I Found a Secret Phone In a Cheating Wife's Bag & Set Up Hidden Recorder To Get Revenge. Audio Story

[Music] I never expected life to spiral into such chaos for years we had what seemed like a perfect life a stable home happy kids and a trusting relationship or so I thought but things changed fast as cracks appeared in our marriage I no longer recognized our life it started small missed dinners distant talks and excuses that didn't make sense I brushed it off thinking every marriage has rough spots but soon I was questioning everything especially Richard in the months before that fateful day we were like strangers under the same roof he came home late and

when we talked it was tense I tried to hold on for the kids hoping things would return to normal then the night I received those damning photos my world fell apart everything I believed about my husband our love and our life shattered instantly every day followed the same disturbing routine just before school ended the familiar old Volvo would park nearby never too close one day a mother saw the driver peering through binoculars and called the police as the kids poured out of school I saw him get out of the car even from 400 yards away

I recognized his frame his stressed gestures he showed something to the police officer Mommy why are you crying Thomas asked are you hurt no sweetie the wind just blew something into my eyes I lied hugging them and walking to the car I glanced back and saw him still talking to the officer 2 days later I had penny pick up the kids within minutes Richard approached them meline spotted him first and ran to him with Thomas following he hugged them tightly and I watched crying he crouched to speak with them then turned to Penny I walked

over to him hello Richard it's been a while his eyes were filled with anger that was your choice not mine what do you mean I've never kept you from the kids he pulled some papers from his jacket and handed them to me what do you call this I glan at them and recognized only one phrase restraining order I don't understand I never filed this well someone did Mommy can Daddy come home with us meline asked tugging on my arm Richard shook his head gently not tonight darling as he turned to leave he said over his

shoulder by the way I'll deny this meeting ever happened Richard wait can I have those papers no it's my only copy I'll send it anonymously he hugged and kissed the kids then walked away they called out to him but he didn't look back I saw him wiping his eyes in the car Penny stared at me in disbelief tell me you didn't do this cath Richard's a good dad I didn't Penny I replied firmly but I'm going to find out who did all the way home I couldn't stop thinking about his face desperate broken and hurt

I tried to remind myself he deserved it he had betrayed me by Sleeping with another woman less than 7 years of marriage and he couldn't stay faithful what was wrong with me I I loved him and did everything to keep myself in shape for him I thought he was proud of me but I was wrong it had been nearly a year since those photos arrived they left little to the imagination a young blonde and him having Z in some shots his face wasn't visible but the tattoo gave it away property of Katherine Thompson with an

arrow pointing down I remembered when he got it on our first anniversary I'd laughed then but I wasn't laughing now looking at those pictures made me sick how could he do this to me I thought about Penny's words he was always a great dad deeply involved with Maddie and Tom they adored him and I was surprised when he suddenly stopped seeing them for 3 months there was no contact despite everything I didn't hate him I wouldn't stop him from seeing the kids as Richard walked away he couldn't believe how quickly his life had fallen apart

a year ago he had a good job a house a loving wife and two beautiful children now it was all gone he sat in his car hitting his forehead on the the steering wheel how had one drunken night led to this normally he didn't drink much but that night at the company party he felt lonely Kath wasn't there because she was caring for her mom so he drank more than usual he couldn't remember anything after halfway through the night and woke up in a hotel room with a terrible hangover the hotel said he had booked

the room the week before which made no sense when he returned to work his colleagues were teasing him and his boss Craig wasn't amused I saw you leaving with a blonde woman Saturday night kath's a great girl and you're risking everything for a fling Richard couldn't remember any of it but Craig filled in the gaps Richard had left the party with his arm around a mystery woman someone no one recognized a week later Kath came back from her mom's and two days after that Richard was kicked out of the house when she found the pictures

he moved in with his brother and soon received divorce papers he never thought Kath would use the kids against him but this restraining order made it impossible to arrange visits with them back at home I gave the kids a snack and checked my email but there was nothing from Richard while they worked on their homework I started dinner wondering how things had gone so wrong Tony got home around 5:30 p.m. greeted by Grunts from the kids and a kiss from me he had been my rock during the divorce helping me find a good lawyer and

securing a settlement Richard didn't put up much of a fight when my solicitor threatened to limit his access to the kids he gave in I don't feel great about the settlement it feels like I have everything and he has nothing he even has to pay the mortgage on the house he can't live in Tony says it's Richard's fault for not fighting back and for cheating I met Tony at work where he's a solicitor and I work in the accounts Department we started going to lunch together and talked about our lives he used to tell me

he envied Richard for having a stable family over time Tony became a close friend and Confidant and I shared everything with him even Richard's tattoo story as Tony went upstairs to change my thoughts d drifted to Richard's tear stre face the whole situation wasn't fair he'd lost access to the kids while I got everything I teared up as I prepared dinner and Tony noticed what's wrong you seem down tonight he asked I just saw someone from my past they're not doing well and I keep wondering if there's anything I can do to help Tony Shrugged

the only person who can help you is yourself winners and losers that's life you're probably right my worrying won't change anything I replied though doubt lingered in my mind mind later as I sent the kids to brush their teeth before bed Thomas shouted I want Daddy to read me a story Tony folded his newspaper and walked toward them but Maddie cried out not you we want our real daddy Tony's tone hardened well if your real daddy loved you he'd be here wouldn't he Tony I yelled rushing over as Maddie started crying she looked up at

me Eyes Full of Tears daddy does love us doesn't he mommy of course he does sweetie he loves you more than anything I don't know why Tony said that Maddie sniffled he doesn't like Daddy I tried to reassure her I'm sure Tony loves you too he's just upset right now I don't like him I want to see Daddy I'm working on it sweetie let's get you to bed and I'll figure out Daddy's visits after tucking them in I went downstairs still fuming don't you ever talk to my kids like that again Tony gave me a

hard look oh they're your kids now I thought we agreed they'd be our kids when I moved in Richard will always be their father that won't change Tony crossed his arms maybe I could have worded it better but they need to know the truth he's not part of their lives anymore when's the last time they saw him 3 months ago today I said quietly he was with them at school when I was late Tony's expression shifted did you talk to him no he left before I arrived typical what did you say Tony's voice grew tense

i s him down he didn't fight for anything he got the house the child support the maintenance he just gave in Tony smirked we told him give us what we want or you'll never see your kids again he had no choice then why isn't he using his visitation if the kids mean so much to him I don't know I muttered but I saw how heartbroken he was today there's got to be a reason I didn't mention the restraining order but a part of me suspected Tony knew more about it than he let on I kep

quiet waiting for the chance to read it myself I checked my email again nothing from Richard in desperation I looked in the junk folder and found it an attachment called injunction no message just the file I printed it out and put it in my briefcase Tony walked in with an overnight bag I forgot to mention I have to go to Southampton tomorrow I won't be back until Friday evening just one night you'll be back Friday I asked yeah for sure how about we go out to dinner Friday night I'll book a table he offered coming

up behind me and wrapping his arms around me how about a little affection before I leave not tonight Tony I'm not in the mood I pulled away from him he sighed is this still about what I said to Maddie yes it is I can't believe you'd heard a little girl's view of her father just because you're jealous I thought you were better than that jealous of him really Tony scoffed why else would you react like that when she prefers her dad I challenged of course she prefers him he said frustrated heun's been in her life

forever I've only been here 6 months there was a pause and then Tony softened I'm sorry Kathy you're right we just need more time she'll come around especially since he's not visiting I don't want to talk about this anymore I'm going to bed I said walking away meanwhile Rob noticed something was off with Richard who looked exhausted and kept dropping his tools okay what did she do this time Rob asked eyeing him I'm fine Rob muttered come on I can tell something's up yesterday you seemed like you were doing better but now we're back to

square one Rob said standing up and looking down at Richard as they worked on a car engine Richard hesitated she says she knows nothing about the restraining order acted like she was confused when I showed it to her you talked to her are you nuts your lawyer told you to stick to the order until it's lifted Rob reminded him yeah but they're not his kids Rob I had to see them Richard said his voice strained Rob put a comforting arm around Richard's shoulders come on letun call it a night and grab a beer later they

sat in the kitchen Richard with a beer Rob with a coffee so what happened today Rob asked I've been waiting outside the school for the past couple of weeks just to catch a glimpse of Maddie and Tom Richard admitted careful Richie that could get you in trouble yeah I know a cop already checked on me but he understood he's divorced too Richard said stick to the story what happened today Cathy didn't show up her friend Penny picked up the kids so I thought it was a good time to talk you should have seen them Rob

they were so happy to see me I bet they were how long has it been Rob asked Richard sighed too long about 3 months anyway while I was with them Cathy showed up and acted like it was all my fault I showed her the injunction and she claimed she didn't know about it she looked me in the eyes and lied if I hadn't seen her signature on it might have believed her how did she turn into this the Cathy I knew wouldn't have done this taken everything and kept me from my kids did I cause

this Rob did one mistake turn her into someone else I doubt it was just you that guy she's living with probably has a lot to do with it so after I showed her the injunction I left Maddie wanted me to come home with them as I walked away Kathy asked for a copy of the injunction why would she do that if she already has one I don't get it either I thought you two were solid never expected her to react like this to one mistake it was just one mistake and I don't even remember it

anyway I told her I'd email her a copy tonight so I should go do that be careful Richie that could count as contacting her don't worry I'll set up a new Hotmail account and deny it Richard headed to his room looking back I can't pinpoint how I ended up living with Tony there wasn't any great romance or falling in love he was just always there after the photos I leaned on him for support and he helped me through the divorce he took control and I became dependent on him he comforted me took me out and

eventually we ended up in bed when he suggested moving in it seemed like a good idea I liked him he was kind to me and the kids I didn't feel passionate about him but I thought it could work now I was seeing a different side of Tony cruel and vindictive Richard would never have said such hurtful things to the kids if Tony was behind the injunction it showed a side of him I hadn't realized that night in bed Tony tried to cuddle but I pulled away left I'm going to Maddy's room I need sleep lying

in her room I thought about the injunction it included false claims that Richard had threatened me and Tony and my signature was at the bottom I knew I hadn't made those statements I decided to seek legal help the next morning breakfast was tense Tony wasn't happy about being left alone the kids were upset with him and I was exhausted I was relieved to drop the kids at school and head to work at work I reviewed the restraining order again the statement attributed to me were complete lies the order had been requested by my firm Pendleton

Sims and Woodcock on behalf of Tony and me by mid morning I knew I needed to confront Mr Michael Pendleton the senior partner I went to his office and knocked on the door good morning Kathleen what can I do for you he asked looking up from his desk I need help with a legal issue I said handing him the injunction papers this was served on my husband but I never made the statements in here yet my signature is on it Mr Pendleton furrowed his brow as he read through the document you're making a serious allegation

are you saying you never requested this injunction that's exactly what I'm saying I never asked for it and the statements inside you're denying those as well I didn't make them none of it is true he looked up at me measuring his words then what do you need from me Kathleen I want the injunction over turn so my kids can see their father and I want to know who's behind this Mr Pendleton leaned back in his chair his expression serious you do realize that if Tony is involved it could ruin his career I didn't know that

I confessed but my children need their father if Tony falsified evidence then he has to face the consequences he nodded thoughtfully I understand I'll investigate and get back to you this afternoon later just as I Was preparing to leave for the day Mr Pendleton called me back to his office I quickly phoned Penny to ask if she could pick up the kids what if Richard shows up she asked sounding worried let him talk to them I reassured her just don't let him take them I'm working on getting the order overturned it doesn't apply to the

kids so it's fine after hanging up I headed to Mr Pendleton's office he rose to greet me when I entered his demeanor more formal than usual as if I were a client rather than a colleague Kathleen I'm glad you could come I assume someone is handling the children's pickup yes everything's taken care of thank you Mr Pendleton I replied he smiled slightly you're always so organized please have a seat as I sat down I noticed the tension in the way he steepled his fingers clearly deliberating over how to share what he had discovered Kathleen thank

you for bringing this to me if you had taken it elsewhere it could have embarrassed The Firm I spoke with the court clerk and while they usually require original documents a photocopy of your statement was submitted for this injunction the clerk suspects your signature was added through cut and paste my heart sank knowing what was coming Dinda Trent requested the injunction acting on instructions from Mr Woodward who was very forceful we'll handle Miss Trent appropriately the injunction will be overturned tomorrow morning he looked at me with sympathy I'm sorry Kathleen this was all Anthony's doing

he used the firm's name without approval he walked around his desk and sat on the edge are you okay do you want to sit for a bit or maybe have some tea no thank you sir I just need to get back to my children I replied holding myself steady please call me Michael he said gently guiding me toward the door I paused one more thing Michael what Anthony did kept my kids from their father for 3 months I can't forgive that and I don't think I can keep working here please don't make any decisions just

yet he urged letun see what happens next week I nodded in agreement and left his office immediately calling Penny to let her know I was on my way that night after the kids were asleep I began to wonder what else Tony had interfered with I pulled out all the legal documents from the past year and the photos fell out seeing them still made me sick as I looked again something clicked the tattoo Richard's tattoo wasn't visible in any of the pictures it wasn't Richard in those photos I laid them out realizing Richard's face was only

visible in half of them always with his eyes closed I checked the divorce papers the ground stated Richard Thompson did commit Fidelity with Miss Ava Bell andawa but I had never known her name Tony handled the divorce because I was too upset where had the lawyer gotten that name the next day I started investigating I searched for Ava Bell andawa and found multiple payments to her including one for 2,000 from Tony's cost center I went to speak with Maggie Tony's secretary hi Cathy what brings you here you know Tony's away right Maggie greeted me as

I walked into her office yes I know I replied I was hoping you could help me with some audit questions we found payments to a Miss Eva Belling Kawa do you know who she is Maggie blushed slightly yes unfortunately she's an escort Mr Woodward uses to keep certain clients happy I don't approve so he handles it directly do you have a file on her I asked yeah I'll grab it for you she said heading to a filing cabinet Maggie returned with a file in hand she's a beautiful girl you think she could find a better

way to make a living she handed me the file then asked hesitantly Mr Woodward isn't in any trouble is he nothing more than usual Maggie don't worry I reassured her I waited until I got back to my office to open the file as I reviewed it Maggie's description was accurate Evo was strikingly beautiful and intelligent with a degree from the University of keev the photos in the files showed her in a much better light than those I'd seen during the divorce proceedings I found her contact information and left her a message she called me back

around midday hello this is Eva Bell andawa you called her voice came through the phone yes I'm Kathleen Thompson from Pendleton Sims and Woodcock I'd like to discuss something with you could we meet for lunch you work for Mr Woodward I already told him I don't work for him anymore Ava responded sounding irritated no I don't work for him this is a different matter it's work related but not connected to Woodward fine she said her tone softening slightly name a Time in place Roberto at 1:30 p.m. I suggested okay you pay see you then at

1:30 Eva arrived fashionably late drawing the attention of everyone in the restaurant after we shook hands and ordered our meals she didn't waste any time what do you want she asked bluntly I slid a photo of Richard across the table her demeanor shifted immediately her cheerful expression vanished and she looked visibly upset I told him I wouldn't do that again she said sharply you can tell him that tell who I asked confused I don't work for Woodward I'm Richard's ex-wife Eva's eyes widened in Surprise she sat back down taking a moment to process well this

is disappointing he used to talk about how beautiful his wife was and you're pretty but anyway what do you want she said her tone turning dismissive after our food arrived and we ate mostly in silence she explained I'm an escort yes but I have self-respect what happened that night made me lose it Woodward paid me to hurt your husband your husband didn't deserve it HEK a good man he refused to come to my room he kept talking about his wonderful wife I had to get him so drunk he could barely stand then took him to

a room Woodward had booked he was too drunk to do anything so Woodward took the photos himself posing me with your husband and the x that was Woodward he said someone was going to do me for what he paid he set the camera on a timer and did it himself I took her hand nobody deserves that Eva continued your husband was kind the next morning he didn't even remember me he apologized thinking he' never met me before I explained that Richard used that line with all attractive women but she understood he genuinely didn't remember her

I helped Woodward blackmail him and that makes me feel terrible I'm glad Richard didn't do what Woodward wanted I'm sorry Eva he's not my husband anymore we divorced because of those pictures Eva and I talked for another half hour she was kind and easy to talk to and I could see why men would be drawn to her afterward I returned to the office and called Mr Pendleton who asked for details on the payments to Eva concerned he requested a full review of all the transactions I called my mother to ask her to take Tom and

Maddie for the night I didn't want them in the house when Tony came home my mind was racing the man I thought had betrayed me hadn't and the one I trusted had been behind all my problems I sat at my desk crying feeling overwhelmed Brenda eventually came in listened as I poured out everything and then started asking questions do you love Tony she asked no I don't think so maybe I never did I admitted how do you feel about Richard she continued I sighed I'm ashamed Eva made him sound like the perfect husband a year

ago you'd have agreed with her Brenda reminded me I would have I said softly I wish I'd never seen those photos well you divorced him like any anyone would have in your position she said trying to comfort me I should have listened to him I replied regret heavy in my voice it's easy to say that now Brenda said gently go home and think about what you're going to do next I don't have time I said shaking my head Tony's coming back tonight and I know what I need to do when I got home I packed

Tony's belongings into two large suitcases by 5:00 p.m. everything was ready I sat with a glass of wine thinking about how I would tell Richard what I had uncovered when Tony walked in and saw the suitcases he looked confused what's all this are we going somewhere he asked no I said calmly you are moving out what he said his voice rising in disbelief I know about the injunction Tony I spoke to Eva I want you out of my house and out of my life letun talk about this he said grabbing my shoulders and pushing me

toward the dining room his grip tightened painfully I'm not leaving I put too much into this Tony you're hurting me I said trying to pull away oh now you notice he sneered tightening his hold even more sit down and I'll tell you how it's going to be as we entered the dining room I felt a chair behind me I pushed his hands off me accidentally scratching his nose and making it bleed Furious he swung his hand to slap me but I caught his wrist spun him and threw him to the floor thanks to the self-defense

lessons Richard had insisted I take I held Tony's wrist down and pressed my foot against his chest why Tony what did Richard ever do to you I demanded nothing he spat he had what I wanted so I took it you don't care about me you just wanted the image I said my voice cold exactly he admitted the business World trusts family men I'd never make partner as a single guy I saw a shortcut marry you be a family man in a year you're attractive the kids are cute I had it all I pressed my heel

harder into his ribs say one more thing and I'll give you real heartache then I knew what I wanted I let go of his wrist stood up and picked up the phone I dialed Richard Richard can you come over I need to talk to you no the kids are fine it's about something else oh and bring your rifle I hung up and looked at Tony You've Got 5 to 10 minutes before he gets here do you really want to be here when I tell him what you did you think I'm scared of him you don't

know him you tried to take away the most important thing in his life his kids that makes them dangerous now get up and pack your things before it's too late as Tony was leaving Richard pulled up in his old Volvo watching the red BMW drive away I opened the door and hugged him but he stiffened like I was hugging a stranger he gently pulled my arms away what do you want Kath you've already taken everything from me and since when do I own a rifle Richard asked his tone bitter I paused realizing how much damage

there was to repair the man who once loved and trusted me now saw ulterior motives and everything I did it's not like that Richard I just want to talk and explain I said trying to sound calm he glanced past me his eyes narrowing wasn't that your boyfriend driving off what is he coming back with the police to arrest me there's no injunction and Tony's not coming back please just come inside I pleaded reluctantly Richard followed me into the living room and sat on the edge of the sofa clearly ready to bolt at any moment can

I get you a drink I offered trying to ease the tension sparkling water or coffee please I don't drink anymore not since that night when everything fell apart he said quietly I made his coffee just the way he liked it and handed it to him where are you living now I asked trying to make small talk with Rob at the scrapyard sleeping in one of the kids rooms he replied they've been great to me even let me have the old Volvo how's work I asked though I wasn't sure I wanted to know they let me

go 6 months ago I was useless after everything happened he admitted staring at the floor I get some contract work now you've still been making the payments on time I noted my kids aren't going to suffer because I messed up he said firmly his words cut deep you're not making this easy I said feeling the weight of what I was about to confess why should I he shot back you threw me out and took everything over one mistake that's the thing Richard you didn't make a mistake I said softly he looked looked at me confused

what do you mean you didn't sleep with her it was all a setup she told me I'm so sorry I said my voice breaking his anger shifted to disbelief but those photos some were of you but the rest were of Tony I explained Eva told me everything she's ashamed of her partnet and wants to help Richard just stared at me trying to process what I just told him I went to the kitchen tears welling up seeing how much pain Richard was in tore me apart I brought him his coffee and sat down with my glass

of wine he took a sip and gave a small smile you still make great coffee he said then after a pause he added now tell me how Tony set me up I explained everything asking him not to call Tony lover boy because it was never love Richard listened calm on the surface but I could tell he was processing everything quietly and that worried me Richard please don't do anything rash I pleaded we need you stay here tonight Youk feel better in the morning he shook his head I can't stay I've got a date tonight don't

worry I won't do anything stupid when Richard mentioned a date it felt like a punch to the stomach I hadn't considered that he might have moved on even though I had lived with Tony for 6 months I winced as he stood to leave feeling the weight of lost time desperate I used the only card I had left the kids are eager to see you could you come by tomorrow I asked really you'd be okay with that he asked his surprise evident of course of course I replied you can pick them up from Mom's tomorrow and

I'll stay there until Sunday night you can have time with them here or take them out tears wed in his eyes as I handed him the house keys are you sure he asked his voice soft they're your children too you should see them whenever you want as he left he turned and said thanks Kath I'll be here around 1:00 I've got something in the morning later I called Mom to explain what had happened she wasn't surprised she'd never liked Tony always calling him a creep y little man and she'd believed from the start that I

should have given Richard another chance in her mind you stood by your man she still called Richard her son-in-law and was thrilled at the thought of seeing him again Richard arrived at 1:30 the next day and Mom insisted we all have lunch together it was the first time in over a year we had sat down as a family and she loved every minute of it as Richard left with the kids she kissed him on the cheek and told him to come back soon after they left Mom turned to me so what's your plan now I

sighed feeling overwhelmed I don't know Mom it's all such a mess do you think you can rebuild your life with them he still loves you you know I'm not sure I admitted he's so hurt and angry he'll calm down she said confidently especially now that he can see the kids that was a smart move I'll try I said unsure but I'm going to need help Mom nodded her voice firm then start eating Humble Pie and building alliances she was right if I wanted Richard back I'd have to start with his family the weekend went well

Mom and I grew closer United in purpose I returned home Sunday evening just in time to help Richard put the kids to bed they were happy and full of stories about their time with him afterward I offered Richard sparkling water and suggested he pick the kids up from school sometimes we parted on good terms giving me hope Monday arrived too quickly and I was nervous about facing Tony I had my resignation letter ready but decided to honor my commitment to Michael Pendleton I watched Tony arrive looking confident while I failed to notice a white truck

parking next to his BMW Tony fresh from a successful trip was in High Spirits his secretary greeted him warmly as he headed to his office Mr Pendleton wants to see you right away she said Tony dropped off his briefcase and made his way to the top floor he walked into Michael Pendleton's office ready to share his success before he could speak Michael pulled out a file and said I'm glad to hear about the new client Anthony but that's not why I called you it seems you've been up to some Mischief using the firm's name Tony

looked confused I'm sorry Michael I don't understand do you deny pressuring Devon d Trant into filing an injunction against Richard Thompson Anthony began to feel uneasy yes I did request the injunction but it was urgent he was threatening Cathy and me we needed protection so so you deny submitting false evidence for that injunction yes of course then can you provide the original statement signed by Mrs Thompson she denies making one and claims the allegations are false you only provided a copy so where's the original damn Anthony muttered standing abruptly he noticed the two security guards

who had quietly entered the office from that reaction I assume it's true Michael said coldly please sit down we're not finished Anthony knew his career at Pendleton Sims and Woodcock was over now he wondered how bad it would get next there are some accounting issues we have records of payments to Miss Eva balawa all signed by you you've listed these expenses as entertainment what exactly was she doing for us Anthony hesitated shifting uncomfortably Michael sometimes keeping clients happy Means doing things we're not proud of Michael leaned back his expression cold so which client did she

entertain when you paid her double I'd have to check my records Anthony replied avoiding eye contact Miss binka says you used her to Blackmail a client Michael pressed that's not true he wasn't a client Anthony shot back defensively Michael raised his hand cutting him off I've heard enough we're handing everything over to the police you'll likely face charges and the Law Society May revoke your license these gentlemen will escort you to your office you have 1 hour to collect your things Anthony left the building his confidence drained his mood darkened further when he spotted Richard

standing by his parking space a box of Anthony's belongings At His Feet as Anthony approached Richard set the box down and glared at him too late to act tough Richard move Anthony snapped Richard gestured toward the parking space revealing a red metal cube a crushed car Anthony's eyes widened as he recognized the remnants of his BMW the badge still attached Furious he swung at Richard his fist barely grazing him Richard retaliated swiftly kicking Anthony between the legs and driving his knee into Anthony's face knocking him to the ground Anthony bleeding and struggling to stand looked

up just as two police officers arrived perfect timing officers Anthony said trying to regain his composure I want this man charged with assault one of the officers stepped forward and your name is Anthony Woodward he replied confidently the officer's expression shifted Anthony Woodward you are under arrest for conspiracy to Blackmail you don't have to say anything but it may harm your defense if you fail to mention something you later rely on in court as the officers cuffed him Anthony protested what about his attack on me you saw it yes we saw you swing first and

he responded with reasonable Force to defend himself the officer replied calmly then turned to Richard here are our badge numbers in case you want to press charges Anthony still fuming pointed toward the metal cube look what he did to my car the officer glanced over your car you mean the red BMW over there he pointed to an intact vehicle parked across the lot another officer placed Anthony's belongings inside it before leading him toward the patrol car Richard followed his voice calm and measured get used to this Woodward there are plenty of laws against what you

did and I'll make sure you're held accountable for every single one you tried to take everything from me but now it's my turn as the patrol car pulled away Rob arrived in a truck using a crane to lift the scrap metal cube he jumped down with a grin and high-fived Richard oh Richie his face was priceless what about face to in a week or so Youk be driving a new beamer Richard replied smiling back in the office Brenda walked in and said Kath you've got to see what's happening in the parking lot I went to

the window and watched as Anthony was driven away in a police car Richard and his brother Rob were in the parking lot laughing and loading something onto the back of Rob's truck they high-fived and slapped each other on the back I hoped whatever they were up to wouldn't get Richard in trouble it would devastate the kids if he was taken away again after lunch Michael Pendleton called he explained what had happened and asked if I still wanted to resign with Tony gone there was no point in leaving he reassured me that Tony acted alone and

that the firm didn't condone his actions likely worried about any legal action Richard or I might take by the end of the day most people had forgotten about the incident I picked up the kids from school and and saw Richard talking with Penny they both smiled and when the kids saw Richard they ran to him shouting Daddy he hugged them tightly and Tom eagerly asked if Richard could come home with us Richard looked at me and I nodded bringing a genuine smile to his face I suggested the kids ride in Richard's car and they didn't

care that it was old and beat up they were just happy to be with their dad Richard stayed until the kids were asleep before he left I tried to talk to him about what I'd seen earlier you and Rob are up to something aren't you please don't do anything that will get you in trouble we can't lose you again Richard reassured me don't worry I'm taking him down but my kids won't be visiting me in prison that night Tony's car disappeared from the company lot the police found it the next day burned out in the

woods Richard sued Tony for damages including child support reputation damage and damage to our marriage valuing it at £200,000 he was determined to destroy Tony but I just wanted it all to be over Richard and Rob couldn't stop laughing as they worked on the red BMW Rob explained how they reprogrammed a blank key to steal the car and removed its identifying marks they used parts from a wrecked car to swap the ID numbers ensuring the car would be untraceable Richard asked can he prove it's his car not a chance Rob said the burnout car was

crushed your new ride is squeaky clean Richard then mentioned heun's out on bail now think he'll get off not with Eve testifying Rob replied Richard was intrigued by Eva surprised by how nice she turned out to be despite her job with immunity she agreed to testify further sealing Tony's fate Richard smiled knowing he now had the upper hand as they finished Richard said I hope he goes crazy when he sees me with his car maybe even attacks me so I can get him arrested again Rob chuckled and he called you a chicken you fight the

battles you can win Rob and right now I've got all the big weapons on my side as they walked back to the Bungalow Richard thought about what his brother had said so when did you talk to Kath I didn't but she's been talking to Vicki they're getting close again you're right I need to figure things out with her but first I need to deal with him two weeks after Tony's arrest Richard arrived at school in a new car Maddie immediately noticed daddy why are you driving Uncle Tony's car it's not Uncle Tony's car sweetheart it

just looks like it it's identical she insisted I couldn't help but ask where did you get the money for this I bought it from Rob it's an insurance write off only cost me £1,000 and I got 200 for the Volvo don't worry I've got it covered he said with a grin that suggested there was more to the story since getting the car Richard drove everywhere which didn't go unnoticed by friends who commented on its resemblance to Tony's for me it was a constant reminder of what Tony had done to us Richard was still living with

Rob and Vicki and refused my offers to stay over to make things harder he was dating he said it was nothing serious but it worried me he was single and Anything could happen I hoped his tattoo would scare off potential love interests though I knew that was wishful thinking every day I regretted my mistakes watching Richard with the kids seeing the love he had for them reminded me of how he used to love me as the trials approached I hoped that once it was over we could rebuild our life together Richard attended the trials the

first involving misappropriation of funds Eva balawa was the key witness explaining how Anthony had paid her to seduce Richard under the guise of business she cried as she revealed she had been misled portraying herself as an innocent Ukrainian woman manipulated by Anthony as she left the stand she smiled at Richard that evening Ava waited for Richard and invited him to dinner he was impressed by her intelligence and Beauty understanding why she commanded High fees as they eight Richard noticed the envious glances from other men in the restaurant when the coffee arrived Eva reached across the

table and placed her hand gently on Richards would you like to come home with me tonight she asked softly Richard taking a back replied you don't owe me anything I know Eva said her voice sincere I'm not offering out of obligation I want to I've been with many men but tonight I want to be with you you're a good man and I think it will be good for both of us when the bill came Eva insisted on paying using her Diner card they took a cab to her flat once there Richard stood by the window

gazing out across the river while Ava poured drinks are you sure you just want water she asked raising an eyebrow that's the only thing I'm sure of right now Richard replied his voice steady Eva handed him a glass then looped her arm around his and kissed him softly Now You're Sober there are no cameras and you're a free man letun enjoy ourselves yes Richard smiled faintly oh yes he said pulling her closer she led him to the bedroom they made love and afterward as they lay together in silence Richard remained lost in thought sensing his

unease Ava kissed him gently as if answering the unspoken question on his mind thank you darling that was wonderful she said softly Richard smiled Riley I bet you say that to all the guys to clients yes because they pay to hear it Eva admitted but I mean it with you most men just take what they want you make love to me and that makes me feel special Kathy's a lucky woman not anymore we're divorced remember Richard said his voice heavy with emotion Eva smiled knowingly Youk go back to her once the anger Fades I know

it Richard looked at her surprised how can you be so sure is this your way of saying you don't want to see me again no I enjoy being with you AA reassured him but I won't give up my work you wouldn't be okay with that Richard was silent for a moment then Ava added and besides you're still in love with her that's why it hurts so much what makes you think she wants me back Richard asked doubt creeping into his voice she does Eva said confidently trust me Richard exhaled so what now now AA said

with a smile we shower and sleep tomorrow we make love again before court the next day in court Anthony pleaded guilty and asked for leniency his lawyer argued that his legal career was over and he offered to repay the stolen funds the judge gave him a three-year sentence suspended for five Richard was Furious expecting a harsher punishment he left the courtroom to cool off and when Anthony walked by smiling Richard wanted to react but felt Eva's calming hand one lawyer won't punish another she reminded him I thought he'd go down a mom gets jail for

stealing milk and he walks after stealing thousands Richard fumed Eva reassured him that the blackmail charge was still pending which helped calm him down Richard didn't visit the kids for 2 days clearly upset I called Vicki and she said he hadn't returned home right after court I worried until I got a text don't worry he's back it took another day for Richard to visit the kids they greeted him like he'd been gone for months that night he told me about the trial but I couldn't match his anger I just wanted to move forward and leave

Tony behind Vicki and Rob discussed Richard staying with them longer than expected Rob suggested he mve back into our house but Richard wasn't sure Vicki jumped in urging him to give it a chance reminding him I was the one who exposed Tony and helped take him down Richard wasn't convinced still feeling hurt over the past but she slept with the man who set me up he argued Vicki calmly pointed out that I kicked Tony out as soon as I learned the truth and tried to fix things having Richard around was helpful he often picked up

the kids and stayed for dinner but there was still distance between us when he mentioned needing to find a place to live I suggested he move in with us reminding him he was already paying the morgage he eventually agreed after moving back things didn't progress as I'd hoped four weeks in we still weren't sharing a bed and he continued going out a few nights a week often not coming home until the next day I knew someone else was still in his life we grew closer as a family in some ways spending weekends together and attending

the kids school events from the outside we probably looked like a normal family my friend Penny even asked if we were planning to remarry but I broke down telling her we slept in separate rooms and I suspected he had a girlfriend things worsened when Maddie upset about sharing her room innocently asked why can't daddy sleep in your bed her childlike logic hit hard especially when she pointed out you weren't married to Tony but he slept in your bed the silence was crushing Richard overheard stood up grabbed his coat and left saying I'm going for a

walk Maddie started crying asking if Daddy would come back I assured her he would and he did return later to tuck the kids in though he went straight to his room afterward that moment set us back when the blackmail charge against Tony was dropped I feared it would break Richard but I was somewhat relieved you wouldn't have to lie in court something I knew he couldn't do I tried to console Richard after the blackmail charge was dropped we could sue him in civil court and take whatever money he has I suggested but that wasn't enough

for Richard he wanted Anthony in prison to lift his spirits I suggested taking the kids swimming that weekend Penny and her kids joined us playing with the children seemed to cheer him up and he even started teaching Maddie how to swim Penny kept staring at Richard and I nudged her hey that's my husband your ogling she laughed don't you mean X husband I'm working on that I said with a grin you better hurry once heun's back to himself there's going to be a line she teased watching him swim I realized she was right he looked

great and I noticed some women watching him too I turned to Penny and said I'm going to fix him and when I do he'll be all mine Penny chuckled good luck with that what's your secret weapon those two I said pointing to Maddie and Tom he won't go far as long as I've got them and I'll make sure he never wants to after swimming Richard suggested we all go to Pizza Hut it was a perfect end to the day as we walked out of the mall he held my hand and I felt a spark of

hope until I saw Tony he smirked at us well well looks like my cast offs found someone to take care of them Richard calmly replied as I recall she threw you out Tony sneered all the charges are dropped you really thought you could take me down Richard guided the kids away but Tony followed taunting him what now big man going to roll over like always Richard turned to Penny can you take the kids home please Penny quickly bundled the children into her car sensing trouble Richard and I headed toward the BMW but Tony ran after

us shouting that's my car you stole it before Richard could react Tony punched him knocking him to the ground he kicked Richard while he was down and I dialed the police trying to pull Tony away but he shoved me to the ground Richard winked at me then with a swift move struck Tony in the groin sending him reeling Richard followed up punching Tony's jaw and pinning him to the ground I think you just activated your suspended sentence Richard said coldly it's your word against mine Tony groaned Richard nodded toward a CCTV camera Big Brothers watching

that camera's caught everything as the police arrived they pulled Richard off Tony paramedics treated both men Richard had broken ribs and Tony had a broken jaw Richard and I rode in the ambulance together despite his pain he smiled he's going down cath we won't see him for a few years I smiled through tears I just wish the car didn't remind me of him then we'll get it repainted he said squeezing my hand I couldn't hold back anymore and cried I'm so sorry Richard this is all my fault no it's his fault and now he's going

to pay Richard was right he had broken ribs and liver damage but after 2 Days in the hospital he came home Tony with his jaw wired shut was taken into police custody Rob collected the BMW and a week later the police came to inspect Tony's claims after checking the documents they said we had nothing to worry about I insisted Richard used the master bedroom I slept beside him for the first few nights to make sure he was okay though we only slept waking up next to him felt like heaven after 2 weeks he moved back

to his own room and while we were closer it wasn't quite what I had hoped unfortunately once he was well Richard went out again and didn't return until the next day Eva called a couple of times while he was recovering worried about him once he was better they met up but Richard sensed something was wrong at her flat he asked what's bothering you Eevee it's not you she said with a sad smile it's me I like you too much Richard but you have your children and I know you can't leave them I can't keep doing

this you deserve better they spent the night together knowing it would be their last the next morning they parted on good terms but Richard was quieter when he came home he didn't talk much about it and I didn't push him over the following weeks it seemed like he had broken things off for good he wasn't going out as much anymore it took a month for Richard to fully recover but he never stopped playing with the kids by the time Tony's trial came up we were getting along much better we were both called as Witnesses along

with Penny before the trial the prosecution warned us Tony might claim provocation though the CCTV footage was clear Penny was a star witness calmly recounting how Richard had asked her to take the children away to avoid a fight when the defense asked why Penny replied it was obvious Mr Woodward was itching for a fight Mr Thompson didn't want his kids to see him getting hurt her answer was simple and honest and I could almost see the jurors marking Richard as a good dad and family man the judge sentenced Tony to 10 years plus three more

from his suspended sentence he might be out in s years with good behavior but for now Richard felt relieved the civil case for damages was still pending but with Tony in prison Richard was much happier Tony's accounts were frozen until the case was settled and during this time Richard and I grew closer though we still hadn't rekindled our physical relationship we shared our thoughts and dreams but the unresolved tension was frustrating one night I couldn't take it anymore I quietly slipped into Richard's bed and kissed him he responded and we made love just like I

had longed for but afterward he gently told me I needed to go back to my room saying it would confuse the kids if they found us together his rejection stung and I cried myself to sleep it took a week for things to feel normal between us again our relationship improved slowly with moments of closeness followed by Richard retreating to his own space I knew I had to make a bold move in February 2012 I prepared his favorite dinner put champagne on ice and after the kids were in bed I put on a white silk kimono

I knelt in front of him holding his hand Richard Thompson will you marry me I asked my voice trembling he was surprised but eventually slid my old engagement ring onto my finger I was overjoyed and pulled out the champagne he teased me but we both knew it was a turning point he carried me upstairs and that night felt like a fresh start the next morning Maddy saw us together and asked Mommy are you and Daddy married now not yet but soon I replied and she eagerly asked to be a bridesmaid moments later Tom joined us

in bed it was a perfect family moment but I knew we still had work to do over the next 6 months we both went to counseling to deal with our issues Richard needed to release his anger and I had to forgive myself finally last August we got married with Maddie as our bridesmaid during the Civil Case Tony's solicitor offered us his two rental properties as a settlement and Richard agreed on the condition that they also covered our legal costs Richard mostly stuck to his no booze rule occasionally having just one drink his contract work grew

and his old company even offered him his job back he declined pointing out that his contractor rate was much higher and now he's employed at a higher level than his former boss when winning back Richard's family has been challenging but as they see how happy he is they're starting to forgive me I'm hopeful this time we'll make it for good [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]