[Music] consider this in major events it's often the small details that can make or break them take for instance the 1986 Challenger disaster where a cheap o-ring led to the loss of seven lives and hundreds of millions of dollars similarly a tiny blood clot barely visible under a microscope can be fatal by blocking blood flow to a critical part of the brain even a small patch of ice on the road can cause a vehicle to spin out of control and result in a deadly crash the list goes on seemingly insignificant factors can have devastating consequences
for significant Endeavors marriage certainly falls into the category of important undertakings I for one hold my marriage in high regard married for just over eight years to my lovely wife April we have two amazing boys Chris and Charles while I didn't earn a college degree my skills as a mechanic have provided us with a comfortable life in a spacious home despite the long hours I put into myob job the financial stability it brings makes it worthwhile my marriage has always been the highlight of my life and I've worked diligently to support my family unfortunately it's
often the small things that can unravel such significant commitments in my case it was a tiny blood vessel in my brain that caused the downfall its proximity to another vessel led to swelling triggering a debilitating migraine headache I experienced one such episode on a particularly fateful day the symptoms were familiar sensitivity to light escal ating sounds and unbearable smells the sudden onset of excruciating pain caught me off guard without my Imitrex inhaler I had no means to alleviate the agony while I had pills on hand they weren't as effective and would take time to ease
the pain to a manageable level rendering me unable to work I stumbled into my boss's office and delivered the Grim news he immediately sprang into action summoning his secretary Penny and instructing her to get me home safely insisting that I not drive For Heaven's Sake go now he urged with Penny's assistance my boss carefully guided me out of the office and down the hallway towards the exit once outside Penny helped me lean against the wall shielding my eyes from the harsh light as she made her way to her car I kept my eyes shut tightly
and pressed my hands against my temples trying to dull the throbbing pain as we drove my vision blurred and the light became unbearable forcing me to keep my eyes shut the sounds around me turned into an overwhelming buzz and the foul smell made my stomach churn thankfully Penny knew the way to my house so I didn't need to give directions it felt like an eternity but eventually she pulled up outside my home helped me out of the car and guided me inside I followed her lead barely able to walk on my own once in the
kitchen I instructed Penny to retrieve her inhaler from the refrigerator she placed it in my hand held it steady as I administered it into my nose inhaling deeply as the medication entered my bloodstream then I asked her to assist me to the living room adjacent to the kitchen and help me onto the sofa I requested that she draw the blinds and turn off all the lights which she promptly did after a few minutes I could already sense some relief creeping in so I assured penny that she could leave gratefully I thanked her for her help
and welcomed the peace and quiet as she departed I must have drifted off to sleep quickly as the pain eased because I woke later to the sound of voices the room was shrouded in darkness signaling that it was likely later in the day when I recalled my surroundings instantly I realized the pain had vanished leaving me feeling sore but relieved from the remnants of the migraine taking a moment to sit up cautiously I waited half expecting the pain to return but it didn't she had left thank God in the dimness I recognized the voices of
my wife April and her neighbor friend Robin it seemed they were unaware of my presence given the darkness and the still off lights perhaps April assumed I was resting after coming home early though my car wasn't parked in the driveway she probably hadn't realized I was here at all maybe I could surprise them both I Rose quietly planning to sneak to the door and then make my presence known but as I tuned into their conversation come on April how was it was it as good as before give me the details girl it was amazing I
felt like I was in heaven even better than last time I swear almost mind-blowing the best physical engaging ever better than with Chris better than your husband hell yes I adore Chris but he never made me feel like that never I would let him do those things he'd think I'm a strumpet but Carl he knows and I like it can't wait for next time aren't you afraid Chris will find out have you considered the consequences Chris will never know and even if he did so what he's too nice to leave me he wouldn't risk losing
the kids I'd take them in a heartbeat with a good lawyer this isn't like you April it's worrying I think you're making a big mistake I love Chris truly but I won't give up what I have with Carl I want both the passion with Carl and the love with Chris I need both and I won't let go I've had my fill though the migraine subsided the ache in my heart was far worse it gripped me so tightly that my stomach nodded and each breath felt like a struggle a ringing filled my ears and my pulse
thundered in my head fear surged through me as if a heart attack loomed and I clung to the door frame until some semblance of calm returned to my body still I kept my presence hidden but with each returning moment of control Fury simmered Within Me threatening to boil over with resolve I straightened and stepped into the illuminated kitchen shattering the silence Robin was the first to notice me her eyes widening in shock as she fell silent April catching Robin's reaction turned to see me her expression shifting from contentment to astonishment then to dread and finally
to anger all in an instant pushing her chair back April Rose to confront me how much did you hear why were you lurking and spying on me she demanded I met her gaze in silence then glanced at Robin who wasted no time in excusing herself I need to go Pete and I can take care of the boys if you need time I'll call you later she said before hurrying out the side door I watched her departure wordlessly left alone I turned my attention back to April once the woman I cherished unconditionally for eight Blissful years
eight years I thought would stretch into eternity where we'd grow old together but tonight that expect shattered there would be no forever for us April ended it all tonight where are the boys what were you up to while you were having your fun with your lover did you even think about them or were you too busy enjoying yourself with someone else while leaving them unattended now I'm composed and collected the pain still lingers sharp and deep it'll take a while for it to ease April's face Twisted with anger masking her beauty with ugliness perhaps that
mask was the real April hidden beneath the surface all along she retorted the boys are with Carly Robin and I went shopping and Pete watched over them and I wasn't with anyone else just Robin with that statement she seemed to feel Victorious the anger on her face morphed into satisfaction finally realizing I'd been at home she inquired what are you doing here where's your car and why were you sitting in the dark were you spying on me trying to catch me in the ACT I came home early with a terrible migraine George asked Penny to
to drive me home because I couldn't handle the light I took my Imitrex and fell asleep I've been here ever since a queasiness ched in my stomach and a strong urge to vomit surged through me I Rose and hurried to the bathroom your vo has woke me and what I heard made me sick I need the bathroom with those words I dashed to the bathroom attempting to expel the contents of my stomach it wasn't entirely successful but my body certainly tried its best I settled onto the bathroom floor finding relief as my body gradually relaxed
against the cool porcelain finally my stomach calmed and my breathing steadied the sweat on my face dried as the nausea faded away after a few moments I Rose splashing water on my face and rinsing out my mouth once the trembling subsided and I regained some composure I returned to the kitchen where April sat gazing out the window I'm going to fetch the boys and put them to bed tonight brushing past her I exited making my way next door to the Anderson's Pete and Robin Anderson were not only our neighbors but also our closest friends we
had shared countless evenings together chatting and enjoying drinks best friends I bitterly mused I wondered what Pete knew I should have asked knocking on their back door I entered to find Robin seated at the kitchen table engaged in conversation with her husband I sensed she had told him he looked up with pity in his eyes as I entered while Robin appeared visibly uneasy I've come to get the boys are they ready to head home I bypassed Pete heading to the living room where I presumed the boys were with Carley their teenage daughter they were huddled
over a puzzle Carly watching over them as I entered she greeted me with a smile hey Mr Phillips are you here for them upon my nod she said I'll grab their jackets I stood there watching them overwhelmed by a wave of sadness these scenes once filled with everyday Joy now bore the mark of infidelity the innocence of of family life Shattered by the selfishness of adults in many cases irreparably so this felt like one of those times thanks Carly I'll be in the kitchen when they're ready I returned to the kitchen where pety and Robin
remain seated I glanced at Robin then at py did you both know were you aware she cheated on me Pete did it bring you some Twisted satisfaction knowing while we were together did it give you some sick thrill my anger fueled my words harsher than necessary but I needed answers from my dear friends I should have sensed something Pete shot a glance at Robin his anger evident before replying I swear buddy I had no clue if I had known I'd have told you right away I can't believe my wife knew and kept it from me
it's despicable you don't deserve this I won't apologize to her but I'm here for you if you need me his gaze hardened as he looked at his wife I believed him he would have confided in me if he had known so that was Robin and April's secret thank you Rob Robin I sneered thanks for making me a laughing stock a betrayed man a fool who didn't need to know his wife was fooling around with another guy I hope that sits well with you knowing what you knew while thinking of me I turned as I noticed
Carly approaching hastily putting on a smile as the boys emerged each clutching a cookie I silently prayed Carly hadn't overheard my last words but the look on her face suggested otherwise this marked the last time Robin would spend with my boys that much I vowed I didn't know how but I'd figure it out we came in through the back door and the boys dashed upstairs to change for dinner I crossed the empty kitchen into the dimly lit living room where April sat keeping the room shadowed much like the secrets she harbored turning on a nearby
lamp and drawing back the curtains I illuminated the space revealing Shadows that hinted at the concealed truths my once loving wife held April looked Dreadful tear streak eyes palet complexion slouched shoulders all the Defiance had melted away leaving behind the fearful woman I anticipated yet it felt too late for such a transformation instead of offering Solace her Newfound vulnerability disgusted me was she truly remorseful now or simply scared I couldn't believe such a drastic change in mere minutes no this was the opening Salvo in our power struggle a deceitful wife concealing her infidelity her face
betrayed not regret but deception and gu I confronted her demanding who is he what does he offer that I don't she remained silent until I was certain she wouldn't respond as I turned to leave she finally spoke his identity doesn't matter it's not about you Chris I'm deeply sorry you found out like this I never intended to hurt you I never wanted you to discover this I'm truly sorry you heard my conversation with Robin please you must understand it's funny no apologies for the ACT No Remorse for its occurrence just regret for being caught and
you learning the truth I shook my head sinking into the plush armchair she gifted me on our fifth anniversary I once cherished it but now it was just Furniture please let me explain our story doesn't have to end here we can salvage what we had if only you'd try to understand we could move forward she pleaded with me a familiar expression when she desired something I disagreed with can you promise it's over that you'll never see him again I maintained a calm tone but my body tensed hands gripping the chair's arms tightly for control April
met my gaze with tear-filled eyes but offered no reply that silence spoke volumes she wouldn't cease I heard her words to Robin she sought both paths and wouldn't let me hinder her she wasn't willing to relinquish him and sought my approval I believe this is your decision after dinner I'll tuck the boys in then we can explore our options tomorrow I'll pack my belongings and stay with my brother Rising I exited to the kitchen a refuge amidst turmoil it's odd how the kitchen becomes a sanctuary and dire times strange thoughts surface when your world crumbles
it's even stranger to realize your world is crumbling April busied herself with dinner while I spent quality time with the boys in the playroom engrossed in their game April called us for dinner prompting a noisy transition as I ushered the boys to the bathroom to wash up mundane tasks and anchor in chaos dinner was Lively The Boys full of energy relished the meal in each other's company contrasting sharply with their subdued parents lost in thought over looming decisions ah the innocence of childhood slipping away why do kids yearn to grow up they perceive adult Freedom
as boundless unaware of the consequences and responsibilities adults however understand better yet some disregard limits and consequences like April post dinner April cleaned the kitchen while I escorted the boys to bed we shared stories until they settled down drifting into Slumber where dreams knew no bounds my heart achd as I watched knowing this too must end downstairs I sank into a chair grasping for stability my world Slipped Away Beyond My Control though I loved April deeply her words echoed in my mind he never made me feel this way and I'm his strumpet there was no
turning back from those words as I pondered the possibilities I felt the love Within Me extinguish April entered and took a seat we need to talk I understand you're upset but you must grasp my perspective what I share with Carl is purely physical and the Allure of novelty I anticipate it'll fade soon but currently I can't seem to break away it's what stimulates me but it doesn't affect my love for you he's merely a distraction nothing more it'll end soon and we can return to how things were you just have to let it run its
course her words flowed but I struggled to comprehend I can't resist this I can't stop seeing him should I allow this to continue is she irrational or just deluded regard it must cease clearly you're the one failing to grasp reality there's no us there's no we it's just you and him that's all that remains it's over between us finished done this isn't up for negotiation and I won't budge you need to understand this despite 8 years of marriage you can't possibly believe I'd condone your Affair but Chris I love you you're the only man I've
ever loved I don't even like Carl please try to understand give me time please baby for the sake of our marriage and family give me time take all the time you need tomorrow I'll contact a lawyer and we'll divide everything equally I don't want to hurt you like you hurt me I just want this to end now emotionally drained I yearned to retire to bed seeking respit from the heartache my headache had subsided but the anguish remained yet I wasn't prepared for her next words then damn you no divorce I'll fight you every step of
the way and take everything you have I'll ensure you don't get custody of the boys and I'll restrict your visitation rights in every way possible if you don't comply you'll lose everything and I'll still have Carl you can't stop me remember that I absorbed her threat then it struck me that this marriage had been over long ago the level of anger and disrespect wasn't abrupt it was calculated and deliberate she never Fred over hurting me if she had she wouldn't have embarked on this path she would have terminated it beforehand instead she anticipated My Discovery
rather than ending her affair she opted to inflict maximum pain upon me love had no place here only greed and the urge to degrade me as my anger simmered I saw her face register that she had gone too far her expression warped by her venomous words shifted from contentment to fear my words followed I have one thing to say April when you Corner a rat it Fights Back it'll fight to The Bitter End If you deny it any chance of Escape you should have known that before pushing me but now you've done it and you'll
pay the price please Chris I don't want this but I'm left with no choice I love you and will do anything to keep you from leaving if you don't understand and accept this I'll fight you you'll have no option but to stay with me I know you you love me and the boys too much to leave I know you Chris you'll stay goodbye April let the boys know I'll see them when I can I'll gather some belongings and leave I'll retrieve the rest later when we can arrange a time upstairs I hastily packed a bag
for a day or so just essentials from the bathroom a few changes of clothes not much after 8 years of marriage all that remained were bitter memories but I had two wonderful sons and that was my focus now descending I found April seated by the kitchen door evidently she was prepared to try again Chris please reconsider I'm begging you there's no need promise me you'll end things with him you'll never see him again just say it and maybe there's hope I can't I just can't please I pushed past her fighting the urge to strike her
with all my might but I knew controlling the anger inside wouldn't be easy so I restrained myself I'll visit in the evenings after work so the boys won't notice anything right away I swung open the door and stepped outside it slammed shut behind me as I tossed my bag into the back seat and climbed into my truck backing out of the garage I dialed Clyde my brother on my cell phone he lived about 10 miles away ever since his wife left with her boyfriend 2 years ago he'd been living alone clueless about her whereabouts and
indifferent to her absence despite not divorcing Clyde refused to let it hold him back he'd become quite the Drinker often indulging with his buddies almost every night we discussed it but Clyde never changed his ways he rarely got drunk though he was just usually High perhaps he was trying to bury memories that was my take at least he listened as I explained and instructed me to to head over he'd be home later so I drove to his place retrieved the spare key from under the flower pot on the porch and let myself in everything was
Immaculate as always Clyde was far from Messy he was compulsively tidy always had been it offered a sense of Solace to see that despite my life crumbling his remained unchanged I grabbed a few beers from the fridge and settled in just as he'd advised by the time he returned I was pleasantly intoxicated I fetched another beer from the store and continued drinking when Clyde arrived I simply informed him of the fight with April and he joined in drinking the remainder of his beer to keep me in check he assured me of his support emphasizing our
bond as brothers the next morning I awoke with a punishing hangover and a pounding headache my excessive drinking was solely my doing despite having reasons it was no excuse I stumbled into the shower letting the cold water wash away the remnants of intoxicant in my system staying drunk serves no purpose I searched for Clyde and found a note indicating he was at work and would report me which wasn't unexpected since we both had Saturday shifts Clyde and I were employed by a company renting heavy construction equipment to Major contractors Statewide our reputation as top-notch mechanics
Drew customers from far and wide our task was to keep the Machinery operational no matter the challenges the job demanded long hours but provided the income necessary to support my family a responsibility I couldn't sure I understood the importance of continuing to earn the money that support Ed April's pride and joy the spacious house I viewed it as a Haven for our family a source of pride in providing for them however April seemed to perceive it differently to her it was a safety net a leverage for potential divorce proceedings she coveted the house and my
earnings not for our family's security but to fund indulgences for her lover lavish clothing trips to Victoria's Secret lingerie purchases I turned up the faucet to drown out these unsettling thoughts even though I was running late I needed to escape to work where I could focus strategize and make decisions tasks I couldn't manage in my current state April had clearly plotted this in advance anticipating my shock upon discovering her betrayal and knowing I wouldn't think clearly she had manipulated the situation to portray me as the villain for disapproving of her Affair stacking the deck in
her favor I dressed and fetched a box of large trash bags anticipating April's departure with the boys to her mother's house inside I emptied my closet and drawers into the bags Gathering essential items from the bathroom into a smaller bag Laden with bags I loaded them into my trucks's back seat and returned inside I wouldn't leave just yet I intended to return after work to spend time with the children I had much to ponder and decide one thing was certain my marriage was over and April would never again be my wife lover or Confidant she
belonged to someone else now as I pondered tears welled up uncontrollably and and I sank to the floor of what once was our bedroom succumbing to grief loss weighs heavily especially in the workplace I threw myself into my duties toiling relentlessly even through lunch breaks eager to drown out thoughts of Home wife and children amidst the challenges of fuel injectors timing chains and fuel pumps I tackled the toughest tasks without complaint consumed by a fervor to bury myself in work 10 hours later Clyde interrupted urging me to take a break dude EAS up you're making
the rest of us look like Slackers he remarked watching me with a mixture of surprise and concern sorry little brother just trying to lose myself in it all just trying to forget my bad I must have seemed on the verge of tears as Clyde guided me off the shop floor and into the break area Clyde and I had been Inseparable since our parents tragic accident a decade ago he had been my best man at the wedding and 8 years ago he became the Godfather to my boys Chris Jr and Charlie seated at the table I
stared blankly as Clyde poured us each a cup of hot coffee devoid of flavor but comforting in its warmth all right spill it lay it all out no holding back Clyde encouraged prompting me to recount the ordeal in detail for the next 10 minutes I poured out to Clyde every ounce of Shame humiliation and contempt April had heaped upon me I divulged her menacing threats her calculated attempts to undermine any retaliation on my part while safeguarding her Affair I recounted the disdain on her face as she boasted to Robin about her trist and the cold
determination in her threats to strip me of everything she made it abundantly clear that her Lover's gratification was Paramount unwilling to relinquish him for anything Clyde was taken aback he had always regarded April highly seeing her as a virtuous woman and dedicated mother his brother had never hinted at any marital issues leading Clyde to believe their Union was solid now faced with the reality of Chris's pain and anguish it pained Clyde just to witness it Chris was a Pillar of Strength a devoted father a reliable provider and a trusted Confidant for the guys in the
garage always there when needed over the years he had gone above and beyond to help others yet Clyde's shock turned to anger how could April do this to Chris what was wrong with her his indignation swelled as he observed his brother and closest friend shattered and defeated Chris listen to me you can't just accept this we have to take action let me and the guy lend a hand this is unbearable Clyde implored concern etched on his rugged features it was genuine care for his brother palpable in the air Chris met his gaze with a despondent
expression what can I do if I divorce her she'll Strip Me of everything child support alimony the house the car you know I'd never injury the kids she's using them as pawns against me and now that idiot she's fooling around with will replace their father he's an idiot who thinks it's okay to bet another man's wife I'm I'm powerless Clyde shook his head vehemently to hell with both of them I used to love April like a sister but she's made her bed and now she'll have to lie in it we need to go after both
of them first step figure out who he is that's the easy part let me make a couple calls then we'll discuss Clyde declared I simply Shrugged all right but I'm not sure what you expect me to do she doesn't share anything about him with me doesn't matter we'll track him down and expose him like we would anyone else and you realize you can't take April back right what she did makes reconciliation impossible if you condone her actions she'll never respect you again no way man she's someone else's play thing now his words caught me off
guard momentarily but then a faint smile crept onto my face you're right she's not my beloved wife anymore last night taught me how swiftly love can morph into hatred and my animosity towards her today eclipses any love I ever had for her last night she stole that from me and turned it against herself I made that clear to were we continued chatting a bit more then wrapped up work without any extra hours we headed to a nearby bar with no intention of getting drunk this was business plans needed to be made Clyde made a few
more calls and we sat down to strategize I was touched by the unwavering support from my friends they didn't pry just wanted to know how they could assist together we devised a feasible plan at 7 that evening I pulled into my driveway and entered the house it struck me as funny this was no longer my home it was just a place to stay shedding my jacket in the kitchen I made my way to the living room there April sat in her chair watching Chris and Charlie our 5-year-old twins engrossed in a video game I stood
there capturing the scene in my mind forever April met my gaze as I glanced at her her faint smile now revealing its true contempt for me and our facade of family Unity it was all a sherod orchestrated by her deception now I saw and understood I returned her gaze with a look of dis a devoid of any smile when I turned away she averted her eyes heading to the kitchen I peered into the fridge pulling out what appeared to be leftover fried chicken and mashed potatoes reheating them in the microwave I wasn't hungry but I
needed the distraction I had intended to speak with the boys before their bedtime but Clyde advised against it urging me to postpone the conversation for now but when I do address them it will Mark the first move in the battle initiated by April I might have lost doubtedly but I would fight to the end seated with my plate I began to eat slowly the food offering little satisfaction but necessary for sustenance about halfway through April joined me at the table sitting across from me I glanced at her briefly before returning my focus to my meal
chewing deliberately there were no words exchanged I had nothing to say to her at the moment are you feeling more composed after last night can we engage in a civilized conversation now her words caught me off guard civilized adults how about a cheating woman and her betrayed husband that's more realistic opting for silence instead I withheld my response are you going to ignore me now acting childish and silent I had higher expectations of you Chris we need to consider the children now you must remember your role as their father in this household am I truly
their father now it makes me wonder maybe I should confirm with some tests let's keep this civil Without Anger just a simple statement April expression darkened with Fury poised to retort when I calmly interjected watch your tone April the children might overhear if you start shouting remember them the ones you accused me of neglecting last night when I got upset well now it's your turn to remember reflect on what you've done to their world not only did you indulge in an affair you shattered our entire family think carefully April April paused lowering her voice to
a hiss you didn't seem to consider my words last night I expected you to move past this and return to normal nothing will change at home I still love you and you are my husband that hasn't changed neither you nor the children will lose anything familiar I keep my Affairs discreet conducting my business when they're at school and you're at work you have nothing to lose as I'm always here for you I remained silent continuing to eat methodically I maintained a stoic expression devoid of reaction my eyes betrayed nothing as I looked at her despite
the absence of verbal response my eyes conveyed everything slowly April began to grasp the gravity of the situation for the first time a hint of fear flickered through her what do you intend to do will you make things difficult for me I hoped you loved me enough to grant me this time alone I told you last night that he didn't take anything from you and that I'll always support you why can't you grasp that April grew increasingly emotional while I continued to stare at her calmly my food finally swallowing I suggested letun save this discussion
for after the kids are in bed I listened to you last night despite my discomfort but I won't entertain this conversation while the children are awake April appeared to regain her composure and resumed smiling thank you for that I think you had some valid points but your words hurt me I'll take the boys upstairs soon and then we can talk she passed by me placing her hand on my shoulder I involuntarily flinched at her touch causing her to retract her hand the disgust I felt from that simple gesture was palpable with the kids I tried
to maintain my usual self though knowing everything was about to change weighed heavily on me yet I had come to terms with the fact that April's actions had shattered it all for me perhaps I should just play the role of the compliant husband and accept her terms wait until she's done with her Affair after all hadn't she claimed she still loved me and wanted to remain married but I knew I couldn't do it not now not ever again around 9:00 April entered the room where I sat letting out a heavy sigh she settled into a
chair and smiled I put them to bed and they fell asleep they're getting too big to tuck in but they still say good night and pretend to sleep they're good boys I nodded in agreement they're wonderful kids it's unfortunate that they'll have to endure so much pain and I'm unsure how to ease their suffering what do you mean I thought you understood that nothing needs to change just give me what I want and we can return to being the same family we were just be patient I promised it would all be over soon you won't
lose anything I love you deeply and want to remain your wife it's just something I have to do that's all I gazed at the woman who had been my wife for the past 8 years I married her because I couldn't imagine life without her we had two amazing children and a solid marriage until last night now everything was different and she couldn't comprehend why I deemed it necessary I wouldn't delve into the specific tonight but I needed to be unequivocal April I heard you out last night you made your desires clear you claimed you love
me and want to be my wife you insist he doesn't take anything from me refuse to disclose his identity because it's none of my business and you outline the consequences if I pursued a divorce you made it abundantly clear that you'll strip everything from me without hesitation just as you stated you threatened to take everything even my boys that much was evident April listened her face displaying anger she wasn't pleased with my recap of her words however they sounded they resonated differently coming from me but she recognized the truth in what I conveyed I perceive
that you don't view this situation the same way I do Chris I emphasize that this isn't about our marriage yet you didn't heed my words why can't you trust me when I express that I still love you and desire to uphold our marriage what I heard from you last night April was disdain disdain toward me and our marriage when I expressed frustration you ret iated with premeditated threats threats that you had carefully considered before addressing me disdain for me for all my efforts on our behalf over the years you belittle me degrade me threaten me
and accuse me of misunderstanding you were fully aware that I would react just as I did why did you presume to have already determined what to do with me why did you believe you had all the answers ready now I was starting to feel angered up until now I had remained composed and in control but that composure was gradually slipping away April's enraged expression infuriated me I came to one conclusion that you seemed to overlook last night April when you threatened and backed me into a corner thinking I couldn't find a way out I mentioned
it then and I'll reiterate it now even a rat will fight a cat when cornered and with Nothing Left to Lose with these words I stood up and walked away as I approached the kitchen door where April was seated I paused I'm going to stay Elsewhere for the night temporarily I'll return after work so the kids won won't notice anything right away why are you planning to stay somewhere else why not stay here we can't resolve this problem if you leave Chris please don't I love you and don't want to lose you I don't know
what I'll do if you leave me please Chris let's attempt to address this there must be a way to reconcile I'm sorry April the only certainty I have now is that I no longer love you your infidelity last night extinguished all my love for you that's the only thing I know for sure I'm unsure of what I'll do next but I'm certain there's no turning back now Chris what about your vows to love and cherish me have you forgotten them I also recall your vows to me you pledged on our wedding day to forsake all
others yet you didn't you promised to love only me but you shared what we had with another man I cared for you loved you upheld our marital vows and gave you everything I had it wasn't sufficient you bestowed what was mine upon someone else you gave it away shattering my love in the process so yes I can move past this you shattered my love for you into pieces I can depart and I will I headed to Clyde's house where he welcomed me to stay as long as needed time to finish what we started soon it'll
all be over and I'll begin a new in the following days I balanced work with evenings spent with my kids however I avoided any further interaction with April despite her attempts to engage I walked away each time on one occasion she yelled but I simply left without a word during a work break a colleague informed Clyde that preparations were complete and we'd have results in a few days all that remained was patience the routine continued unchanged until the following week each evening I returned to an increasingly agitated April the kids seemed oblivious but Charlie's question
about my long hours prompted reassurance he seemed satisfied and the momentary crisis passed April persisted with questions but I ignored her leaving when she took the kids to bed by week's end Clyde entered the break room and handed me a folder without a word I opened it to find a brief report Carl Cummings a 24-year-old Junior attorney at Lincoln rice and Holmes divorced two years ago financially stable residing in a condominium where April had visited multiple times that week now armed with a name and address I pondered what Allure he held that eluded me yet
it was no longer my concern had April approached me earlier perhaps this could have been resolved differently so what's next what steps should I take I sought Clyde's guidance though the issue was mine Clyde seemed the one in charge I was fortunate to have friends and a brother like Clyde being a good man and diligent worker sufficed for true friends now I needed them more than ever everything's underway the first move happens tonight I'll call you once it's set just keep your phone close you can inform her and put an end to this mess okay
knowing it needed to be done didn't bring relief this this wasn't my preferred approach however April and her lover left me no choice and I fought back the only way I could I wasn't a lawyer or a wealthy strategist I was a mechanic a hardworking individual who took pride in providing for his family through honest labor I loved April deeply but my efforts weren't enough for her fine my plan aligned with my world and she'd soon realize it returning home I joined my family for dinner as usual April engaged with the kids and I participated
in conversations and activities concealing my nervousness at after dinner I spent quality time with the kids playing video games and assisting with homework playing the role of the typical husband and father April finishing the dishes observed the scene seeming more at ease perhaps thinking everything would soon return to normal as I played video games with my boys Carl Cummings left his office headed to his car parked across town he reflected on the intense encounter with April at his place 2 days earlier she was eager for him agreeing for the first time to get close when
he asked why after their rendevu she revealed her husband had discovered their Affair shocked Carl was reassured by her not to worry it struck him as odd that her husband's knowledge seemed to heighten her adventurousness despite this it was the best physical engaging he'd had so he brushed it off walking past an alley toward his car he suddenly stumbled feeling a pull as he struggled to maintain his balance and avoid falling someone seized his arms and pulled him down the alley toward the courtyard pinned against the building's wall by two imposing figures one on each
side he strained to discern their faces beneath their black ski masks despite their intimidating size fear began to creep over him with little cash and no flashy accessories he wondered what they wanted a third masked man wearing gloves stepped forward and lifted Carl's face with a firm grip under his chin in a coarse voice he inquired you familiar with a woman named April Phillips idiot the mention of her name sent a shiver down Carl's spine oh no so that's what this is about her darn husband she never mentioned he was involved no I don't know
anyone by that name he stammered shaking yet determined to deny everything the Hefty man landed a blow to his ribs causing excruciating pain and stealing his breath dizzy he saw Stars swirling before him the intense Agony gripped him instilling deep fear I'll ask again you familiar with a woman named April Phillips idiot unable to deceive any longer Carl abandoned denial yes I know her please God let me make it out of here alive he prayed silently you'll never cross paths with her again clear the imposing figure awaited his response Crystal Clear got it perhaps it
was merely a warning got it he could accept that I need to ensure you grasp this fully my pals and I aren't convinced someone like you messing with other men's wives is all that bright so we're going to ensure you comprehend the big man explained ominously ceasing their pressure against the wall they allowed him to steady himself the initial blow struck him hard in the groin causing him to double over despite his Agony they prevented him from collapsing delivering another blow to his ribs a sharp click signaled a broken rib then came a devastating blow
to his jaw nearly toppling him with pain subsequent strikes hit him in the groin until mercifully he blacked out they likely continued their assault until they ceased gradually brought back to Consciousness they drilled a few words into him repeatedly his memory faded until he awoke in Memorial Hospital's emergency room room while his injuries weren't life-threatening he was admitted to the general Care Unit heavily medicated and in intense pain grateful for his survival he whispered a prayer they informed him that she might contact him instructing him precisely what to say he recalled the words he needed
to convey to her I deeply apologize Mrs Phillips it was my fault and I deeply regret it I will cease all contact with you and your children I'm sorry our paths ever crossed farewell Carl reclined on the bed awaiting her call he rehearsed these words in his mind to avoid any errors he reminded himself that any deviation would not go unnoticed and the consequences would be severe repeating the phrases to himself once more he vowed never to pursue a married woman again regardless of who she may be just past 8 in the evening while playing
with the twins my cell phone rang excusing myself to another room I took the call seeing Clyde's caller ID I heard a brief message it's done lesson one completed he was admitted to the hospital then the call ended returning to the living room with a smile April noticed but said nothing returning a smile herself interpreting it as good news later April took the children upstairs casting a questioning glance at me assuring her I'd be there when she returned she smiled broadly and went about putting the children to bed settling into the living room I waited
in anticipation the moment of Reckoning had arrived as April returned with a coffee pot and cups she suggested we talk further noting my apparent resignation she expressed relief professing her love and fear of losing me over Such trivial matters in comparison to our relationship's depth I observed her as she spoke her beauty still captivating me after all she was the woman i' cherished for so long envisioning a future of growing old together but now those plans those dreams lay shattered let the end commence now April I need to tell you something and I need you
to listen carefully I began I know your lover's name is Carl Cummings a junior associate at Lin con rice and Holmes I know all about him including your two meetings with him this week April appeared surprised poised to respond but I motioned for her to remain silent that's the issue you threatened me with divorce when I expressed my anger you threatened to strip away everything I have I remember your exact words etched into my mind you Saidi take everything you have you said more but those were the words that lingered words dripping with contempt that
shattered our marriage those were the words that pushed me into a corner where I felt I had no choice but to watch you engage in closeness with another man I told you the following night that cornered rats fight back now I could see the initial flickers of fear and discomfort on her face she wasn't certain what lay ahead but she was Savvy enough to realize it wouldn't be to her liking her shoulders tensed and she instinctively withdrew her head in defense I know you told Robin that I never made you feel the way you felt
with him that you were his mistress I continued I don't regret that this will end in a manner unfavorable to you however Mr Cummings has been explicitly informed that his involvement with you is over he'll never see you again or engage in any further closeness with you never he was also cautioned against any contact with my sons to which he agreed watching her face register shock and disbelief I proceeded I'll initiate divorce proceedings citing infidelity with no spousal support for you child support will be provided for my sons ensuring they lack nothing as long as
you fulfill your duties I'll ensure you have the means but you'll need to work for your own desires I'll handle the paperwork and you'll be served April Rose anger evident on her face you're delusional if you think I'll agree to this and I'll take everything you have just as I promised she retorted still defiant despite her fear she intended to Bluff until the very end as she had strategized why don't you call your Mr Cummings right now let's see his response oh wait I believe you might need to dial the hospital that call I received
earlier informed me he's in the emergency room at Memorial I presume the news has reached you by now use my phone I already have his number April gazed at me in shock what have you done what happened to Carl oh my God Chris what did you do why April Are you seriously asking me I've been here at home with you all evening and I was at work earlier so I couldn't have done anything to anyone why do you think I did something why would I even think to injury your lover you made it abundantly clear
that I should steer clear of this situation it's n of my concern my demeanor surely frightened April she had never seen me like this I was typically calm and passive never causing injury to anyone I wouldn't even discipline the children physically leaving that to her now she viewed me differently my expression was cold and Stern my eyes devoid of emotion April entered the next room and I overheard her speaking on the phone she returned With Tears In Her Eyes collapsing into a chair and staring into the distance I remained composed picking up the newspaper I
knew what she had heard on the phone her lover was ending things with her faced with the choice of that or enduring a smacking each time he encountered her that was the ultimatum delivered to him by three imposing men who intercepted him as he left work earlier they made it clear why they targeted him and what repercussion questions awaited if he dared to see or speak to April again they ensured he fully comprehended the message April dried her tears took a deep breath and addressed me well it seems you've gotten your way Carl informed me
he never wants to see me again he mentioned that all my belongings will be returned to me and he has no desire to communicate with me in that case you have nothing to fret over I have legal representation so they will handle everything swiftly I responded setting the newspaper aside and rising to depart I'll speak with the boys this weekend and explain why we're divorcing perhaps they're mature enough to grasp the situation if not they'll eventually understand as they grow older as I made my exit I glanced back to see April sobbing if I recall
your words correctly April you once claimed this affair would be short-lived and we could return to normaly I chuckled bitterly you're still young and attractive April maybe you'll find someone willing to indulge your fantasies someone open to an unconventional marriage allowing you to pursue multiple partners that wasn't me but that's just my perspective best of luck children may not comprehend this but adults must face the consequences of their actions and those consequences can be harsh [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]