Wife's Boss Popped Up At My House, Asking I Open Our Marriage So She Could Cheat On Me. Audio Story

[Music] I vividly remember meeting Julie for the first time on a rainy afternoon just as I started a new job at her company she was kind funny and her energy lit up every room we quickly became Inseparable and soon fell in love our wedding was small just close friends and family exactly how Julie wanted it and it was perfect those were the happiest days of my life but life can be cruel Julie's sudden end of of life in an accident devastated me leaving me lost and heartbroken it took years to heal and just when I

thought I'd never love again I met Rachel she brought Joy back into my life and I began to move forward still moving on was anything but easy now preparing for my second marriage I can't help but reflect on how simple my wedding to Julie was this time Rachel wanted a big extravagant event the details like color matching napkins and flower arrangements were endless and exhausting though I had little say my mother-in-law Rachel and her friend Amber made the decisions while my suggestions inspired by my wedding with Julie were ignored I once told Rachel yes I

love Julie deeply and losing her was unbearable but that doesn't mean I should forget her or pretend she never existed Rachel knew my past and Julie would always be a part of me despite the chaos of wedding planning everything seems settled except for Minor Details like the color of the umbrella in case of rain or the car to take us from the church at this point the only things left unresolved seemed to be out of our control I stayed silent about it though everyone seemed happy with the wedding preparations but I felt the need to

reconnect with Rachel who had grown distant I figured it was the stress of the upcoming wedding Rachel had always known about my past with Julie and had helped me through my darkest times she pulled me out of depression and back into life she was even patient when I accidentally called her Julie during physical moments though that happened less over time I grew to love Rachel deeply maybe as much as I had loved Julie however Rachel was sensitive when I suggested she dressed like Julie and she didn't want me to remove Julie's pictures from my home

after she moved in we also clashed over keeping some of Julie's things versus Rachel's desire to redecorate it was tough but we worked through it and grew closer eventually leading to my proposal Rachel said yes but after a long unsettling pause I had thought she would be excited given how much she had pursued me when she finally spoke she said yes Alex I want to marry you but but what I asked accidentally calling her Julie again she looked pained and I quickly corrected myself but the damage was done Alex I know you've been through a

lot but I think you still love more than one woman she said tearfully I reassured her promising that I loved only her she cried then accepted my proposal fully but a shadow seemed to linger over us after that it was hard to tell if it was because of the wedding stress or something deeper to reconnect with Rachel I planned a surprise Wellness weekend her mood had been sour during the preparations and I hoped the trip would help I vowed not to mention Julie or any wedding details when I told Rachel about the weekend she smiled

and kissed me something that had become rare a romantic weekend Oh Alex that's so sweet thank you she said Rachel seemed pleased and I realized how tense I had been fearing rejection luckily the surprise hit the mark oh perfect just what we needed to fix things between us yeah the hotel's great it has an amazing Spa Julie really loved the seafood restaurant here you'll see it'll be fantastic damn I mentioned Julie again I cursed myself but Rachel just gave me a strange look we arrived early and despite the bad weather everything was perfect the hotel

the spa and our room I felt optimistic that this would help us reconnect this room is beautiful Alex Rachel said looking around yeah once the weather clears you can see the lake it's really romantic Alex replied oh how do you know Rachel asked her tone curious I've stayed in this room before Alex admitted oh you have she responded a bit surprised yeah with well with Julie Alex added but stopped himself from saying more oh Rachel looked a bit stunned by the Revelation you asked for this room Alex reminded her trying to ease the tension yeah

I like it Rachel replied though her voice had lost some enthusiasm I see Alex said noticing her irritation it frustrated him why did he have to deny his past with Julie Rachel knew he loved her was it such a big deal to stay in the same room he had shared with his late wife shortly after they arrived a snowstorm hit and the front desk informed them they'd be stuck at the hotel for a few days Alex didn't mind it felt romantic and he planned to enjoy time alone with Rachel but she seemed less excited I

just hope I can get back to work on time Rachel said abruptly which annoyed Alex letun grab a bite to eat the restaurant here is great Alex suggested trying to change the subject they were seated at a nice table one Alex had sat at before with Julie let me guess you sat here with Julie Rachel asked her voice laced with sarcasm yes it has a nice view Alex responded trying to remain calm maybe I should wear a wig Rachel snapped a wig Alex repeated confused yeah and dress like Julie she said her tone sharp Rachel

stop being ridiculous Alex said growing frustrated Alex this has to stop Rachel insisted her voice firm you knew about my past from the start Alex countered yes but I'm not going to relive your life with her I want to make new memories not live in Julie's Shadow Rachel said her frustration clear Rachel Julie is part of who I am Alex explained trying to make her understand so I have to share you with her for the rest of of my life Rachel asked her anger Rising that's not what I mean Alex started to say well I

guess I'll have to deal with it but if sharing is the deal you'd better learn something about it too Rachel shot back her voice full of anger I could tell Rachel was struggling with the situation and I should have been more diplomatic but it was a sore spot for me too before I could say anything she left the table I decided to follow her to the buffet intending to talk and reassure her she was already in line chat with a tall handsome guy who was clearly interested they laughed touched hands and looked like a couple

I don't usually get jealous but this was unsettling they filled each other's plates giggling like teens and then sat at a small table for two I felt a rush of unease but joined them anyway hi I'm Alex Rachel's fiance I introduced myself extending a hand the guy ignored me completely which hurt Rachel giggled clearly trying to get under my skin Rachel what's going on I asked she and the guy Danny kept talking and laughing while I sat there humiliated Rachel didn't mention me or our wedding and I grew more frustrated as they bonded over work

and family you're an amazing woman Rachel I'm glad we met Dany said and I can't believe you're here alone Danny I'm glad we're snowed in it's going to be great Rachel replied flirting openly Rachel I shouted but she ignored me then she leaned over and kissed him leaving me stunned the entire restaurant gasped I felt utterly humiliated I didn't want to cause a scene but I was Furious Rachel continued playing this cruel game and when she suggested going to his room Dany looked surprised but willing they left together leaving me alone and humiliated I returned

to our room too stunned to think straight hours passed and I couldn't shake my anger hurt and doubts about the marriage eventually I asked the front desk for Danny's room number they couldn't tell me directly but hinted it was 107 I went outside found their room and saw them cozy on the couch at least they were fully clothed I took a picture they spotted me waved and kissed again clearly mocking me I took another photo and left unable to watch any longer I was crushed questioning everything about our relationship later that night I saw them

in the restaurant acting like a couple hugging kissing enjoying themselves I took more pictures then ordered room service to avoid further humiliation I waited for Rachel to return and make things right but she never did around 10: p.m. I went back to check their room the curtains were mostly closed but I could still see through the gaps they were kissing again and then things escalated I kept taking photos trying to stay calm even though it was unbearable finally when they finished and cuddled on the couch I left freezing and heartbroken I went back to our

room cried pounded the bed in frustration uploaded the photos to my cloud and finally fell asleep after taking some sleeping pills I woke up around 9 with Rachel sitting in a chair watching me quietly neither of us said a word I wasn't angry anymore just sad thoughts of what could have been ran through my mind she didn't even look remorseful just content as if unaware or indifferent to the impact of her actions maybe this had been her plan all along are you feeling better now she asked no I'm going to spend the day with Danny

until we leave my stuff is already in his room after that I'll be yours again unless unless you mention Julie she said calmly no I replied in the same tone enjoy yourself she left without another word I couldn't believe how arrogant she'd become maybe I had misjudged her all along she didn't want to end the relationship just teach me a lesson sure I'd been careless mentioning Julie but her reaction was extreme it was over between us stuck at the hotel I felt trapped and humiliated desperately wanting to escape my mind kept spiraling and I knew

I needed a distraction as I headed for breakfast Michael from the front desk stopped me you don't have to stay here the roads will open for a short time today follow the supply truck and you'll be able to leave before the next storm hits thank you Michael I meant it and tipped him generously the idea of Escape lifted a huge weight off my shoulders I packed up checked out and followed the delivery truck to the highway with no issues the drive home was long and I struggled to process everything that had happened one thing was

was clear there would be no wedding I cancelled everything the venue the caterer the DJ and sent out simple wedding cancellation notices due to unforeseen circumstances we regret to inform you that our wedding has been cancelled I didn't feel the need to air the dirty details I also reached out to the San Francisco company I'd turned down because of Rachel they welcomed me back saying come here Alex we'll find you a place and the job is still yours sounds like your ex did you a favor I wasn't ready to laugh about it yet but I

was relieved if this had happened 6 months into marriage it would have been much worse the pain of losing someone I loved was real but her betrayal made moving on easier a whole new life was ahead of me and for the first time I felt like I truly dodged a bullet I quit my job packed my car and left our apartment on a whim I even peed in her underwear drawer though it didn't feel good afterward just a childish act to show my frustration the drive to San Francisco would take four or five days and

I looked forward to the Solitude and time to reflect after two days of anger and resentment my phone rang as I started my trip Alex it's Rachel thank God the roads are clearing Rachel said Alex regretted answering all the anger surged back and he stayed silent Alex are you there Rachel asked her voice tense yes Alex replied flatly did you cancel the wedding my parents called Rachel said her tone anxious yes of course what did you expect that I'd still marry you Al Alex responded his frustration evident Alex please I was just heard about the

Julie thing and made a mistake I'm yours now nothing has to change Rachel pleaded maybe but that person wonk be me Alex said coldly what Rachel asked shocked I don't care how you justify it we're done Alex stated firmly Alex please come get me we need to talk Rachel begged her voice breaking no I'm not your responsibility anymore and I'm not in the neighborhood Alex replied dismissively where are you Rachel asked desperate karney Nebraska I'm heading to California starting a new life without you Alex said his voice Resolute Rachel began to sob but Alex hung

up when the phone rang again he blocked her number he resumed his journey though the anger still lingered an hour later the phone rang again Alex speaking Alex answered sounding tired hey Alex it's Carl Rachel's father did you cancel the wedding Carl asked his tone concerned yeah or more accurately Rachel did with her behavior Alex replied what happened Carl asked she flirted with a guy right in front of me kissed him went to his room and spent the weekend with him the whole hotel knew Alex explained his voice tinged with bitterness Carl was silent for

a moment I'm sorry Alex you're right shek not ready for marriage I apologize on her behalf Carl said regretfully no hard feelings Carl I always liked you and Sue Alex replied softening his tone what will you do now Carl asked I'm heading to San Francisco to start fresh Alex said good luck Alex you're a good man Carl said sincerely thanks Carl goodbye Alex replied ending the conversation that call hurt my future had fallen apart in just days friends called during the drive and though I didn't share details most seemed to understand the breakup eventually the

call stopped and I focused on starting my new life but it wasn't easy my thoughts kept drifting back to Rachel the good times and that awful weekend after two months in San Francisco my doorbell rang one Friday evening expecting Jehovah's Witnesses I reluctantly opened it but it was worse Rachel looking beautiful and nervous I immediately slammed the door she rang again but I turned off the doorbell how did she find me I knew I couldn't avoid her forever so I reopened the door but she was gone good the next morning the doorbell rang again still

groggy I opened and there she was I let her in without a word resigned to the inevitable conversation we sat in silence sipping coffee she had clearly made an effort to look exactly how I liked but my feelings for her were gone this realization made me calm Alex she whispered struggling to speak I'm sorry I stayed quiet letting her talk I've been awful and I'm sorry it took so long to find you you can mention Julie whenever it's something I'll just have to live with I was insecure and thought you didn't really love me that

I was just a substitute you kept pictures of her everywhere you called me Julie sometimes and she was always in your mind during wedding planning taking me to that Spa where you'd been with her it was too much I snapped and I'm sorry I nodded understanding I should have been more sensitive but that doesn't justify humiliating me and cheating on me I know she said tearing up I've regretted it every day we sat in silence unsure of what to do nextow did you find me I asked all our friends know your address but none wanted

to tell me I tricked someone by borrowing their phone she admitted I was glad my friends had my back I gave up our apartment and my job I rented a place nearby and I'm looking for work I was surprised by what Rachel said but it didn't change anything for me her news didn't make me happy it just meant she'd be around making things harder still I felt strong enough to resist her Alex I know I hurt you at the hotel I did it on purpose and humiliated you in public I pushed you away and you

had no choice but to leave at first I didn't understand why I did it I loved you then and I still do I didn't care about Dany he was attractive but I didn't even like him I tried to convince myself it was about teaching you a lesson but deep down I knew I just wanted to hurt you so what was the real reason Alex asked his voice calm but probing my dad thinks I was just jealous Rachel admitted softly jealous of a dead woman Alex asked incredulous you always talked about Julie like she was perfect

the most beautiful Flawless woman I felt like I couldn't compete with her I was so intimidated by her memory that I didn't even want to accept your proposal even though it was my dream Rachel confessed her voice cracking Rachel I'm sorry for making you feel that way Alex said creeping into his voice Julie wasn't perfect and we had our arguments but I didn't think it was right to mention those after she died I shouldn't have put her on a pedestal in front of you oh Alex Rachel sobbed and lunged toward him seeking Comfort wait Alex

stopped her gently I said you could compete with her in the past but now my view of you is Tainted Alex she whispered through her tears give me a chance to prove you wrong I'll be patient I'll stay by your side until you trust me again you can still talk about Julie and I'll learn to live with it I don't know it's not that simple Alex replied shaking his head I'll do whatever it takes no matter how long Rachel pleaded her determination growing quite the speech Rachel I believe you Alex said calmly though his neutral

tone confused her how do you feel about me she asked almost in a whisper I still love you I haven't been with anyone since that night I think I've mostly forgotten you though I'm not mad anymore Alex admitted but I also don't love you anymore Rachel flinched at his words but quickly regained her composure that's bad but I can work with it you loved me once maybe you'll fall in love with me again Rachel I don't know if I can ever trust you again your reaction was completely out of proportion what's next if I forget

to take out the trash hire a hitman trust isn't even a goal for me right now I swear I'll never be that stupid again if we get back together I'll sign a contract if you leave me I get nothing no money no kids nothing kids I laughed surprised yes if we ever get back together here's the contract she said handing me a document I was shocked to see how harsh it was if we broke up she'd get nothing not even visitation rights I doubted it was even legal did Carl help you write this Alex asked

raising an eyebrow yeah is it that obvious Rachel admitted a bit embarrassed well I don't want to be with you because of a contract and the real issue remains I don't love you anymore I don't trust you I'm not even sure I like you Alex replied his tone firm that last comment seemed to sting I don't even like myself Rachel admitted softly I get that you hurt me deeply for no reason Alex said shaking his head Alex how about this show me around San Francisco we can just be friends and you can see how things

go Rachel suggested Ed trying to find a middle ground Alex paused considering her offer he wondered if avoiding Rachel would feel like running away and that would seem weak the truth was he still liked her even if he didn't trust her and he didn't want to hide plus he had no friends in San Francisco so her company might be welcome spending time with her would prove to him that he was over her I don't know the city that well either but I can show you what I know Alex replied finely thanks Alex Rachel said smiling

as she headed to the kitchen to make breakfast humming confidently Alex didn't mind her being around but he knew there was no chance of them getting back together contract or no contract over the next few weeks Rachel eagerly sought time with Alex often wearing revealing outfits and finding excuses to touch him once while wearing a loose t-shirt she kept leaning forward practically offering a view of her cleavage but Alex wasn't interested he looked everywhere but at her chest smiling inwardly as she tried harder to catch his attention eventually he left the room to stop himself

from laughing another time she wore hot pants so short they resembled a bikini bottom pairing them with stiletto heels she spent the day bending over in front of him pretending to look for something Rachel are you looking for something can I help Alex asked raising an eyebrow no I'm fine just thought I lost an earring she replied clearly frustrated when they went shopping together Rachel found every excuse to press her body against Alex but he pretended not to notice enjoying the irony of her frustration she was clearly hot for him but he kept rejecting her

advances probably hurting her ego Alex felt a little sorry for her but he wasn't going to sleep with her just to make her feel better she was trying to win him back in cheap ways and it wasn't working weeks later they sat in Alex's living room and Rachel's advances had slowed down suddenly she asked bluntly Alex when are you going to entertain me again what Alex asked caught off guard by her directness though he knew exactly what she meant you know you can have me right just for fun no strings attached I'm on the pill

Clean and Free Rachel said her voice suggestive I didn't know how to let her down gently she was beautiful but she was still Rachel the same Rachel who had told me it's already decided try to have a good time while I was lost in thought she pulled off her sweater revealing a t-shirt underneath with big text saying Alex's girlfriend she turned around to show the same words on the back nice huh she said smiling yes I replied still shocked I bought 20 of these I plan to wear them everywhere I know it's not true yet

but I want to show my commitment however I need your approval to wear them in public her eyes sparkled with hope waiting for me to agree I shook my head that's impossible let's just be friends okay her face fell and her eyes watered but she stayed strong okay Alex I'm sorry I didn't mean me to push I'm surprised I can even spend time with you again but that's all I'm willing to do I understand she said looking utterly disappointed Alex I have time I have no other plans I'll keep working to get you back I'll

be patient you can even glorify Julie if you want I'll learn to live with it I sighed Unsure how to respond I didn't want to hurt Rachel or seek revenge but I also didn't want her holding on to false hope still she kept hanging around clearly wanting more though she didn't push too hard her hopes were high but I remained determined not to start a real relationship with her I told her as much but it didn't stop her efforts one night I got home late and was frustrated the light was out again stumbling in the

dark I accidentally kicked something soft I used my phone's flashlight and saw a small woman curled up on the floor confused I carried her inside she was dirty but seemed healthy so I put her in the guest room covered her with blankets and went to bed I woke up unexpectedly in the middle of the night not because of my alarm but because of something pleasant I should have told her to stop but all I managed was a week um yeah we had Zach and before I knew it she disappeared back into the guest room it

was over as quickly as it started leaving me wondering if it had even happened the next morning I heard her humming in the shower she was thin but had a pretty face and seemed relaxed while eating breakfast we didn't talk about the night before after eating she got dressed said you're a nice guy and left Without a Trace I was stunned I had just slept with a woman whose name I didn't even know then when I found a needle in the trash a chill ran down my spine Panic set in as I realized we hadn't

used protection I immediately went to the doctor who told me I didn't have any detectable STDs but needed to wait for some results I swore I'd think before acting next time meanwhile Rachel continued pushing for more but I couldn't see myself being with her again I still found her attractive but the love I once felt was gone she wisely kept her marriage and kids talk to a minimum knowing too much pressure would push me away we spent time together as friends and while she hoped for more I knew it was never going to happen months

later Rachel and I were about to have dinner when the doorbell rang she jumped up to answer it always eager to assert herself as if she were still my partner I let her realizing I'd been keeping her around for companionship while never fully clarifying that we wouldn't get back together despite her beauty and the fact she could be with someone else she remained determined to win me over when the door opened I turned to see the woman I'd met months earlier standing there still thin except for her noticeably large stomach Rachel looked surprised but quickly

understood the implications of the woman's visit and her condition please come in Rachel said quietly jooin us for dinner I'm Rachel Annie the woman mumbled uninterested in pleasantries Annie sat down without hesitation and began eating I'm pregnant she said bluntly confirming what we had guessed it's yours she added pointing her fork at me I stared at the stake on her fork trying to process it you're the only one I've had unprotected ZX with she continued as if discussing the weather I was too shocked to respond Rachel however stayed calm really the only one I muttered

still in disbelief that's hard to believe nevertheless it's true Annie replied unfaced don't worry I want to work things out I like you and I don't want trouble funny thing is I don't even know your name I'm Alex I said weakly nice to meet you it was fun having Zex with you she grinned Rachel even chuckled a bit Alex you slept with her without knowing her name Rachel asked surprisingly calm yeah I guess so so what now do you want in feticide Rachel asked no it's too late I've seen the ultrasounds it's a baby now

and I can't end her life Annie replied her tone more serious Rachel didn't miss a beat no problem we'll adopt her what I dropped my Fork completely shocked Rachel turned to me shut up Alex this is a woman's matter this could have been my baby if I hadn't messed up I tried to speak but Rachel was already making decisions Annie nodded agreeing with Rachel's plan you can't raise a child while using pills Rachel said firmly Annie hesitated then admitted you're right I've been on hard substances for a while and I'm not sure I can stop

even for my baby my life is a mess the mood turned somber Rachel remained composed keeping you off pills is Alex's job you'll live here stay clean and I'll adopt the baby after that you're free Annie thought for a moment then agreed okay deal Rachel extended her hand and Annie shook it just like that my fate was sealed I got up and cleared the dishes while the two women made plans for my life Annie was set to stay in the guest room and Rachel began staying over more frequently though Rachel hinted we'd be a couple

again I stayed quiet grateful for her help but uneasy with how things were unfolding the next morning we moved Annie's things from her old place to my apartment her previous place was so bad I wouldn't have parked my car there wow your life's been rough huh Alex asked while packing yeah and it's about to get worse she replied with a smirk hey I'm not that bad Alex joked trying to lighten the mood ever heard of cold turkey she asked her tone turning serious not the food right Alex quipped nope get your guest room ready they'll

be vomit and it'll be hell she said bluntly well hopefully my daughter will appreciate it someday she added with an ironic smile our daughter Alex corrected surprising even himself with the words really she asked tears filling her eyes our daughter Alex repeated firmly you're not alone oh Alex thank you she hugged him tightly though Alex noticed her glancing wearily at Rachel later she asked do you have vacation left I can take 2 weeks unpaid Alex responded the first 3 days will be the worst she warned what should I expect Alex asked preparing himself all the

good stuff she said sarcastically vomiting sweating shaking screaming at you trying to escape I'll hate you got it Alex said resigned to what was coming and that's exactly what happened twice she nearly escaped while I cleaned her bathroom I ended up with scrapes and bruises and the room was wrecked she screamed a lot but we survived the first 3 Days by then I was familiar with all her bodily functions and none of it was remotely Pleasant I sat by her bed exhausted looking at the trembling vomit covered mess I didn't feel Noble just tired and

dirty helping a woman I'd carelessly impregnated the whole thing was awkward gross and depressing and I barely noticed the smell of vomit anymore her erratic sleep schedule left me equally sleep deprived a few 2 hours later she was up and pacing the worst is over I need to be alone now I'll take a walk Anna you can't leave yet 2 weeks then you're free let me go she screamed no Anna she shifted to pleading please I need something to ease the pain letun get something to eat I suggested trying to calm her okay she said

but suddenly made her run for the door luckily she couldn't open it it pushed instead of pulled after that I remembered to lock it just to be safe A few days days later she looked much better her eyes were clear again and she seemed to have regained her composure she was also sweating and shivering less though she was still too thin now that her hair wasn't piled up and her skin wasn't so shiny she was looking quite beautiful again the worrying part was her attachment and emotional instability which made me a bit uneasy I couldn't

tell if it was due to the pregnancy or the withdrawal but she suddenly started touching me constantly hugging and kissing me that is when she wasn't sitting in the corner crying or laughing I couldn't fully avoid her emotional swings when she was sad it hurt me when she was Goofy I usually joined in when she was clingy I enjoyed the closeness of this pretty woman and when she was suddenly turned on you can guess what happened suddenly we were back in bed together having ZX again it was intense full of need and desire I hadn't

realized how much I wanted this little woman until now but I really really needed to have her and I was sure she felt the same it seemed like her withdrawal with all the vomiting shaking screaming and yelling had somehow bonded us I was still aware I was having unprotected Zex with a corane again despite my promise not to be that stupid anymore but at least she couldn't get pregnant again and surprisingly I never felt like I was with a hooker she was actually pretty shy and even cried a little afterward clinging to me like a

burr I didn't mind not one bit we sat on the bed afterward me feeling satisfied and still a little surprised so I guess you don't hate me as much anymore huh I asked don't be so sure Mister that was still my bad side wait until you see me at my best no really I think I've beaten My Demons now and I'm starting to think straight again no I never hated you you were just trying to help me and our baby and I'm grateful for that she smiled cheekily she was very charming and she was getting

prettier every time if this kept up I'd have to fight guys off with a stick wait what why do I feel like I need to protect her did I really think she was my woman I decided to deal with this problem with a proven tactic procrastination in the weeks that followed the Spencer family seemed very relaxed Annie and I got to know each other surprisingly well being sick and getting yelled at seemed to have created a strong bond between us it helped that I was no longer stuck in the role of prison Warden we grew

closer every day laughing a lot and having ZX I even noticed a few glances in my direction that might have been longing yeah honestly I was starting to look at her the same way of course Rachel still visited us regularly and she didn't miss the changes Alex you two aren't developing some kind of love relationship are you she asked I'm not sure Rachel we're definitely getting closer she looked completely shocked Alex don't do this to me I feel like I'm so close to getting you back don't let me lose you to that fool okay Rachel

you know that yes yes I know I'm not asking for anything you can do whatever you want but you know I still haven't given up hope Alex I'm going to keep fighting for you I won't give up even if it takes decades I just sighed and let the matter drop because Annie had walked into the room I knew Rachel was struggling but I was starting to see Annie as my girlfriend now and I'm definitely a one-woman man Annie and I grew even closer as I made sure she stayed away from pills went with her to

checkups bought tons of baby supplies and did everything else parents do to prepare for a new baby we acted like a normal couple and that's exactly how it felt to me after our daughter Mel was born everything became clearer Annie Mel and I were a family no question about it the idea of giving Mel up for adoption now seemed absurd of course we were going to keep her Rachel noticed all of this during her frequent visits Alex I've Lost You Forever haven't I she asked yes Rachel what we had is over Alex please she sobbed

this isn't fair I know I completely screwed up that weekend but I did everything I could to make things right doesn't that count for something I don't know if it's fair I Belong To You exclusively but you were the one who separated us for no good reason that meant we were both free to be with someone else and that's what happened it's not about fairness and it wasn't intentional there's no set price for what you did that weekend you threw a bomb between us and you never know which direction will be blown in my case

it led me to Annie Alex she was openly sobbing now I walked over and wrapped my arms around her Rachel you're still still young and beautiful go find the right man and don't do anything like that again okay no Alex I'll wait for you no don't there was nothing I could do I sighed she was right if she had chosen to throw her life away that was tragic but I couldn't stop her that's how things ended with Rachel it was sad because I once loved her and things could have been great but I didn't love

her anymore and she didn't love me either I was starting to fall for Anna no actually I was already completely in love with her her awkward innocent and Charming ways her sweet face and her complete Devotion to me she practically worshiped me the biggest difference with Rachel was that I actually trusted Anna which was strange I trusted a former pill dependent and corane but couldn't bring myself to trust my ex-wife who had only been wild for one weekend the next few years brought us a small civil wedding raising Mel Rachel's disappearance thankfully and no recurring

pill issues life with Anna wasn't always easy of course she still had major mood swings but by then I knew her well enough to handle it the deep love we had for each other helped too Mel was amazing she had me wrapped around her little finger everything fell apart shortly after Mel's second birthday I just put Mel to bed while Anna was still out shopping Mel had worned me out again and I collapsed on the couch ready to zone out in front of the TV like usual the doorbell rang the moment I sat down annoyed

I got up and opened the door two policemen stood there good evening how can I help you good evening Mr Spencer I'm Sergeant Jacobs are you married to Anna Spencer yeah what's wrong I asked suddenly feeling anxious Mr Spencer I am very sorry to inform you that we found your wife dead would you please come with us I didn't understand the rest I collapsed I'd kissed her goodbye just 2 hours ago was that the last time Mel or I would ever see her alive was she really never coming back would I never hear her laugh

again never kiss her never hear her curse when she stepped on my foot never feel her snuggle into me Never Smell her scent again Annie where are you what happened why after who knows how long a policeman shook me Mr Spencer are you all right should we call an ambulance no no I'm fine it turned out she had died of a massive hard substance's overdose I had no idea she was still using one of the officers casually mentioned he knew her said she worked part-time as a corane and was too experienced with pills to make

such a fatal mistake they were sure she had eliminated herself I was stunned I didn't know I barely knew her she had been living a double life within days I was shattered unable to work struggling to take care of Mel a week after her end of life I sat on the couch again staring blankly at the TV crying occasionally feeling lost and incapable of handling the situation emotionally and practically Mel was crying again which had become normal losing Annie de devastated me and created a host of practical problems my time off was almost over and

I needed to return to work how was I going to take care of Mel I had no family nearby and no one to rely on could I hire a babysitter could I trust anyone most of the people I trusted had deceived me in some way yeah even Anna thinking back she loved me but she also deceived me she lived a double life as a corisan and pill dependent while I was at work or away on business and now she had left me in Mel without a word or explanation ding dog the doorbell rang pulling me

out of my thoughts it had been ringing for a while Mel was still crying I felt completely overwhelmed by Anna's end of life by Mel's constant Crying by the weight of everything I had tried to feed her and failed again and I couldn't Rock her to sleep I felt helpless dingdong the door or Mel I had no idea what to do with Mel but the door gave me a clear task I could walk over open it and see who was there so I did and instantly regretted it no please no more complications life's hard enough

as it is I muttered it was Rachel no was all I managed to say you look awful I'm so sorry Alex it must have been terrible she said softly stepping in and hugging me Strangely I felt nothing after 2 years apart this was the woman I almost married yet I felt nothing shouldn't I feel something anger sadness anything but there was only awkward indifference or maybe I was just too exhausted she didn't seem to notice finally she let go and carried the large bag she had with her into melk's room hey I weakly protested but

followed her into the room too exhausted to resist she picked up Mel from the bed gently rocked her and hummed a quiet tune amazingly Mel started calming down after a while she seemed completely content which astonished me Rachel carefully laid her back in bed covered her up and then walked straight into the kitchen as if she lived here unloading her bags and preparing food for Mel how did you I started I've read all about it what when when I heard about Anna's end of life I knew right away that you'd be in trouble Alex she

said matter of factly though I noticed her stealing quick glances in my direction betraying her calm exterior do you still live in the neighborhood of course I never moved and no I'm not dating anyone yes I've been watching you no I haven't had a man since that weekend when I ruined my life she turned to face me tears welling up in her eyes yes I still love you she whispered and then quickly left the room I followed her to Mel's room and watched as she rocked and fed her damn why wasn't Mel crying usually when

I tried the entire neighborhood needed earplugs Rachel handled Mel effortlessly she had come prepared after a while she turned to me again what's your plan Alex I'll take care of you she continued before I could answer I'll always be here for you always I stayed in the background so I wouldn't interfere with your marriage but now that you're struggling I have to step in that was quite a declaration this woman had clearly made up her mind to dedicate her life to me which was remarkable was it love or guilt could guilt Drive someone to wait

patiently for 2 years and then rush to help like this what do you mean Alex asked feeling more confused than ever I quit my job she announced you what Alex replied shocked how else can I take care of you and Mel you need a full-time Nanny and Mel needs me too she said with a smile to Alex's surprise he found himself laughing for the first time in ages she was right have you eaten anything she asked concerned since when Alex responded since Anna's end of life she said softly I don't remember Alex admitted all right

Mel's fed now it's your turn just sit on the couch she instructed Alex did as she said sitting down and realizing how grateful he was for her presence having someone to talk to someone to fend off the loneliness and helplessness was a huge relief he could hear her rattling pots and pans in the kitchen after a while she returned with a plate of food feeling better she asked handing him the plate yes less lonely and you're right I do need help with Mel thank you but what about your job Alex asked still processing everything Alex

for 2 years I haven't had a life I haven't gone out or spent much I've just stayed in my little apartment the only thing I spent money on was the gym she explained you the gym Alex asked surprised yes I wanted to well I'll explain later she blushed a little anyway I've saved up a lot I can live for almost a year without working we'll figure things out before then she assured him oh Alex said feeling like he'd been thrown a Lifeline but Unsure how to respond yes I'll take care of you in a year

you'll know what to do with your life maybe you'll meet someone new Maybe you'll reconsider other options she said with a small smile oh I have to check on dinner the meal was delicious and Alex thanked her repeatedly afterward he felt the urge to collapse into bed and sleep for a week but she wasn't having it oh no Mister you're not going to bed without a shower and brushing your teeth okay she teased yes Mom Alex joked and she gave him a playful nudge in the ribs she was right though his hygiene had been terrible

lately when I stepped out of the shower I found my bed freshly made it hit me that Anna had been the last one to make it and the thought saddened me as I climbed into bed under Rachel's benevolent smile I couldn't stop thinking about Anna was our love real could you truly love someone you didn't fully know she clearly hadn't trusted me enough to tell me everything soon after I drifted into sleep something I hadn't done peacefully since Anna's end of life the next morning I woke up to breakfast waiting on the nightstand I was

surprised I had slept through the night something something that hadn't happened since it All Began how had Rachel managed to keep Mel quiet she wasn't just determined to help me she was also quite capable of it I ate breakfast feeling a comfort that had escaped me for weeks a little while later Rachel entered the room humming happily holding a sleeping Mel In Her Arms she made it all seem so easy could a baby really adapt so quickly without her mother one thing was for sure I couldn't move on from Anna that easily I was still

grieving still shocked by her end of life and the double life she had led it hurt deeply but I was thankful for Rachel's help even if I didn't feel any special affection for her not yet feeling better she asked sitting beside me physically yes thanks to you emotionally I'm still in shock I don't understand how this all happened are you talking about Anna's end of life she asked softly about everything Anna's end of life the sudden change it I feel like I'm drifting if you want me to move out I will Rachel said quietly I

don't want to impose no don't you're helping me a lot please stay she nodded and I noticed a tear Escape her eye a few days later I returned to work confident Rachel could handle things she was amazing with Mel managing everything including my emotional state while giving me space when needed she never tried to kiss me but she'd hug me when I was down exactly what I needed at the time Alex I need to visit my parents this weekend can you manage a few days alone she asked about 2 months after Anna's end of life

I realized I didn't want her to leave it wasn't about practical reasons I needed her presence which confused me Rachel smiled when she noticed exclaiming yes yes she hugged me and I realized I still loved her the feeling had been buried under stress but it was there Rachel kissed me for the first time in years and I hadn't realized how much I needed it everything felt good again even if just for the moment the zeex that followed was a little awkward but we didn't care afterward Rachel promised just don't hurt me again never Rachel never

again I assured her we had both suffered but it wasn't in vain we had Mel and I promised to be the best partner I could be good Rachel said Youk handle the weekend alone but don't stay longer from now on this is our home and we'll be a family life started to fall into place Mel called Rachel Mommy and we decided not to tell her the truth until she was older if ever we were happy as we were one day Rachel came to me and said Alex I love Mel like my own but I want

to carry your baby I was so jealous of Annie then letun do it I said without hesitation Rachel became emotional clearly surprised by my response I didn't see a problem since we were already a family do you trust me enough to have a baby with me I asked yes she replied pressing herself against me sobbing softly thank you for asking Rachel I'd never trick you she said looking into my eyes I know so letun start I replied I just need to get off the pill but we can start practicing right now she smiled mischievously and

that's exactly what we did tonight we finished a special meal I insisted on cooking and went all out candles a white tablecloth and three courses Rachel was pleasantly surprised but I could tell she seemed a little nervous during dinner I didn't usually do this kind of thing and she was starting to suspect something I needed to act quickly if I wanted to keep the surprise intact I walked around the table and got down on one knee her jaw dropped like a stone as I fumbled in my pocket Rachel I said softly yes she asked wide-eyed

would you yes yes Alex yes of course I'll marry you she blurted out before I could finish her Joy overflowing I went quiet pulling her into a huge kiss as I fell back under her pregnant body thank you Rachel I said still in awe of the moment are you kidding me thanking me I should be thanking you and I'll keep thanking you for the rest of my life she said her eyes glowing and you know we still have that contract I teased yes but I don't think I'll need it she smiled you won't I reassured

her oh and Rachel one more thing it's about Mel I began cautiously she needs a mother but she already has one Rachel said her tone softening yes but not legally I pointed out Rachel looked at me and to my surprise tears filled her eyes God you'll be lucky today she said through her sobs and for the rest of your life and I was now back in the present I'm lounging by the pool in the backyard and my beautiful wife keeps casting longing glances my way while I play with our son the wedding was small just

in time for my Overjoyed father to witness it before he lost his battle with cancer before the wedding I had waited for any sign of Rachel's old Madness returning but she knew exactly what I was thinking and just smiled it's not happening Alex not this time I've learned my role she said with quiet confidence she was right I just hope marriage turns out to be less complicated for others I always knew the process would be tricky but Rachel's and my version seemed a bit over the top dear readers if you've actually made it through this

story it ends right here what follows is an alternate ending for those who prefer quick resolutions it makes no sense and doesn't relate to the story I just assume these readers prefer simpler narratives it's over Rachel I truly loved you but you've completely destroyed all my feelings for you no she howled Alex I can fix this please give me another chance I know how stupid I was and it won't happen again I've learned my lesson and I love only you it's too little too late Rachel and by the way your lover Dany tried to confront

me apparently he had no idea about my Navy SEAL background he's not a bad guy Alex did you hurt him badly not too much I guess but he won't be doing much for a while he didn't realize it was a covert intelligence op I'm so sorry about how things turned out Alex and don't worry about the 15 million it's safe in my Cayman offshore account I know it looked bad when I tried to pill you for the cartel and they attempted to steal your Mustang but it was never about the money all I ever wanted

was you but you can't have him anymore a woman's voice said from behind Rachel spun around shocked and who are you Rachel demanded I'm Sasha Alex's new fiance the woman replied her voice cool and confident she was a few years younger than Rachel and looked like a supermodel and since I run an international private investigation firm we already have all the evidence we need if you're not careful that video of your Minaj atah will end up on the Internet you're finished Rachel Alex and I are meant to be together no Rachel howled her voice rising

to the intensity of a jet engine yes Sasha continued unfazed you had an honest man and you threw him away now he's mine and I'm pregnant with his twins have a nice life Rachel I did love you but we're done forever at that moment Rachel stood Frozen realizing how foolish she had been to treat Alex that way [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]