My Daughter Told Me She Had a Second Dad. I Sued Cheating Wife For Paternity Fraud. Sad Audio Story.

[Music] I never imagined myself running a family business growing up but my father's strong presence in the Landscaping World shaped my path starting with simple tasks like filing and sweeping I gradually took on more responsibilities and grew to appreciate the business my father valued hard work often sending me into the field where I learned the Practical side of landscaping and the importance of dedication and Integrity by the time I finished high school I was leading Crews during the summer and developed a deep connection to the business when I took over I knew I had big

shoes to fill but with my father's lessons and my passion I felt ready managing the business especially in the digital age brought new challenges while technology streamlines tasks like invoicing and payroll it can also create chaos when systems fail in my seven years running the family business I've dealt with a few computer crashes but I've learned to minimize them through local and Cloud backups I've also set up contingencies for critical infrastructure to ensure smooth operations during outages but enough about technology let me introduce myself I'm Donald Summers though friends call me Don and only my

wife and mother call me Donnie I'm 35 6 of five and 227b with a deep tan earned from years Outdoors my wife Britney is also 35 a personal trainer with blonde hair blue eyes and a petite athletic build we've been married for 13 years and have two children Danielle 9 and Brian 7 Summers Landscaping was founded by my father and I always knew I'd eventually take over as a kid I worked closely with my parents since I was their only child when I got older my dad insisted I work in the field to learn the

business from the ground up which I ended up enjoying by high school I was leading Crews and 7 years ago when I took over I expanded the business to include 12 Crews offering a range of landscaping services including snow removal in winter although I spend more time in the office now I still enjoy getting out on site occasionally March and April are my busiest times in the office with taxes Personnel records and contracts to handle this year my mom joined me but she's not techsavvy and accidentally erased some important files thankfully I had backups but

restoring them took time while waiting I used Google Earth a tool I frequently use for project planning it offers a cost effective way to get a bird's eyee view of a site before starting major work after a few minutes I realized I'd done all I could without the client's input and wrapped it up while waiting for my backups to finish loading I decided to check out my house on Google Earth I'd been considering adding a pool since the kids were older now but as I zoomed in I noticed something odd a car in my driveway

that I didn't recognize while I know most of Brit's friends this car didn't ring a bell the photo seemed recent taken last winter as there was snow on the ground and my garage addition was completed which meant the image was no more than 4 months old the car was red but I couldn't identify the Mak or model with time to liquidate I switched to Google Earth's street view knowing it might not offer more clues the street view was taken later in the year with the dog Woods blooming the car was gone but there was something

more shocking my wife Britney standing in the doorway hugging and kissing a man I didn't recognize my temper flared but I forced myself to stay calm I printed several copies of the photo and studied the man though the angle of obscured his face he looked familiar after some thought I realized he resembled Brit's ex-boyfriend from college Ben Clawson that realization hit hard but I knew I had to figure out what was really going on before taking any action I considered different ways to investigate cameras recorders or even hiring a private investigator however I needed to

know the full story first as I stared at the picture my anger simmered but I kept thinking eventually I decided to dig deeper into Ben's background a quick Google search revealed he had become a successful real estate agent after a short-lived NFL career due to a knee injury he had returned to our hometown a couple of years ago and opened his own office Ben was married with a child his wife Angela was attractive with curly brown hair and green eyes but in my opinion she couldn't compare to Britney still I couldn't shake the anger and

confusion over what I had seen Mrs Clawson worked as an accountant in her husband's real estate office a setup that gave him constant oversight and plenty of opportunities for extra marital affairs without much risk of getting caught a sudden idea struck me and I checked the time 10:33 a.m. I looked up Ben clawson's office number and called a pleasant voice answered informing me that Ben was out showing a property and wouldn't be back for an hour or so I declined to leave a message and ended the call despite not having solid evidence of an affair

Britney's behavior in the Google Earth image was clearly inappropriate and the man she was with strongly resembled her ex-boyfriend Ben Clawson frustration boiled Within Me pushing me to act I grabbed the print out of the photo and headed to my truck as I prepared to leave I noticed a toy car in the back a reminder of my son it gave me pause I needed to consider the impact of my actions on my children as well as myself after a brief internal struggle I drove to Ben's office located in a new building downtown I recognized one

of my work crew foremen nearby but didn't stop to talk my focus was on confronting the situation as I walked through the building in my work close I drew curious looks from the suited office workers when I reached the fifth floor and entered the clawen real estate office I recognized Mrs Clawson immediately she was Slimmer and taller than her photos suggested but her friendly demeanor and professional handshake made a good first impression hello I'm Donald Summers I introduced myself nice to meet you Mr Summers how can I help you she asked Mrs Clawson I replied

I have a photograph I'd like you to see and a few questions her expression turned serious as she realized this wasn't about buying a house she took a moment to assess the situation then regained her professional composure please follow me Angela said simply leading me to a door at the back of the room she paused to instruct someone inside to watch the front desk then guided me into the break room she sat at the table and gestured for me to join her clearly waiting for me to get to the point I handed her the photo

the woman is my wife Britney I said she used to date Ben Clawson in college do you think this man is your husband Angela hesitated before taking the photo examining it with a mix of curiosity sadness and eventually anger after a few minutes she handed it back yes that's him when was this taken not more than 3 months ago I replied explaining that I found it on Google Earth I pointed out the earrings I'd given Brit for Christmas which confirmed the timeline Angela's expression softened briefly with sympathy before turning serious again I'm sure it's Ben

have you confronted your wife not yet she should be at work right now I said Angela questioned whether Brit was actually at work prompting me to call her when she didn't answer I called the gym where she worked a trainer and friend Mandy answered and hesitantly told me that Brit had left about 10 minutes ago supposedly to meet me for lunch at Logan's I checked Brit's location using the Find My Phone app it showed she was at our house I shared this with Angela who quickly became angry and stormed out of the office heading for

the exit I hurried to keep up Chris she called out I'm going to lunch if Ben returns before I do call me immediately Angela's anger was palpable as we got into the elevator youd better have a good explanation for that photo she said I've let him off the hook once before surprised I asked if Ben had cheated on her before then quickly apologized for prying she brushed it off and confirmed that he had back in Colorado they moved to Indiana for a fresh start but she wasn't in a forgiving mood this time during the car

ride we sat in silence for a few minutes until Angela spoke I'm surprised your wife would bring my husband into your home it's a calculated risk I replied she knows I'm usually stuck in the office this time of year and would call before coming home giving her time to cover her tracks I knew there was bitterness in my voice and I shot Angela an apologetic look to show I didn't blame her I'm so predictable and gullible she could have been cheating for years and I'd never know Angela was silent for a moment as I sped

toward my house when she finally spoke her voice held sympathy there are usually signs when a spouse is cheating she said quietly yes I know I replied but I haven't seen any our bed life hasn't changed and she hasn't acted differently toward me or the kids she doesn't go out with friends much either there weren't any signs with Ben either she said her voice breaking as she fell silent again as I turned onto my street I noticed a red car in my driveway Angela's voice startled me that's Ben's car she said her anger mixed with

sadness if we found what we expected it would likely end both of our marriages I parked on the street and headed toward the backyard with Angela following silently she pulled out a digital camera from her purse while I regretted not bringing mine from the office we quietly entered the house through the back door inside I could hear my wife's unmistakable moans of pleasure beneath my anger my heart broke hearing Britney's voice I signaled for and to follow me as I moved through the kitchen I expected to find them in the living room when I peaked

in there was Britney on the couch with another woman confused I scanned the room and spotted Ben filming the scene on his tablet Angela was also recording with her camera as rage began to consume me Angela grabbed my arm trying to pull me back I hesitated thinking the damage was already done so what was another second but when Ben joined in I snapped Angela couldn't hold me back as I moved into the room sensing my Approach The Other Woman turned her eyes wide in shock I grabbed Ben and threw him to the floor shut up

all of you I yelled punching Ben don't move or I swear I'll tear you apart I looked at the other woman and realized it was Jamie Keller a 19-year-old neighbor who babysat for us Jamie I asked in disbelief she nodded looking pathetic I'm sorry she whispered how long has this been going on I growled this is only the second time I swear she sted stammered you're a goddamn liar I spat cheating was cheating whether it was with a man or a woman if Britney slept with someone else it was betrayal I picked up Ben's tablet

that had fallen during the commotion and made sure Jamie could see it I have a video of you doing some very inappropriate things get out of my house and never come back if you ever contact my wife again even accidentally I'll post this everywhere online to your family and anyone else I can think of I'll ruin your reputation understand Jamie stared at me and horror as I shook the tablet in front of her yes she whispered trembling I understand good I snapped now get out you dirty strumpet I then called my father-in-law George putting the

call on speaker Britney recognizing his voice squeezed her eyes shut silently pleading with me not to go through with this but I wasn't about to let her off easy hey George I said hearing his familiar voice Don it's good to hear from you how are you he replied warmly something serious has come up with Britney and me can you and Virginia come over as soon as possible he immediately grew concerned are the kids okay the kids are fine this is about Britney and me I'd rather show you than explain over the phone George was silent

for a long time likely piecing things together finally he said in a sad tone we'll be there in 15 minutes please don't do anything rash before we arrive I won't I assured him and ended the call after a similar conversation with my own parents I put the phone away Britney was sobbing uncontrollably on the couch knowing what was coming Angela however remained calm he needs a hospital Don she said firmly I understand you want to destroy your wife but I have limits fine I replied how about calling an ambulance instead Angela studied me realizing my

intent to delay her departure without denying her request she sighed and agreed all right but once your revenge plays out I'm taking him to the ER I understand I said keep the tablet and Camera until you get what you need after that return the camera I'll need it for the divorce thank you Angela I added she nodded and made a call to her office stating she had an emergency and was closing for the day Mr Clawson is on his way to the ER she told them I wondered why she was still with him after his

betrayal but that was her decision to make my parents arrived first living closer when they saw the scene Britney Ben and Angela mom froze and Dad stared and shock Donnie what's going on mom asked while Dad just placed a comforting hand on my shoulder understanding without needing an explanation mom blushing at the sight of Britney hissed Donnie what is all this I explained everything to my Mom leaving nothing out and offered to show her the video from two angles she quickly declined her face turning even redder she was about to hand Britney and Afghan but

I stopped her no Mom I want George and Virginia to see her for what she is is I said I want them to know it's not my fault this marriage is ending Britney pleaded Donnie please don't but I cut her off shut up what did you expect I caught you and you thought I wouldn't want a divorce you're clueless my in-laws George and Virginia arrived soon after Virginia was shocked when she saw Britney what is going on she exclaimed nearly tripping over Ben who is this I turned to Britney are you going to explain or

should I when she stayed silent I recounted everything from my Discovery to meeting Angela and what I found at home both sets of parents remained silent until Virginia spoke up this must be a mistake Britney wouldn't do this I have video proof I replied calmly would you like to see it I pulled out the SD card ready to show them don't my mom pleaded her voice filled with sympathy it won't solve anything and will just hurt more people I won't let anyone doubt the truth I insisted I want to settle this here and now George

intervened raising his hand what are you going to do now that's the real question I looked at him my resolve clear I'm sorry George but divorce is the only option I can't live with someone like her as Angela helped Ben gather his things I continued first I want custody of the kids Britney can visit but they'll live with me that's non-negotiable Virginia tried to object but I cut her off this isn't a negotiation if I don't get what I want Britney's actions will be all over the Internet do we understand I turned to Britney do

you understand she finally snapped yelling don't call me a strumpet you are a strumpet I shouted back and I won't let you raise our daughter to be like you the argument escalated turning into a screaming match that lasted for hours but then I realized the school bus would be arriving soon the kids will be home soon I said coldly go clean up and get dressed before they get here then we'll explain why mommy won't be living here anymore Britney shot back I'll I'll tell them why daddy isn't here anymore fine I replied but don't take

too long I carried the camera to the den where our home computer was making it clear I wasn't bluffing Britney rushed after me realizing I was serious Britney screamed wait you know the courts won't give you custody I replied these days I could commit a crime and still get custody not if you tell the judge you don't want it she said staring at me I let my anger show wanting her to understand how much she'd hurt me when she didn't back down I Shrugged and turned away Don you can't do this she shouted watch me

I replied you won't you love me that used to be true I said but now I've learned more about you than I ever wanted to it wasn't fun she cried again but I didn't care I was emotionally drained and just wanted this over do you hate me enough to really do this she asked yes I replied I'll never forgive you if you don't give me what I want in the divorce I'll spend the rest of my life destroying you even if it ruins me too I paused thinking about how long she might have been unfaithful

are Danielle and Brian even mine Britney how can you ask that she said shocked how can you cheat on me with multiple people I shot back I don't know what to believe anymore I never imagined you'd betray me like this I pocketed the SD card and gripped the tablet then walked back to the living room with Britney following as I approached I overheard my parents and her parents talking you don't really think he'll do it do you Frank it could ruin Britney future Virginia said my dad responded after what she did I don't care about

her future she deserves whatever she gets when I entered the room everyone looked at me Virginia seemed nervous I shot her a look of disgust but didn't comment I understood she'd stand by her daughter despite everything Don it's not fair to insist on custody Virginia began kids need their mom Mrs Carson do you think I care what you think I replied fight it and you know the consequences I'm surprised none of you care that Britney cheated but whatever you're free to leave take your daughter with you if you'd like they stared at me shocked then

began muttering about how rude I was and hoping Britney would take everything in the divorce as you might guess things didn't go as either of us planned Britney might have exaggerated about the courts but not by much I didn't think she'd call my bluff about the video but she did unfortunately for her I wasn't bluffing after the judge awarded her custody she smirked at me I just glared back later I used Ben's tablet at a coffee shop to upload the edited video to every website I could find I sent the links to Britney's family using

Ben's email and posted them on his social media accounts then I tossed the tablet in the river true to my word Brit became somewhat Infamous after I posted the video she lost her job at the gym but she still kept custody thankfully since the divorce was finalized before she was laid off I didn't have to pay spousal support she tried to get a piece of the family business but failed since I don't technically own it yet my dad does I just manage it and my salary comes from him so our finances were separate the judge

ordered me to pay $600 a month in child support but my lawyer delayed the payments until we got paternity test results I mostly demanded the test to hurt Brit but I was relieved when they confirmed the kids were mine Brit got half of our savings and checking accounts but couldn't afford to keep the house so she had to sell it we split the money and she bought a smaller House nearby I also bought a small house in the same school district though I had to cut back on spending to afford it with child support my

dad offered to increase my salary but I declined since it would just raise my support payments Danielle and Brian liked my new house but hated that their mom and I were no longer together I tried to keep them busy with trips to the park biking hiking and occasional swims at the Aquatic Center as for my personal life I started dating again after the divorce I hadn't done anything wrong so I didn't see a reason to be alone while I had no trouble finding dates I was looking for a real relationship the kids sometimes mentioned their

mom trying to bring us back together but I reminded them that we weren't getting back together I no longer had feelings for her about 6 months after the divorce I ran into Mandy Thomas a trainer from the gym where Brit used to work we chatted at the grocery store and I noticed she seemed as interested in me as I was in her when she asked if I was seeing anyone I admitted I wasn't she leaned in t TCH my arm and smiled do you like what you see she asked playfully yes I do I replied

deciding to take a chance I invited her over for dinner wrapping my arms around her waist and maybe we can talk about dessert my relationship with Mandy restored a confidence I hadn't realized I'd lost she was an amazing partner smart funny great with kids and always supportive after our third date we decided to be exclusive and I never regretted it she filled the void in my life and for the first time since my divorce I was truly happy a few months into our relationship I got an unexpected call from my former in-laws George Carson informed

me that Britney was in the hospital and they needed me to pick up the kids he probably expected me to ask why she was hospitalized but I didn't care I only asked if it was something that could damage the kids when he mentioned she was at the Catherine Center a mental health facility I Shrugged it off and ended the call on my way to pick up the kids I breathed briefly thought about Britney and why she destroyed our marriage I had analyzed it many times but never asked her directly as I didn't trust she'd tell

the truth in the end it didn't matter for me infidelity was unforgivable and I wasn't going to lose my self-respect by staying with her when I arrived at the Carson's house I could tell Danielle and Brian weren't doing well they clung to each other which wasn't typical for them George looked bitter and angry as he sent the kids inside to get their things once we were alone he confronted me what's wrong with you Don he demanded other than mild nearsightedness nothing I replied sarcastically stop being a smart rear your wife is in a mental hospital

and you don't care first of all she's not my wife anymore I shot back she destroyed our marriage not me and yes I don't care why should I she cheated on me not the other way around it's your fault she's in the hospital George retorted you posted that video and ruined her reputation making it hard for her to find a job I warned everyone I would do it if I didn't get what I wanted she chose to fight me and now faces the consequences if she's not making what she's worth maybe she should talk to

her pimp I replied coldly you son of a witch he shouted grabbing my vest I calmly freed his hand not wanting to hurt him but making it clear I wouldn't be pushed around think carefully before you use Force George I said I know you love Britney but everything that's happened is her own doing even you must see that wouldn't you have done the same in my position he eventually relaxed and I let go he seemed more defeated than angry maybe I would he admitted it's just easier to be mad at you than face what my

daughter did go ahead and tell me what's going on I said still annoyed George hesitated then revealed Britney tried to liquidate herself do the kids know I asked yes he said pained Danielle found her unconscious after taking a bottle of sleeping pills she called emergency I felt awful for Danielle Imagining the trauma she went through but I was also proud of her for staying calm and doing the right thing I made a mental note to praise her for it how are they coping I asked Danielle and Brian are both upset but Brian's taking it the

hardest Danielle hasn't left his side George said I thanked him for telling me and reassured him I'd keep a close eye on the kids over the next few days I did exactly that I talked to Danielle and Brian about what happened praising Danielle for her quick thinking which made her Beam with pride after weeks of treatment Britney was discharged they say she's recovered I told Mandy but I'm skeptical I don't see how therapy and medication alone can fix problems that led her to attempt self-destruction Britney wanted to return to join custody I asked the kids

how they felt Danielle hesitated but Brian was thrilled at the idea of spending time with his mom again Mandy was practical unless you want another long legal battle you'll have to agree you could argue she she's unfit given the self-destruction attempt but it might not be worth it I felt conflicted I won't try to stop her from seeing the kids I said resigned Mandy softened I didn't think you would I just don't want the kids to go through another traumatic experience I don't know what turned her into this selfish irresponsible I struggled which but it

happened Mandy leaned back thoughtful and then smiled why don't we talk about something more pleasant she suggested stroking my hand I smiled back what do you have in mind at that moment I knew it was time over the past few months I had grown even closer to Mandy she was everything I wanted in a partner and I realized it was time to ask her the big question I thought we could talk about our future I said pulling out the ring box Mandy I love you and so did the kids I hate being apart from you

will you marry me her eyes widened as she looked at the ring the kids help me pick it out I added Mandy looked at me sadly then gently closed the ring box Don this is beautiful and I'm touched but marriage really she shook her head you're a wonderful lover and a great father but marriage isn't what I want especially not with someone who has kids and an ex to deal with I've enjoyed our time together but for me it was just fun not a step toward marriage my heart sank I see I said quietly tossing

the ring box aside thanks for being honest I'm sorry for bothering you Mandy was already getting her things I met her at the door where we exchanged one last look I leaned in for a goodbye kiss but she turned her cheek realizing it was over I closed the door behind her the weeks after Mandy left were tough I'd been through breakups before but this one hurt more probably because she was the first woman I'd connected with emotionally after my divorce the kids asked about Mandy why did she leave dad Brian asked it wasn't about you

I explained she just didn't want to see me anymore Danielle perceptive for her age seemed to sense more but Let It Go as time passed Brian often mentioned his mom trying to bring us back together in his own way it was understandable but I knew I had to move on I went on dates making sure there were no misunderstandings this time I was upfront about not rushing into anything serious most women weren't interested in anything long term once they heard about my ex-wife's issues I couldn't blame them life felt lonely I still talked to Angela

occasionally she had divorced Ben but didn't take much from him I didn't want the big house she told me too many memories I just want a home not a status symbol so what did you do I asked curious about how Angela handled her situation we sold the house and split the equity each buying our own place I didn't sell my share of Ben's real estate business and I chose not to pursue the maximum alimony I could I'm stronger than that she said with pride I respect that I nodded Angela never judged me for posting the

video of Britney I can't blame you she said but that video won't get you custody unless Britney agrees I know I admitted but I had to do something Angela looked at me knowingly you're still angry she said softly I sighed yeah but not as much as before she didn't push further and shifted the topic how are the kids they're okay I replied Brian's still hopeful as Mom and I will get back together Danielle's too smart for her own good kids grow up fast Angela said with a wistful smile yeah they do I agreed her son

Robbie often visited since he and Brian were in the same grade one afternoon when Angela came to pick him up she found the ring box Don what's this she asked holding it up I sighed that's what's left of my engagement to Mandy after hearing my story Angela shook her head sadly I'm sorry Don thanks I said but I'm just not great at picking the right people she laughed jooin the club I'm not much better we both laughed though we knew Angela had someone special in her life it seemed like Wedding Bells were on the Horizon

for her do you think the problem is me I asked after a pause Angela looked at me thoughtfully maybe you have unresolved issues you never found out why your ex cheated did you that could still be weighing you down I never tried to find out I admitted but will talking to Britney really help maybe what do you have to lose she Shrugged good point I said I guess it can't hurt that Sunday when I dropped the kids off at Britney's house I decided to talk to her the kids looked surprised as I walked them to

the door dad what are you doing ran asked I need to talk to your mom I said no worries they nodded and I knocked on the door Brittney answered surprised to see me what do you want she asked barely polite I need to talk to you in private I replied she sent the kids inside and crossed her arms what does the great Dawn want I want to know why you cheated on me I said simply what she was genuinely surprised I want to know why I repeated it's been over a year why ask now she

snapped I was too angry to care before I admitted but now I want to know why you destroyed our marriage you're blaming it all on me she said bitterly you're the one who cheated I replied calmly I never did if you don't want to tell me just say so and I'll leave she hesitated her emotions shifting visibly finally she looked down and then met my eyes I felt the desire to be with another woman she admitted quietly why didn't you explore this in college before we started dating I asked I tried but I always chickened

out worried my parents would find out she said after a pause she continued one night Jamie caught me alone in the women's locker room after that I realized I couldn't give her up so you decided you were gay I asked still in disbelief Britney shook her head no I'm bisexual but I knew how you felt about monogamy and even if I gave up Jamie that first time would have ended things for you you're right I said I made that clear from the start yes you did she agreed but it wasn't easy to give up everything

for that fling she added with some emotion in her voice damn it Britney it couldn't have been that hard I replied feeling my anger Rising what about Ben heun not another woman no heun's not she admitted he started as a client then kept pushing for something more I resisted for a while but eventually gave in I knew if you found out I was already done for so I tried to keep it secret so it wasn't just one mistake I said trying to stay calm no she admitted it went on for weeks until you put a

stop to it I ruined it I asked in disbelief you're blaming me for once I'm not blaming you she said but yes you ended it I almost wish I hadn't asked I said quietly Angela thought knowing why I would help but I feel worse you didn't respect me enough to be honest you just went after what you wanted Britney Shrugged I didn't think about you until it was too late did you ever love me I asked yes I did she said showing some emotion and I regret hurting you and the kids but that doesn't change

what happened were you ever faithful I asked yes she replied I was faithful until that night with Jamie after that I was a mess and my therapist helped me realize how wrong I was she paused then her voice turned angry again but you didn't have to ruin everything Don you messed up my relationship with my parents and destroyed my reputation I can't find a job in my field and moving won't help you even ruined ja's life she doesn't talk to me anymore because of that video how could you do that I took a deep breath

trying to stay calm I warned you that if I didn't get what I wanted in the divorce I'd do it you chose to ignore that thinking I was bluffing but I'm not a liar Britney tears stream down her face no Don you did it for Revenge your ego couldn't handle the hurt no Britney I replied quietly if you'd been honest and told me everything upfront I might have hated you but I'd still respect you instead you chose to cheat you're not even as honest as a street walker they at least admit what they are the

words hit her hard but she didn't argue she just looked at me with a mix of sadness and regret Don I know I have no right to be mad at you she said softly my therapist says I'm really mad at myself but I directed at you I told the kids the divorce was my fault not yours thank you for that Britney I replied feeling some tension EAS it'll help the kids I started to leave thinking the conversation was over but Britney stopped me wait she said I have questions too I turned back surprised what kind

of questions why did you give up on me so easily she asked confused why didn't you fight for me that's ridiculous I snapped don't you remember our conversations while dating we talked about how infidelity destroys families I told you cheating was the one thing I'd never forgive there was nothing left to fight for after you made that choice she sobbed quietly but then gathered herself to ask how did you find out I was cheating we were so careful I let out a bitter chuckle it was a complete accident I said then explained the events of

that morning as I told the story her eyes widened in disbelief when I finished she sank into a chair on the porch this story is so unbelievable able it almost can't be true she muttered shaking her head Google Earth I said with a grim smile it was like having a view from above it would be funny if it hadn't been happening to me Britney looked at me with genuine sorrow Don I'm really sorry she said softly I know I don't deserve your forgiveness but I hope someday you can let go of the anger I don't

know if that'll happen I replied turning to leave but thanks for saying that that was the last time we spoke face to face for a long while a year passed and my personal life stayed the same I still dated occasionally but wasn't looking for anything serious my focus was on my kids watching them grow became a true Joy Brian now 10 was interested in the family business and loved helping with the plants especially the Japanese Rock Gardens Danielle at 12 seemed drawn to health care but still had time to decide it was my concern for

Danielle that led me to volunteer as a chaperone at the school sock hop that fall Angela and her new husband Mike convinced me to help if you have kids that age you you know how tough it is to get parents involved in these events there I was watching kids Bounce Around the gym feeling out of touch with the music when Angela appeared beside me hi she said startling me what I replied why don't you go talk to her she suggested nodding toward a woman across the gym Angela what are you talking about I asked confused

that teacher over there she pointed the cute brunette in the cream and charcoal sweater she's been looking at you all night go talk to her before the event ends I glanced around and spotted the woman are you sure she was looking at me I asked skeptical trust me Don a woman notices these things go for it I Shrugged why not I thought she was attractive and I hadn't had much luck with anyone else after a moment's hesitation I decided to approach her as I walked over I realized she was about my age when she turned

her bright green eyes caught my attention hi I said as I reached her I'm Don Summers Danielle and Brian's dad she smiled warmly and extended her hand hi Don I'm Don Rogers Greg's mom and I teach sixth grade here nice to meet you Don I said smiling back likewise she replied it's rare to see a single dad chaperoning I guess I Shrugged but my kids are worth it besides it's not like I have other plans she raised an eyebrow how do you know I'm single I asked curious well your ring finger empty she said with

a grin and the woman you were talking to is here with with her husband I'm good at people watching and you seemed unattached you're very observant I said impressed yes I'm single she grinned and I realized I was still holding her hand oh sorry I mumbled Letting Go awkwardly don't be she said with a chuckle if it bothered me I would have told you her smile brightened her entire face and I was completely captivated her eyes whether it was their striking green color or something else were mesmerizing I couldn't look away nor did I want

to we spent the next few minutes talking about our kids I mentioned that Danielle was already considering a career in nursing and how Brian enjoyed helping me with work Dawn shared stories about Greg's love for electronics and the small challenges that came with it before I knew it Angela nudged me again time to get the kids packed up Don she said smirking at my confusion the DJ is already packing up we started Gathering the kids to leave after ensuring each child was with the right parent we cleaned up and left the gym as we walked

to the parking lot Don surprised me by slipping her hand into mine call me sometime she said placing a folded piece of paper in my shirt pocket I'd love to have dinner with you with that she and her son headed to their car and she was gone that night marked A New Beginning for me I didn't wait long to call Dawn she was absolutely charming and I couldn't stop thinking about her our first dinner day didn't lead to the bedroom but it did include some sweet kisses she seemed as smitten with me as I was

with her but she clearly wasn't ready to throw caution to the wind we took things at her Pace Dawn was intriguing in many ways smart practical and resourceful like me she didn't have much money to spare so she came up with simple life hacks to save she shared them with me helping us free up funds for other things in return I learned that she was an avid Gardener though she often joked about her black thumb fortunately I knew some techniques for Reviving struggling plants and was happy to share them I also helped her with a

few budget friendly projects around her house turning her backyard and Patio into an outdoor living space naturally I told her about Britney and later about Mandy saying she was shocked would be an understatement unlike other women I had shared this with she wasn't particularly phased by the fact that I had posted the video online actions have consequences she said simply All Things Considered she got off lightly Dawn got along well with my kids and I must admit her son Greg was a good kid the kids seemed to get along too which was a relief As

Time passed our relationship deepened both emotionally and physically after 8 months I found myself considering marriage again thoughts of the disaster with Mandy lingered but I wasn't going to let the past ruin my future I talked to my kids about it Danielle was thrilled Brian wasn't as enthusiastic but agreed it would be okay privately I suspected he was still hoping I'd reunite with Britney finally I bought another another engagement ring the one I had for Mandy had been sold now I just needed to decide how to propose to dawn after some thought and Consulting with

my mom I decided to do it on my 40th birthday which was just two weeks away it wouldn't be a big party just my closest friends my parents and Don and Greg I thought it would be perfect the only challenge during the two weeks of waiting was keeping the kids from spilling the secret to Don and Greg sending a secret invite to Don's parents and brother and making sure I didn't accidentally give away my plan finally my birthday evening arrived my parents ran at a party room at Misha's a local restaurant known for Russian Cuisine

the dinner was excellent and I enjoyed it thoroughly we had a great time eating and dancing when it came time for gifts I opened them and thanked everyone Dawn seemed surprised to see her parents and brother at the party but remained composed after unwrapping the last present I stood up wrapping my arms around Dawn and gently pulling her close she rested her head against me as I smiled at everyone thank you all for coming tonight I said beaming with happiness you've made this the best 40th birthday ever my joke got polite laughter and I heard

one of the kids say they didn't get it the laughter provided a perfect cover for Angela to discreetly hand me the ring box there's just one last thing to do before we all leave I said my heart pounding I've received great gifts tonight but I'm hoping for one more Dawn tilted her head looking at me with a puzzled expression Don I love you so much I said meeting her gaze with a grin you've completed my life the only way it could get better is if you'd spend the rest of it with me I got down

on one knee and presented her with the open ring box Don will you marry me the room went silent as everyone realized what was happening I looked into Dawn's eyes expecting her joyful yes but she hesitated I waited and waited some more Dawn I finally said my voice wavering please say something uh she mumbled turning away from me her eyes darting around the room Don this this isn't really the right time to talk maybe we should she stammered backing away from me I sighed and stood up feeling my heartbreak Dawn rushed to Greg took his

hand and hurried out of the restaurant without even stopping for her coat a few seconds after she left in a hurry I turned around to see everyone staring at me in disbelief well I said forcing a wide fake smile thanks for coming out and making this a great evening have a good night everyone I gathered my things slipping the ring box into my coat pocket and motioned to the kids Don honey my mom said softly taking my hand do you want us to take the kids tonight I Shrugged not really caring do you guys want

to spend the night with Nana and papy yeah that would be great Brian said excitedly Danielle looked at me with sad eyes Daddy I'm so sorry thanks Danny but you don't have to say anything I said firmly cutting her her off I wasn't ready to hear any sympathy yet I just want you to know I love you daddy she said quietly hugging me tightly love you too Danny I whispered trying to hold it together after saying goodbye to my parents I headed home the drive was short but it felt like forever once inside I locked

the door tossed my things on the couch and grabbed a beer I drank it quickly but it didn't last long enough to numb the pain I thought about going to the liquor store but decided against it getting drunk wouldn't solve anything instead I sat in a chair and watched 80 sitcoms on Netflix after a few hours I got drowsy and eventually fell asleep the next morning I woke up with a stiff back from sleeping in the chair I won't do that again I thought as I went through my morning routine and took a shower while

getting dressed I remembered that I hadn't turned on my cell phone since the night before I turned it on and saw my voicemail box was full there were also several text messages all from friends off bring sympathy and an ear to talk the voice messages were much the same except for one from dawn it was short only a few seconds long I'm sorry Don her voice said please believe me I have my reasons I hope someday you'll understand and forgive me goodbye I didn't respond to any of the texts or calls I spent the rest

of the day in a fog trying not to think about Dawn that in fact is the Story of My Life in many tales the cheated husband ends up rich marries a supermodel and lives in in a mansion but that's not how my life turned out it's been 10 years since my divorce from Britney Danielle is in college studying nursing Brian just graduated from high school and will be starting College in the fall he plans to become a businessman though whether he'll join the family business remains to be seen as for me I'm 45 now and

still single occasionally I meet someone for some fun but I don't have anyone in my life I'd call special a year ago Mandy came back into my life in a way she just wanted to have a good time and she made that clear from the start we partied for a couple of months then parted ways without any hard feelings why didn't you ever get married she asked me one night I Shrugged it's no longer worth the risk I'd love to have a wife but not all stories have Happy Endings and it seems mine doesn't Don's

parents told me she moved in with someone about a year after my failed proposal they came to me hoping I could convince her to return I thought it was absurd considering being with me might have been why she left in the first place I never sought out more information and she never explained her reasons Britney eventually remarried this time to the owner of the diner where she worked the kids say they're happy and I hope for his sake he had her sign a preno my father passed away a few months ago leaving the family business

to me unfortunately I don't think my mother will be around much longer she's consumed by grief the pain of losing my father is evident in every move she makes and every word she speaks I've always wanted a marriage like my parents had loving and committed but maybe that's not possible in today's world I'm a landscaper not a philosopher so I'll leave those questions to The Experts before leaving me for the second time Mandy asked an interesting question do you have any regrets of course I do I replied I regret marrying a cheater I regret wasting

my time with Mandy and Dawn thinking they were life Partners I regret not finding someone who shares my values and desires but then I realized what she was really asking she wanted to know if I regretted making Britney a famous amateur star she wondered if I regretted divorcing her and hating her for years the honest answer is no I regret that releasing the video was necessary but I don't regret doing it and I never will she got what she deserved if I had to do it all over again I'd do the same thing as for

me I'll keep working I'll continue to love my kids and watch them grow I'll look forward to seeing my grandchildren when the time comes I haven't completely given up on finding a wife but it's no longer a priority I'll find happiness where and when I can it's not the life I would have chosen but it's not a bad life [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]