My Cheating Wife's Betrayal Led To My Ultimate Revenge And A Lesson She’ll Regret Forever.

my cheating wife's betrayal led to my ultimate revenge and a lesson she'll regret forever I'm Michael Baron and my wife is Sophia dos Baron I work as the executive editor at the Chicago American globe and she's the senior vice president at Gravely publishing we have two children Michael junr who's 23 and Ashley Sophia who's 21 junior is wrapping up his International diplomacy studies at Princeton and Ashley is studying at UC Berkeley I sometimes tease that she's studying underwater basket weaving she'd go off on me for saying that they're both doing really well in their studies

we both bring in good money though she makes a bit more than me we were pretty happy or at least I thought so we were really looking forward to a great weekend together Sophia had a tough week and had been excited about this Gala for a while she had this stunning new dress black backless strapless cut a couple of inches above the knees with a slight slit up the left side she had on the diamond necklace I gifted her for our 25th wedding anniversary along with her favorite sappire fire earrings and a replica of Princess

Diana's ring her blonde hair was styled in an elegant updo and she looked absolutely stunning I was dressed in my Brooks brother's tuxedo not much more needs to be said about that she stood about 12 ft away leaning against a fake fireplace sipping champagne from a flute laughing and chatting like a young college student I didn't mind that part it was the slimy looking guy talking to her touching her arm and shoulder whispering in her ear with a smug grin that bothered me he had had just said something to her and she was nodding in

agreement okay enough is enough I thought time to rescue her from this creep I was about to intervene when a soft hand grabbed my arm don't do anything my wife is falling for him and his buddies are keeping an eye on you I looked down to see a striking brunette beside me she pointed out a tough looking guy about 15 ft away who seemed to be focused solely on me then she gestured towards the balcony doors where another man was standing watching the crowd he's planning to take her out of on to the balcony and

make a move on her he'll likely try to touch her inappropriately that's his Mo if your wife doesn't give in he'll move on to someone else but he rarely strikes out no offense I observed my wife still smiling walking with Mr slime toward the balcony and out the doors the two henchmen shut the doors behind them and assumed their positions turning to the woman beside me who seemed Melancholy as she took a sip of her whiskey sour I inquired who are you and how do you know all of this that was me 7 years ago

she revealed I was taken a back Lana guided me to position my back against the balcony doors then proceeded to share her story I was here with my husband supporting the children's charity event and we were enjoying ourselves we were planning to make a significant donation he started talking to me before I knew it he was touching my back and suggesting we go outside I was drawn in by his charm and followed him out to the balcony once outside he groped my chest and asked if I liked it I was shocked but intrigued he teased

me just enough to make me gasp then slipped his hand under my dress and into my underwear he inserted two fingers and I peaked instantly then he made his proposition he wanted to take me home for the weekend we would have passionate closeness and then I would return home it was supposed to be a one-time thing never to be repeated I went back to my husband and told him I was leaving for the weekend with the man he stood behind me and watched as I left with him that's what happened my husband was crushed he

worked as an accountant when I returned from the weekend he couldn't even look at me I tried to reassure him that it wasn't something we couldn't overcome but he couldn't have closeness anymore we grew apart I started seeking casual encounters at night he became more withdrawn his job performance suffered and he eventually lost his job one night I came home and discovered him in the basement after that she explained how she spent 7 months in a psychiatric therapy Ward her three kids aged between 14 and 10 stopped talking to her someone must have told them

what happened her parents took legal action to gain custody once they were old enough her kids filed for emancipation and cut ties with her glancing at her watch she remarked it took about 15 minutes to turn me he's been out there for about 12 then she instructed me don't turn around don't acknowledge them ignore them if she tries to talk to you don't look at her she might claim she has something important to say if she does respond as you see fit and we'll leave together it'll really upset him and it might make her reconsider

it could be the only satisfaction you get at least for now we'll go somewhere to unwind and talk can you handle that keep an eye out I heard her footsteps as she approached from behind placing her hand on my upper left arm she began Michael there's something I need to tell you I Shrugged her off and snapped at her over my shoulder stay away from me you nothing but trouble say what you need to but if you don't come home tonight don't bother coming back at all we're done and I'll make sure you regret it

you have more to lose than I do miss Lana I gestured and we left Michael we need to talk right now the atmosphere had calmed down and people stepped aside to let us through we headed to the exit how did you get here I inquired car service she replied allow me ma'am I offered they brought my link to the front and opened the door she got in and I tipped the young man on the driver's side got in and drove off I know a quiet place where we can talk if you're okay with that great

idea Michael I could use a drink we drove to the Corral a relatively quiet spot catering to an older crowd after parking we entered found a table in the back and ordered drinks and appetizers she shared what was left of her story and I filled her in on Sophia and me she was a college professor and had faced a setback in her career when the news broke I mentioned I was the executive editor at the Chicago American globe with six years in the Air Force specializing in Special Operations and nearly 20 years as a reporter

and journalist I detailed my background we had two kids Michael Jr and Ashley sofhia both away at college so what are you planning to do she asked I can't even figure out what I'm feeling let alone what actions to take if she's not home when I get there it's time for drastic measures she'll pay and he oh he'll pay two oh G God tears started to stream down my face she grasped my hand looking at me as if the world was ending for both of us I examined her face and realized I could get lucky

if I wanted to but I couldn't if there was any hope of reconciliation I couldn't listen I'm sorry but rebound closeness isn't my style I need to go home and handle this please give me your number and contact Det so we can keep in touch and maybe discuss things also I need that jerk's name so I can start his downfall she took my phone and entered her full name Lana Tuli along with her phone number and address Michael you're a good man you've been wronged I hope for more but I understand your decision go home

and try to sort this out best of luck I settled the bill and we left I dropped her off at her townhouse and she went inside I drove home and entered the house Sophia wasn't there okay she's made her decision it was 12:39 a.m. I Gra my cell phone and dialed my best friend Steve Dawson he was also my attorney we had served together in the Air Force and often joked about how he became a lawyer while I landed a respectable job a tired voice answered hello Michael what's up Mike it's almost 1: in the

morning is everything all right no Steve it's not I need you here at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow ready to go into lawyer mode and maybe even best friend mode I'm filing for divorce now I had his full attention I could hear his wife in the background it's Mike we have a problem you went to that event right Sophia met Darren Watson didn't she oh man you didn't know just make sure you're here Steve please for me no problem I'll be there I started making a list of things to do I searched for a bonded locksmith and

jotted down his number then I went online and found a website that buys cars for cash with clear titles I had bought her a BMW for our 24th anniversary it was registered in my name I made a note of their contact details and packed two small overnight bags with underwear clothes and shoes I left them by the front door and went to bed I woke up at 7:00 a.m. made some coffee and turned on my computer to check The Newsroom I saw that Joe Spain an investigative reporter was working I called Joe and asked him

to dig up everything he could find on a guy named Darren Watson I stressed that this was confidential no problem boss I'll get right on it still no sign of my soon to be ex-wife it was nearly 10 and I was feeling more and more down I called the car buyer and told him about the BMW I was selling with a clear title in valid Illinois registration he asked for the model and make and quoted a price a 2-year-old BMW huh how about $2,000 he said sounding surprised or is it stolen nope but you'll have

to pick it up where you located I gave him my address and he said he'd be there in 25 minutes don't sell it to anyone else Wait For Me Andy said before hanging up about 10 minutes later just as I finished the call with the locksmith my friend Steve arrived with his pargal doy we went inside and I treated them to coffee and English muffins about 20 minutes later Andy showed up I showed him the car registration and title he wanted to know if there was anything wrong with it I told him it's in good

shape I just don't need it anymore because of the divorce well I'm glad you're not divorcing me he joked they brought a flat bed tow truck and I signed all the paperwork Andy paid me and took the car I shook his hand and he wished me luck still no sign of my cheating wife I went inside and found my lawyers working hard in the dining room the divorce papers were ready and they had prepared a restraining order they were also working on the lawsuit for alienation of affection Steve asked about the car and I told

him I sold it because I didn't need it anymore you didn't do anything illegal it's a bit sneaky but hey it's impressive let's handle the financial stuff online I said for the next 45 minutes we dealt with banks investment firms insurance companies cell phones mortgages and my pensions by noon my wife still hadn't returned and the locksmith had changed all the locks and added keyless deadbolts on all the doors I treated them to lunch at Saltgrass Steakhouse where we met Steve's wife Deanne known as D she hugged me tightly showing her support at the table

de looked at me waiting for me to speak finally I said what she wanted to know what happened and what I plan to do next I didn't do anything except trust my wife she blindsided me and I'm still trying to process it is there any way to fix this hell no she's still not back and honestly the only way out might be if she ends up dead de looked at me syp pathetically and nodded saying she understood she couldn't fathom why Sophia did it after talking for a while we headed home I got back around

6: p.m. still alone no sign of my wife I grabbed a bud and dozed off in my recliner I woke up at 7:00 a.m. and shuffled to the shower feeling tired and sore after cleaning up I did something I hadn't done in years I went to church being at church helped a bit I sat quietly in the back praying for guidance but it felt like my prayers were hitting a wall after Mass I stayed a while longer hoping for some sign but it seemed like I was on my own that's how it had to be

I drove home grabbed a coffee at a fast food joint and parked my Lincoln in the garage next to my saen 980 fullsize Bronco with the weather changing I'd soon be using it every day after locking up the garage I turned on the TV and watched the Bears lines football game but as usual the Bears lost that seemed to sum up my luck lately at 5:30 I got a text from my wife on my way home in 20 minutes the restraining order was kicking in soon so things were about to hit the fan 20 minutes

later I heard a strange car in the driveway peeking out the window I saw some fancy European car and Sophia stepped out from the passenger side she leaned in for a kiss with someone probably Darren Watson after he left she came up to the house but her keys didn't work with the new locks confused she spotted the two small overnight bags by the door what's going on she muttered she rang the bell repeatedly and shouted for me to open the door frustrated she yelled open the door Michael I finally went to the door and faced

my Furious wife she glared at me and demanded to know what was happening simple Sophia your keys don't work because you don't live here anymore the woman I used to be married to lived here but she's gone now her eyes widened and she leaned in for a kiss but honey don't even try it I don't know where that mouth has been or who's it's been on how many times did you sleep with him or give him head or do other things we didn't just have closeness it was special oh spare me you disappeared for two

whole days with without a call I bet you didn't even think about your husband once did you keep your wedding rings on while you were with him she flinched and started to stutter at least you kept your anniversary jewelry they were gifts so they're yours I said taking off her rings but these are mine and your engagement ring was my grandmother's remember when I proposed to you you won't need these anymore she started crying and shaking why are you doing this she blurted out it was just an act I had a right to it you

don't own me she said regaining her confidence you need to let go of your pride Michael or we need to move on you're right and I've been trying to do that here this is for you I handed her an envelope and she looked at it confused what's this she asked money I sold your car the BMW I didn't need it anymore she reacted as if she'd been bitten by a snake what did you do with my car it wasn't your car I bought it for you but it was in my name and I sold it

I thought giving you the money would be a fair gesture that's all of it but there's only she counted the bills what $2,000 here that car was worth much more what's going on that's all it was worth much like our marriage after Friday night I warned you I'd take everything from you and you had a lot more to lose than I did the shock on her face was evident she looked stunned and began to protest again how could you be so heartless I came back to you man I must be lucky I thought noticing her

bare right hand where's the Princess D ring Sophia the one you insisted on having I offered to get a real replica made but you preferred the knockoff you were adamant about that one so I got it for you to make you happy where is it her face turned pale she started stuttering I he she what 43 he wanted a Keepsake from our weekend she mumbled avoiding eye contact so not only did you give away yourself but you also gave away the ring you claimed to treasure she blushed and nodded he checked his watch 6:03 p.m.

get out Sophia we're done no I want to come inside this is my home not anymore it isn't he slammed the door and bolted it shut leaning against the sturdy Oak tears welled in his eyes finally feeling the hurt she continued ringing the doorbell pounding on the door shouting for him to let her in he dialed 911 what's your emergency police fire or medical I have a restraining order against my soon to be ex-wife she's outside screaming and causing a scene send someone quick minutes later he saw two police cars arrive lights flashing four officers

approached his wife while two came to his door he handed them the restraining order order and they verified it with the station he then gave them her copy requesting discretion meanwhile his wife received the notice the officers calmed her down and she yelled where am I supposed to go go to hell Sophia I couldn't care less he replied coldly the officers informed her she had to leave and escorted her and her bags to the curb she hailed an Uber using her phone apologizing as the officers waited she directed the driver to the Peninsula Hotel hopped

in and drove off arriving at Gravely publishing Sophia headed to her office on the 10th floor her ex-executive assistant Jessica awaited her noting her 30-minute tardiness Jessica followed her inside is it true Jess asked Sophia snapped to attention facing her friend and assistant what on Earth are you talking about everyone's talking you and Michael the Gallow on Friday night Jessica pressed sitting down Sophia admitted yes we were there what about the rest of the weekend I'm not sure what you're getting at Sophia replied hesitantly you left with that guy that creep abandoning Michael oh God

you poor thing Jess said slumping into a nearby chair crying Sophia was taken aback staring at her friend how did you know I haven't said a word to anyone how did this get out and who else knows everyone knows you idiot it's all over the company and it's not even 11 yet Sophia's face drained of color as she sank into her seat suddenly her boss gwendelyn harelson barged in she looked between the two women visibly shocked oh my goodness it's true she exclaimed Sophia was stunned by her boss and friend's reaction the situation was getting

out of control defensively Sophia responded I think this is being blown out of proportion oh really Gwen retorted smirking at Sophia's disbelief do you know who he is how do you think the whole city maybe half the Midwest already knows Sophia sat staring at her hands what did Michael tell you she whispered he said we finished claimed he'd ruin me like I'd ruined him Sophia mumbled who does he think he is he doesn't run my life he doesn't own me HEK your husband idiot Gwen shot back what did Michael do when you got back on

Sunday she glanced down at her desk sniffling he sold my car said he didn't need it anymore since he didn't have a wife to drive it oh my goodness exclaimed Gwen at that moment the door burst open and Stephanie Jameson vice president of mortgages and Acquisitions for Chemical Bank stormed in followed by Sophia's secretary Angela I'm sorry Mrs Baron she just came in Angela explained it's okay Angela come on in Steph Sophia said with a touch of sarcasm what the heck have you done just then Gwen's phone rang hello yes Hank I'm with her right

now no we haven't heard anything from him yet I'm just getting the details now yes dear I'll let you know as soon as I find out goodbye dear Gwen looked up and said that was my husband Hank wondering if you've heard from Michael today no I haven't spoken to him since last night Sophia replied with that she dialed her husband's number her phone beat Beed twice before announcing her service had been cut off she stared at the Nokia like it was poisonous he disconnected my phone she murmured Gwen sigh oh this is bad very bad

just then Angela entered saying there was a young woman urgently requesting to see her she said it's urgent and about your marriage a tense silence filled Sophia's office send her in Angela a tall young woman with blonde hair dressed in a navy blue skirt Ivory blouse 3-in heels and a blazer entered with a small briefcase she approached Sophia's desk surveyed the room and fixed her Gaze on Sophia are you Mrs Sophia Baron at least for now Sophia replied nervously the young woman confronted her listen up lady who do you think you are yes I'm Michael

Baron's wife do you have something for me Sophia asked dreading what was coming next congratulations Mrs Baron you've been served the young woman handed her a big envelope snapped a photo and left swiftly at the door she turned to the group 7 years ago my mother tore our family apart just like you did hope you enjoyed it good day Sophia's head slammed onto the desk as she received the envelope Gwen hurried to her side helping her sit up Sophia struggled to breathe hyperventilating Stephanie dialed a number on her phone connecting to Michael's office or Chicago

American Globe Mr Baron's office how may I assist you I need to speak with Mr Baron please it's Mrs Stephanie Jameson from Chemical Bank may I ask what this is regarding ma'am it's about his wife I'm sorry ma'am he's not taking calls from his wife he said to tell her to just put him on the phone damn it Stephanie snapped one moment please soon Michael's voice came through the speaker well Stephanie the whole gang's gathered around the wife I bet Jessica and gwendelyn are there too with the cheating Queen what do you need Michael you're

being unreasonable she's a wreck and you're not helping what's your plan here ask her what she thought would happen when she took off for her closeness filled weekend tell her to lawyer up and talk to them I won't talk to her until we sit down with our kids on Saturday goodbye Stephanie click oh no Gwen exclaimed you're in deep trouble well Stephanie retorted your only hope is to Bear it all and beg for mercy oh wait you already did that this weekend didn't you dummy Sophia's head thumped against the desk once more the sound echoing

in the office but no one rushed to help her Michael ended the call and dialed his son in New Jersey Michael Jr was in a serious relationship and Michael hoped this situation wouldn't impact it but they needed to talk after after three rings his son answered hey Dad what's up not great son how's terara she's good Dad what's going on is Mom all right she's physically okay I need you and your sister here for a family meeting on Saturday Tara can come too two tickets will be waiting for you at the counter on Friday Janine

will give you the details don't ask questions just be here it's important Dad what's happening you're scaring me son I haven't talked to you like this in over 10 years but I need to now trust me and do as I say say without questions he hung up deciding not to influence their opinions about their mother he'd let them decide for themselves the conversation with his daughter went similarly but she seemed more emotional she agreed to see him on Friday the rest of his day passed quietly he consulted his lawyer and updated his private investigator on

the progress with Darren wadson back at Gravely publishing the women gathered together trying to offer support to their friend Sophia who was overwhelmed with babbling and tears what have I done what have I done Sophia was inconsolable unable to grasp reality eventually Gwen took charge we need to pull ourselves together and level the playing field she called a friend on her cell phone hey Carolyn it's Gwen gwendelyn harelson can you represent a friend of mine in a divorce her name is Sophia Baron yes her husband is Michael Baron wait what oh I see thanks a

lot what was that about she's already seen as toxic that was Carolyn Herrera she's tough and hates bad husbands almost as much as cheating spouses when she heard Sophia's name she knew the situation she said if she took the case her husband would divorce her they're devout Catholics with five kids and they know Michael and Sophia plus she's aware of the jerk involved Stephanie chimed in let me give it a shot she dialed a number on her cell phone hey this is Stephanie Jameson can I speak to Brett Walker yeah it's about a divorce hi

Brett I need to discuss a divorce matter with you oh you've already heard well thanks anyway she hung up and sigh you're not getting any breaks honey I'm running out of options here he heard about what happened and basically said you brought this on yourself He also mentioned he wouldn't challenge Steve Dawson on this for anything Sophia's head dropped to her desk again this time landing on her arms so I reached out to some Pals who could stir up trouble discreetly nothing too serious I didn't want them getting caught sugar in the gas tank paint

balloons on his fancy car after that they went to work on the car with an air grinder and a Proto zip tool messing up the hood sides roof and rear deck then they flattened the tires and slashed the sidewalls those pricey Michelin were ruined this retaliation was going to keep happening for a while and I wasn't worried about the cost she had a hard time finding a lawyer but eventually she found a feminist lawyer willing to take her case so it all boiled down to the family meeting Friday was chilly in Chicago almost as cold

as it was at home the kids flew in from both coasts my son brought along his soon to be fiance I hope was making the right choice this meeting was going to be emotional their mom was still staying at the hotel and they didn't understand why I told them they'd have to talk to her the next day they asked where she was she's staying at the Peninsula hotel if you want to see her talk to her try there I've tried dad her cell phone isn't working anymore why would that be it's disconnected call her workplace

or leave a message at the front desk I wonder why she hasn't called you yet hm interesting my daughter looked at my son his fiance and asked what's going on your mom has a problem I can't talk about it talk to her please you'll understand if she talks to you they tried to reach her but couldn't through her secretary she said she'd talk to them Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. I took the kids out to dinner and we had a nice albeit slightly awkward time Saturday morning was clear and cold typical for Chicago at this

time of year at 10:00 the kids had coffee waiting for their mom to show up she arrived accompanied by The Honorable Kathleen O'Hara seriously Sophia bringing your lawyer here in front of the kids my client didn't want any attacks on her character in front of her children your choice I led them into the living room the kids rushed to their mom eager to know what was happening no questions for my client said Miss O'Hara what who is this Mom I'm Miss Sophia DA's attorney your dad is filing for divorce against her game over I just

sat there smiling saying nothing Steve had advised me to either speak the truth or stay silent if this happened looking back it was wise counsel my son spoke up first what's going on mom please direct all questions to me what's happening mom Ashley asked talk to me Miss I'm your mom's spokesperson mom is this true Miss Baron don't make me remind you again miss O'Hara interrupted that's when Tara intervened shut up needless to say Miss O'Hara was taken aback and who are you I'm Miss Tara Longoria I'm Mr Michael Baron Jr fiance that makes me

family more than I can say for you now this was getting interesting Michael Junior's mom didn't know about this actually I hadn't realized how serious it was until I saw the diamond on her left hand I grinned stood up and hugged my news soon to be daughter-in-law then I turned to my smiling son hugged him and shook his hand congrats son I said he grinned back saying watch out old man you know she's taken all the while his mom seemed to be in shock oh my baby Sophia exclaimed sorry Mom you need to speak through

your mouthpiece her child REM Ed her she choked up Miss O'Hara announced I think we are done here and got up to leave that was the last straw for me sit down witch this is a family meeting you knew that and still brought a lawyer you can either stay quiet or get out her kids and I need to talk to Sophia got it the room fell silent Miss O'Hara reluctantly sat back down looking embarrassed now Sophia aside from today I haven't said anything to our kids yet you're up first don't mess it up I glared

at the lawyer when she started to speak she quickly shut her mouth flustered she finally managed to say your father wants a divorce Michael gave me a deadly look why mother he asked she averted her gaze and whispered I don't know Mel Ashley and Tara gave me piercing looks I was in trouble but still held some cards really Sophia is that how you're handling this she began to cry my turn I said she sobbed again fine your mother and I attended the children's Gala last Friday she mingled with a man who offered her a weekend

of pleasure promising her experiences she'd never forget he did that to her on the ballroom balcony women who had been in her position before warned me about his intentions then they left together and she told me she was going home with him for the weekend I feel terrible for not intervening she's an adult and can make her own choices but I regret not standing up to him I could have caused a scene but I didn't I feel ashamed and embarrassed your mother however went ahead with what she wanted just as predicted I didn't hear from

her until Sunday afternoon around 44 4 when she texted me she was on her way home she got home around 5:25 dropped off by him I was getting angry she walked up like nothing happened her keys didn't work because I changed the locks I didn't want to risk her bringing the guy into our home you sold my car she cried I already told you it was my car I bought it and it was in my name I gave you the money for it I didn't give it away like you did with your body she started

falling apart mascara and eyeliner running tears streaming down her face but you know what hurt the most she wore her diamond necklace the one I gave her for our 24th anniversary and her Christmas Suare earrings to the party when she came home she still had them along with her wedding and engagement rings I took those back because we're no longer married and the engagement ring was my grandmother's but you know what she didn't have anymore the one piece of jewelry she cherished the most what was her favorite the one she loved even though was just

a cheap copy the one I promised to replace with a better version the ring she always wore my kids knew immediately medely Lady D ring they said Sophia collapsed crying yeah Lady D ring she lost that and you know why please Michael stop please she begged he wanted a Keepsake she gave it away just like she gave herself away my children hugged each other shocked Sophia was a wreck please stop I'll sign everything just stop so I spent the weekend and the whole week sorting things out and crying I cried a lot that's why I

have nothing left now then Ashley said Daddy can't you forgive her for one mistake yeah Dad it was just one time mom deserves better from you move on I missed the first chance couldn't handle the tough situation Michael's response was another setback I was behind now feeling stunned I didn't see this coming was I the only one hurting so much was it all my fault were my kids suddenly clueless are you even listening to what we're talking about do you know what she did let's see tell me Sophia did you have an inappropriate conversation with

a man not your husband last Friday night I chatted with a handsome guy she admitted one chance passed I thought answer the question well I guess I might have another chance gone I was doing okay I told myself she couldn't give a straight answer and did he tell you to tell your husband you were going home with him to be intimate yes but I'm a grown woman and a close call still hanging in there I see so did you sleep with him because I wasn't there I don't know she stammered so tell us what you

did all weekend did you play games talk poetry write letters to your kids did you even bother to call your husband hband you're just a 403 she threw in insultingly I avoided it I wanted it so I did it she confessed know this I'll have you question under oath about that weekend the world will know if they don't already and the woman who served you papers she's actually a lawyer she volunteered because her family faced the same issue that's why she became an attorney Sophia realized she was in trouble she broke down all her confidence

gone facing her soon to be ex-husband and her three kids she said I'll sign everything and give it to Peter today O'Hara intervened I don't think this is in your best interest you're fired Kathleen send your invoice to my office and I'll arrange for payment right on target I hit a home run straight into the center field seats at csky Park Sophia headed for the door and glanced back at me goodbye Michael kids I'll give you a call tomorrow and we can meet up she exited and the door shut behind her Miss O'Hara remained in

the living room well she said to me I hope you're content she's upset get out of my house you witch I yelled the attorney huffed turned and departed that's when it began Dad how could you be so mean to Mom treating her like that my daughter said what's the matter with you dad seriously are you divorcing mom over this I'm glad I sent both of them to college I thought to myself do you think I should just put up with this is this what you both expect from your marriages I turned to face Tara if

that's the case get out of there as fast as you can terara she gasped and stared at me I would never do something like that that Dad it's just wrong from every angle surely dad you're not really going through with this Mike it's settled and if you can't support me on this don't invite me to any events in the future any events I looked directly into his eyes and held his gaze he's got my temper and I could see him getting riled up Ashley however was in a complaining mood dad why were you so mean

mom was in such a bad State when she left she's really hurting you should forgive her and take her back I was stunned my kids were supporting their mom despite her un faithfulness finally terara spoke up Dad this might upset Mike but you're right mom didn't even admit what she did wrong or say sorry not that it would change anything but showing remorse would have been the decent thing to do at least things got tense after that about 2 hours later they phoned their mom and arranged to visit her I gave Mike a spare key

and reminded him to drive safely he looked at me and asked do you want to come along are you serious I shouted Mike stared at me then said he couldn't understand me I intensified my efforts against the jerk and my allies seemed to be having a blast while getting the job done one of their tactics was to switch his license plate and anonymously report his car as stolen to the police I was impressed by how easily they accessed his Vehicles even though he kept both his Ferrari and Cadillac in a garage they also tailed him

on the Dan Ryan Expressway using a clever device that could manipulate the car's computer by slowing down traffic and trapping him in the Middle Lane when he tried to exit they forced the Ferrari to swerve and hit the barrier it caused significant damage and landed him in the hospital for 10 days meanwhile his insurance premium skyrocketed and he lost coverage from his original provider the guy was having the worst luck imaginable and whenever the cops got involved they weren't exactly eager to solve the case they seemed aware of his reputation and turned a blind eye

to his troubles most of them probably suspected some angry husband was seeking Revenge thank goodness for the police that evening Steve called to inform me that she had personally delivered the legal documents he had a favorable judge lined up his son had been a victim of the jerk 3 years ago and he assured us he would expedite both the divorce and the alienation of affection lawsuit as for the adultery charge it was uncertain if we could make much Headway but it was worth a shot the kids grew distant from me especially after the initial confrontation

and only terara expressed support for my stance after about a week they returned to school and the divorce proceedings continued when the final decree was issued I felt liberated just in time for the Cancer Society ball I knew he'd be there and I was itching to get even at a coffee shop one of my allies pitched me an idea that was so brilliant I had to witness it myself I called Lana to see if she planned to attend she mentioned she had an invite but hadn't thought about going I suggested it would be worth her

while especially if she wanted to witness some entertainment which I plan to provide we arrived and mingled and I noticed Sophia there with her friends gwendelyn and Stephanie she was trying to talk to the jerk but he was focused on a petite blonde in a green dress the jerk's two buddies were keeping her husband occupied while he made his move on her he led her to a private room and shut the door I approached the husband and offered to help him if he trusted me and followed my lead he looked panicked and Lana started explaining

the situation to him I warned him that if he caused a scene he'd likely get beaten up but if he cooperated they'd still leave together just a bit embarrassed he glanced at the goons and seemed to give in I promised to connect him with people who could assist him and suggested he could embarrass his wife enough to get an apology reluctantly he agreed as they emerged from the side room with the wife leading we followed closely behind they stopped to grab their coats while the goons arranged for the Cadillac to be brought around we exited

just as they were opening the back doors and they got in with him grabbing her and kissing her after they closed the door the second goon got in the front passenger seat the husband was on edge but I urged him to wait now my friends plan involved two of his associates who worked at an auto detail shop they had given the jerk's office a discount coupon for interior cleaning and a free car wash while they cleaned the car they planted three smoke bombs that smelled like skunk under the seats with electronic detonators the car's brake

lights blinked and it slowly started moving after about 10 ft it suddenly stopped hitting a taxi with its front right side the doors swung open and four people stumbled out coughing and wretching with smoke billowing around them the blond's dress slipped and her panties ended up on the pavement outside the car the woman's husband rushed to her side though he wobbled a bit from the smell and smoke smoke I smirked as the jerk struggled to stand his injured leg making him hobble just then the police arrived as the jerk moved towards his former lover the

husband intervened Landing a punch to his stomach and a kick to his groin down he went the husband quickly LED his wife away even with the skunk smell clinging to her scolding her as they left turning to Lana I said that's one for the good guys I had given the husband my business card with my cell number and told him to call me the next day I dialed a speed dial number on my cell hello The Voice answered great job I said thanks he replied and the call ended I gave the husband my card and

told him to reach out if he needed to talk Lana and I headed to her town home where things quickly heated up we ended up in her bedroom exploring different kinds of intimacy while I hadn't been celibate since my divorce this was a new level of connection for me Lana and I reached the bed where she pushed me down and went to work on me she took me deep leaving marks as she nibbled then climaxed intensely it was all about her using me to purge her guilt she cried out her late husband's name as she

continued it was overwhelming as she sobbed I lay there stunned trying to process at all Lawrence her late husband was clearly on her mind she collapsed crying and then composed herself apologizing for her Outburst I reassured her understanding her pain we talked acknowledging the emotional intensity of the moment I wasn't sure what I felt for her but there was a connection after some rest I showered dressed and kissed her before leaving she asked if I thought she'd be okay and I assured her I'd call in the following months Lana and I grew closer while Family

Matters progressed my son got married and despite the past they invited his mother expecting that I'd handle it I assured him I would but I didn't show up Tara's folks were clueless about the situation and they weren't happy with me Tara's wife filled them in which shocked her mom and ticked off her dad their Italian family promptly cut ties with my ex-wife with tera's Grandma even spitting in Sophia's face things escalated when one of Sophia's friends hit on her leading to a scene she broke down and left the reception I sent Tara a nice note

and a check and I sent her parents a letter explaining why I couldn't be around Sophia I also emailed my son a blunt message the wedding had taken place in kennworth New Jersey a year later my son and daughter-in-law welcomed a baby boy named Michael Giovani Baron honoring his dad and both grandpas Tara invited me to the christening which thrilled me I traveled to York New Jersey rented a hotel and attended the ceremony at St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Palisades Park New Jersey meeting my namesake was a joyous moment but then I spotted

Sophia entering with someone and I almost lost it she came over and I turned to my son asking if she was there Tara pleaded with me to stay calm just this once sorry honey I said handing her an envelope and then I left back at the hotel I checked out headed to the airport caught the next flight to Chicago and returned home I nearly had to change my phone number afterward childish maybe but it is what it is time passed and Michael landed a job in Chicago with the justice department when I called to congratulate

him and Tara and ask about my grandson I heard her voice in the background who's calling I heard from the background I ended the call and powered off my phone after that I kept to myself mostly the only person I really talked to was Lana who had become both a close friend and a bed mate my campaign against Darren Woodson seemed to still be working Woodson was trying to figure out who was targeting him but he couldn't even my son and daughter-in-law knew about it it was still small stuff but it was becoming legendary time

went by about 3 months later Tara called me at work dad next Saturday is little Michael's third birthday we're throwing a party and want you there I'd like to sweetheart but you know how I feel I'm not good company and I don't want to spoil it for Mom isn't invited I told Michael your son that she's not welcome that day I'll cut him off if he invites her or asks her to come I really admire this girl my son doesn't deserve her I'd be honored to come I got the details and cleared my schedule for

the day I called FAO Schwarz and ordered a Tonka dump truck just like the one I had as a kid I had it wrapped and sent to my office Michael had one for Christmas one year and it was a hit no fancy Electronics just metal and rubber tires they were always popular especially with grandpas I arrived at 10: a.m. on Saturday we had a great time lunch cake coffee and then present sense I chatted with Tara's parents and they said they could see why their daughter thought highly of me Tara's Dad loved the dump truck

reminds me of the one I had when I was a kid good choice Mike I liked him little Mike played with the truck all over the backyard until he got tired his mom and grandma put him down for a nap even my son was cordial he brought me a beer and suggested I relax in the backyard I took his advice and found a chair on the lawn life felt good as I took a sip of Bud a shadow fell over me and I glanced up to see my ex-wife with a glass of what looked like

white wine hello Michael mind if I join you I glared at her but stayed silent she set her big shoulder bag down and sat Crossing her ankles a pose she used to try to charm me not this time my glare made her shiver you're not making this easy are you anyway Michael mentioned you'd be here and his wife made it clear I wasn't welcome it might not sit well with him but he thought it was worth a shot to patch things up between us Michael thinks we deserve another shot I want us to be together

again to wake up in each other's arms grow old together I've been lonely these past years what do you say can we try again I looked her over she'd aged a lot gained some weight developed a nervous tick she never apologized just launched into her speech I wondered where the woman I married had gone I sighed finished my beer and got up well she asked what your answer not just no but hell no Sophia I've been through hell these past 3 and a half years because of you maybe harsh but it felt good to say

I walked away I went up to the patio then threw the sliding glass doors into the kitchen where I ran into my son who grinned at me so how'd it go Dad not too bad huh a shot rang out and screams filled the air as guests rushed outside I grabbed my son's arm your mother might be hurt go check on her he bolted and hurried outside I grabbed a water bottle went to the living room and sat alone on the couch the police arrived taking statements a44 caliber can cause a lot of damage damage I

answered their questions explaining I hadn't spoken to my ex-wife in years I spoke with my daughter-in-law comforting her through tears then I left for home Lana called having heard the news I assured her I was handling it should I come over she asked no I'll manage but thanks for offering on Monday I called in Stu Phillips our top crime photographer in Chicago Stu had won many local in national awards for his photography Stu I need a favor sure boss what's up my ex-wife took her own life at my grandson's birthday party on Saturday most folks

have heard about it boss we're sorry even though you two weren't close thanks I appreciate it do you have connections with the forensics team can you get me photos of her skull her head color 10x12 would be ideal Stu gave me a curious look thinking it over it's a bit unusual but I can make it happen I know some folks who owe me a favor might be a little weird though thanks du I owe you one I'll get it done in a few days boss a plan plan started forming in my head adding to my

revenge campaign the Wake lasted 3 days at a fancy Funeral Home on the West Side her casket remained closed due to her appearance she had many friends with hundreds attending I wasn't there word had it that my absence didn't go unnoticed the day of her funeral was gray and rainy I felt cold and damp the procession included four flower cars three limos and the hearse with about 60 cars following again I wasn't among them I stood at the cemetery watching from a distance in the Misty Rain rain I observed as the coffin was carried to

the Grave despite the weather a large crowd gathered and the priest said kind words it made me wonder who he was talking about I was surprised he even showed up considering the circumstances of her death my son was scanning the area probably searching for me after the service ended people began to depart soon only immediate family and close friends remained as the crowd thinned it eventually dwindled down to just my kids they headed to the limos with my son lingering at the back door of the Cadillac scanning the surroundings eventually he gave up and got

in the car slowly made its way out of the cemetery and disappeared into the Mist I left the trees just as the groundskeepers were preparing to close the grave approaching her coffin I briefly contemplated an act of defiance however all the anger and hatred had dissipated somehow I didn't know how but it had all faded away looking down at the woman I once loved I sighed and bid her farewell I forgive you even if you don't acknowledge your wrongs I forgive you I used to love you but not anymore arriving at work the following day

I found a large envelope on my desk I hesitated before opening it knowing what it contained eventually I gathered the courage and took out the photo it wasn't pleasant but it was Sophia the children's Society benefit was approaching marking the fourth anniversary of this whole ordeal I called Lana and invited her to accompany me she agreed enthusiastically and we arranged for me to pick her up around 8:00 p.m. summoning the society Editor to my office I also called in our investigative reporter and photographer I wanted to convene a meeting to strategize and plan our next

steps they gathered and I explained my plan next weekend I want to publish that expose on Darren Woodson there were murmurs of approval only verified factual legally affirmed accounts supported by depositions and sworn statements no guesswork we should have enough evidence to bring him down I want photographers at the event to capture everything then we'll interview the organizers to tally up the proceeds can we make this happen I don't foresee any issues boss we'll be ready to publish by midnight on Friday with space for any new photos thank you everyone I said A week later

I escorted Lana Tuli to the children's charity event after checking our coats we mingled with friends there he was moving through the crowd like a predator searching for his next Target he spotted a pretty brunette with long hair whose husband had gone to the bar for drinks her champagne glass was nearly empty she smiled as Woodson approached her her and whispered in her ear blushing slightly she leaned in closer to him he brushed her arm and then her shoulder she shivered and moved closer to him I noticed one of his henchmen positioning himself near the

balcony doors while the other began to approach the husband sensing trouble the husband turned and confronted Woodson who intensified his advances turning to Lana I said now she stepped away from me and moved closer to the second henchmen waiting Woodson whispered in her ear took her arm and led her towards the balcony she grinned seemingly in in herself I stepped in between them and spoke up excuse me you don't know me but this guy made similar advances to my wife about 4 and 1/2 years ago she gave in and went off with him for the

weekend it wrecked our marriage and led to this I said showing her a photo of my wife's battered face this is my wife she took her own life last week I placed the picture in her hand she went pale trembling and dropped her glass which shattered causing a commotion in the crowd this is your chance to avoid the same mistake she made I discreetly signal to the nearby photographers and noticed one of Woodson's henchmen moving towards me the shocked woman glanced at the photo then turned to Woodson you jerk she shouted slapping him across the

face her nails digging into his skin just then his bodyguard approached but Lana stepped in excuse me Lana said calmly I turned to leave brushing past with my right shoulder it's you he snarled reaching for my shoulder let go of me I growled spinning away from him to my left then pivoting to punch him Square in the nose with my right fist his nose crumpled and his jaw cracked blood gushed and he collapsed like a sack of bricks his henchmen stood Frozen while cameras clicked around them Lana took my arm as the brunette's husband approached

her please take me home now she said her voice trembling we stepped onto the dance floor and the crowd parted as we moved to the center facing the crowd I pointed at Woodson I should be ashamed of what that guy got away with I exclaimed you should all be ashamed for supporting him just by donating to charity the charity along with Chicago and Society should be accountable for his actions on Saturday and Sunday there will be a newspaper article with the facts and the brave statements of his victims read it and take it to heart

Lana pulled me away before I lost my cool and we made our way through the crowd back home she iced my sore fist then we had a passionate night together the consequences were Swift and harsh while his actions weren't illegal public opinion was ruthless he became an outcast and Charities rejected his donations contributions to the children's G plummeted by 65% several organizations returned his money removed him from boards or censured him even the NAACP distance themselves as a stock broker his negative reputation cost him his license and job he attempted to sue me and have

me arrested but the husband of the woman he tried to seduce who was an ADA in Cook County launched his own investigation rendering the lawsuit feal 2 weeks after he was fired he was found in an alley down by the old Stockyards his Johnson removed and placed in his mouth too bad Lana and I became a couple though marriage isn't certain reconnecting with my kids and bonding with her children has been challenging but rewarding we're navigating through the difficulties as best we can