Cheating Wife Disappeared After Vacation w/ Her AP. 10 Years Later I Found Shocking True. Sad Story

[Music] before their reunion both kannie and Tom had gone through major life changes Connie spent years focused on her career never quite finding a deep Connection in her relationships Tom had lost his wife Veronica and struggled with the grief these experiences LED both to re-evaluate their Futures thinking it might be too late for a new chapter their families had been close for years Connie had admired Tom from afar and after her sister's end of life she spent more time with him the emotional support they shared grew into a deeper Bond they hadn't expected this but

both felt the connection was unique and comforting as they drove to Tom's house their thoughts lingered on the changes in their relationship going back to how things were wasn't an option and neither wanted to while Connie was eager to move forward Tom was more hesitant though just as committed the only question left was when they would tell others about their new relationship come on in Tom said as they pulled into his driveway the boys aren't home so we can relax and talk I'm detective Sergeant Pavo janich this is detective philipon we're here to discuss your

wife's disappearance on April 23rd Tom replied I thought I covered everything with the Coast Guard there have been a few new developments since then like what Tom asked how would you describe your relationship with your wife Mr Lynch it was great we'd been married 18 years no problems at least until the accident and there were no marital issues no Tom said firmly what's going on here do you know a man named Brandon Collingsworth janich asked number should I he's a senior accountant at your wife's company are you sure you don't know him I'm sure I

didn't know her work colleagues she reported to Marcel lapier not Collingsworth this was a business-only environment what's this about jich leaned back still watching Tom we got an anonymous tip suggesting your wife and Mr Collingsworth were having an affair you had no idea Tom was visibly shocked I don't believe it what does this have to do with her disappearance Janet continued we' interviewed people at her office several suspected something between Collingsworth and your wife they normally wouldn't have interacted but the rumors persisted Tom accused them of relying on gossip but janich pressed on we also

interviewed Mr Collingsworth and after some pressure he admitted they were involved Tom looked stunned I had no idea why would she do this janich stayed silent while Tom processed the information finally Tom asked asked why are the RCMP involved there's a chance this could be a suspicious end of life philipon said maybe you found out about the affair and acted in a moment of rage that's ridiculous Tom replied angrily I didn't know about the affair and I'm not a butcher that's what many husbands say philipon remarked sometimes anger takes over and bad things happen so

am I a suspect Tom asked now defensive not at this time janich answered calmly we just want to go over the facts again for our own records separate from the Coast Guard report Tom Lynch sat in silence clearly uncomfortable while the detectives watched him okay one more time he said but from now on if you want to talk my lawyer will be here got it that's fine philipon replied Tom began we were in the southern Straits race like we had been for the past 6 years the weather was supposed to be rough but nothing like

what it turned into my boats got radar GPS and Veronica and I had plenty of experience so I wasn't worried we took 4our shifts at the helm I was on from Midnight to 4:00 a.m. While Veronica slept I had coffee and energy bars to stay awake the storm worsened after I took over and radar showed it was going to be rougher than expected I put on my survival suit and left Veronica is at the bottom of the companion way in case she came on Deck everything was fine until just before 2 a.m. I started feeling

sick cramps like food poisoning it got worse so I hit the alarm to wake Veronica she came up suited and took over I went below to the head and it took a while because I had diarrhea I heard a noise on Deck figured something was loose but knew Veronica wouldn't leave the helm so I cleaned up and got ready to go back when I returned she was gone I turned on the deck light and called for her but nothing how long were you gone janosek asked maybe 15 or 20 minutes no more continue the detective

said the boat was on self steering which we usually avoid in bad weather the noise I heard was from the inflatable an ore had come loose I checked below thinking she might be in another cabin or head but she was wasn't there it took me a few minutes to realize she'd gone overboard I dropped the sails started the engine and circled back using the GPS I called her name and turned on the deck light but deep down I knew it was hopeless I made a distress call to the Coast Guard and they have the recording

I kept searching but the waves were too rough the Coast Guard arrived around 4:00 a.m. but I Knew by then she was gone even with her survival gear the water was too cold I lost her her body's never been found philipon asked already knowing the answer Tom shook his head sadly anything else that might help clear this up yanich asked number I'm as confused as you are about the affair I don't think it's connected to her disappearance as I said philipon added an angry husband might seek revenge if she was planning to leave you maybe

you knew a divorce would cost you half of everything including your business how many times do I have to say it I didn't know about the affair it was an accident a horrible accident the detective sat quietly watching Tom was he telling the truth they had no proof otherwise but if he knew about the affair was it just a coincidence that she vanished Without a Trace coincidences were hard to believe in their line of work that's all for now Mr ly let us know if you plan to leave town this case isn't closed philipon said

Tom stood clearly angry next time I'll have my lawyer I won't be your scapegoat while you try to make two and two equal five he left the room unable to slam the door thanks to the pneumatic closer what do you think janicek asked his partner hard to say it all depends on whether he knew about the affair yeah janicek nodded that's the key 3 months had passed since since Tom lost Veronica and his life had been filled with turmoil first came the grief then a month ago the revelation of her affair with a co-worker named

Collingsworth Tom understood why the police were suspicious he would have had a motive if he had known about the affair it shifted his Focus from mourning to dealing with the Fallout Veronica's parents were devastated especially her mother who seemed to blame Tom and had become distant the only real support Tom received was from Veronica's younger sister Connie Connie who once had a crush on Tom as a teenager had grown into a successful independent woman running her own interior design business Tom's mother was also upset by Veronica's end of life but she accepted it as a

tragic accident having already lost Tom's father who had been liquidated during a business trip to China she poured her energy into supporting Tom and her grandsons Verna and Tony the Twins were handling their mother's end of life better than Tom Vern was focused on getting an academic scholarship while Tony plannned to join the family business Tom hadn't told them about their mother's Affair or the police questioning after a small memorial service a plaque was placed in a park near Veronica's parents home her father appreciated the gesture but her mother remained cold toward Tom showing affection

only for her grandsons Connie often visited Tom on weekends encouraging him to get back out on the water but he hadn't touched the lynchpin lady since the accident when he suggested selling the boat both Connie and the boys opposed the idea so it stayed docked unused Tom found comfort in his work at lynchpin Plastics which specialized in pet containers for Industries like Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics his father had steered the company away from the crowded beverage market and Tom had continued his father's Strat keeping the business thriving he worked closely with his old college friend Brian

Edgar who was now his sales manager they were both in sync about the company's Direction and were good friends outside of work although Tom hadn't returned to his sailboat he still found Refuge at the Yacht Club especially in the dining room and bar his father had once been Commodore and Tom had been expected to follow but Veronica's end of life had delayed that still he enjoyed being at the club and often brought his sons for dinner one Friday evening in July after a long week at work Tom stopped by the club he had invited his

sons but Tony had other plans so only Verna showed up and brought Connie with him hi Dad hope you don't mind that Aunt Connie joined us since Tony couldn't make it Verna said Tom can you tell your son not to call me Aunt Connie it's making me feel old she said verie respect your aunts wishes Tom replied so I should just call her Connie Vern asked sure or babe or hot stuff Tom joked prompting laughter from the group it was the first time in months that Tom could remember laughing don't you dare Verna Connie said

with a playful poke you may call me Connie or Miss Fairley depending on the occasion Vern Shrugged and grinned at his father and they all shared a light moment something that had been rare in the past 3 months Friday night at the dining room was Seafood night and each of them ordered a different dish the food was excellent as usual the mood stayed light until the dessert tray came around Connie and Tom passed but Vern chose a huge New York cheesecake their waiter quickly brought Three Forks anticipating they'd share I need to stop eating here

Tom joked leaning back I'm going to hit 300 lb soon nonsense Connie replied you still look great just like when you dated my sister ooh someone's got the hots for Dad Vern te careful Tom warned this is family not one of your teenage chats relax Tom Connie said Vern didn't mean any damage right ver yeah sorry Dad ver said looking concerned I'm not upset Tom said quietly glancing at Connie but some topics aren't for public or private talk party pooper Connie grinned don't lead my son astray I'm trying to raise him to be a gentleman

Tom said with a smile good luck with that Connie laughed and Verna joined in as coffee was served Verna asked Dad can you give Connie a ride home I've got a date in half an hour sure Tom replied have a good time after Verna left Connie turned to Tom you've raised two great boys Tom you must be proud I am but Veronica deserves a lot of the credit she guided them they'll be out of the house soon what will you do then Connie asked I don't know maybe downsize or live on the lady you haven't

been on the boat since the accident right number I just can't get excited about it the boys would love to go out with you and so would I I love that boat as much as you do I don't want to go alone Connie I'm not ready you don't have to I can crew with you I know the boat well maybe I should take her out she's been sitting there for months there's the Tom I know Connie smiled why not check her out tonight if all's good we could make a weekend of it Tom hesitated wondering

how the conversation had moved so fast can I trust you to behave he grinned of course she smiled Vern was right I've had a thing for you since I was 14 I knew that but I never took advantage and after that I was married I took those vows seriously I can tell Connie said quietly looking at her cup Tom broke the silence let's go check the boat yes let's they walked to the dock and Tom opened the gate for Connie as she passed she brushed against him not by accident Tom watched her head toward the

lynchpin lady Connie had never married saying she hadn't found the right man Veronica used to tease that she wasn't looking hard enough Connie had built a successful interior design business starting on her own at 27 and by 33 she was well established and doing well Veronica had been slim tall and always put together but not overly glamorous she was an accountant but had stayed home when the Twins were born once they turned 13 she went back to her old job at samples and Reed and seemed content she didn't socialize much at work which suited her

introverted nature Tom always made sure to introduce new people carefully before they became friends Connie was the opposite of her sister Veronica in many ways shorter but curvier with a lively personality Tom had often found her very attractive occasionally wishing Veronica had her spark despite these thoughts he was content in his marriage now at 40 he felt he was too young to give up on life and if he sought a new partner he would be selective Tom was a handsome man 6 feet tall with dark brown hair a medium build and a tan from years

of sailing he worked out regularly and his natural smile and dark brown eyes made him stand out many women envied Veronica for having such a successful personable husband Tom quickly checked over the lady and found everything in order the maintenance team had emptied the freshwater tanks and the fuel was nearly full the batteries and systems all worked and he left instructions to refill the water the next morning he'd just need to pick up food food and drinks that night as Tom lay in bed he thought about Connie it felt odd to think about dating his

late wife's sister even though it wasn't wrong she had certainly grown up since her awkward teenage years still the idea didn't bother him Connie had often joined the family on weekend sailing trips and the thought of taking her out on the lady felt natural he left a note for verie and Tony inviting them to join him on the boat for the weekend then packed a bag despite his early reluctance he was looking forward to being back on the water Tom was startled awake the next morning by the doorbell at 7: a.m. dragging himself out of

bed he pulled on jeans and opened the door to find Connie ready for sailing and beaming what are you doing here this early he groaned the Sun's Up letun go she chirped come in I need to get ready make some coffee sure and don't forget your overnight bag I've got it packed Tom replied 15 minutes later Tom was showered dressed and carrying his bag the boys hadn't stirred likely due to a late night Connie held up tomk note to the boys smirking looks like it's just you and me for the weekend Tom smiled faintly we

need groceries nope I took care of it last night Connie said proudly good when's high tide just about now she replied replied ensuring they'd have an easy exit from the marina Connie drove them to the yach club chatting along the way while Tom sipped his coffee they loaded the supplies and bags onto the boat in the cool Morning Sun Connie expertly untied the lines as Tom carefully navigated out of the marina with the bow thruster the diesel engine hummed as they headed toward the open Waters of Georgia straight there wasn't much wind but they had

no set destination Tom kept the motor running scanning for a breeze where do you want to go Tom asked as they stood together in the cockpit somewhere Sunny warm and private Connie replied giving him a satisfied look Tom grinned fully aware of Connie's intentions he had known about her attraction to him for years when she was 14 and he was 21 it had been awkward later as she grew into an attractive woman he sometimes avoided being alone with her but Veronica had laughed it off now with both of them single things felt different after Veronica's

end of life Connie began checking in on him taking care of the boys and handling household tasks all while managing her own business Tom didn't mind Connie's positive energy was a welcome relief after everything that had happened he often saved his memories for private moments especially at night sleeping alone felt strange especially after Veronica's scent had faded from the she the two of them had rarely been a part traveling together to trade shows in places like Chicago and dorf his thoughts drifted back to the detectives it was still hard to accept that Veronica had been

unfaithful but the evidence was clear others knew and talked he had no choice but to accept it as fact a penny for your thoughts Connie asked breaking his Ry just reminiscing Tom lied Tom you need to stop grieving your sons and even my parents have accepted it you have many years ahead that could be happy if you let them she said gently he nodded I suppose you're right is that what this weekend is about exactly you're still young and what happened wasn't your fault it's time to move forward and you know I'm here to help

Tom smiled you've been a great support Connie I don't know if I've said it but having you around has been a big help she smiled back and gave him a hug where are we headed she asked I thought satna maybe anchor at winter Cove perfect she said enthusiastically great take the helm and I'll get some coffee in Danish as Tom made his way below deck he noticed the wind was finally picking up they could sail once they finished their snack his father had bought the Lynch pin lady from a business associate who was desperate during

a divorce then refurbished it to Modern standards the boat had been the site of many family weekends and it had proven its worth during the storm when Veronica was lost Tom couldn't help but wonder if he could have done something differently to save her but then there was the affair the confusion and regret weighed on him he returned to the cockpit with coffee and danish and they ate in comfortable silence enjoying the view as they sailed West into Georgia Straight they turned South toward the gulf Islands later the waters were calm though they kept an

eye on fery traffic after their snack they raised the sails Tom and Connie were a well practiced team the winches made raising the Genoa and Main sail easy the lady wasn't built for Speed but was a comfortable Cruiser perfect for them the wind was still light but they made good progress under sail Gliding Over The Gentle chop sunglasses and sunscreen were necessary as they sailed under the bright Sun Connie handled the helm with confidence as she had done many times before she had often joined the family on sailing trips and Tom had always appreciated her

help both on deck and in the galley by late afternoon they arrived at winter Cove on Saturn Island their favorite anchoring spot was free Tom carefully guided the lady into position while Connie handled the anchor following his directions The Cove was sheltered from the wind and they settled in comfortably for the evening when Tom was satisfied with the anchor he signaled Connie to cut the engine the sudden quiet was always striking no traffic or planes and the jet skis were gone for the evening leaving them in peaceful Solitude what's for dinner Connie Tom asked pork

and beans on a paper plate she joked with a straight face you liar Tom laughed what did you really bring a variety of cold cuts cheese coold SLA fresh rolls and lemon tarts sounds healthy Tom grumbled what about wine do you still have that Spanish red Castillo something yep want to start with a boal I opened sure I'll handle dinner while you set up the table Connie offered they set up at the back of the cockpit enjoying the last of the sunlight Tom grabbed the boet from the cooler and opened the Spanish red to breathe

they clinked to glasses in silent toast the food exceeded Connie's modest description and there was plenty left for the next day I'm glad you decided to do this Tom Connie said go sailing yes and invite me along wasn't it your idea Tom teased would you have gone without me she asked after a pause Tom admitted no probably not any regrets she asked he smiled no done they ate quietly enjoying their wine and the peaceful surroundings after a while Connie spoke again Tom do you know the five stages of grief Tom looked at her surprised yeah

vaguely denial anger bargaining depression and acceptance right exactly where do you think you are I haven't thought about it much there's no denying Veronica's gone and I was angry blaming myself Depression hit hard but I think I'm working through it the pain is still there though so are you nearing acceptance she asked it's more complicated than that there are things I found out that change everything Tom replied his voice heavy with meaning Connie's expression shifted from confusion to realization she cheated on you didn't she she asked angrily Tom was taken aback by how quickly she

guessed he nodded but didn't say anything that selfish stupid woman Connie fumed how did you find out I don't want this getting out to the family it would hurt too many people she's gone so what's the point I agree it would devastate my parents and your boys Tom hesitated then explained the RCMP called me in for an interview about the accident at first it seemed routine but then they asked about a senior manager at Veronica's office I didn't know him but they hinted at an affair eventually the guy admitted to it it had been going

on for months Connie was stunned how could she do this to you Tom shook his head I had no idea the police even wondered if I knew about it and did something to her Connie sat silently processing the information after a long pause she asked is that why it's been so hard for you to move on Tom nodded yes not only did I lose her but I also can't understand why she betrayed me the boys all of us Connie sighed my sister was always selfish we never got along growing up maybe she resented me for

being the younger unexpected child who got a lot of attention but when you came along I could see her scheming you were a catch handsome smart and set to inherit your dad's business she knew exactly what she was doing Tom listened quietly as Connie spoke a hint of dark humor in her voice as she reflected on their shared history with Veronica Tom chuckled knowing Connie wasn't revealing anything new about her feelings for him I was helpless Connie said too young and awkward back then but you always treated me well you were my prince charming even

though I knew I'd lose you to my sister I cried myself to sleep wishing I was older and prettier once I got older she stopped giving me a hard time because she had you in the life she wanted you were never ugly Tom protested you were just growing up by the time you turned 16 you were beautiful and you've only gotten more beautiful since I'm surprised no one swept you off your feet Connie gave him a serious look you don't get it I was waiting for you every guy I dated was compared to you and

none of them measured up Tom surprised leaned back and sighed you waited 20 years for your sister to mess up she nodded futile I know Veronica had you and everything she wanted you gave her everything new cars vacations a big house and she took you for granted I never knew Tom admitted I thought I was just giving her what she deserved for being a good wife and mother there were no signs she was unhappy or cheating she was selfish Connie said when she had everything she still wanted more like a lover I knew she'd mess

up someday you really didn't think much of her did you Tom said sadly number part of it was jealousy because she had you but mostly it's anger now knowing how she betrayed you and now she's gone Tom said Connie nodded yes and I'm still here not knowing what to do Tom sighed it's too soon for me to think about the future I am attracted to you but everything I believed about my marriage is falling apart and it's messing with me I might need therapy to sort this out therapy really Connie asked surp surprised maybe I

need to get my life back together for the boys the business and myself Connie hugged him tightly I'm sorry Tom I didn't mean to dump all this on you now I had no idea what my sister had done I'll give you space I've waited this long I can wait longer Tom held her close unsure of his feelings was it love or just confusion he needed to figure it out before making any decisions they finished the wine in silence sitting apart but not distant the Stars appeared and Tom found himself thinking about the satellites orbiting above

always watching from a distance the quiet of the Cove was interrupted only by the occasional jet from Vancouver as the night settled in they buttoned up the cockpit and went below Tom slept in the forward stateroom and Connie chose one of the AFT guest rooms the boat could sleep seven though it had rarely been been full in recent years usually just Tom Veronica the boys and sometimes Connie Tom woke early on Sunday as the cabin filled with light knowing he wouldn't fall back asleep he grabbed some clean clothes and headed to the forward head for

a quick shower and shave when he emerged Connie was already in the galley wearing a sheer dressing gown and making coffee morning he greeted her with a smile hey did you sleep well yeah you okay but we did talk about some heavy stuff last night she admitted I didn't mean to burden you with that no I'm glad you told me it's something I needed to know Tom noticed her translucent gown showing her figure clearly and felt a familiar attraction while he had seen her in bikinis before things felt different now with Veronica gone he found

his inhibitions slipping he poured himself a bowl of cereal knowing Connie wouldn't want a big breakfast she soon disappeared into the shower while Tom ate contemplating how much things had changed in his life grief had been replaced with a sense of Freedom especially after learning about Veronica's Affair for the first time he realized he was free to pursue other women like Connie when Connie returned dressed in snug shorts and a tank top Tom jokingly asked are you going to be warm enough in that I'll lay her up if if I need to she teased besides

it's easy to take off layers as they prepared to pull anchor Tom reflected on how his attitude had shifted in the past month Veronica's betrayal had broken his emotional ties but he was still figuring out how long he should wait before moving on was he worrying about what Connie's parents his mother or even the RCMP might think or was it time to focus on his own happiness they motored out of the Cove heading through active pass and into Georgia Straight enjoying the calm morning it was peaceful with few boats out yet Tom and Connie decided

to raise sail despite the light wind hoping it would pick up later can you take the day off tomorrow Tom asked I could especially since I've got my phone with me I'm thinking of playing hookie good idea I'll let the office know I won't be in either we can find a place to stay and get a good meal Nimo Connie suggested perfect there's a great Pub by the harbor I won't need to dress up for that she smiled you look good in anything Tom replied why thank you so what are you saying Mr Lynch that

you're gorgeous and any guy would dream of being with you are you saying you're not interested or maybe you're not red-blooded she teased you know better than that he laughed so what don't you find appealing about me she asked playfully Connie how did I end up in this conversation Tom scowled still smiling well Tom she said her tone becoming serious I've been patient but now I'm going to be persistent you have no excuse to resist me Tom studied Connie carefully sensing her mix of seriousness and playfulness it seemed mostly serious with a hint of fun

she had laid her cards on the table and now he had to decide whether to pick them up knowing it would change everything aren't we rushing things he asked after a long pause no Connie said firmly we don't have to broadcast our relationship I've waited 20 years Tom I'm 33 and my clock's ticking I want you and I want a child with you can I make it any clearer Tom was stunned by her directness he had never heard her be so open about what she wanted especially declaring her desire for a child with him he

wasn't sure how to respond you've made it clear he said what do you expect me to sayou supposed to tell me you've had feelings for me for 15 years and can't wait to get me into bed she joked her humor returning oh is that all Tom replied one step at a time she grinned Tom turned away staring at the Horizon as he processed her boldness finally he looked back at her how exactly does one go about screwing someone's brains out he asked breaking the tension Connie burst into laughter releasing the tension of the moment she

walked over wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply if you let me I'll show you she whispered I'll look forward to it Tom said pulling her into another kiss you mean it she asked still unsure are you taking back your offer he teased never you're mine Tom Lynch and I Won't Let You Go Tom believed her completely what are you thinking now she asked I'm wondering how you're so sure I don't want to disappoint you Veronica used to brag about you after a drink or two Connie said with a Sly smile Tom's

mood shifted and Connie noticed immediately are you embarrassed by what she might have said yeah I didn't think she'd share those things Tom admitted she was more likely to tell me than anyone else Connie reassured him but let's not dwell on that she's gone and I'm here I want to help you forget the bad and focus on the good that's all I can hope for I guess and I'll show you how good life can be she smiled Tom laughed kissing her again he knew it would take time to heal and move forward but Connie was

committed to helping him through it they spent the rest of the afternoon sailing into Nimo Harbor by the time they arrived Tom had mentally surrendered to the idea of moving forward with Connie they talked about light-hearted topics but Tom knew there was still much to learn about the woman who was so determined to be part of his future Connie had pushed him to make a decision jump or walk away and he had chosen to jump she was excited but remained patient knowing they had too much in common for it to fail later as they walked

hand inand from the pub Tom couldn't shake his lingering doubts he had made a commitment to Connie but he wasn't sure what kind of commitment it was perhaps it was just about Zex though he knew Connie saw it as something much deeper you're awfully quiet Connie said as they reached the dock second thoughts maybe Tom admitted I feel guilty like I'm cheating on Veronica I know it's crazy but it's there nagging at me Connie stopped and looked at him with genuine sadness I won't push you into anything you're not ready for I know what I

want but not at any cost I'll give you time to decide when or if you're ready Tom smiled thanks you're special and I do love you I'm just not sure what kind of love that is yet Connie smiled back resigned to be patient once again she knew when the time came she wanted it to be for good they boarded the boat and went below to the lounge where Tom poured them each of Brandy and turned on the TV they sat in silence watching a PBS special featuring a rock star using it as a distraction until

bedtime Tom kissed Connie good night and headed to the forward stateroom Connie sat for a while thinking about how close she had come to getting Tom to commit but he hadn't yet she knew better than to push further that night it could ruin everything however she wondered how much longer she could wait if Tom wasn't going to be part of her life she needed to move on meanwhile Tom lay awake in his bunk replaying their conversation had he hesitated out of fear he was torn between his desire for Connie and the uncertainty of what it

meant Veronica's infidelity still haunted him and while he tried to view her as Unfaithful it didn't bring him closure the image of their once perfect marriage felt shattered after hours of lying awake Tom got up he noticed the lights were out and Connie's door was closed grabbing a beer he plugged his headphones into the stereo letting soft soothe him he eventually dozed off but his dreams were Vivid Connie crying Veronica's scent lingering and a soft kiss that startled him awake when he opened his eyes Connie was kneeling before him smiling it had been her kiss

her scent he rubbed his eyes and took off his headphones I must have fallen asleep he muttered Connie grinned holding up the half empty beer bottle drank yourself to sleep what time is it he asked about 2 couldn't sleep either Tom shook his head number you same you were dreaming pretty intensely she said talking in your sleep Veronica never mentioned that Tom replied Connie leaned closer you were crying in my dream Tom blurted out I wasn't crying Connie reassured him must have been in the dream Tom hesitated then admitted I didn't want to hurt you

in the dream Connie still kneeling with her arms on his thighs looked up at him you care for me don't you she asked softly you know I do I'm just trying to figure out if it's more than that after a long pause Tom looked into her eyes Connie will you stay with me tonight she nodded helping him up and leading him to his stateroom knowing this was the moment she had been waiting for the next morning Tom woke with Connie's body pressed against him he glanced at the clock it was past 8 his mind wandered

back to the previous night and the dream what did it all mean he wasn't sure but one thing was clear he had made love to Connie and it felt right Connie stirred and smiled you're awake Tom nodded I was thinking about last night I wanted it to be perfect for you it was she said with a contented yawn I've never felt so good Tom smiled I don't want this to be a one-time thing I can't do that Connie grinned did you really think I'd be okay with just one night Tom sighed I don't know my

head's a mess she wrapped her arm around him pulling him closer I'll make it better Tom I promise he held her tight I believe you Connie I really do Connie stood behind Tom her arms around his waist as he steered the lady toward how sound the wind had shifted West speeding up their Journey it was a quiet Monday morning with little traffic on the water most people didn't have the luxury of skipping work that day as Connie thought about the past night and morning she marveled at how their relationship had changed what had started as

a surprise had become real love far beyond what she expected making love with Tom had been perfect confirming that he was everything she had dreamed of for years now being with him felt like a dream come true they reached Fisherman's Cove at half tide making docking easier Connie quickly tied off the boat and they silently loaded their gear onto a cart and headed to the parking lot the drive back to Tom's house was quiet both lost in thoughts about how much had changed the relationship was different now and there was no going back though it

was a big step neither wanted to return to the way things were when they arrived at Tom's house he invited her in knowing the boys wouldn't be home inside Mrs Calderone the housekeeper greeted them surprised by their early return Tom and Connie made their way to the deck with glasses of wine where they could talk privately after some hesitation Tom finally asked so what's next is it too soon to tell the boys or our parents Connie thought for a moment probably I don't feel the need to rush into telling anyone yet we're still getting used

to this ourselves there's so much we don't know about each other Tom smiled what happened to Full Speed Ahead she laughed softly I'm not having second thoughts I've waited too long for this I just don't want to hurt anyone especially our parents they might think we're moving too fast what about the boys Tom asked I think they might already suspect something I feel comfortable around them and I think they're comfortable with me Tom looked thoughtful after a pause Connie reached for his hand giving it a reassuring squeeze but they remained quiet meanwhile Mrs caldron watched

them from the kitchen window smiling by the end of the afternoon they agreed to keep their relationship private for a while longer though Tom doubted they could keep it secret for 3 months they were willing to try for a while things went smoothly August was hot and dry and Tom and Connie spent every weekend sailing on the lady the boys uninterested always found reasons not to join which gave Tom and Connie the Privacy they enjoyed when the boys returned to school little changed for Tom he was glad they'd be home most nights the chaos after

Veronica's end of life had overshadowed the months from April to June during the summer ver balanced studying for his scholarship exams and spending time with his girlfriend while Tony worked at lynchpin Plastics in quality assurance Tom was busy with his own work but thought of Connie every day eagerly waiting for their weekends together he grew more certain of his love for her thoughts of Veronica faded and his dreams of her had stopped Connie had replaced those memories and he realized he rarely thought about Veronica anymore but on September 1st Tom received a call from the

family lawyer Malachi wise hello Tom it's been a while how are you Malachi asked I'm fine what's up Tom responded I wanted to ask why you haven't come in to discuss Veronica's will I probably should have called sooner but there didn't seem to be any rush her will I hadn't thought about it she hasn't been declared officially dead yet just missing and presumed drowned true but we can still review the will just not act on it yet let's set up a time to go over it and tie up a few other Loose Ends from her

estate okay Friday before noon Works Tom agreed on Friday Tom arrived at Malachi's office and they headed to lunch over the meal they caught up Tom shared how he had been spending time with Connie and how she had helped him move forward after Monica's end of life Malachi asked about the boys and Tom reassured him that they were doing well in school as they finished eating Malachi turned to the main reason for their meeting Tom did you know Veronica added something to her will just two weeks before she disappeared Malachi asked no I didn't what

kind of addition she left a sealed letter for you the contents of the will didn't change but she included this letter since you already have a copy of the will you can read the letter now if you like Tom was puzzled and this was just before the accident yes on March 29th a little under 3 weeks before she disappeared I have no idea what it could be about let's go back to your office and I'll read it there Tom suggested Malachi agreed and they wrapped up lunch to head back they walked back to Malachi's office

in silence once inside Malachi asked his secretary not to interrupt and close the door behind them he sat at his large cherry desk inherited from his father looking every bit the seasoned lawyer he pulled out a folder laying it on the desk and opened it inside were the original will a cream colored envelope and some other papers nothing has changed in the will since you and Veronica filed it you probably have a copy at home or in a safe deposit box Maliki asked yes both copies are there good the only thing left is this envelope

I don't know what's inside so if you want to read it in private I'll step out thanks Tom replied as Malaki left the room closing the door quietly behind him Tom stared at the envelope his name written on the front in Veronica's familiar handwriting he hesitated reading what it might contain but curiosity won he used malak's letter opener to slice it open and found several pages of Veronica's neat handwriting his stomach tightened as he began to read my dearest Tom by the time you read this I will be gone I'm sorry for the pain I've

caused but I need to explain why earlier this year I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer my doctor was honest my chances of survival were only one in five I made a selfish decision not to undergo treatment I didn't want to suffer through chemotherapy radiation or the pity of others I chose to let the cancer take its course and end things on my own terms I've kept this secret from you and everyone else I didn't want anyone to suspect I've acted selfishly in other ways too not long before my diagnosis I began an affair it doesn't

matter with whom and no you don't know him I did it because I wanted the thrill of something forbidden it was selfish and I regret it I thought I could end it quickly but it dragged on comparing him to you he failed in every way it wasn't worth it but I did it for me I've tried to write this letter for weeks I know I don't have much time left you may have already noticed changes in me but I can't let things go on this way I love you Tom even if I didn't always show

it please don't share this letter with our boys or my parents when the autopsy is done they'll learn about my illness you will move on Tom and there is someone who loves you more than I ever could constant she has loved you from the start and will never hurt you the way I have with her you will find true happiness take care of yourself and our sons my love goodbye Veronica liquidated Tom put the letter down tears streaming down his face it answered all his questions he could almost picture Veronica stepping off the lady ending

her suffering he didn't know how long he sat there overwhelmed by her confession a soft knock at the door finally broke his trance come in Tom said wiping his eyes as Malachi entered his expression full of concern are you okay Malachi asked gently I don't know Tom replied sinking into his chair the letter it's a confession Veronica had terminal cancer and planned to end her life she never told anyone but there's more more Malachi asked leaning in Tom handed him the letter Malachi read it in silence his eyes widening as he processed the revelations after

finishing he shook his head in disbelief I never would have imagined Malachi trailed off Tom I should also tell you something 2 months after Veronica disappeared the RCMP called me in that's when I learned about her affair they asked if I knew the man she was involved with when I said no they told me he'd admitted to the affair and hinted that I might have had a motive for damaging her Tom was shocked and I denied knowing anything of course they let me go and I haven't heard from them since you should have called me

Tom that put you in a dangerous situation Malachi said I know but I didn't think they'd accuse me of anything I wouldn't be so sure the police sometimes take their time building a case you need to act now what should I do Tom asked now fully focused I suggest we go to the RCMP and present this letter it shows Veronica intended to take her own life which would weaken any motive they think you had okay Tom agreed I haven't heard from them in months but I'll follow your lead Malachi set up a meeting with the

officers janich and philipon at the RCMP headquarters they presented the letter along with a sample of Veronica's handwriting after reviewing it the officer seemed convinced that Veronica had planned her own end of life due to her illness an hour later they left confident the case would soon be closed Malachi promised to petition for endof Life certificate there wasn't much to distribute from Veronica's will mostly her jewelry clothes and car Tom decided Verna would inherit the car to commute to SFU and the jewelry would be kept for his son's future wives except for a diamond pendant

Veronica had left to Connie a piece Connie had always admired in an odd way the letter gave Tom closure he understood why Veronica had chosen to leave even though he wished she had given him the chance to say goodbye as for her Affair it would remain a secret between Tom the police Malachi and Connie he didn't want her memory tarnished by it when Tom got home he called Connie can I come over I have something to show you of course Tom when will you be here she asked I'll be there in about half an hour

he said I'll let Mrs Calderone know I'm out for the evening I'll have something ready for us Connie replied her voice warm true to his word Tom parked his Audi at Connie's townhouse half an hour later as he approached the front door it opened before he could knock revealing a smiling Connie hi lover she greeted him wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him deeply hi he replied when she let him go they sat together on the sofa exchanging a few more kisses before Tom placed a cream colored envelope on the coffee table what's

that Connie asked curious I met with Malachi wise today Veronica left this letter with her will to be opened after her end of life she gave it to him just before she disappeared you should read it Connie nodded sensing the seriousness in tomk voice he handed her the letter and poured two glasses of wine while she read when he returned he saw tears running down her face she finished reading set the letter down and hugged Tom tightly I had no idea she whispered she hid everything so well I know she fooled all of us it

explains what happened that night on the lady Connie wiped her tears my poor sister hiding her illness she really was a great actress and now I need to be careful cancer runs in families I hadn't thought about that Tom admitted Tom we can never tell my parents the self-destruction or the affair it would destroy them I agree Tom said I won't tell the boys or my mom either they don't need to know I'll put the letter in the safe deposit box but if you'd rather I destroy it I can I don't know Connie said her

voice shaking let's just put it away for now and decide later okay I'll store it tomorrow tom assured her dinner that night was quiet later they sat together on the sofa half watching TV but too distracted to focus eventually Connie took Tom's hand and led him to the bedroom they made love with tenderness as Tom knew Connie needed Comfort not passion he stayed with her that night understanding she needed his warmth and presence the letter had changed Connie's feelings toward her sister she could almost understand why Veronica had acted the way she did but the

affair which started before the diagnosis still confused her what surprised her most was Veronica's acceptance of Connie's love for Tom almost as if she didn't know her sister at all later as they lay in bed Tom spoke softly Connie I think it's time we tell the boys and our parents about us I love you and want to marry you everyone should know Connie smiled touched I want that too tomorrow tomorrow will be a new day for us Tom said [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]