had besides my boss I admitted really no girlfriend Amy asked surprised nope I haven't even been on a date since my divorce 10 years ago I said casually focusing on the meal I Was preparing Amy and Lydia sat at the kitchen island sipping wine while I cooked Amy asked
me a lot of questions and I enjoyed the conversation it was refreshing to talk to someone other than my boss and co-workers as I continued cooking I noticed both of them staring at me in shock what did I say something wrong I asked puzzled by their reactions you haven't been on a date in 10 years Gavin Amy repeated clearly astonished no I haven't I've been busy with work and studies is that weird I asked genuinely curious yes Amy said emphatically and even Lydia nodded in agreement well I guess it is kind of weird I conceited
with a shrug Jesus Gavin I can't believe it Amy said shaking her head in disbelief it's true anyway dinner's ready letun eat I said steering the conversation back to the meal dinner was fun fun filled with laughter I learned that Amy was in her final year studying Hospitality management and Lydia was studying English with a focus on creative writing they were both 22 and had been living together since they were 18 when Lydia's parents passed away Amy mentioned that Lydia liked me and would eventually open up more the atmosphere felt a bit electric and I
wondered if they were flirting with me I enjoyed the attention even if it was just in my head at the end of the evening both girls gave me a brief hug and kiss on the cheek before leaving with Amy suggesting we meet again soon I jokingly said I was free for the rest of the week and to my surprise they showed up the next day with a picnic basket we ate lunch on the balcony and enjoyed the day until it got too hot then they left for work they took my invitation seriously the next evening
they returned with pizza popcorn and a movie they shared the couch while I settled into my favorite chair the following day Amy asked if they could use the pool I assured her I'd take care of it when they arrived I had keys to the pool and gym for them along with a locker sometimes it's good to be in charge they had a surprise for me too when they came out in their bikinis I realized I'd need to step up my workouts after my week off we fell into a routine I'd work during the day and
they'd visit a few evenings a week for dinner a movie or just a hang out on weekends we found activities to do together they also used the gym regularly even when I wasn't there Roth's child loved tea teasing me about it if I didn't know you so well I'd think you were dating two women at the same time give me a break man we're just friends and keep your fantasies to yourself about 4 months into our friendship I noticed something was off during a quiet Friday night dinner at my place the girls seemed unusually reserved
as dinner wrapped up the tension was too much to ignore girls is something wrong no not really Lydia hesitated then spoke Amy wants to ask you something but we're not sure how to phrase it Amy you can ask me anything I have no filter with you two just ask and I promise not to be offended by my answer Amy took a deep breath why haven't you ever made a move on us don't you find us attractive I was caught off guard and took a moment to collect myself you're both stunningly beautiful but I haven't made
a move for two reasons first I don't want to ruin our friendship or make you think I'm some old guy hanging around for kicks second I'm not even sure I know how to make a move I've never had the chance Amy and Lydia exchanged a glance then Amy continued Gavin we really enjoy spending time with you and we both like you a lot I like spending time with you too but Lydia and I are looking for someone special and we want you to understand what that means ladies you're both extremely attractive and I'm sure you'll
each find someone special without any problem Lydia seemed like she wanted to say something but Amy pressed on Gavin we don't want to find two separate special people we want one and we think that person might be well you I was stunned before I could respond Amy added we want you to understand what we're asking Lydia wants you to read some of her work tonight we think it'll help you understand what we're looking for then we can talk tomorrow about what this means for all of us can you do that I think I can you
just want me to read her stories yes Gavin and then we'll talk I realize this might give you the wrong impression of me I have strong beliefs about right and wrong and I treat the people I care about with kindness and respect I believe in Live and Let Live as long as no one is getting hurt however I can also be tough when necessary especially in business Roth's Child Called It my Jackal and hide quality giving people a head start but not hesitating to retaliate if crossed I wasn't like this before anarie broke my heart
her betrayal made me fiercely loyal to those I trust and ruthless to those who betray me for a long time after the divorce I had little interest in Romance the pain of the divorce consumed me and anything that reminded me of anmie was unbearable I coped by focusing on my studies and work it took years for the pain to fade I had missed out on a lot of Life Experiences because I met the love of my life so young I had never asked a girl out never had a one night stand and didn't know how
to attract someone fear of rejection held me back I was confident in many things but thanks to anarie I felt insecure about relationships 10 years passed and I began to think I'd never get the chance to try something new with that mindset I read Lydia's stories they were beautifully written full of vivid imagery and well-drawn characters I learned a lot about Lydia from her writing the next day the girls arrived around noon I was worried I might ruin our friendship after getting drinks and snacks we settled in the living room Amy got straight to the
point Lydia and I aren't involved with each other exually okay that's important to know but honestly I hadn't thought about it Lydia smiled as Amy continued we've always looked out for each other we're not just cousins we're best friends when we started getting interested in boys we'd talk about what we liked and what we wanted I've always been drawn to sweet caring guys while Lydia has been attracted to more assertive Alpha types the guys she dated were great in bed but often treated her poorly on dates even though I understood her attraction I didn't want
her to get hurt they sat together holding hands then our worst fears came true one of Lydia's boyfriends became too aggressive and a few weeks later she found out she was pregnant the pregnancy didn't go well and they had to terminate it for her health complications arose and Lydia can't have children tears filled their eyes we had always dreamed of our children playing together we were only 19 and that dream ended before it could start but I love Lydia more than a cousin more than a friend we decided our Dream didn't have to end we
would share my children and raised them together as co-mothers they looked at me gauging my reaction I was moved by Amy's selflessness it was one of the saddest kindest and Most Beautiful Stories I'd ever heard they smiled softly but then we had another problem finding the right person the guys I liked were too weak for Lydia and the ones she liked were too arrogant for me we needed someone special kind yet confident and then we met you Lydia whispered speaking to me for the first time my heart raced Amy continued you helped us without asking
for anything in return it was one of the nicest things anyone had done for us as we got to know you we realized you might be the one we were looking for we decided to be honest with you even if it meant risking our friendship I was stunned realizing I've been offered a life with both of them this is a lot to take in I need some time to think can we take a break and talk more over the weekend of course Gab and we understand Amy replied and they left quickly I already knew my
answer but wanted to give them a thoughtful response they had shared something deeply personal and I wanted to respond in kind later that afternoon I ran some errands then returned to my apartment and sent a text to Lydia before calling Amy hello Amy answered hi Amy it's Gavin I was wondering if you'd like to have dinner with me tonight I asked trying to keep my tone casual in the background I could hear Lydia's phone ringing followed by her surprised sigh Gavin I'd love to have dinner tonight Amy replied warmly great I'll pick you up at
7:00 I said feeling a sense of anticipation after I hung up I waited for Lydia's response the message I had sent her was riskier be at my place at 6:15 don't be late you'll be staying the night her reply came quickly and simply perfect when I arrived to pick up Amy I was momentarily speechless she looks stunning in a little black dress I handed her a bouquet of White Lies why wow you look amazing I said genuinely impressed Thank You Gavin for the flowers and the compliment she responded with a smile our evening was romantic
we shared wine and sushi at one of her favorite restaurants then went to a nightclub for drinks we talked about our dreams future plans kids and family by the end of the night we had bonded deeply as we walked through a park holding hands I couldn't shake a lingering worry what's bothering you Gavin Amy asked sensing my unease why me Amy I'm over 10 years older than you divorced and every eye was on you tonight you could have anyone I confessed my insecurities slipping out Gavin you'll figure it out soon but for tonight can you
accept that you're the one there's no one else for me she reassured me yes I can live with that thank you for a wonderful evening Amy I said feeling more at EAS no Gavin thank you she replied squeezing my hand on Easter Sunday I found myself in my old church feeling out of place I had converted to Catholicism to marry Anne Marie and was a faithful parishioner during our marriage but it felt strange to be there again I've been sitting alone for about 15 minutes when someone sat down next to me this seems like a
good place for confession forgive me Gavin for I have sinned anarie said breaking the silence anarie I forgave you a long time ago I replied turning to face her I know Gavin but you forgave me when I didn't deserve it when I wasn't even sorry now I understand the pain I caused you I wish I could take it all back I always thought you deserved someone better I'm so sorry I couldn't be the woman you deserved thank you for giving me my family back my dad told me it was because of you thank you an
Mar I appreciate your apology you're always welcome Mass went well and Easter brunch was enjoyable but as the day went on I realized there was no longer a place for me in the Santos family it was time to move on when it was time to leave there were tearful goodbyes Maria Santos hugged me at the door understanding more than she said she placed her hand on my cheek closed her eyes for a moment and then whispered God bless you Meo I will miss you my personal life was far from normal for months Amy Lydia and
I had settled into an unusual pattern spending most of our time together as a close-knit trio if they had lived with me full time we might have spent only a few hours more together each week I was very happy dating Amy the though our relationship hadn't progressed Beyond kissing she believed we both know when the time was right and I agreed the oddest part was that she had no problem making me tense and then sending me to Lydia for Relief Lydia for her part blossomed under this Arrangement Amy told me that Lydia had thought I
was perfect from the start Lydia needed guidance which made her feel safe and cared for and I gradually took over that rooll from Amy the turning point was the flowers I hadn't thought much about giving them flowers but it felt right I gave Amy flowers on our first date and at random moments because it was romantic Lydia's flowers were a thank you delivered separately due to circumstances my first date with Amy was wonderful but as I returned to Lydia I worried I wouldn't meet her needs I needn't have worried over the next few months I
thought a lot about how to win Lydia over but that first night Instinct took over when Lydia walked in with the biggest smile holding her flowers I knew I'd done the right thing as I left Omaha for the last time I felt a deep satisfaction I had survived an Marie's betrayal started a new life and built a career but something was still missing real happiness on the way home I made a stop bought two things and quickly returned when I got home Amy and Lydia were happy to see me and we had a light fun
dinner together I hop to make our lives even better after dinner as they cleaned up in the kitchen I watched them working together enjoying the task simply because they were together I know why we haven't had ZX I said Lydia turned to look at me while Amy kept her eyes on the sink when we make love for the first time it will be to create life to share a piece of ourselves for a common purpose that's why we'll be together but there's an even more important reason you'll be giving Lydia and me something we can't
get on our own a child Lydia smiled through her tears I think you've been waiting for me to realize this and you've waited long enough I knelt down and pulled out a box Lydia began to jump with excitement as I opened it Amy slowly turned Tears In Her Eyes Amy will you marry me yes Gavin I will I'll love you forever and give you everything I have Amy and Lydia hugged first showing how close they were and how much we all needed each other I slipped the ring onto Amy's finger and Lydia admired it that's
a beautiful ring Gavin you're not left out Lydia you're a vital part of our Lives I pulled out a second box containing an ankle bracelet with a Diamond set in a Celtic knot with three birth stones Ruby sapphire and amethyst Lydia we love you and need you please don't ever leave us Amy was crying but Lydia was calm as I fastened the bracelet around her ankle I'm home Gavin I'm not going anywhere we were married three months later in a small ceremony with Lydia beside Amy and Rothschild next to me 6 months later Aiden James
o'conor was born twins Sophia Marie and Steven Michael followed and then baby Olivia Rose the boys looked like me Sophia was a tiny version of Amy and Olivia was a clone of Lydia their bond was instant and unbreakable were Amy and I jealous that Olivia treated Lydia like her only parent while we were like a beloved aunt and uncle not at all Amy and I lived as husband and wife but Lydia was always close my journey to happiness took time but I found my place again our life together was as perfect as any relationship could
be I loved Amy Lydia and our children Amy loved me Lydia and the kids kids Lydia loved Amy needed me and gave our children A Mother's Love we've never shared our lifestyle publicly and only our closest friends know the truth but we live a very happy life together [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]
