I Got Revenge & Put In Jail My Cheating Wife & Her AP For A Paternity DNA Fraud. Sad Audio Story

[Music] I never imagined my life would take such a drastic turn growing up I believed family was unbreakable a constant in a world full of uncertainties I pictured a simple life working hard raising kids who admired me but life doesn't always go as planned my marriage started falling apart and I didn't see the signs by the time I realized I'd been deceived by the person I trusted most it was too late looking back it's surreal how quickly things fell apart Carrie and I once seemed happy building a life together making plans for a bigger house

after Jimmy was born but I was too caught up in work to notice the cracks when I finally did Carrie had already decided to leave and I was left to pick up the pieces sitting by the bay window I watched neighborhood kids play I spotted Jimmy my son joining their game flashing me a smile that brief moment was all I had left of being part of his life if Carrie knew he was near me she'd drag him home but Jimmy always found a way to wave at me it hit me hard my son only 10

old enough to understand what happened between his mom me and Greg the hardest part was how Carrie told me she was leaving it was an ordinary Tuesday Jim I'm pregnant she said I hugged her happy until I noticed she was crying she wasn't hugging me back then she told me it's not yours I'm moving in with Greg Allen shocked I left the house went to Gregs and knock him up he called the cops and I spent the night in jail Carrie got a restraining order and a week later I got divorce papers I never even

got to ask why she cheated the game outside ended and Jimmy blew me a kiss I pointed to the mailbox where I'd left a phone for him he wasn't supposed to have one until he was 12 but I wanted to mess with Carrie my sister agreed to take the blame inside there was a note Jimmy I love you more than anything you have unlimited data so you don't need Wi-Fi and I've left a card for games all of Billy Joel's music is downloaded enjoy I'm sorry I messed up but I miss you every day my

number is saved as mic you can text me but don't call me buddy this is how it has to be for now I love you Jimmy smiled crumpled the note and grabbed the phone I love you he yelled running off Billy Joel was our thing Jimmy pretended to hate his music but I knew he liked it he'd sneak in song lyrics to see if I'd notice one time after getting a d on a test Carrie said you're a straight A student without missing a beat Jimmy replied I guess I think too much quoting Billy Joel

I laughed but Carrie didn't get the joke it was our thing I worked as a mechanic for a construction company fixing everything from Cars to cranes since high school it paid well and I had a winter vacation every year Carrie was a teacher and we met at a country bar we hit it off and 3 years later we got married we bought a small house planning to move up eventually but in car's version of moving up I didn't fit I didn't know she was cheating until she told me she was pregnant with Greg's baby Greg

was disliked by most tolerated only because he brought expensive whiskey to parties somehow Carrie was the exception needing more than what I could provide despite my stable union job with benefits Carrie never complained about money we took trips and she bought whatever she wanted so I was shocked when she started looking down on my job calling me a grease monkey the first time was after I Got Dirt on her shirt and from then on it became her go-to insult after Carrie moved in with Greg our divorce was finalized I gave Jimmy a secret phone to

stay in touch even though there was a restraining order I violated it once at a barbecue when Greg made a crude remark about car's pregnancy and I kicked him luckily neighbors backed me up and I avoided arrest though the incident kept the restraining order in place a month after giving Jimmy the phone we texted daily keeping things casual never mentioning that I was his dad one night Jimmy called in a panic Greg had strike Carrie and pushed him without thinking I rushed to their house ignoring the restraining order I kicked in the door and saw

Greg going after Jimmy while Carrie struggled on the floor I shoved Greg outside knocking him down the steps Jimmy call emergency I shouted Carrie tried to talk to me but I cut her off telling her to focus on Jimmy as I walked away I remembered I wasn't supposed to be there but before I left I kicked Greg in the balls again something I was starting to enjoy Trey Jackson Greg's neighbor laughed as he watched me while his wife zeona went inside to help Carrie and Jimmy another neighbor kept an eye on Greg what happened Jim

Trey asked as I sat down on the grass a little ways from the house Jimmy called for help I said Greg strike Carrie and pushed him so I ran over damn we heard the screams but didn't know it was that bad it's all right I laughed didn't even get a chance to knock him just shoved him out the door we chuckled until the police and ambulance arrived Trey offered to explain everything to the cops reminding them I was staying clear due to the court order we all know you didn't deserve this Trey added thanks man

I said as the police questioned Trey the neighbors and a now awake Greg one officer cuffed Greg while another waved me over to talk are you Jim Spelman the officer asked yes sir I explained what happened while the ambulance left taking carry on a stretcher and Jimmy with a bandage on his forehead is my son okay I asked they check for a concussion but he seems all right the officer replied before continuing we might need to take you in for violating the restraining order I had to help Jimmy I said screw that order he stepped

away to check his radio then returned your ex-wife didn't want to address the order violation so you're free for now but it could change if Greg presses charges I went home hoping Jimmy was okay and briefly wondered if Carrie was too but I pushed that thought aside the next day I called my my lawyer who advised me to avoid contact with Carrie or Jimmy later my Mom confirmed they were fine Carrie had stayed in the hospital and Jimmy was with her parents a few days later my lawyer called to tell me Greg was denied bail

likely because Carrie was pregnant and Jimmy was hurt surprisingly car's lawyer filed to lift the protective order a court date was set and I couldn't wait to see Jimmy in the following weeks Carrie called me several times but I didn't answer to avoid jeopardizing the case on court day I cleaned up bought a new suit and shaved wanting to make a good impression the judge was thorough asking tough questions about why I could see Jimmy now but not before after everything was explained she rescinded the order as we left the courtroom Carrie approached me thank

you for coming that night if you hadn't I don't think the police would have made it in time Greg would have eliminated me I wouldn't let my son get hurt I said she began to cry it's all my fault he wouldn't have been hurt if it wasn't for me my lawyer approached congratulating me on being able to see Jimmy again walking out of the courthouse I felt like I was floating and then I heard Jimmy yell Daddy I turned around and Jimmy was already jumping out of car's dad's truck running into my arms I hugged

him tightly until he asked me to let him breathe Dan car's dad came over sorry I'm late traffic was bad he said no problem I'm just glad you brought him where's Carrie I asked she ran off after court I think she's gone Dan added why don't you take Jimmy for the day maybe we can have dinner and catch up I hesitated we don't have a visitation schedule yet and she might she doesn't mind I heard behind me I turned to see Carrie tears running down her face spend some time together she said softly he can

even stay the night if you want Jimmy eagerly asked may I Carrie nodded and I thanked her feeling a Pang of sympathy for her though I wasn't sure why despite everything part of still cared with Jimmy out of school for summer I took time off work to be with him Carrie had moved back in with her parents after leaving Greg one day when she went into labor I asked if Jimmy could stay with me longer her mom brought him over and later I got a call from Dan Jim she had a baby girl you should

come see her I don't care about her baby Dan shut up and come it's important he insisted reluctantly I took Jimmy to the hospital he wanted to buy a teddy bear for his new sister and I let him even though I was still bitter when we arrived Dan and Jane greeted us and I learned Carrie had named the baby Allison after my mom I walked down the hospital Hall and heard Carrie singing a lullabi she used to sing to Jimmy it hit me hard entering the room I was shocked to see the baby had bright

red hair just like mine Greg didn't have red hair but I did Carrie tearfully said I think I made a mistake Jim I couldn't deal with it and walked out back in the waiting area Jane said she's yours Jim you can see that prove it I replied Dan explained that's why you're here they've ordered a DNA test you just need to give a sample I shook my head it won't change anything she broke my heart 3 Days Later Jimmy asked can we visit Allison today I hesitated but he added you don't have to come just

drop me off at Grandpa's I agreed then he asked Allison has red hair does that mean she's your daughter I'll know soon I said the test results should come today or Monday Jimmy looked sad then asked if she's your daughter will you love her I love you and if she's mine I'll love her too he paused then asked what about mom will you love her I laughed pouring more coffee your mom will love Alison either way without thinking I said your mom hurt me Jimmy she caused the worst pain a wife can give a husband

she got pregnant and left me for someone else the love I had for her is gone Jimmy was quiet before admitting that wasn't the first time Greg hurt mom I was shocked what do you mean I've heard him slap her before and they yelled a lot he said voice trembling a tear rolled down his cheek I hugged him tightly I'm so sorry son I didn't know Mom told him he wasn't half the man you are Jimmy added I let go and we sat down she didn't want to be married to a mechanic anymore she wanted

more a bigger house fancy cars that's silly Jimmy said making me laugh yeah buddy adults make stupid choices sometimes he smirked don't forget your second win dad I raised an eyebrow what you'll figure it out he said running off to get dressed later we headed to car's parents house Jane answered the door holding baby Allison hey Jim any news from the doctor yet no I replied avoiding looking too closely at the baby Jimmy asked eagerly can I hold her grandma of course but sit down first babies are fragile Jane said smiling jimm excitement was obvious

Jane invited me in for coffee but I declined I didn't want to be around Carrie or the baby until I got the DNA results just then my phone rang it was the lab Mr Spelman we've confirmed a positive DNA match I hung up before they finished sitting on the porch swing I stared blankly Carrie had been pregnant with my child when she left me for Greg I felt like I couldn't breathe after a while Dan came over are you okay I'll never be okay I replied how could she do this to me I loved her

Dan sat beside me in silence eventually he asked was that the lab yes I said avoiding the truth I wasn't ready to admit I had a daughter Dan put a hand on my shoulder Jim it's obvious did you really need the test I snapped yes how could I trust that promiscuous you raised I regretted it immediately I'm sorry Dan I didn't mean it Dan sighed I know know you're hurting it broke my heart when you two broke up I love you like a son I Know Dan I'm just angry she was pregnant with my baby

when she left me for Greg I don't know what to do Dan hugged me call your parents they need to meet their granddaughter I will I said stepping back but I can't stay I can't face Carrie after what she's done Dan slapped me lightly that little girl has a father you don't forget that I nodded you're right I'm just in shock d and softened take your time but you'll have to face it eventually call your parents I called my mom hey mom can you and Dad come over for lunch turns out car's baby is your

granddaughter what we'll be right there after the call I asked Dan can I hold her Dan smiled of course I'll get her and Jimmy I sat back on the swing feeling anxious and ready to leave when Jane appeared carrying Allison she handed her to me and as soon as I held her my heart melted she was sound asleep Jimmy came running out excited isn't she pretty daddy she could be Batgirl for Halloween I laughed she sure could you could be Batman and she could be Batgirl or poison ivy Allison woke up crying and Jane stepped

forward looks like she's hungry Carrie appeared at the door I'll take her she's bosom feeding and I haven't pumped a bottle yet I kissed Allison's forehead and handed her over just as I was about to leave my parents arrived my mom rushed over Tears In Her Eyes she's Fe eating Jane said hugging her come meet her my dad chuckled your mom's been crying since we got off the phone with you Jim as they walked inside my dad asked well Jim do you think everything will work out I honestly don't know Dad back at home I

tried focusing on yard work but I couldn't stop thinking about Allison knowing she was mine changed everything I realized I needed to talk to my lawyer about visitation for both kids not just Jimmy I'd need to pay more child support but I didn't mind after mowing the lawn I went inside and started thinking about rech childproofing the house I'd saved the baby gates and cribed from when Jimmy was little it dawned on me that I might need a bigger house there wasn't room for Allison and Jimmy to share a space as I cleaned up I

was amazed at how messy the house had gotten since Jimmy had returned but cleaning felt good I had just settled on the patio with a beer when I heard my dad and Dan coming around the corner want a beer I asked handing them bottles dad laughed where not here for a heavy conversation are we something like that I muttered Dan said Jim you've been through a lot you've gone from being separated from Jimmy to finding out you're a father of two most men wouldn't handle it as well as you have my dad got serious Jim

you're going to be this little girl's father no matter what I nodded but I could tell he was building up to something have you thought about your relationship with Carrie he asked I laughed loud and bitter there is no relationship Dad she left me for Greg you think I'm just going to take her back like nothing happened are you out of your mind Jim it's not that simple Dan said trying to defend his daughter not a chance Dan I snapped she thought Allison was Gregs and that's why she went to him Dan took a deep

breath she didn't know Jim if she had known are you serious I yelled how could she even let there be a question of whose child it was she cheated on me broke my heart and threw it all away just because Alice in his mind doesn't change that we understand you're angry my dad said gently you don't understand anything I shot back she wanted the lifestyle Greg offered the fancy car the vacations she made her choice now she can't just come crawling back because things didn't work out with him I stormed into the house locking the

door behind me I hated yelling at Dan and my dad but I couldn't take it anymore the conversation was over time passed without any word from Carrie or her parents it was almost lunchtime and I debated whether to call or just pick up Jimmy I didn't feel like going there especially not to face Carrie then a text from Jane came through we're taking Jimmy to Red Robin for dinner you can join us and take him home from there I figured Carrie and the baby wouldn't be there who takes a newborn out to dinner so I

decided to go Jimmy would help keep things light when I arrived they were enjoying a tower of onion rings which made me smile Jimmy always insisted on onion rings when we went out as a family hey hey guys I greeted sitting down dinner went smoothly until after we ate dad Jimmy said we need a bigger house I laughed I agree you and your sister won't be able to share a room when you visit no I mean so Mom and Allison can live with us again I don't want to go back to gregk house you're not

going back there I assured him gregk going to jail Jimmy grinned thank God I miss my old room Dan frowned Jimmy your mom Allison and you will stay with us for now and she'll find a new place soon Jimmy wasn't satisfied I want to stay with Dad why can't I I tried to stay calm it's complicated the judge gave custody to your mom I'm lucky she's letting you stay with me these last few days that's not fair Jimmy cried why do I have to suffer I glanced at Dan and Jane but they avoided my eyes

Jimmy it's not fair to me either I said quietly one day I had a family and the next I lost it all your mom told me she was pregnant with Greg's baby and it broke me she made a mistake Dad she deserves a second chance I shook my head Jimmy that song isn't about giving second chances it's about not giving up and this is different you're giving up Jimmy yelled you're not even trying I took his hand son I loved your mom but she made her choice and I can't take her back Dan stepped in

I think we should call it a day it's been long for everyone I agreed and we left the restaurant the ride home was quiet but I could tell Jimmy was still upset he longed for our family to be together again and we had this conversation almost daily his tone softened over time but the sadness never left his eyes 10 days after Allison was born Carrie showed up at my door hi Jim can I come in she asked I called for Jimmy who ran in and hugged her hi Mom where's Allison she's with Grandma and Grandpa

Spelman she smiled oh good he ran off leaving us alone are you here to take him home I asked bracing for it no Jim I'm here to talk I frowned but led her to the living room can I get you something to drink I offered awkwardly no thanks she replied sitting down I never got to talk to you before the divorce because of that restraining order I snapped the one Greg pushed for she looked down that was Greg's idea he wanted revenge for what for Me Knocking him up after he took my family I asked

anger Rising I I know she whispered and you didn't need to bring him to that barbecue I added maybe not she admitted but you didn't need to kick him either I only kicked him after he called me a slit in front of Jimmy I said you knew I'd be there Carrie you knew Carrie looked away guilt in her eyes you know Greg was in bad shape after that you probably heard him more than you realize I couldn't help but laugh hard the idea that I hurt Greg more than he hurt me by taking my wife

and ruining my life was absurd once I calmed down I asked just get to the point Carrie what do you want she sighed I I never sto loving you Jim I froze what I was stupid I made a mistake with Greg I convinced myself I had to be with him because I thought the baby was his I didn't even consider that Allison could be yours she said wiping a tear so you just left me without even talking to me I asked she nodded I thought it was the only option Greg convinced me we'd be good

together I didn't realize how wrong I was until it was too late I paced you threw everything away Carrie we had a family we were happy I know she whispered voice breaking I messed up you did more than mess up you took my son slapped a restraining order on me and now you want a second chance she started crying again I'm sorry Jim I know I don't deserve it but I'm asking for another chance for Allison and Jimmy I shook my head Carrie we can't just go back to how were you broke my heart we

can be friends but I can't take you back she nodded sadly I understand I'm sorry for everything Jim she left with Jimmy that night I sat by the window reflecting on how my life had turned upside down I should have been content with having Jimmy back but things were more complicated now with Allison I loved her the moment I saw her but Carrie asking for a second chance threw everything into chaos my lawyer had already drawn up a visitation schedule and new child support agreement for for both kids but I worried Carrie might not cooperate

her request for a second chance was the only leverage I had and I had just shut it down later Jimmy came home and asked if he could stay with me instead of going back to his grandparents I explained that the custody Arrangement gave him to his mom and there was nothing I could do what about Allison he asked wek sort that out soon I want to see her as much as I can just like I missed you Jimmy then shifted to dinner asking for pizza he even suggested taking Carrie and Allison along but I shook

my head I know what you're trying to do Jimmy it's not going to happen mom and I will never be together again he Shrugged and ran off later I took him to Dan's house and asked to see Allison Dan led me to the room where Carrie was rocking the baby I whispered that I just wanted to see her for a moment Carrie replied coldly take a good look because soon you won't see her again what I asked alarmed it's simple she said if you don't give me a second chance I'll fight to make sure you

never see Allison or Jimmy again just as I was about to yell Dan placed a hand on my shoulder don't say anything you'll regret or she can use against you I'm a witness here and I won't let her do this I'll find the best father's rights attorney and we'll fight her all the way Carrie stood up Furious if you keep getting in the way of my family I'll cut you out of my life and you'll never see your grandkids again Jane stormed in livid I heard everything on the baby monitor Carrie you can't blackmail Jim

into take you back don't start a fight you've already lost Dan suggested moving the discussion to the kitchen sensing I was about to explode they left giving me a moment alone with Allison as I held her tiny hand I almost cried unable to imagine life without her in the kitchen I overheard Dan and Jane scolding Carrie Dan reassured me you're not alone Jim we'll fight this I turned to Carrie you made your choice you divorced me you have to live with that tearing up she said I made a mistake we can rebuild our family if

you forgive me Carrie the mistake was your Affair that led to our divorce she snapped if you hadn't been working so much and ignoring me I wouldn't have ended up with Greg you barely spent time with me I was stunned instead of talking to me you ran to the guy next door you left me thinking the baby was his she turned away but I pressed on you took my son filed a restraining order because Greg told you to and now you want to take my daughter too we need to get along for the kids but

I can't take you back Carrie broke down and Jane comforted her I waved goodbye feeling exhausted I hoped Carrie would do the right thing but I knew I needed to call my lawyer on Monday I cracked open a beer and realized it was time to move on it was clear I wasn't going to get back with Carrie blackmail or not I needed to get back into dating having not dated in over a decade I knew it would be a challenge but I decided to go for it after showering and ordering an Uber I stared at

my outd dated wardrobe I called my sister who had always helped me pick out clothes before Carrie came along I threw on some khaki shorts and a golf shirt ironically an outfit Carrie had bought for me looking in the mirror I realized I was in good shape had a full head of hair and my stubble gave me a rugged look with a stable job and money in the bank I felt like a good catch I decided to head to a local sports bar figuring it was a safer bet than a club at the bar I

ran into some old friends Jack Allen and Chris holy crap Jack shouted as he saw me drawing attention we hugged and I felt a sense of camaraderie I had missed marriage and kids had made it hard to stay close with these single guys but now things had changed what's up guys I asked signaling the waitress for a drink same old Chris said heard you got divorced Jim I nodded as the waitress brought my glass yeah she tried to switch things up and leave me but now she wants me back they all laughed and Jack said

so you're out here looking for a replacement before she hooks you again smart move I chuckled no I'm not going back but I figure it's time to get out again Allan smirked MADD single now Steve cheated and she kicked him out last year no way I said surprised Matty Ross was one of the high school eight girls everyone had a crush on she's here Jack said nodding toward the bar she's playing trivia with Heather Scott I spotted her still gorgeous black hair framing her face perfectly I thought about going over to say hello but wasn't

sure what to say Jack must have sensed my hesitation letun go play trivia and grab a table near them he suggested and before I knew it we were sitting close by I ordered a pcture for their table the waitress smirked and said good luck making everyone laugh at my attempt to impress I watched as the waitress delivered the drinks Maddie smiled politely while Heather whispered something to her the GU started pushing me to go talk to them nervously I stood up and made my way over sweating and feeling like a teenager again Heather saved me

from saying something dumb Jim Spelman if you buy drinks you should deliver them yourself she teased I smiled sheepishly I wasn't sure you'd remember me of course we remember you Heather said laughing I thought you were married I raised my left hand divorced 6 months ago sorry to hear that Heather said while Maddie straightened up a bit I noticed Heather's ring you're married yep 5 years now I married Kevin Carlson and we have twin girls I've got a 10-year-old son and a newborn daughter I replied a newborn Maddie asked surprised yeah she was pregnant with

my child when she left me for someone else Maddie looked stunned while Heather said that's quite a story I smiled maybe one for another time trivia starting right Maddie nodded we never miss it want to join us I hesitated I came with some friends but I'll check in on them as I walked back to my table Jack joked go get it tiger making everyone laugh I glanced back at Maddie and Heather who seemed to be arguing taking a chance I returned and sat down miss me I asked making them both smile we counting on you

not to choke Maddie teased I'll do my best I replied hours later we were two points ahead of another team the host asked the final question this 1977 album contains the hits She's Always a Woman and just the way you are I laughed while the ladies looked confused I scribbled The Stranger on a slip of paper and handed to the host feeling confident I winked at the professors on my way back that was the easiest question all night I said sipping my beer maybe for you Maddie replied shaking her head I don't even know those

songs Heather laughed at least I know they're Billy Joel songs one of my favorite albums actually when the host announced we won we all cheered celebrating our grand prize a $1.5 bar gift certificate I let the ladies take it for their tab time for me to turn into a pumpkin Maddie said said smiling babysitters calling I stood up and asked can I walk you out both smiled and said please as we walked Maddie took my hand and her eyes sparkled I felt on top of the world at the car I kissed her hand and asked

can I get your number it' be my pleasure she said entering her number into my phone we made plans for dinner on Saturday and trivia afterward Heather laughed I'm still coming we all laughed and I kissed Maddie on the cheek before saying good night Monday morning I called my lawyer to inform him of car's threats he reassured me don't worry her lawyer faxed over the signed agreement joint custody is set congratulations that evening I was surprised to find Carrie sitting on the steps with Jimmy and Allison what's this about I asked noticing the casserole dish

I brought dinner to help with Jimmy she said tuna casserole your favorite I smiled cautiously I've missed this I can never make it the same she sighed I should have called to offer oh wait I guess you couldn't have called me after dinner Carrie sent Jimmy to his room and handed Allison to me as I held her I marveled at how much I'd missed Carrie looked hesitant I agreed to the visitation and child support she said quietly and what about you'll never see your kids again I asked recalling her earlier threat I overreacted she admitted

I was desperate to get you back I sighed I wish you treated me this way before you left now it feels like you don't want me you need me I can't trust you anymore tears wed in her eyes but I continued letun at least stay friends for Jimmy's sake he doesn't understand what happened you cheated on me left me and got a restraining order because your lover told you to I was never a danger to you or Jimmy Jim I don't apologize Carrie you didn't give me a chance to fix things you just fell for

HIM Tears streamed down her face as she sat there in silence Allison stirred briefly and I gently rocked her back to sleep Carrie you had a choice him or me you chose him you'll never convince me you weren't trying to change your life I can't believe that I'm sorry she whispered I'm sorry for everything you'll never know how sorry I am can we at least try to make it work for the kids I leaned back relieved Allison was finally asleep in my arms we can be friends Carrie but I'm never taking you back she nodded

her eyes still wet with tears I know after Carrie and the kids left I texted Maddie hi just didn't want you to forget about me looking forward to Saturday when she didn't reply right away I found myself pacing around the house checking my phone every few seconds I started worrying I texted her too soon dating again felt new and I wasn't sure of the rules should I have waited longer what if she didn't respond was it a bad sign she hadn't introduced me to her kids yet my m raced with questions and we hadn't even

had our first date yet 10 long minutes later my phone finally rang a wave of relief washed over me when I saw it was Maddie hi Maddie hi handsome she said teasingly I don't really like texting I prefer talking oh sorry about that what are you up to she asked just giving my baby girl a bath the youngest one I knew you had an older child but I didn't know about the little one yeah I've got two Jimmy's 10 and Allison's a newborn three kids won't scare you right she asked with a hint of concern

I laughed no I love kids you know I've got two of my own yeah our older ones go to school together really that's awesome I don't remember seeing you at any events I had a terrible schedule before working second shift at the hospital I just switched to first shift recently huh yeah I remember you mentioning you're a CNA yes that's part of what ruined my marriage she sighed well actually my cheating ex-husband did but he blamed it on my job sorry to hear that sounds a bit like what my wife used to say how I

work too much was too tired the usual we both laughed for a moment that's all crap Maddie said they cheat and then they blame everything but themselves she continued they justify it and hurt everyone around them you know how many chances I had to cheat but didn't I couldn't do that to my partner but cheaters they don't care yeah I sigh Carrie still tries to win me back I've got her my son and even her parents turning on me I think they finally see I'm the sufferer here we are the sufferers Jim you haven't done

therapy yet have you no I admitted have you yeah it helped a lot I'll give you my therapist's name he helped me move past the wow that's me FaZe you're still in it you're way ahead of me at least youve realized you need to move on for so long I just stayed home feeling trapped until I finally realized I had to start living again for the kids and for myself well she said her tone softening we make a good match I laughed that's for sure I've been looking forward to Saturday ever since you kissed me

on the cheek oh shoot Maddie said suddenly her tone shifting I have to go something's wrong with my three-year-old she's crying no problem talk soon I said smiling as I hung up I sat down feeling hopeful Saturday couldn't come fast enough when Saturday morning finally came I called my sister hey Jim she answered cheerfully Jenny do you have time to go shopping with me this morning I need to update my wardrobe oh my God you have a date don't you she teased laughing I chuckled yeah I'm going out with Maddie Clark tonight Maddie Ross wow

she's beautiful I heard Steve really messed her up when he cheated called her a witch that's not true is it don't be stupid big brother she said still laughing of course I'm free all day let's do lunch at the mall and then shop sound good sounds great let's meet at Red Robin at noon I suggested as we sat down at the restaurant Jenny eyed me curiously so mom is thrilled to be a grandmother again she's crazy about Allison she visits her at Jane's all the time car's dropped her off at her mom's a few times

too and how are you handling all this she asked her tone softening better car's finally stopped fighting and I'm really enjoying my time with the kids Jenny nodded as we ordered so you're moving on with Maddie she's always been pretty but not stuck up like some of the other popular girls from high school I think you two will be great together I smiled it's funny I went out last week just to see how it felt to be on my own again I didn't expect to meet someone that night it's almost overwhelming I really thought she'd

blow me off Jenny smirked just be yourself Jim if you try too hard or fake anything she'll pick up on it and you'll blow it you're a good guy just use that thanks Jenny I guess I'm nervous nous because I feel out of practice what do people even do on dates now she laughed Jim Maddy's our age not in her 20s just do what you do with Carrie dinner a movie maybe a bar with dancing something lowkey she'll enjoy that you're right I agreed maybe I'm not as clueless as I thought Jenny grinned oh you're

still clueless but not completely hopeless we both laughed and I shook my head as we kept chatting that evening I walked up Matty's driveway a boy was playing basketball and tossed the ball my way when he saw me I had to drop the flowers I was holding to catch it which made him laugh I guess you're not into flowers I joked the boy chuckled are they broken mom loves flowers roses are tough I assured him you're lucky I'm Jim by the way hi I'm David don't tell Mom I made you drop the flowers I won't

I said smiling thanks for the heads up David grinned and waved me in come on I'll tell her you're here as I stepped inside I saw the living room set up for a sleepover pillows and blankets everywhere and DVDs by the TV David ran upstairs and a three-year-old peaked around the corner with a sippy cup she froze when she saw me screamed and ran to the stairs David came back down scooping her up sorry he said Softly She doesn't like strangers you scared her I waved it off no worries my daughter's the same way at

that moment Maddie came down the stairs looking stunning in a long shirt and loose blouse she took the little girl from David and smiled at me this is David she said he goes to school with your son Jimmy Jimmy Spelman David asked cool he ran off excited by the connection Maddie touched her middle child's head this is Samantha but everyone calls her Samy nice to meet you Sammy I said smiling and this little one Maddie continued nodding to the shy girl in her arms is Bella she'll need some time to warm up shek not a

fan of new people as you can tell I wiggled my fingers at Bella but she buried her face in mti's chest still wary my mom's running a bit late Maddie explained she's staying over tonight so we'll have the evening to ourselves I nodded wondering if that meant I wouldn't be going home alone no rush we've got time want a beer while we wait or maybe a glass of wine a beer sounds good thanks Maddie said setting Bella down the little girl quickly ran upstairs to join her siblings you've got got a lovely family I said

handing her the beer thanks they're a handful but they're good kids she replied sitting on the couch I glanced around the room and pulled a pillow closer one thing I've learned about having kids is no matter how clean you try to keep the house someone's always making a mess Maddie laughed you've got that right so you and Steve got married huh that wasn't a surprise you two were inseparable in high school she chuckled we weren't together out of love we were part of a friend group and everyone paired off we just happened to last until

graduation then when I got pregnant with David we did what was considered the right thing and got married it wasn't a rifle wedding but we were never in love it was doomed from the start I nodded sipping my beer before I could respond Maddie checked her watch we should probably head out soon I don't want to be late for our reservation I smiled don't worry we've got plenty of time she laughed softly Jim you don't need to be nervous I've been looking forward to this all week she gave me that bright smile again the one

that made her eyes sparkle and my heart raced me too I admitted honestly I thought you might change your mind not a chance she replied unless you've turned into an idiot since high school I wasn't going to pass this up I laughed relieved I'm glad you didn't just then the front door opened and Maddy's mom walked in sorry I'm late she called out smiling as she entered no worries mom Maddie replied standing up Mom this is Jim Spelman we went to school together her mom smiled warmly at me nice to meet you Jim take care

of my favorite daughter or I'll come find you I chuckled I thought it was the dad's job to threaten me her smile faltered my John passed away last year I'm really sorry to hear that I said softly she waved her hand dismissively don't worry about it just have a good time tonight though not too good she added with a wink making us both laugh Maddie kissed her kids goodbye and we headed out as we left mty's Mom chuckled from the doorway when we arrived at the steakhous Maddie and I settled at a table by the

window it seemed perfect for a casual yet meaningful evening but just as we got comfortable something unexpected happened two tables over sat Dan and Jane my ex-in-laws the sight of them made my stomach drop I wanted to bolt but Maddie noticed my unease and asked what's wrong Jim I sigh and motioned for her to sit my in-laws are here two tables over I said quietly she glanced back and as soon as she did they spotted us I braced myself for an awkward encounter but I didn't need to worry they both smiled and walked over to

our table hey Jim Dan said clapping me on the back good to see you out and about who's the hottie he asked grinning as Jane held his hand I smiled awkwardly hi guys this is Maddie my date Maddie these are my in-laws Dan and Jane Jane smiled warmly at Maddie Maddy he's a keeper don't let him go like my foolish daughter did Maddie looked startled wide-eyed like a deer in head headlights uh okay I don't really know what to say she stammered clearly taken a back Dan laughed don't say anything just enjoy your night after

they left MD let out of breath she didn't realize she was holding well that was something she said half laughing half surprised yeah they're good people I said relaxing when Carrie tried to scare me into thinking she'd take the kids if I didn't take her back they set her straight Maddie raised an eyebrow do you really think it was a bluff not entirely sure I admitted I think it crossed her mind and she said it out of desperation but I'm not dwelling on it she signed the custody papers and that's what matters Maddie squeezed my

hand gently good don't forget what she put you through but for the kids sake get along they'll sense tension if there's any but never fully trust her I nodded appreciating her advice when the waitress came over I decided to do something kind can you send a couple of desserts to that table I asked gesturing toward Dan and Jane the waitress smiled jotting it down Maddie grinned at me clearly impressed we continued our dinner swapping stories and laughing and afterward we headed to the bar for trivia night when we walked in Heather was already holding a

table and Jack and the guys were there too giving me thumbs ups when they saw Maddie laughing I couldn't help but feel proud to be with her her laugh was infectious so where did you two go for dinner Heather asked curiously to the Chop House Maddie said you won't believe it but his ex-in-laws were there and came over to our table Heather's eyes widened oh no what did you do nothing Maddie laughed they were actually really nice they told me not to lose him like their daughter did WOW Heather said shaking her head first date

of the Year Jim you ready to defend our title you bet I said confidently glancing at the elderly professors from last week one of them nodded and the other mimed a throat slash as if to say I was going down I smirked always loving a bit of friendly Trash Talk well we got lucky with that Billy Joel question last week mdty teased nudging me no worries ladies we've got this and we did by the last question we had a solid 10-point lead the host tried to throw us off with a 12-point final question but it

was about a country singer Heather loved she nailed it securing another win for us after trivia we walked Heather to her car Maddie and I wrapped in each other's arms she felt so in my arms and I didn't want to let her go it was a perfect night and I hoped there'd be more to come good night guys Heather said giving Maddie a hug and surprising me with one too drive safe sweetie Maddie called after her as she pulled away Maddie turned to me her eyes sparkling again it's still early she said playfully you got

two options take me home and we can talk or we can go to your place and have a little more fun I wasn't about to mess this up I took her to my place once inside side I offered her a drink want some wine I've got red white or beer white wine would be great she said settling on the couch and slipping off her shoes I grabbed the bottle of Peno ggio i' bought earlier hoping for this exact moment here you go mads my favorite wine for my favorite girl mads she asked with a smirk

what too soon for a nickname she laughed clearly Charmed no not too soon my dad used to call me mads oh I said feeling a little awkward I didn't mean to stop she said smiling warmly it's fine my dad would have liked you I smiled sitting next to her and slipping my arm around her shoulders and what I hoped was a smooth move Nice Try Ace she teased laughing again don't overdo it I've waited a long time to find someone like you and now that I have I'm looking forward to dessert we kissed but nothing

more happened that night we waited until the third date to take things to the next level after a romantic dinner at a fancy place she'd picked back at my house I poured her another glass of wine and we sat on the couch talking and laughing like old friends later that night she leaned in close and whispered Jim show me your bedroom as we headed to the bedroom memories of the past year flooded my mind the affair the divorce losing and regaining my son Allison's birth now I had Maddie too I knew I wouldn't let her

go we were two broken Souls healing together it was too soon to think about the long term but I was certain I wouldn't make the same mistakes Maddie and my kids would come first from now on work would follow as I drifted off to sleep content and at peace I could have sworn I heard her whisper I love you too [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]