I Opened My Marriage To Legally Cheat On My Husband But He Threw Me Out On The Curb. Sad Audio Story

[Music] when you're in love with a beautiful woman it's tough everyone wants her and admires her it might just be an ego issue but I've been betrayed before by unreliable friends and half-hearted lovers each time it happens it convinces me more when you're in love with a beautiful woman you notice every glance she makes ironically this '70s song played on an obscure FM station is I drove from Denver to Santa Fe I didn't know anyone in Santa Fe most of my friends and family are in Denver where I have season tickets to the Colorado Avalanche

no one plays hockey in Santa Fe and my company has six offices in Denver I'm in the investment business and our new Santa Fe office will be in an apartment near Presbyterian Medical Center another irony I grew up Methodist I should start from the beginning my name is Thomas Rexford but friends call me jaxi while my friends were at Northwestern I spent 3 years in the Lumber business yes I became a lumberjack hence the nickname I still have my gear and my Harley-Davidson a 2005 Softtail standard Fest in perfect condition my ex-wife and I used

to ride it often but those days are over I grew up in the Denver area and except for my logging days I've never left after Oregon I worked for my Uncle Mike who owned an investment company he got me into the University of Denver for a finance degree 12 years ago Uncle Mike retired and sold me the business we had four stores and I opened two more increasing our staff from 26 to 31 even in tough times we cared for our customers and stayed strong I mentioned my ex-wife so here's more about her I knew

Jessica Remington in high school but we ran in different circles I played hockey she played soccer and was an honor student our paths rarely crossed I wasn't ugly just a bit Gruff with long brown hair hockey guys have a unique way of talking often saying damn in sentences hockey players are a tight-knit group and our parents usually hang out together too we felt like Outsiders thinking people didn't care about us that's why Jessica and I were just acquaintances in high school Jessica or Jess is stunning with deep red hair a li build and Blazing Green

Eyes she turns heads her maternal grandmother came from Ireland in the ' 50s she could get any guy she wanted but never dated the star athletes because they were often idiots she hung out with a small group of friends and occasionally dated popular guys we met 3 years after I returned to Denver from the Northwest I had gained some muscle from logging I was playing in a men's hockey league when she walked in her friend Trisha dating our goalie Mike had been bitten by the hockey bug hockey players often add an EI I or XY

to names hence tuni for Mike jaxi look at the bleachers is that Jessica Remington Beamer pointed out looks like it I replied I can't believe she's near the rink she's with Trisha tun's girlfriend must have brought her being a typical American kid I tried to catch her attention during the game scoring two goals and an assist afterward as we were leaving the warm-up area I passed her Hey Thomas great game aren't you going to say hi to an old school friend sorry Jessica I didn't realize we were friends in high school it's good to see

you I stopped put my bag down and offered a handshake I'm a hockey player not great at socializing she smiled and took my hand maybe if you stepped away from the rink you'd notice I thought you were a nice guy what is that awful smell sorry hockey bags have a unique odor I'll throw them in the Jeep so you won't have to be near them I'll see you later she looked a bit hurt but I didn't know why we barely knew each other and I was polite Beamer ran after me as I got into my

restored 2005 red Jeep Wrangler Rubicon hey jaxi are you going to oconnell for a beer Jessica's coming she wondered if turning into a hottie made her a snob you might have a chance bro don't mess it up as my grandpa Mitchell used to say I may be ugly but I'm not stupid so I agreed to meet at oconnell I arrived first got a Coors and sat down when she arrived she came straight to me listen jaxi is that what they call you sorry if I pushed you away but your bag stinks still I'd like to

socialize without the bag and catchup sure Jess I'd love to hear what's going on in your life for the next two hours it felt like just the two of us I bought her a beer and she bought me two we talked about the past few years she went to UCLA for marine biology worked at the Southern California Marine Institute learned to Surf but returned to Denver her Mountain Home she's now pursuing a teaching certificate to teach middle school math she was intrigued by my logging experience and liked my Jeep she even enjoyed the hockey lingo

I explained to her hey Jacker can you get me a beer it's jaxi not Jacker I corrected pointing to our server since you avoided me at the rink I thought Jacker was fitting she said with a Sly smile letun have some fun I managed to say she winked maybe before we left we hugged and she gave me her number call me I'd like to ride Greta if you'll take me it's on my wish list I waited 2 days to call her not wanting to seem desperate hey Jess it's Thomas want to ride with me this

Saturday there's a music festival in Leadville screw you jaxie I have my own plans and can't drop them for a hockey player confused I whispered sorry Jess maybe next weekend screw you again jaxi I'd love to join you what time how about 9:00 a.m. I'll be ready she said then added hey wait I don't know where you live figure it out Jacker she said hanging up it's jaxi I muttered I called tumor who got Jess's address from Trisha Saturday morning I knocked on her apartment door in Golden at 9:00 a.m. sharp she opened the door

wearing shorts a white tank top a red and white plaid shirt and black cowboy boots a UCLA sweatshirt was tied around her waist she smiled at my reaction I take it I pass the test she purred yes you did I gave her my spare helmet and we hit the road the ride to Leadville was was great Colorado summers are warm but cool in the mountains we stopped to put on warmer clothes once we entered the Foothills she wore her sweatshirt and I dawned my black biker jacket if we do this again I'll dress like a

biker girl she said poking me Leadville was amazing we enjoyed live bands ate delicious tacos and talked for hours everything went smoothly except for the guys ogling her some were discreet While others nudged their girlfriends or wives it bothered me that she seemed to encourage it with smiles and winks despite this I enjoyed our time together when I dropped her off around midnight we talked at her door and she gave me a friendly kiss thanking me for the fun day I really enjoyed today Thomas Greta was great and I hope you'll call me soon thanks

for not bringing your hockey bag she explained that she wanted to call me Thomas unlike everyone else who called me Jack or Jackie that day began two months of casual dating leading to us becoming exclusive we texted and talked daily she earned her teaching certificate and got a job at a local middle school after another four months we introduced each other to our families I met her two younger sisters Meg and Beth her grandmothers and her grandfather she met my parents my brother Mikey Uncle Mike and my grandparents after several family gatherings including Thanksgiving and

Christmas I decided to assess our relationship and called a war council with Dad Mikey and Grandpa Rexford we met on my porch in early January gathered around a table with a fire blazing and a bottle of 15-year-old Glenn livet well guys here's the deal I began I've been dating Jess for almost 6 months four of them exclusively I have feelings for her and before I take any steps I want to know what you think I need the plain truth from each of you starting with the youngest grandpa I want you to listen and challenge their

opinions if needed everyone nodded okay Mikey give it to me Mikey 20 months younger than me always looked up to me as kids but he was smart he just finished his Masters in applied math he loved figuring things out always wanting to improve them 2 years after I returned from logging Mikey a senior at the University of Colorado Boulder borrowed my bike for a week he spent most of the time taking it apart and putting it back together making improvements to the fuel system when I got it back it ran better than before jaxi If

This Were math I'd talk about hydrodynamic factors but I'll keep it simple Jess seems great she has a good teaching job cares about you and doesn't take herself too seriously she doesn't have a long list of ex-boyfriends which is a good sign you both show real affection including respect physical touch good communication and realistic conflict resolution however you'll need to be on guard because she's very attractive and other guys will notice my main concern is the short time you've been together I'd suggest waiting at least six more months before making a long-term commitment you're both

27 so there's no rush dad then spoke you're smart and mature with great business sense you've handled your person personal life wisely avoiding trouble I think you'd make a great husband Jessica seems wonderful and I agree with Michael's caution your mom and I dated from 16 to 23 with some breakups that helped us know what we wanted a little more time in courtship wouldn't hurt he then looked at Grandpa Rexford our Elder Statesman Grandpa leaned back in his chair sipped his whiskey and gazed at the mountains thoughtfully after a moment he looked me in the

eye and said beauty is skin deep but ugliness goes to the Bone then he took another sip staring at the hills again it was mysterious and I was about to ask for his thoughts when my dad's look told me to be patient Grandpa continued Thomas Jessica is a sweet girl with stunning looks I've seen you two together and I can tell you're in love she has good qualities but she also seems to Crave attention she always needs to be the center of everything which makes her seem immature and narcissistic she can't stay quiet and needs

constant engagement likely because she wasn't disciplined as a child your dad grew up in the' 70s always devoted to rock and roll music I never understood it until one day in 79 I heard the lyrics to a song he was playing it was Bob Seager and the song was Hollywood Nights dad interrupted Bob Seager Dad the song Hollywood Nights yeah that's right the song is about a young guy heartbroken by a beauty queen there's a line she was born with a face that allowed her to get what she wanted he saw that face and lost

control I thought a song that makes sense my point Thomas is that Jessica can get anything because of her looks she knows it even if she doesn't always use it this is the potentially ugly part of your relationship will she flirt with other men after marriage just because she can even if she's faithful won't men still come on to her how much time will you spend worrying will she respect you enough to stop I don't know my advice is more specific I like the slower approach but add one element ask your uncle for a six-month

vac go back to Oregon and work in Timber but take Jess be alone where she knows no one and try to settle in she can substitute teach so her career isn't on hold Mike won't like losing you but I'll talk to him take long walks and talk about everything life work Faith kids fears hopes and dreams see if you have enough in common if she refuses it's a sign to slow down if she agrees even nervously you have a good foundation your dad and Mikey are right she's the kind of woman who can get anything

and anyone so deal with that now if she's ugly inside better to know now than in 5 years with kids in disaster great advice from three smart guys who loved me we spent the rest of the evening watching the AVS destroy Vancouver occasionally discussing Jessica I slept on it and decided to compromise I didn't want to go back to the Northwest but needed more alone time with her I decided not to propose for at least 4 months there's no point in asking for advice if you won't take it only a fool ignores wise counsel and

I believed I had taken the best of what was offered 2 weeks later I took Jess out to our favorite local pub in Golden for Burgers and Beer it was a relaxed place and my hockey buddy Richie who owned it seated Us in the back for some privacy so are we just casual today Thomas or do we have an agenda she asked looking gorgeous and as intuitive as ever somewhere in the middle I said I've never seriously dated anyone before but I've fallen in love with you I don't know the best steps forward but I

want to move toward a long-term relationship if you agree I have some ideas to discuss as a starting point Thomas I'm flattered you just made a lot of sense without saying damn I've been thinking about this too I'm scared because I'm falling in love with you and I've never been in such a serious relationship so what's your plan for the next 20 minutes I shared my thoughts seeing only each other for at least four more months spending more weekends alone together and having at least two evenings a week to talk about important topics I suggested

inviting older couples we respect for advice and making sure we are compatible in all aspects she teased me about the last part and I joked back earning a playful punch in the arm want to come handsome she asked flashing her intense green eyes at me I agree with your ideas and I can teach you a few things she said with a grin let me get the check and we can start the lesson right now I offered how about we start with the first lesson right here she said as we finished our beers we rode back

to my apartment on Greta as I unlocked the door Jess whis whispered I'm not sure I should be alone with a hockey player I might get taken advantage of in one smooth motion I opened the door and said no way girl I led her to the bedroom and an hour later we fell asleep in each other's arms my last thought was how amazing it all felt four months of investing in our relationship went almost smoothly I say almost because there was a flaw I should have noticed about 3 months in we went to a local

pub with live bands we had a few drinks and Jess was teaching me how to dance we were having a blast when I went to the men's room for a couple of minutes I returned to find Jess talking to a guy who looked familiar but wasn't a friend he stood too close and Jess wasn't keeping her distance remembering my friend's warnings I stayed calm and ordered more beers while watching them Jess was clearly flirting giggling and touching his forearm she didn't seem to miss me at all when Jess saw me there was a brief look

of guilt then she smiled and said Thomas you remember Wayne from high school Wayne smirked slightly and extended his hand Hey Thomas good to see you it's been about 10 years you look great I shook his hand and said hello a couple of things stood out he called me Thomas not jaxi or Rexy meaning he wasn't a hockey buddy Jess knew she had crossed the line now it was a matter of how she would react she missed her first chance Wayne why don't you join us are you here with someone thanks I will no just

here with some buddies no one I can't ditch for old friends I can't believe you're Soo there are plenty of ladies who should notice you Jess said she kept chatting with Wayne never involving me or thanking me for the beer why don't you spin me around on the Dance Floor she suggested to Wayne strike three she didn't ask if I was okay or even look at me until she led Wayne to the dance floor be back in a while babe don't flirt while I'm gone Wayne looked nervous he was taller than me but seemed like

a cleancut rich boy who'd never been in a fight I'd had a few skirmishes in high school in Oregon truthfully I got my back kick the first week in the log industry for being rude to a redneck he punched me up but later we shook hands and he took me under his wing since then I've learned to keep my temper in check Wayne didn't attend our school but he knew I did by the look in his eyes do you mind if I dance with Jess he asked of course he doesn't Jessica answered for me leaving

no room for objection there's no fourth strike in baseball Wayne avoided a punching by at least trying to ask honoring the unspoken male code Jessica however was in for a rude awakening when they returned I was gone I had a lovely moonlit ride home on Greta to cool down Jess and I didn't live together call me old school but I believe it's disrespectful for a man to ask a woman to live with him without a ring it makes it too easy for a guy to take advantage and walk away the ride home took 20 minutes

and another 20 passed before Jess's calls started coming in Thomas where are you I can't find you at home why did you leave without picking me up you looked like you were having too much fun with with Wayne come back and get me now you idiot you're embarrassing me good night Jess I'm sure you'll make it home she called again before I could turn off my phone but I ignored it I wanted a good night's sleep before the storm that would erupt in the morning at 7:30 a.m. while drinking my second cup of coffee Jess

burst in with her green eyes blazing we didn't live together but she had a key you son of a cow Thomas how dare you leave me like that are you such a little boy that you ran away because you were hurt explain yourself right now if you want me to stay her nostrils flared and her face was red with anger if I hadn't been a lumberjack I might have been scared would you like to sit down and have a cup of coffee Jessica no screw it I don't want to sit and drink coffee with a

juvenile like you I kept my tone calm which might have made her angrier but I wasn't about to argue with an irritated Irish girl okay suit yourself let me be blunt Jess I love you deeply and want us to be together but I won't tolerate disrespect what you did last night was unforgivable we're not just dating we're committed to each other we agreed to deepen our relationship intentionally Wayne was in your personal space and you were open to him you didn't ask if he was welcome at our table you invited him without consulting me you

flirted with him told him other women should notice him and asked him to dance without looking at me once even Wayne tried to ask if everything was okay but you didn't let me respond how is that respectful how does it show your love for me you like the attention you get from gu and that's fine but treating me like I'm not an equal and having the final say in everything is unacceptable I was wrong to leave without explaining but I won't compete for you we're past that stage I'm yours and you should expect love respect

and honor from me just as I expect the same from you if you don't see it that way let me know it will hurt but I'll respect your choice and move on but if you love me and want to continue you must respect and honor me imagine if it were reversed and a woman flirted with me in front of you how would you feel if I ignored you and danced with her without asking it was silent for a moment as Jess stared at me I thought she might walk away but then tears filled her eyes

and her lip quivered suddenly she threw herself into my arms sobbing I held her as she caught her breath I'm so sorry Thomas I didn't think it was horrible of me I can't believe I treated you so badly I love you and want to be with you please forgive me she started crying again I held her a moment longer then gently pushed her back to look her in the eye she was sincere Jess I forgive you I love you but we have to be clear and put ourselves first I know guys will always hit on

you but we can't disrespect each other I know Thomas that's exactly it she wiped her face with her sleeve I must look terrible let me wash my face then let's have coffee and talk about growing in our love 5 months later we were married on a beautiful Saturday morning near Breen Ridge it was it was a gorgeous late May Day with sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-60s despite my hockey Buddy's boisterous congratulations the event was pleasant surrounded by family and friends we vowed to forsake all others and live together as husband and wife we

enjoyed the day until 6:00 p.m. when we headed out for our honeymoon Greta took us to the airport for our flight to Cabo after nine amazing days we returned to Denver at the start of summer over the past few months Jess and I have had many long conversations and walks addressing important issues we even saw a therapist to discuss family background expectations and communication I felt I had followed the advice of the Three Men Who Loved Me most and embarked on a journey of a lifetime with the woman I truly loved who truly loved me

how is it that just 4 and a half years after my divorce from Jess I'm single and driving down the highway again I thought I had followed all the advice I received Jess and I covered a lot of emotional psychological and relational ground before and after we married I believe belied we were honest and committed to love care and respect but that doesn't mean much if the other person doesn't hold the same promise in their heart Jess had different definitions of these words ones she never shared with me there were patterns in her life she

couldn't or wouldn't change which put us at risk as a couple Grandpa Rexford was right Jessica was beautiful on the outside but her inner ugliness ran deep a year earlier Jess learned she was accepted to teach Algebra II in trigonometry to 10th graders at the local high school two older teachers were close to retirement and Jess was on track to teach AP math soon according to her department chair Dr Charles welburn also known as Chuck the devil for the first two months of the school year Jess was excited every night she shared stories about her

classes and the joy she got from teaching math to kids she spoke highly of Dr wellborne her Mentor I didn't think much of it he seemed like a nice guy who wanted everyone to do their best I should have been more cautious Dr wellborne was 15 years older than Jess married with three teenage children I met him in early October expecting someone extraordinary from the way Jess described him instead he was average about 160 cm tall trim for his early 40s with no gray hairs he wasn't boring but nothing about him stood out I expected

a teaching Legend but met someone more ordinary I'll save time for those who aren't hockey fans Barry Melrose picked 36th in the 1978 draft played about 300 professional games and had a mediocre career for me Dr wellborne was like Melrose nice but unimpressive I never understood Jess's fascination with him I thought she appreciated his support and guidance so who was I to judge I listened politely as she talked about how inspiring he was it was then I noticed that 90% of our conversations were about her work and 75% of those were about wellborne when I

talked about my work hockey or family she would listen for a couple of minutes before switching ing back to her world as a first-time husband I assumed this was normal I didn't mind hearing about her job or her boss but I wanted her to ask about my life too sadly she rarely did and I never brought it up until it was too late the week after Thanksgiving I was on the phone with my mom we were discussing Christmas plans when she switched gears Thomas how are you and Jess okay mom really are you sure Thomas

obviously it wasn't a question yes I think so Mom why do you ask well mom paused Mom you can talk to me if something is bothering you please tell me it's just that she's always talking about herself and her work I've never heard her brag about you or ask about your work that strikes me as odd enthusiasm in a relationship should be mutual you're always supporting her and paying attention but she doesn't reciprocate we talked more and I thanked her for her concern I didn't agree or disagree with her observations but felt she had picked

up on my growing anxiety I told her I would serious iously consider her words I didn't mention it to Jess right away but started keeping a simple record of our conversations I work with numbers so it was easy to track that's how I found out we talked mostly about Jess and her world I got an uneasy feeling recalling the Seager song she was born with a face that let her get her way Jess was amazing but she was immature and selfish in this area always used to getting what she wanted I decided to plan a

weekend getaway for us to talk and enjoy each other's company we used to do this in our first 3 years of marriage so it wouldn't surprise Jess I booked a cabin near Aspen checked our schedule and saw no school conflicts I'd miss a hockey game and deal with some what the hell jaxi comments but I'd survive I was excited to tell Jess when she got home after dinner I shared my plan expecting her to be thrilled she wasn't she paused longer than I expected and said Thomas you should consult with me first Charles has a

mandatory faculty meeting next Saturday to discuss new curriculum ideas her face showed annoyance not disappointment Jess I did check with you our shared calendar didn't show this how long ago was this scheduled the fact that Dr wellburn was now Charles didn't Escape me about a week ago I guess Jess answered less confidently I thought I put it on the list but maybe I forgot this was a first since the shared calendar was her idea I was Furious damn it Jess you work long enough as it is and now wellborne thinks he controls your weekend too

that's not fair Thomas Charles wants the best for our students and the math department it's just one Saturday we can find another weekend that's not the point Jess I replied frustrated we've been using this calendar for months because it was your idea remember when I forgot to put a dinner with clients on the calendar you demanded we reschedule what's fair for me is fair for you damn it Thomas you're making a big deal out of nothing we can just reschedule I'm sorry Jess you're right I said sarcastically forgive me for treating you the way you

treat me forgive me for wanting to plan a nice weekend with my wife forgive me for encroaching on Charlie's important schedule she started to reply angrily but I walked out I jumped on Greta and rode around for an hour to cool off which turned into three after stopping by the local pub for a few beers when I got home it was icy cold between us we only saw each other in passing and didn't speak I worked in my home office for a couple of hours and then crashed on the couch I'm an early riser a

habit for my logging days when work started Before Dawn I left the house at 5:30 and Jess usually got up around 6:15 so he didn't cross paths I canceled the cabin reservation losing a $100 deposit it wasn't much but it made me sad later I saw her faculty meeting on the calendar along with a math conference in January and two girls nights out I sent Jess a snarky text going to the rink after work game at 7:00 and beers afterward I'll be home around 11:00 check the calendar if unclear it's been there for 2 months

no response the next week we barely spoke each waiting for the other to apologize I was upset she didn't update the calendar and seemed indifferent she probably expected me to come crawling back we were both disappointed the following Saturday Jess surprised me with a kiss at breakfast Thomas I hope we can talk and make up today I understand your disappointment but I'm sure we can work things out she said winking and leaving without an apology or acknowledgement of her mistake seager's lyrics echoed in my head a face that lets her get her away I grumbled

for half an hour then decided not to waste the day the porch door had been creaking for weeks so I took it off the hinges to oil it but realized we were out of oil I jumped in my Jeep and headed to the hardware store Mick store has been around since just after wwo staying in the family for 90 years Mick ivth now runs it with his sons Mick V and Eddie I played hockey with Eddie and Mick V only worked weekends because he taught math at Jess's School imagine my surprise when I walked in

and saw Mick V helping a customer with a snowblower he waved as I walked in my surprised look must have caught his attention because he found me in section 9 a few minutes later hey jaxi heard you had a goal and two assists on Thursday Eddie said you played well for an old man hey V yeah it was a good night sorry for the weird look but I thought wellborne had a middle school math meeting today did you quit your job now he looked embarrassed I'm still teaching but wellborne didn't schedule a meeting for today

he's arrogant but not that stupid did Jess tell you we had a meeting I kept my composure I must have misunderstood Jess as she left then I had another thought hey V does the math department attend conferences yes the next seminar is in Estus park at the end of March I'll be there then hit the slopes trying to stay calm I replied sounds like UV surprised you plann to attend half the meetings yeah I must be getting old see you later jaxi and he walked away distrust filled me as I paid for the oil and

jumped into the Jeep why was Jess lying I drove past the school twice checking all four parking lots no cars no lights my mind raced I needed facts about where she was and what she was doing I couldn't just wait at home I went to a coffee shop grabbed a cup and sat in the back with a notepad an hour later I had a plan my insurance agent Pat cook known as cookie on the hockey team was surprised to get a call from me on a Saturday morning jaxi did you break your leg trying to

improve your skating skills not yet cookie I need a few minutes can I meet you at your office he knew from my tone this was serious 15 minutes later we were in his conference room when you suspect insurance fraud do you hire a private investigator sure but why do you need one cookie this is confidential right he looked offended sorry my head's spinning I think Jess might be having an affair and I need to find out can you help I hope you're wrong I don't have a boyfriend but I know a top-notch investigator she's almost

invisible tough as nails and always gets results I can set you up with her she's not cheap but she's the best thank you Cookie her name was Ella Compton since pis work odd hours she agreed to meet later that afternoon I went home finished the porch door showered ate and met her at 1:00 I sent Jess a note saying I had errands and would be home by 3 Ella was short about 5T tall but clearly tough she smiled politely but spoke with a no-nonsense tone I explained my situation if you want a detailed report it

will take several weeks possibly into the new year since you think she's lying about the conference it will cost you I need $1,500 up front and we invoice the rest later I sent the deposit while she asked a few more questions we shook hands and left I felt low but knew I needed to keep up appearances secrecy was my only path to the truth Jess was home humming in the kitchen when I walked in I kissed her on the cheek telling her I needed a shower I had tickets to the Avis PRS game that night

and Jess rarely went with me I was taking Mikey and she was pleased before I left I lied for the first time Jess I'm sorry I overreacted this weekend I wanted us to go away but I shouldn't have talked to you like that please forgive me of course Thomas I understand your frustration we'll go soon just the two of us cow to the end I thought the next 6 weeks were I put on a happy face at work at home and with family Christmas was brutal Jess and I exchanged gifts visited my in-laws for lunch

and her family for dinner New Year's Eve was even worse we went out for dinner and dancing then spent the night in our hotel room the physical part felt empty on Sunday we had dinner at Mom and Dad's with Grandma and Grandpa Rexford as we hugged and kissed goodbye Grandpa quietly pulled me aside I'm sorry Thomas I really am he whispered sorry for what grandpa I asked confused I'm sorry I was right how's that he smiled sadly I was right about the ugliness just know we're all with you no matter what happens I wanted to

cry but he saw my tears you'll get through this Thomas there will be time for Tears later for now do what you have to do we Rexford stick together and take care of each other his strength reassured me I could handle it 3 weeks later I sat in Ella's office she had called the day before to say the report was ready I asked to meet at her work instead of mine she began I'm sorry to tell you Thomas but your wife is a lying cheat if you need a moment take it no go on please

Chuck entertains your wife usually at the Hampton Inn in Englewood they choose that location because you don't have offices nearby they act professional at work and are very discreet they drive separately to a rest stop or truck stop far enough away but close enough to get home quickly if needed there was no conference in Colorado Springs they spent that weekend in Gunnison in a remote cabin they meet about every eight or nine days and have met at least six times since you hired me I have audio and video from their last two meetings at the

Hampton along with pictures and conversations from their phones the evidence is irrefutable she handed me a thick folder it's all here but I advise against looking at the pictures or listening to the recordings right away for some reason I stayed calm throughout our conversation I asked a few clarifying questions which she answered thoroughly when we were done I asked her to email the final invoice to my personal work address I gathered my folder and stood up to leave Mr Rexford if I may this is the best and worst part of my job I'm picky about

my clients and avoid liars and scammers I never help anyone cheat I know you're a good guy who doesn't deserve this it's tough to give you this news but now you know the truth you're no longer in the dark and can take back control of your life thank you I mumbled one last thing she said I dug more into Chuck this isn't his first Affair if you need help bringing him down I'll help at no extra charge too bad it's not the 1880s we could have strung him up Before Sunset as I left I noticed

it had started to snow a gray Gloom enveloping my world I sat in my Jeep deciding what to do next 5 minutes later I called Jess she answered on the third ring hey babe I had to go to Boulder this afternoon for a client it's snowing like crazy and I still have work to finish so I won't be home until tomorrow oh I'm sorry babe I was going to surprise you and go to your hockey game tonight be careful driving home tomorrow I love you thanks bye was all I could say I considered going to

my parents house but drove to the Hampton Inn in Englewood instead I parked where I could watch the entrance hidden by some bushes I decided to wait for an hour while I waited I called cookie and told him the bad news jaxi I'm sorry as hell thanks cookie cover for me tonight with the guys make sure they know the next keg is on me I'll call you tomorrow score a couple of goals for me you got it brother I didn't have to worry about whether my ex-wife would show up with her lover about 35 minutes

later Chuck arrived and went inside 5 minutes after that Jess parked at the far end and met him at the side door where he gave her a quick kiss I threw up all over the bushes after that I drove to my parents house on the way I called my dad and told him everything he was silent which meant he was Furious I asked him to tell my mom because I didn't have the energy to repeat the story I said I'd be there in about 20 minutes and hung up crying the whole way when I pulled

up I saw Mikey Uncle Mike and Grandpa's cars my mom opened the door before I reached the steps I collapsed into her arms sobbing when I came to the six of us were in the living room mom wanted to feed me and Dad poured me a stiff drink but I refused both not trusting my stomach I spent the next 30 minutes telling them the story I hadn't read the dossier yet but I knew enough from my conversation with Ella everyone sat in silence letting me vent I cried the whole time and my mom stroked my

back like when I was a kid by the end everyone had tears in their eyes grandfather spoke first we are all deeply saddened by your pain we would all like a few minutes alone with Jess and her boss but we must be wise speaking out now would be the wrong approach letun chat some more then adjourn for the evening take a strong sleeping pill and we'll pick this up in the morning tonight's discussion won't help as I told you before we are all with you no matter what everyone looked at grandpa with wide eyes realizing

he knew what was going on even if they hadn't no one was upset he hadn't told them sooner they trusted him as the Cornerstone of our family you're right dad my dad finally said then he asked what should we do about Thomas's absence tomorrow will Jess expect him to call or be home by early afternoon Uncle Mike jumped up I can handle it Thomas told Jess's busy and Boulder this storm gives him a perfect excuse I'll call Jess in the morning and explain that the situation is serious and only Thomas can handle it he'll have

to talk to her tomorrow but I can assure her it will take another day or two since she's in school she won't be tempted to go to Boulder we agreed to the plan with some additions from Mom and Dad my brother hugged me tightly tears flowing Uncle Mike hugged me too and Grandpa took my face in his hands you get through this Thomas you have my word after everyone left I went to the guest room took a couple of sleeping pills and was out like a light the next morning I was surprisingly calm and determined

though still sad Jess had made her choices breaking her vows and neglecting me it was time for me to make mine my family's love would help me endure and my long-term plan was forming by 8:30 a.m. we reconvened around the kitchen table by noon we had the basics of the plan ready my next stop was a lawyer uncle Mike recommended someone experienced with cases like mine at 1:30 sharp I walked into the law office of beach beach and beach I was seated with Meredith Beach Cochran a pleasant-looking woman in her late 40s with Steely blue

eyes and a firm handshake she practiced family law exclusively and never represented a cheating spouse she was well-versed in Colorado divorce law what do you want when the dust settles Mr Rexford I'm not sure yet I don't want her to get more than she brought into the marriage but I know that's unrealistic our prenup protects my family business in case of infidelity I want my name clear and I want everyone to know her infidelity is why I'm suing I want his name public and hope he gets fired mostly I want to move on with my

life most of what you say makes sense I'm glad you have realistic expectations as your lawyer I have to ask are you planning to damage them no ma'am but I can't guarantee what some of my hockey buddies might do good she replied with an evil smirk I stared at her surprised two brothers played at the University of Denver in the early 2000s jaxi I know the lingo she winked well Mrs Beach Cochran it looks like I found the right lawyer yes Mr Rexford call me beer if you like great I'm jaxi before I left we

agreed on three things I would leave the pi file with her for review she would file for divorce within 24 hours and Jess would be served after school on Friday in the parking lot this shock might make Jess react in a way that would benefit us us I would meet Jess at home Friday night to confront her and demand she leave since the house was in my name we would keep the pi on Jess to monitor her behavior before and after being served the bill was already around $5k which was frustrating she emphasized staying calm

letting my family support me and continuing to live my life as usual we exchanged cell phone numbers for any questions before leaving I asked why isn't the practice called Beach Cochran and Beach she smiled I'm patient jaxi daddy will retire in 3 years and then I'll be senior partner it will be Beach Cochran and Beach I texted Jess as I left her office finished with this mess on my way I'll be home around 6 she replied can't wait to see you adding a hard Emoji I deleted the message I went to my parents house to

update them Mikey was there with Mom and Dad I called grandpa to bring him up to speed you're already talking better Thomas I'm proud of how you're holding up at 5:30 I headed home Jess was upstairs but came down when she heard the door we exchanged kisses and hugs I showered changed and we made a simple dinner of burgers and salad I realized I hadn't eaten in over 24 hours and was suddenly hungry as dinner ended Jess began to flirt she wore a baggy shirt no bra and leggings she placed her leg in my lap

though I got hard instantly the thought of Love Making with Jess disgusted me but she was still my wife you may have been jaxi last night but I hope jaxi takes his wife upstairs tonight sorry babe my head is still splitting from the last two days and driving in the snow she looks surprised I could count on one hand the times i' turned her down for L making and still have fingers left I understand I'm sorry she replied clearly disappointed I wanted to tell her to have fun with Chuck at the Hampton Inn but I

didn't instead I said how about we take a bath and I give you a back rub still smiling I gently removed her foot from my lap she took a long bath and I gave her a back massage fighting the urge to strangle her after about 20 minutes she fell asleep I covered her and moved as far away from the bed as possible the next night I had a hockey game she didn't suggest I skip it since I missed Monday's game Thursday night was harder but dinner with her parents made it easier on the way home

she clearly wanted something so I discreetly texted Uncle Mike before we left 2 minutes after we arrived home Uncle Mike called Thomas sorry to bother you are you with Jess yes Uncle Mike we just had dinner at the remingtons hi hi Jess hi Uncle Mike we're a little busy can Thomas call you back in the morning she winked at me I'm sorry but this can't wait Thomas Jackson's investment file wasn't finished Tina went home sick and we need it for tomorrow's 7:30 a.m. meeting damn Uncle Mike I pretended to be frustrated okay I'll drop Jess

off and meet you at the office in 30 minutes thanks Thomas sorry Jess Uncle Mike you owe us a steak dinner at Capitol Grill deal damn it Thomas this is is getting very unpleasant Jess complained what does a girl have to do to get her husband in bed I refrained from saying what came to mind I know babe but I'm sure you'll get a break one of these days she didn't notice I said you instead of we she hummed and sulked for the last 10 minutes when she got out of the car I rolled down

the window and shouted I won't be in for another 3 hours why don't you wait for me she didn't look back just waved and walked into the house yeah that's right screw you Friday was the most unproductive day of my career I arrived early leaving Jess a note that I would be there before Dawn to ensure we had an uninterrupted evening after catching up on some paperwork and making a few client calls I checked the time expecting it to be noon it was only 9:30 a.m. I told my assistant Donna that I was heading to

the gym where I worked out furiously after meeting dad and uncle Mike for lunch I returned to the office for another two unproductive hours before heading home arriving at hour before Jess just as I was approaching the front door Jess was finishing her last class of the day Chuck slipped into her classroom with aerous grin sweetie how about a detour on the way home this afternoon Chuck was charming and good-looking but Jess who could get her away with her looks was getting bored with him he was good in bed but had a job with limited

prospects he wasn't going to be rich and he was 15 years older with a wife and three kids Chuck was a dead end and she needed to end it politely since he was still her boss I'm sorry Charles but Thomas and I haven't spent much time together this week how about we meet late Sunday night Thomas has a hockey game at 5: so I could meet you between 4: and 6 I'll let you know at the end that we had fun but we're done she thought to herself Chuck wasn't happy but understood maybe he could

still arrange for his mother-in-law to take the kids out for the evening his wife wasn't as beautiful as Jess but she looked fine okay I'll pick you up at the bus stop at 4 Sharp she heard him whistle as he left the classroom Jess was relieved she was was going to break up with Chuck wellborne he had been treating her like a princess but was starting to feel entitled to her she always had the upper hand with men including Thomas she wasn't going to let Charles or any other man control her after another 30 minutes

of grading math tests Jess realized she adored her husband he was strong when needed but also pampered her as she deserved he was a great provider and would make a wonderful father following his father and grandfather deep down she knew she couldn't promise never to cheat again but she vowed to rededicate herself to loving him the connections between love loyalty commitment and honesty in her brain weren't working she didn't feel the guilt or shame she should have Jess should have realized how selfish and narcissistic she was deep down but she didn't she didn't recognize her

true ugliness but that was about to change excuse me are you Mrs Jessica Rexford a woman asked approaching Jess in the parking lot with a manila envelope beer always used used women for serving papers to wives as they were less conspicuous yes that's me sorry I don't recognize you who are you I have an important document for you may I see some ID sure Jess replied feeling embarrassed and curious she showed her faculty lanyard thank you Mrs Jessica Rexford you've been served the woman handed Jess the folder then walked away Jess was left stunned holding

the papers wait what I don't understand what is this Jessica received no response slowly reality began to sink in no this can't be happening she hissed tearing open the envelope the top of the page read statement of dissolution of marriage no no no it can't be she thought Thomas would never do this he adores me he loves me he can't know about Charles we've been secretive there's no way he could know if he did he would have confronted me oh God I have to go home and make things right she fumbled with her keys dropped

the papers and cried after Gathering ing everything she opened the car door and started the engine sobbing and shaking with fear she tried to calm herself but was confused having lived a life without real shocks or stress it took a few minutes to collect herself and start driving home on the way she swung between hysterics rage tears and back to rage when she got home she would tell Thomas what she thought no one especially Thomas Rexford had ever treated her so shamefully how dare he pull such a stunt at her workplace thankfully most people had

left but a few teachers were still on campus and some had likely seen the confrontation by Monday gossip would be rampant she never considered that she caused her own pain her infidelity was the root of This Disaster by the time she pulled into the driveway she had calmed down and decided to stay composed she was confident she could explain her affair with Charles if Thomas found out she planned to claim that Charles forced her to sleep with him for career advancement she vowed never to cheat again but she was too afraid to confess to Thomas

fearing his temper and potential retaliation against Charles as she walked through the front door she was confident in her strategy when she entered I was already sitting at the kitchen table with another folder on it but Jess ignored it moving forward with her plan Thomas my love this must be a terrible mistake why would you divorce me we love each other you are my soulmate what made you do this I remained calm Jess please sit down she did Jess I've learned some disturbing things about your behavior I'm giving you the chance to come clean and

tell me the truth I promise to listen without interrupting if you explain honestly I'll reconsider Jess started to interrupt but I raised my hand but Jess before you start let me make this clear I'm going to record our conversation on my phone to avoid any misunderstandings later you have one chance to be completely truthful if you lie or misrepresent your actions it's over and I'll proceed with the divorce immediately it's up to you to share your thoughts ignoring the folder on the desk Jess began I don't mind writing this down Thomas but I'll tell you

the truth Charles wellborne forced himself on me he used his position of power to impose himself on me I fought off his advances time and time again but he made it clear to me that my Best Way Forward was into his bed I hated every second of it but I endured because I was overwhelmed and didn't know what to do Jess started to cry as she continued I didn't want to tell you because I thought I could handle him and I was afraid you would jump him and end up arrested or worse in jail when

it became clear that there was only one single way to satisfy him I did sleep with him but it was only once and I hated every second of it today after school he was in my class and tried to get me to sleep with him before I went back to your house but I turned him down oh Thomas I'm so glad you know now you can help me put an end to his bullying I can't prove it but I've heard the gossip and I think he's done it to other teachers before me at this point

J put her head on the table and began to sob clap clap clap I gave her a sarcastic Applause I was heartbroken over her obvious lies but part of me had to give her credit maybe after the divorce she could pursue an acting career Jess I'm really sad but that was an amazing performance Thomas what are you talking about how can you say such horrible things after I gave you my soul Jess you've always had a knack for getting your way with men including me you are beautiful on the outside and sometimes we gullibly believe

there's inner beauty too let me tell you what I know I opened the file and began to lay out the case you've been sleeping with Chuck for at least 2 months you meet at the Hampton Inn in Englewood I started to slide the photos across the table Jess began to pale at least six Rendevous in the last 2 months there was no Saturday morning math meeting in early December and no Teachers Conference in Colorado Springs I have recordings of your conversations including one where you talk about how much you love Charles and enjoy your time

together so my dear loving wife you certainly don't look like a woman who was coerced your voice in these recordings speaks the truth you had fun with Chuck at least eight times including a weekend in Gunnison this only shows you are a deceitful wife who thought she could get away with it Jess sat speechless for the first time in her life realizing she couldn't flirt her way out she broke down you broke my heart Jess I have no idea how many tears I've shed over the past couple of months coming to grips with your betrayal

my relationships at work and with my family have suffered my self-esteem has hit rock bottom and I've asked myself more than once why why did you destroy my love and our marriage for some fun on the side with a school teacher I've seen pictures of Chuck up close he's no bigger than I am and even though it made me sick listening to the two of you I know he's no better in bed than I am because he never brought love to it my anger started to rise you know what Jess I've realized you're not worth

my tears anymore my feelings are deeply hurt and I don't know if I'll ever trust another woman but I'm not going to hide away You're an ugly selfish person inside I'll move on knowing I gave you my best it's not my fault I'm not perfect but I never deserved your contempt and disrespect I don't care about you anymore some say the opposite of Love is hate but I think it's indifference that's how I'll treat you you won't matter to me anymore it'll take time to heal but from now on you're nothing to me Thomas I

no Jess no more I've packed a bag for you you can grab other things from upstairs but you're leaving today my lawyer's contact info is in your packet when you want to get more of your stuff let her know and I'll make sure I'm not here take everything you brought into our marriage what you leave I'll throw away or burn but Thomas please forgive me I was scared to tell you the truth I messed up but we can move past this I want to be with you and only you scared Jess really when have I

ever made you afraid I've never raised a hand or my voice at you if you were scared it was only because you knew you couldn't have it all Thomas I won't leave like a defeated woman you can't kick me out this is my home too her Irish stubbornness kicked in and she wasn't going down without a fight Jess I replied calmly I bought this house with my money before we married it's in my name we have no children so you can't claim the house for child care our prup clearly states I keep my assets if

we divorce due to your your infidelity your looks might usually get you your way but you should have read that document more carefully you can't cheat and take my home Thomas I don't want to take anything from you I want us to be together Charles means nothing to me I was planning to break up with him on Sunday afternoon she knew she messed up as soon as she said it Sunday afternoon while I was at my hockey game even if I believed you and I don't it's too late I swear Thomas I don't care about

him it was a stupid Affair I have no excuses but you can't end our marriage over this we're meant to be together yes Jess it was stupid also selfish and cruel but let's be clear I'm not giving up on our marriage you destroyed it with your Affair you burned our love when you lied about a work meeting if you can't see that I feel sorry for you I'm just ending our sham marriage she started sobbing realizing the full impact of her actions I waited for her to compose herself where will I go what will I

do Thomas that's up to you Jess my family knows what happened and has supported me these past months I haven't told your family but I will if you lie to them I won't attack Chuck renoff but by Monday your principal will know I won't sue the school but I won't hide your Affair either Chuck's wife will hear the truth if she asks he has three kids their lives will be affected and that's on you I'm done taking care of you the locks are changed I haven't touched your money the divorce settlement is fair contact your

lawyer and sign the papers now please gather your things and leave my house Jess finally gave up she wiped her eyes went upstairs to gather a few things and then left through the kitchen I sat in silence exhausted but relieved it was over I'm sorry Thomas yes Jess you are 8 months later I'm divorced and heading to Santa Fe why leave town I need some time away I love my family and they love me but I need space like when I went to Oregon 15 years ago I'll spend a year or two starting the business

then hire someone to run the New Mex Meo office and move back to Denver my hockey team will miss me but I need a new adventure the only woman I plan on spending time with is Greta as for Jess I heard some hockey wives took her on a fun girl's weekend when they found out she didn't have the best time thanks to her ex-friend Trisha Chuck Dr Fielding the principal made his life miserable and his contract wasn't renewed he left the state his wife divorced him and his kids won't talk to him before leaving he

fell down the stairs at his apartment breaking three ribs his teeth and his arm my hockey buddies were at oconnell when it happened according to about 20 Witnesses well maybe Bob Seager was wrong [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]