While I Was in Prison for 6 Years, My Wife Cheated on Me with My Friend. I Got Revenge.Sad Story
Wife Thought She'd Get Away With Cheating Until Her Husband Took Savage Revenge on Them.Sad Story
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Our Workflow:
1. Begin by formulating inquiries, conducting research, crafting a script, and developing insightful opinions or commentary. Refine these elements until they are polished and ready for production.
2. Engage in voice recording sessions to narrate the stories, pose questions, and express opinions in a dynamic and captivating manner, ensuring an enjoyable experience for viewers.
3. Capture gameplay footage until a sufficient amount of engaging material is amassed for background usage.
4. Utilize editing software to incorporate the gameplay footage, while simultaneously transcribing captions, refining voiceovers, integrating sound effects, adjusting colors, and refining the composition by adding or removing clips as necessary.
5. Conduct a thorough final review of the video to ensure it meets the quality standards expected for our channel. If any shortcomings are identified, return to the editing phase to make necessary adjustments, including re-recording lines or modifying opinions and commentaries.
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00:00During my career as a surgeon, Solange served as an emergency room nurse, balancing her time between work and her travels.
00:07Throughout our experiences in diverse and diverse and demanding locations across Africa, we adapted to whichever roles were required at the time.
00:15We delivered babies, set broken bones, and even assisted the local dentist when needed.
00:20This was my second mission and her third with Doctors Without Borders.
00:24The first time was incredibly tough on me physically and mentally.
00:27I lost 20 pounds, which I really couldn't afford.
00:31And I struggled with depression almost to the point of losing my mind.
00:35When I finally got home, I counted the seconds until I could collapse into my husband's arms and cry hysterically for 10 minutes.
00:42Then I gathered myself and hugged and kissed my then 7-year-old son until he almost pushed me away.
00:48I soon noticed my husband was a bit distant towards me in the first few days after my return.
00:54It seemed he held a lot of resentment about me going away in the first place.
00:58I remember the tense discussions we had about it.
01:01Let someone else handle saving the world, honey.
01:03You have people here at home who need you more.
01:05People are passing, people I could save.
01:07You save plenty of lives right here at home, and you get to sleep in our own bed without worrying about being attacked.
01:13It's not that dangerous.
01:15I'll be in a secure area, and I can help far more people there than I could here.
01:19Want me to pull up some statistics for you?
01:22Sometimes I resented his job.
01:24He was a meticulous freelance writer who started small but now wrote for major newspapers and magazines, even winning awards.
01:31With a friend's help, he launched a successful YouTube channel, gaining almost 2 million subscribers.
01:37He even contributed to CNN with lighthearted pieces.
01:40Arnis explained that he had become an influencer, a term he didn't understand.
01:44After researching, he made a video urging people to verify information and think for themselves.
01:50It took him 5 months to accept my decision to leave, and another 3 months before I actually departed.
01:56He remained distant.
01:58I'll be back home before you know it, I said.
02:00But his sad eyes haunted me.
02:02Nothing will ever be the same.
02:04I won't trust you to prioritize our family again.
02:07This is your only warning.
02:09If you abandon your family again, there won't be one when you return.
02:14His words hit hard as he took our crying baby from my arms and walked away without looking back.
02:19I was sent to a rural African country that was quite underdeveloped outside of the cities.
02:24My operating room was a tent, not securely pitched.
02:27During the summer, strong winds often disrupted operations, covering everything in dust when the tent flaps flew open.
02:34It's surprising we didn't lose patients to infections.
02:37Still, we managed to save many lives.
02:40I helped deliver 4 babies during my time there, including one for a young mother barely past puberty.
02:46After recovering, she left her baby, took her rifle, and disappeared.
02:50Rumors spread of a vengeance force, then multiple angels causing the insurgents to leave the area.
02:56After 3 months, I was feeling trapped and anxious.
02:59It was my first time rooming with Solange, and one day I asked her why she seemed so calm while I was a wreck.
03:05I can tell you the remedy. You need some great closeness.
03:08One of those intense sessions that leave you breathless with pleasure.
03:11That might work for single women like you.
03:14I'm married.
03:15She smiled and showed me pictures on her phone of two little girls and a handsome man, my husband and kids.
03:20But you sleep with Jean-Luc?
03:21Yes, and if he's not available, I share a bed with Eric.
03:25Notice the hands, honey.
03:27No wedding rings allowed here.
03:29It's symbolic.
03:30No one's married here, and what happens in the country stays here.
03:34We return to our spouses and commit to them, until we come back.
03:38I make sure to give my rings to my husband when I leave, and he puts them back on me as soon as I return.
03:43It's a reclaiming. Don't anyone get caught?
03:46One of the doctors did a couple of years ago. We're medical professionals, but she forgot her birth control.
03:51Then there was a shortage of protection, and despite trying other methods, she found out she was two months pregnant when she returned home.
03:58Her husband figured it out, and they ended up divorcing.
04:01The organization paid him off to keep quiet about it, and she was banned from serving again.
04:06What about diseases?
04:08She sighed.
04:09We're medical professionals, remember?
04:11We get tested monthly, and if something slips through, we handle it quickly.
04:14Trust me, no one will find out.
04:17I held on for five months, but losing a mother and child to an I.D. broke me.
04:21Despite my efforts, both passed, leaving me devastated.
04:25I drank heavily and woke up with a male nurse, Rodrigo, who initiated intimacy again, and I gave in.
04:32He stayed until his rotation ended four days later.
04:35I knew my husband would sense something, but he was still angry about me leaving.
04:38It took four months before we were intimate again.
04:41I have to admit, many times, as my husband and I had closeness, I'd think back to the staying power of Rodrigo, or the sheer size of Michelle.
04:49I tried to suppress those memories, but occasionally used a toy, crying out their names.
04:54A year later, things normalized.
04:57Then, the organization asked me to fill in for three months as an emergency replacement.
05:02I never told my husband it was because of a mortar shell.
05:05We argued for three days until he gave up.
05:08Do whatever you want, just don't expect us to be here when you get back.
05:11I'm seeking custody. No judge will let Tommy live with you.
05:15I was shocked.
05:17It was only 13 weeks.
05:19I tried to reason with him, but he barely spoke to me until I left.
05:22Surprisingly, he drove me to the airport.
05:24I didn't do it for you. I did it for myself.
05:27Watching you walk away, knowing what you stand to lose, is something I need to see to get through the next few months.
05:33Things will be different when you return.
05:35Take your time. Whether it's a month, a year, or forever, it's fine.
05:40He turned away without another word, leaving me there.
05:44I knew he meant it.
05:46I knew if I wanted to salvage my family, I needed to act quickly.
05:50I resolved to fix things as soon as I returned and headed towards the ticket counter.
05:54Solange greeted me with a hug when I arrived at the site.
05:57If possible, it was even worse than the last place.
06:01I'm glad you're here. Don't bother unpacking. Get ready. We need you urgently.
06:06There had been a mortar attack on a village 40 miles away, and I was surprised at how many had survived long enough to reach the clinic.
06:13My team worked 11 hours straight without a break.
06:16About half of our patients would make it, which was decent given the circumstances.
06:20Five passed on my operating table.
06:23After the fourth, I moved on to the next patient while they removed the body and prepared for the next one.
06:29One of the losses was a nine-year-old girl. Her heart stopped as she cried out for her mother.
06:33I was completely emotionally numb.
06:35Solange led me to the communal shower and helped me clean up.
06:38Modesty faded fast, and that environment time was short, so both men and women used the shower together after A.
06:44A few times even walking in on people having closeness in the shower stopped surprising me.
06:48I just moved to the other side and tried to ignore it.
06:50Later, Solange climbed into the bunk with me and held me while I cried myself to sleep.
06:55By the next week, I had adjusted.
06:59We talked about our past deployments and returning home.
07:02Solange looked happy when she mentioned reuniting with her partner, and how she almost didn't join this mission.
07:07He's running out of patience and I can't blame him.
07:10He let me go on three tours, and I think this one is the limit for me.
07:14How's your husband handling it?
07:16I remember he wasn't pleased last time.
07:18He says he's going to file for divorce and fight for custody.
07:22Using my service here against me.
07:24I hope I can repair things when I get home, but it took him a long time to forgive me last time.
07:29Don't worry too much, hun.
07:31It's probably his worry about your safety speaking.
07:34He might keep a tight leash on you for a while, but he'll forgive you eventually.
07:39Just don't push your luck.
07:41The organization values what you've done, but at some point you have to prioritize yourself.
07:46I hope you're right.
07:47I'll do everything I can to make it right when I return, and I won't sign up for another tour.
07:53It's time for someone else to save the world.
07:55Then I smirked.
07:56So who's keeping you warm in bed these days?
07:58She giggled like a schoolgirl.
08:00Gerard, he's from Algiers and quite skilled as a doctor, among other things.
08:05Are you getting involved?
08:06No, it's just a few weeks.
08:08I can handle it.
08:09As I sat on the plane I strategized.
08:11There was no way I could go back to that life, so I needed to convince Brian completely that I was over everything
08:17and ready to be a devoted wife from now on.
08:20Solange advised me to win him back through our son.
08:23Then she chuckled.
08:24It was harder than I expected.
08:26When I returned home, he wasn't there.
08:29My mother was taking care of our child and told me he said it was too good a chance to miss
08:33and he'd be away for another 10 days.
08:35In a way it was a blessing because it allowed me to focus on my son.
08:39Once I could win him back, everything else would fall into place smoothly.
08:43As I planned to rebuild my family, I later found out that Brian was in the organization's corporate offices
08:48talking to the head psychiatrist.
08:51Thank you for your interest in our charity, Mr. Oliver.
08:54We appreciate any publicity we can get.
08:56Our work is crucial in providing essential services where they're most needed,
09:00though we've sadly lost team members over the years, which is a concern for prospective volunteers.
09:05Yes, it's definitely a worthwhile cause.
09:08Your organization's challenges are understated, but the risks are clear.
09:12I imagine you thoroughly assess volunteers' mental readiness before they join.
09:16We do. It's a noble cause, but it's mentally taxing.
09:20Some volunteers face breakdowns and PTSD.
09:23We offer comprehensive support for as long as needed.
09:25You seem to prioritize your team's well-being.
09:28Do many volunteers serve multiple tours?
09:30Some do, but we limit it to four tours and generally advise against it.
09:34Two tours is typical.
09:36With all the stress they endure, how do they cope while on duty?
09:40They support each other, which helps boost morale and ease fears.
09:43I did some research on the high divorce rates among volunteers with multiple tours.
09:47What's your perspective on this issue?
09:50The doctor paused.
09:52Some struggle with the challenges and seek solace wherever they can, often to their detriment.
09:57We work to mend relationships affected by their service.
10:00So are failed marriages and broken relationships seen as acceptable sacrifices?
10:04How do you justify this to the spouses left behind uncertain about their future?
10:09I'm concerned about the direction of this interview.
10:11Stories like these could harm the organization's reputation.
10:14Yes, my research indicates that you prefer to keep these issues quiet and out of public view.
10:19I've uncovered at least three instances where substantial sums were paid to avoid exposure.
10:24Do your donors know their money is being used this way?
10:27The doctor stood up.
10:29I think we're done here, Mr. Oliver.
10:31I advise you to carefully consider the implications of what you're planning to write.
10:36Careers can be ruined by spreading such allegations.
10:40The man grinned, unsettling the doctor.
10:42I discovered that in my background checks, too.
10:45It's why I value my independence.
10:47I don't yield to pressure.
10:49He walked towards the door.
10:51Just as a heads up, look up, doctor.
10:54Hope Oliver.
10:56I believe she has a history with your organization.
10:59He left, closing the door behind him.
11:01The doctor sighed heavily, sensing a personal vendetta in the man's actions.
11:06Being independent meant he might be difficult to influence.
11:09He instructed his assistant to gather information on Doctor.
11:12Hope Oliver, realizing the situation could escalate quickly, he then called the CEO.
11:17I received a surprising phone call from the charity, and the caller was a high-ranking official.
11:22Doctor, Oliver, we urgently need you to come to our headquarters as soon as possible.
11:28It's very important. Why now?
11:31It's a bad time for me to leave home.
11:33My husband is away on assignment, and I'm taking care of our son full-time plus.
11:37I've resumed my duties at the hospital with surgeries lined up.
11:40And if you haven't read my file, you should know.
11:43I won't be returning to service.
11:45It was fulfilling.
11:46But my priority is now my family.
11:48My husband wasn't supportive of my work.
11:50Your husband is why we're calling.
11:52He visited yesterday and made troubling remarks.
11:55They could damage our reputation.
11:57We're trying to manage the situation, and it's in your best interest to come see us.
12:01I felt my blood drain.
12:03Brian was relentless once he got wind of something.
12:06Doctors and nurses gossip a lot.
12:09And if word got out about my overseas work, it could be disastrous for many people.
12:13After hanging up, I immediately called Solange and shared what had been said.
12:18I had praised Brian's skills as a journalist.
12:20We even watched him on CNN in France before leaving.
12:23God, this could be a disaster.
12:25My husband wouldn't forgive me easily.
12:28You have to contact your husband, Hope.
12:30Beg him.
12:31Promise anything to stop him.
12:33Think of the others.
12:34Most of us are married.
12:35This could blow up across three continents.
12:38I tried calling Brian multiple times.
12:40All went to voicemail.
12:42He didn't respond to emails or texts.
12:44I was lost.
12:45I rearranged my schedule, citing a family emergency, which it was to me, and flew to New York.
12:51I arrived at their headquarters by 9 in the morning.
12:54Doctor.
12:55Parkins, who evaluated me before I could start, met me at reception and took me straight to his office.
13:02After exchanging greetings, he quickly moved on to the reason for my visit.
13:06Your husband appears to have anger issues, Doctor.
13:09I need to ask you some tough questions.
13:11I guarantee that what we discuss here stays confidential.
13:15It's crucial you're honest if any of us are to handle this situation.
13:18Are you prepared?
13:20I nodded, bracing myself for what was to come.
13:23Did you have intimate relations with any colleagues during your assignments?
13:27If so, who were you cautious?
13:29Did you avoid public displays?
13:31And did you discuss work matters outside the organization?
13:34I listed my two long-term partners and two others from a brief fling.
13:37Doctor.
13:38Parkins remained expressionless, leaving me curious about his thoughts once I finished.
13:42Thank you for being candid.
13:44Truthfully, while this is not uncommon, the rates are similar to those in health care outside of these intense settings.
13:51I've assisted many dealing with this issue, and my advice is consistent.
13:55Follow your conscience.
13:5795% keep it secret, and confessing rarely ends well.
14:01He paused, looking deep in thought before continuing.
14:04But this situation isn't ordinary.
14:07Based on my conversation with your husband,
14:09I'm fairly certain he knows about your affairs while you were abroad and he's furious.
14:13Angry people aren't typically rational.
14:16In previous cases like this, we managed to contain them, but that won't happen here.
14:20We can apply pressure on CNN, but we're powerless against his personal platform.
14:24He can be as explicit as he wants and there's little we can do.
14:27This could cause significant harm.
14:30How many spouses will remain supportive once this story breaks?
14:33We need their support.
14:35If you have any influence over your husband, now's the time to use it my response didn't satisfy him.
14:40Sir, I don't know where my husband is or what he's doing right now.
14:44He's cut off all communication with me.
14:46Who knows what he might do?
14:48The next day we found out.
14:50It was splashed across the New York newspapers and went global.
14:5348 spouses filed a class-action lawsuit against the charity,
14:56blaming it for destroying their marriages and long-term relationships over the past six years.
15:01They sought millions in compensation.
15:03The lawsuit was filed internationally, in courts in France, England, Italy, Algeria, the U.S., and Canada.
15:10The charity found him determined and extremely angry, refusing to cooperate.
15:14They tried to reason with him until he revealed he had recordings of every meeting and phone call since he started investigating.
15:20He knew he was protected by state laws and more.
15:24And even if he didn't use them in court, he could on his own platform.
15:28Recent veteran spouses were demanding answers from their partners, many of whom didn't believe what they heard.
15:33Less reputable newspapers seized on the scandal, reveling in closeness and controversy.
15:38There seemed to be no shortage of material.
15:41Social media dubbed us hash doctors without morals, and the mainstream media adopted it as the official narrative.
15:47Brian was portrayed as the whistleblower, and it directly implicated me.
15:51Media outlets from around the world bombarded me with interview requests, all of which I steadfastly refused.
15:57It occurred to me that speaking out might be a way to reach Brian, but I never got the chance.
16:02He eventually returned home, ignoring me completely and spending most of his time with our son.
16:08When I asked him for a way to contact him in emergencies, he showed me a disposable phone and gave me the number.
16:14If you ever call for anything other than our son, I'll get rid of it.
16:18The first time he came to pick up Tommy from my mom's house, I waited for him on the steps.
16:23Brian, we need to talk.
16:25I need to explain things and help you understand.
16:28What happened overseas is completely separate from us.
16:31It didn't affect our lives and meant nothing once I returned home.
16:34He stared at me for a moment.
16:36Let me ask you something.
16:38While you were happily involved over there, did you ever think about how it would affect our marriage?
16:43Would you forgive me if I had multiple affairs while you were away and said they meant nothing because you weren't here?
16:49It's not the same.
16:51Bullcrap.
16:53This conversation is over.
16:55Bring Tommy out so I can leave.
16:57Something here makes me sick after that.
17:00He stopped speaking to me.
17:03He would just stare until our son came out.
17:06Tommy was now living with his dad full-time.
17:09The courts decided he should stay there since it was familiar and comfortable for him.
17:13The judge also allowed him to live in our house until the matter was settled because he was the primary caregiver.
17:18He rented a small apartment near the hospital.
17:21It was just a basic place, quite different from the house with the large yard we had bought five years earlier.
17:26Brian didn't have to work as much as I did, so he became a part-time stay-at-home dad.
17:32He worked during Tommy's naps and later when he was in school.
17:35He redesigned the backyard, adding a fence, sandbox, swing set, and a big above-ground pool where they spent many summer hours.
17:42I think I used it only twice in five years.
17:45I came home one day to see three girls unfrolicking in our pool.
17:49I was really pissed, but Brian grinned at me.
17:52I still have to work, you know. I could probably work at night while you took care of him, but...
17:56Do you really want to come home to the demands of a six-year-old after a long day?
18:00This way is better. Kimberly is highly qualified as a sitter, so I hired her.
18:05The other two are just friends. Part of the employment agreement was use of the pool a couple of days a week.
18:11She can have two friends at a time with her and no more, and no boys.
18:15Tommy loves her. She's really good with him, and I get to work.
18:19She's never in the pool while she's working, unless it's with Tommy.
18:22She's teaching him to swim. Isn't that great?
18:26I understood his point, but it still bothered me you're okay working with girls right in front of you?
18:31Sprites, what have you been reading?
18:33My office is on the other side of the house.
18:35I might catch a glimpse if I stand up from my desk and strain to look out the window.
18:39Otherwise...
18:41I come out here like I am now to tell them it's getting late and they need to go home.
18:45Tommy woke up from his nap and ran into my arms.
18:49Then he pulled me over to meet the girls so I could meet Miss Kimmy.
18:52As I talked with them, I started to relax.
18:55Kimmy told me she was starting a nursing program in the fall we found common ground.
18:59I helped her get a volunteer position at the hospital and mentored her as much as I could,
19:03even writing her a strong recommendation letter for college.
19:06Kim was doing well in her second year.
19:09Her younger sister Alexis, Miss Lexi, took over and Tommy loved her almost as much as Kim.
19:14I had a sense they provided a lot of care while I was away.
19:18The charity wanted to settle the class action lawsuit with a non-disclosure agreement.
19:22They updated me on the negotiations.
19:25Brian's laughter didn't sit well with their lawyers.
19:28Everyone else has agreed.
19:30Why can't you move on?
19:32One of the attorneys asked.
19:33I have moved on, Brian replied, but I haven't forgiven her or your organization.
19:37I know how hard you recruited her, promising how good it would look on her resume
19:41and possibly lead to consulting opportunities later.
19:44I'm still investigating, trying to understand how you operate.
19:48In other cases the victims were paid off, sometimes with money, sometimes with business deals.
19:53I don't need the money and there's no way I'd work with you guys.
19:56Now I'm in the middle of my second piece on your organization and I've set my own deadline,
20:01so leave me alone.
20:02They stood to leave and just before they exited, the youngest lawyer,
20:06a woman who had graduated from law school three years ago, posed a question to him.
20:11Isn't your anger misplaced?
20:14After all it was your wife who caused this.
20:16She cheated on you, I understand, and I'm sorry.
20:19Shouldn't you be making her life a living hell instead of ours?
20:22He smiled at her, which unsettled her.
20:25Then he showed her a picture of his son.
20:27This is my son, he's the reason I haven't completely retaliated against my wife.
20:32Without him I would have unleashed my full fury on her immediately after she returned from her last trip.
20:37Maybe my anger is misdirected,
20:39but over the years your organization must have known these things were happening.
20:43You didn't have protocols written on how to handle a spouse's anger.
20:46You calculated the impact on your organization and decided some collateral damage was acceptable.
20:52Apparently that was true until I came along.
20:55I must be your organization's worst nightmare.
20:58I have my own income so you can't threaten my job.
21:01I earn enough money so you can't financially ruin me,
21:04and I have enough rage to ignore any veiled threats.
21:07You can leave now, she looked pale as she walked away.
21:11The intense anger emanating from the man was enough to unsettle her.
21:15I wasn't surprised when I received the divorce papers.
21:18Every legal step I took ended in frustration.
21:21I made it a point to visit his house so frequently that he obtained a
21:24restraining order against me.
21:26If I came within a hundred feet of him or his house I could be arrested.
21:30My employers were unhappy with the chaos my personal life had caused.
21:33Despite no evidence of wrongdoing at work, the administrator called me in.
21:38I'm speaking on behalf of the board.
21:40Your personal issues are becoming a distraction.
21:43We hold you in high regard as a skilled surgeon.
21:45This isn't official, just a request to see if you can calm things down with your husband, please, Sarah.
21:50I promised to try my best, even though I couldn't talk to him directly.
21:54He said I could email if necessary.
21:56That night I spent five hours crafting an email.
21:59After sending it, I hoped for a response before going to bed.
22:03The next morning I cringed at his reply.
22:06I don't care about your career or this hospital unless it affects our son.
22:09If you catch me lying, let me know and I'll retract it.
22:12Several people from your hospital have been on missions for the organization.
22:16I might look into that.
22:18You should warn them.
22:20Well, that didn't help.
22:22I showed the email to the administrator.
22:24He sighed and reacted strongly.
22:26Damn it, Sarah.
22:27This is serious.
22:28I'll need to bring those people in and warn them.
22:31It might create tension since you work closely with them.
22:34Patient care can't suffer, so finish the day and then take a week off to try to sort this out.
22:40Good luck, Sarah Well.
22:41That message was pretty clear.
22:43Either fix this mistake or start looking for a new hospital.
22:47My boss conducted interviews and I received some interesting phone calls.
22:50Three technicians, two nurses.
22:53And a doctor had gotten involved romantically while on a mission.
22:56Two of them were in relationships and brought their affairs home with them.
23:00Now, six people were facing a tough decision.
23:03Should they confess now and hope for forgiveness or stay quiet and deny everything?
23:08I hope they all chose to stay silent because if one confessed it could lead to a chain reaction.
23:13I found out about all this later.
23:15At the time, I was focused on a mission of my own.
23:18I had my lawyer request a meeting with Brian's lawyer.
23:21If they agreed, I would sign the divorce papers.
23:24I'd finally accepted that my marriage was beyond repair, especially when only one person was willing to try.
23:29I was surprised when they agreed.
23:32Three days before our scheduled meeting, Brian published a harsh essay criticizing doctors and their God complex.
23:38He had done thorough research and consulted experts, making his points accurate.
23:43A noted psychologist mentioned that this complex was present in almost all successful people to some extent, regardless of their profession.
23:51But it was more pronounced in medicine due to the life and death nature of the work.
23:55Brian discussed how this sense of entitlement could affect behavior, which made me reflect deeply.
24:00I saw a lot of my own actions mirrored in the essay.
24:03Had I truly become that arrogant?
24:05Did I believe my profession exempted me from normal rules?
24:08Had I justified my actions by compartmentalizing my life?
24:12The answer to all these questions was yes.
24:14I was frustrated during those missions, but I could have chosen not to have closeness with anyone.
24:19Or I could have stayed home altogether.
24:21Instead, I convinced myself that it was just a way to relieve stress and wouldn't affect my marriage.
24:28I thought I deserved it to stay sane and believed what happened away from home wouldn't matter.
24:32After reflecting on it, I realized I missed the excitement of new partners and might have cheated again if I had the chance and felt safe.
24:40It was a wake-up call.
24:42The meeting went better than expected.
24:44There were a few minor issues to sort out, but we handled them quickly.
24:48Brian would have primary custody of our son, which was already the arrangement.
24:52But I would have generous visitation rights.
24:55Our incomes were similar, so neither of us would pay alimony.
24:58And instead of child support, I agreed to contribute to a college fund for our son.
25:03Overall, the agreement was fair.
25:05Brian wanted the house, so instead of selling him my share, I transferred ownership to him and suggested he put the money he would have paid me into our son's college fund.
25:14He appreciated that gesture.
25:17Looking at Brian, I felt a pang of regret.
25:20We had been good partners.
25:22Despite our arguments, we always resolved our differences and never fought in front of our child.
25:27That changed when I decided to go on those missions.
25:30My therapist, yes, I had one who was helping me avoid repeating mistakes in future relationships, which seemed wise,
25:36helped me realize that was when I started focusing on myself rather than being part of a couple.
25:41Brian wasn't perfect.
25:43He could be distant and moody, especially when he was upset about something, but he tried to keep it under control.
25:48Before I went on my first mission, he fully supported my career, but things changed when I returned.
25:54He seemed indifferent.
25:56If I had a conflict in my schedule, it was no longer his concern.
26:01That's when he sensed our relationship was deteriorating, and he started protecting himself.
26:06Once the legal formalities were done and the lawyers left, we sat down in the conference room and had a real conversation, something we hadn't done since before my first mission.
26:15It struck me that it had been a long time since we had talked like that.
26:18This will be the last time I apologize to you, Brian.
26:21Looking back, I regret ever getting on that plane.
26:24At the time, I was so focused on myself, so entitled.
26:27Now I realize I was making decisions without considering you and our son.
26:31Sadly, any decisions I make now will be without either of you.
26:35Not necessarily.
26:36We still have our son, and he'll keep us connected for at least the next 15 years, through college and beyond.
26:42Then we'll have weddings to plan and arguments over grandkids, so we'll always be a part of each other's lives.
26:47His words made me smile through tears, but it was overwhelming.
26:51So I gave Brian what would probably be our final kiss and left.
26:55I'm not sure if the divorce or our conversation eased his mind, but he eased up on his involvement with the organization.
27:01I know they settled the class action lawsuit for a hefty sum, which significantly boosted Tommy's college fund.
27:07The stress became too much, so I switched hospitals and moved across town to our biggest competitor.
27:13Management said the right things, but I could tell they were relieved I was leaving.
27:17Some of the people who had been on past missions had marriage troubles,
27:21but fortunately, only one ended in divorce, even though a few other relationships are strained.
27:27I didn't date for almost a year.
27:30When I did start going out again, I was cautious and didn't get into a serious relationship for another year.
27:36That ended when I found out he didn't want kids and couldn't tolerate being around them.
27:40Another year and a half passed before I found love.
27:43He was also a doctor, a pediatrician, and he adored children.
27:47We took things slowly.
27:49Both of us had been divorced recently, so we were careful not to rush into anything.
27:53It turned out to be a good approach because we really got to know each other before getting serious.
27:58Brian stayed single too, although he was seeing a producer from CNN and their relationship seemed to be getting serious.
28:04Tommy liked her, and she had two cute little girls who adored him whenever they were together.
28:10The network was pressuring Brian to commit to them exclusively.
28:14He wasn't enthusiastic about it, and I knew if they didn't ease up, he'd leave when his contract expired in four months.
28:20MSNBC and Fox were both trying to recruit him, so he wouldn't be off the air for long.
28:25One afternoon I was passing through the neighborhood and decided to see if Tommy wanted to go to the local ice cream parlor with me.
28:32It was a quaint shop that made their own ice cream.
28:35They didn't have a huge selection, just a dozen flavors that changed with the seasons, using local fruit whenever possible.
28:41It was peach season, my favorite flavor.
28:44I'd bring a small cooler and stock up on quarts of peach ice cream whenever I visited.
28:49I almost didn't pull into the driveway when I saw Brian's car there, but I was already signaling and Tommy noticed me.
28:55He dashed off the front porch, smiling widely with his two little companions right behind him.
29:00Brian and Alicia were sitting on the swing, and they waved as I approached.
29:04I bent down to hug Tommy, and then the tiny four-year-old girl opened her arms for a hug, too.
29:10I could have backed away, but instead I grinned and scooped her and her six-year-old sister up into a big hug.
29:16When I finished, the little one stayed in my arms, so I carried her with me.
29:20Brian had a slight grin on his face while Alicia seemed unsure of what to say.
29:24Hi there, I'm Sarah.
29:26Let's make a deal.
29:28I'll trade you a ten-year-old boy slightly used for these cuties.
29:31Maybe I'll even throw in a pony.
29:33Alicia grinned back.
29:35A pony, huh? Let me think about that.
29:37I'm Martha, but everyone calls me Marty.
29:40Sarah, I can't tell you what they call me in less polite settings, but it rhymes with witch.
29:45Sarah, it is then.
29:46I turned and hugged Tommy again.
29:48I have to run, honey.
29:49I was just passing by and thought about getting ice cream.
29:52But I see you're busy.
29:54We'll do it another time.
29:55I had forgotten I still had the four-year-old in my arms, and she started tugging on my hair.
30:00Want ice cream?
30:01You'll have to ask mommy about that.
30:03I tried to put her down, but she resisted.
30:05Want ice cream?
30:07It looks like I'm stuck, Marty.
30:09How about we go get some ice cream?
30:11There's a great place just down the street with the best homemade flavors.
30:15It's peach season right now, which happens to be my favorite.
30:18My treat.
30:20Marty grinned and stood up, giving Brian a quick kiss on the cheek.
30:24I'll be back in about 45 minutes.
30:26Why don't you get everything ready for the grill?
30:28We decided to walk, and the sight of Brian with his mouth hanging open made me smile as we headed to the shop.
30:34Taylor clung tightly to me, reminding me how much effort it took to carry a little one around.
30:39We warned them to behave or they wouldn't get any ice cream, and they fell in line.
30:44Taylor changed her mind several times before settling on blueberry.
30:48Tanya carefully considered all the flavors before choosing banana.
30:52I picked peach, and after the server gave her a taste, Marty chose peach too.
30:57Tommy knew all the flavors and chose vanilla.
31:00The girls tasted everyone else's choices and decided peach was really good, and that's what they'd have next time.
31:06They managed to stay surprisingly neat and clean considering the circumstances, and it was a happy group of kids walking back.
31:13Marty carried Taylor even though she protested, so Tanya held tight to my hand.
31:17When we got back, I told them I had to leave.
31:20I received nice sticky kisses and a good hug from my son before I departed, smiling.
31:25Marty seemed like a good match for Brian, and he had always wanted more children.
31:30It looked like he was moving up in the world.
31:33Marty called me unexpectedly, asking to meet for lunch.
31:36I had to think about it for a moment, knowing she wanted to discuss Brian.
31:40Eventually I made up my mind.
31:43Can you come by the hospital around noon?
31:45We'll have to eat in the cafeteria, but the food there is surprisingly good.
31:49That works for me.
31:50Noon it is?
31:51I'll see you there.
31:52Marty was much smaller than me, but exuded the confident manner of someone successful in her field.
31:57We chose our food and sat down, making small talk as we ate.
32:01Pushing her tray away, she grinned.
32:03Brian and I are getting married, I wanted to tell you myself.
32:06It's not to rub anything in your face.
32:09Your past is your own, but you're still connected to him through Tommy.
32:12I thought it would be best to talk in person.
32:14If you're comfortable, could you share with me what went wrong in your marriage?
32:18I know Brian can get absorbed in his work at times, but he's the kindest man I've ever known.
32:23Grateful for my years of therapy, I could be honest now.
32:26In short, I started to think I was more important than Brian.
32:30I respected his brilliance in his work, but as a doctor I felt my role was crucial.
32:35I became arrogant.
32:37Brian preferred home life while I enjoyed going out and the attention my looks and skills brought.
32:42I began making decisions on my own, believing I knew better for our family.
32:47It wasn't about family decisions, it became, what does Sarah want?
32:51I made many mistakes, Doctors International was the final straw.
32:55Although even when Brian warned he'd leave if I went again, I believed I could win him back.
33:00You know how that turned out?
33:02If I could go back, would I change things knowing what I know now?
33:05Probably, but it wouldn't have lasted.
33:07Ultimately, I left knowing the consequences, had affairs while away, and expected everything to be fine upon my return.
33:13It was a harsh wake-up call when it wasn't.
33:16It shattered my self-image as someone above societal norms.
33:19In the end, I changed jobs, lost my son and husband, and nothing I gained was worth what I lost.
33:25She sat quietly for a moment, taking in what I had just shared, then let out a sigh.
33:32I've encountered situations like yours before, though not personally.
33:36I've worked with many high-profile personalities and experienced their arrogance firsthand.
33:40One of them even demanded favors right before going on air.
33:44We were in his office and he dropped his pants saying,
33:46nothing relaxes me on screen like a good BJ.
33:49I chuckled, imagining the scene.
33:52I grabbed his and pulled hard, he screamed like a child.
33:56I brought him to his knees and leaned in close, whispering,
33:59if you ever try this again with me or any other woman here I'll finish what I started.
34:03He nodded weakly.
34:05Just when he thought I would release him, I pulled down harder and slapped him across the face.
34:09The red mark stayed for hours.
34:12They had to find someone else to host the show.
34:14Management threatened me, but I had recorded the whole incident.
34:18I told them if it affected my career, I'd sell the story to their biggest competitor.
34:22Six months later, they didn't renew his contract.
34:26She glanced down at her nails, then grinned as she looked back up at me.
34:30So you see, I understand what a God complex is all about.
34:33More importantly, I know how to navigate around people like that
34:36and handle the ones I can't avoid.
34:39I'm glad you've learned from your mistakes and I'm sorry it led to your divorce,
34:42but I'm also glad it brought me the man of my dreams.
34:44Does that make sense to you?
34:46It did.
34:48I shared the conversation with my new partner that evening while we cooked dinner together.
34:52It had become our routine.
34:55If one of us arrived home much earlier than the other, we might cook alone,
34:59but we preferred preparing meals together.
35:02It was our way to unwind, discuss our days, and let go of the stress from work.
35:06This left us time for the important things like cuddling while watching movies
35:10or listening to music and if we wanted, just cuddling.
35:13My relationship with the pediatrician ended badly
35:16after I accidentally stumbled upon disturbing content on his laptop.
35:20Mine had crashed, so I used his to send an urgent email about a surgery.
35:24I noticed a folder named Sarah and opened it expecting personal photos.
35:28Instead, I found numerous pictures of myself,
35:31mostly without clothes, some while I was asleep,
35:34but mostly during intimate moments.
35:37He had used multiple cameras to capture these scenes for his private collection.
35:41There were also photos of me in the shower and even using the bathroom.
35:44Disgusted, I dug deeper and found a folder labeled Candyland
35:48containing more disturbing and explicit material.
35:51I barely made it to the kitchen sink before vomiting.
35:54After rinsing my mouth and brushing my teeth,
35:56I immediately took the laptop to the nearest police station.
35:59Two detectives, one male and one female,
36:02reviewed the files for about 30 seconds before taking the matter seriously
36:06and interrupting the district attorney's dinner.
36:09After hearing my report, he instructed me to return the laptop
36:12to the pediatrician's house while they obtained a search warrant.
36:15I called to report what I had found on my way back.
36:19When I returned to his house, he was anxiously pacing.
36:22He noticed his laptop in my hands, realized what I had discovered,
36:25and reacted violently.
36:28He punched me so hard in the nose that it broke, and I lost consciousness.
36:31Just as someone rang the doorbell, he dashed out the rear door
36:34clutching his laptop, only to run straight into two hefty policemen.
36:38Both married with kids, they interpreted his attempt to flee
36:42as resisting arrest and took forceful action,
36:45leaving him with deep bruises and taser burns.
36:48After the trial concluded, he received a 15-year sentence.
36:52Evidence surfaced of him grooming one of his patients,
36:55leading to a lawsuit by the girl's parents that stripped him of his assets,
36:58leaving him penniless.
37:00In prison, where kid offenders are often targeted, he fared poorly,
37:03suffering permanent injuries within his first year,
37:06blindness in one eye, and a lasting limp.
37:09Returning to my therapist, I grappled with the realization
37:12that I couldn't have foreseen his crimes.
37:15He had never hinted at any inappropriate behavior with minors,
37:18aside from expressing a desire to have children of his own someday.
37:22Back then his words had given me hope, but now I shuddered at the memory.
37:26He seemed so successful, Sarah, and hid it well for years.
37:29My therapist consoled me.
37:32Everyone was shocked when the truth came out.
37:35Perhaps fate or divine intervention led you to discover that computer.
37:38And remember, dear, there are plenty of good men out there.
37:41One day one will find you. I'm sure of it.
37:44I had a good man once, I reflected sadly, and I ruined it.
37:48Perhaps being single now is my penance for my mistakes.
37:52Nine months later I met Jeremiah.
37:55He was tall, broad-shouldered, with a captivating smile
37:58and the kindest eyes I had ever seen.
38:00A touch of gray peppered his temples and beard,
38:03but the strength in his muscles belied his age.
38:06I encountered him at a convention, sent there by my hospital
38:09for networking and recruitment purposes.
38:11My troubled past had faded,
38:13and I had made significant contributions to my new workplace,
38:16earning recognition as one of their prominent figures in the community.
38:20While the rules for job applications typically considered various factors,
38:24nothing was set in stone initially, and we were seeking fresh talent.
38:27At 35 I was the youngest surgeon on staff
38:30and the hospital was eager for new perspectives.
38:33The symposium covered a wide range of medical topics,
38:36and I decided to look up Jeremiah.
38:39I was surprised by what I found.
38:41He owned an insurance company specializing in health care,
38:44was a certified public accountant,
38:46and a registered nurse practitioner.
38:48He held five degrees in different fields
38:50and had an exceptionally high IQ.
38:53His workshop on malpractice scared all of us
38:55until he guided us through steps to avoid lawsuits.
38:58He was funny, clear, and quick with a joke to lighten the mood.
39:02But his closing remarks grabbed everyone's attention.
39:05Mistakes happen.
39:06When they do, own up to them.
39:08Trying to cover up your errors only makes things worse
39:11if the truth comes out later.
39:13It damages your reputation and makes juries unsympathetic.
39:16Plus, it gives the public a bad view of doctors as greedy and incompetent.
39:20There's a movement to cap malpractice awards,
39:23and I've helped develop a complex algorithm
39:25that some states are considering.
39:28Until then, remember, the worse your behavior, the bigger the payout.
39:32I'll be around for questions the rest of the conference.
39:37His talk received a lot of positive feedback,
39:39and doctors crowded around him three deep.
39:42I gave up trying to talk to him and hurried to my next seminar.
39:45I didn't see him again until later that night
39:47when I slipped into what I thought was an empty conference room
39:50to avoid another doctor who had a bit too much to drink
39:53and was acting like he was God's gift to women.
39:56I had to hide or risk slapping him,
39:58which wouldn't have been good for business.
40:00I nearly jumped when Jeremiah's voice broke the silence.
40:04Hiding from your demons?
40:05Recognizing him?
40:06I smiled.
40:07Just one, I'm afraid.
40:10And you?
40:11I needed a break.
40:13For all the time doctors spend in school,
40:15some are surprisingly clueless about the real world.
40:18You don't have to tell me.
40:20As a doctor, I've made my fair share of dumb decisions,
40:22but I'm proud to say none of them involved a patient.
40:26Well, then, you're ahead of the game.
40:27We chatted pleasantly for the next 15 minutes.
40:30Suddenly the door swung open,
40:32and there he was, Doctor.
40:33Dick.
40:34There you are.
40:36What are you up to?
40:37Well, I was just about to have some fun with this guy I joked.
40:40But you've crashed the party.
40:42Go away.
40:43We were getting to the good part.
40:45He swayed a bit,
40:46trying to process what I said through his alcohol haze.
40:48He was about to retort when Jeremiah stood up,
40:50towering over him.
40:52Leave now,
40:53unless you want to stick around and watch.
40:55Maybe you can enjoy yourself
40:57while I take care of business with this babe.
40:59Doctor.
41:01Dick opened and closed his mouth a few times,
41:03muttered something under his breath,
41:05and then staggered out.
41:07Jeremiah and I looked at each other
41:09and burst into laughter.
41:11Once we settled down,
41:12we resumed our conversation,
41:14sticking to safe topics.
41:16When we said goodbye,
41:17I gave him a kiss on the cheek,
41:19and he hugged me warmly.
41:21The next morning,
41:22we bumped into each other at breakfast.
41:24He gestured for me to join him,
41:25and we agreed to have lunch
41:27after our respective seminars and workshops.
41:29Dinner was lovely.
41:31He took me to a quiet restaurant
41:32away from the conference hustle.
41:34Later, we went to a cozy club
41:36where the music wasn't too loud
41:37and we danced a few slow songs.
41:40Despite being tall,
41:41I felt small and comfortable in his arms.
41:44Back at the hotel,
41:45he walked me to my room
41:46and gave me a sweet kiss.
41:48Not too intense,
41:49but filled with promise.
41:50It left me wanting more.
41:52As our relationship progressed,
41:53we discovered we were both from the same city.
41:56He had been married before,
41:57but tragically lost his wife during childbirth
42:00due to an unknown condition.
42:02They miraculously saved the baby,
42:04who spent almost two months in the hospital
42:06and was now seven years old.
42:08About three months into our relationship,
42:10after we became intimate,
42:12I shared my story with him.
42:14He listened quietly,
42:15holding me while I cried,
42:17afraid that he might want to end things.
42:19His response melted my heart.
42:21You can't change what happened before.
42:24It seems like you made a lot of mistakes,
42:26but at least you've learned from them.
42:28If I didn't trust you,
42:29we wouldn't be where we are now.
42:31I tried to spoil him with love,
42:33but thankfully it didn't work out that way.
42:35By the end of the weekend,
42:36he was pretty tired.
42:38We continued to take things slow,
42:40but gradually I started spending
42:41more and more time at his place.
42:43I was incredibly nervous
42:44when I introduced him to my son,
42:46but they hit it off immediately.
42:48Jerry was really skilled at archery,
42:50and he got Tommy interested in it
42:53after talking to my ex-husband.
42:55He didn't say much about their meeting,
42:57just that he seemed like a decent guy.
42:59Then one day I came home
43:00to find the house full of kids,
43:02Tommy and his two little sisters,
43:04all three of them.
43:06Brian and Marty had a child together,
43:08an exceptionally bright little girl
43:10who seemed wise beyond her years.
43:13I raised an eyebrow
43:14and Jerry blushed a bit before grinning.
43:16We're managing this bunch for a couple of days
43:18while Marty heads to New York
43:19to accept an award.
43:21Her career is taking off now
43:22that she's the executive producer
43:23of Brian's new show.
43:25CNN convinced Brian to host
43:27a one-hour show three days a week,
43:29alternating with another show.
43:31The ratings were solid and improving.
43:33His only request during negotiations
43:35was for his wife to manage the show,
43:37and the network agreed immediately.
43:39Marty did such a great job
43:40that the show won an Emmy,
43:42and Brian couldn't hide his pride in his wife.
43:45He even spoke passionately
43:46about how much he loved her
43:47on one of his shows,
43:49much to her embarrassment.
43:51I couldn't resist and watched his show,
43:53feeling a pang of regret,
43:55when I realized that if things had been different,
43:57if I had stayed faithful
43:58and kept my ego in check,
43:59he might have been praising me on air.
44:02Then I looked at Jerry
44:03and wondered if he was the person
44:04I was destined to be with all along.
44:06What was supposed to be two days
44:07turned into three
44:08when they asked for an extra day.
44:10Jerry was thrilled.
44:12The older girls wanted to try out Terry's bow,
44:15but he was a teenager
44:16and the bow was too big for them.
44:18Jerry solved that by taking them to Academy,
44:20buying them smaller bows
44:21and all the necessary gear.
44:23Taylor took to it naturally
44:24and Tanya showed some promise.
44:27Lucy, Jerry's daughter, was a big help.
44:29Then Tina wanted a bow
44:30and I intervened,
44:31getting her one of those toy bows
44:32with suction cups instead of arrows.
44:35She did surprisingly well for a three-year-old,
44:37but I regretted my decision
44:38every time I had to peel an arrow
44:40off the TV screen,
44:41the patio door,
44:42or a car window.
44:44Jeremiah and the kids found it hilarious.
44:47I was utterly exhausted
44:48yet filled with joy.
44:50At first Lucy was hesitant,
44:52not wanting to share her dad
44:53with anyone else,
44:54but gradually she warmed up to me
44:56and we became close.
44:58I poured out all the love
44:59I couldn't give to my son onto her
45:00and she thrived.
45:02Having girls her age around for days
45:04lifted her spirits
45:05and there were lots of hugs
45:06and kisses as they departed.
45:09We were lounging on the couch
45:10when Lucy crawled on top of us.
45:13After settling in,
45:15she said something
45:16that completely surprised me.
45:17Mom, can I have a little sister?
45:19It was the first time she called me mom
45:21and tears streamed down my face
45:22as I embraced her.
45:24When I could speak,
45:25I kissed her on the head.
45:27That depends, sweetheart.
45:28What does daddy think about that?
45:30Daddy was grinning,
45:31holding up a small box.
45:34Daddy thinks it's the best idea
45:35he's heard in a long time.
45:37I cried for 30 minutes,
45:39hugging and kissing
45:40both of them the whole time.
45:42I was getting a bit older
45:43to have a baby,
45:44but sheer determination paid off
45:46and I gave birth to an 8-pound boy
45:48two weeks before my 38th birthday.
45:51The waiting room was packed.
45:53I was a well-liked doctor
45:54and the nurses doted on me.
45:56Seeing Brian, Marty and their kids
45:57wasn't surprising, but
45:59I was taken aback
46:00to see Brian's mother there.
46:01She'd moved away for a while
46:03and I didn't know she was back.
46:05Tears welled up as she asked
46:06to hold her newest granddaughter.
46:08Soon, Jeremiah's mom
46:09and she were deep in conversation,
46:11planning out the futures
46:12of all the kids.
46:13Lucy made sure she was the first
46:14to hold her brother
46:15after her parents.
46:17She was a bit disappointed
46:18he was a boy,
46:19but that changed
46:20as soon as she saw his face.
46:22When he was 5 and she was 13,
46:23if he got fussy,
46:24she'd scoop him up
46:25and cover him in kisses.
46:28He'd giggle and try to wipe them off
46:29as quickly as she planted them.
46:31One of the biggest pictures
46:32on her nightstand
46:33is the one of her holding
46:34her brother for the first time.
46:36I was 53 years old,
46:38the respected elder
46:39of the surgical unit.
46:41Knowing my hands would soon
46:42no longer manage the job,
46:43I began planning my retirement.
46:46Younger doctors and nurses
46:47saw me as a mother figure
46:48and often confided in me.
46:50One of the nurses,
46:51considered one of the prettier ones,
46:52sought my advice.
46:54I heard you worked
46:55with Doctors International.
46:57I've been offered
46:58an opportunity to join.
46:59Do you have any advice?
47:00I didn't mince words,
47:01sharing my own experiences
47:02and the sacrifices it entailed.
47:04She was newly married,
47:05so I asked if her husband
47:06supported the idea.
47:08He doesn't know yet.
47:10In that case,
47:11you should discuss it with him.
47:12Are you ready
47:13to be apart from him
47:14for that long?
47:15Will he be patient,
47:16waiting for you to return?
47:17The organization
47:18does important work,
47:19but there are always
47:20drawbacks and sacrifices.
47:22Think carefully
47:23before you decide.
47:24In the end,
47:25she decided not to go
47:26and someone else
47:27took her place.
47:28She broke up with her boyfriend
47:29before leaving,
47:30but he was engaged
47:31by the time she returned,
47:32shattering any hopes
47:33of reconciliation.
47:35We suspected she might
47:36have ended things preemptively,
47:38perhaps anticipating
47:39the possibility of having
47:40a fling while away,
47:41but we never expected him
47:42to move on so quickly.
47:44She seemed subdued
47:45for about four months,
47:46and when they offered her
47:47another assignment,
47:48she declined.
47:50Tommy graduated
47:51with a master's in journalism
47:52and took a job
47:53as an associate producer
47:54for Fox.
47:55Lucy was a junior
47:56in a pre-med program.
47:58Tanya is in the same program
47:59and they are roommates.
48:00Taylor is a senior
48:01and has a full-ride
48:02scholarship for volleyball.
48:04Tina is a freshman
48:05in high school
48:06and seems to be
48:07majoring in boys.
48:08At 14,
48:09she looks 20,
48:10and men and boys alike
48:11make fools of themselves
48:12over her.
48:14She has a good head
48:15on her shoulders,
48:16and if they push hard,
48:17she shows them pictures
48:18of her and her sister's brother,
48:19her cousins Lucy and JJ,
48:21all holding ribbons
48:22and trophies for archery
48:23and karate.
48:25Tommy was an alternate
48:26for the Olympic team
48:27last year,
48:28and JJ is already
48:29a second-degree black belt
48:30at 15.
48:32Lucy was state champion
48:33in archery
48:34for her age group
48:35two years ago,
48:36barely beating out
48:37her cousin Taylor.
48:38Tommy earned
48:39a master's degree
48:40in journalism
48:41and started working
48:42as an assistant producer
48:43at Fox.
48:44Lucy was a junior
48:45in a pre-med program,
48:46and her roommate Tanya
48:47was also in the same program.
48:49Taylor, a senior,
48:50had a full scholarship
48:51for volleyball.
48:52Tina, a high school freshman,
48:54seemed more interested
48:55in boys than anything else.
48:57She was grounded, though,
48:58and if anyone got too forward,
48:59she'd show them photos
49:00of herself with her siblings,
49:01cousins Lucy and JJ,
49:03all holding trophies
49:04from their achievements
49:05in archery and karate.
49:07Tommy narrowly missed
49:08making the Olympic team
49:09last year,
49:10while 15-year-old JJ
49:11already had a second-degree
49:12black belt.
49:13Lucy had won
49:14the state archery championship
49:15for her age group
49:16two years ago,
49:17narrowly beating
49:18her cousin Taylor.
49:20One day I bumped into Brian
49:21at a coffee shop,
49:22and we sat down together.
49:24I apologized once more
49:25for my behavior,
49:26but he brushed it off.
49:28That's all in the past.
49:29Let's leave it there.
49:31Instead, we jokingly complained
49:32about our kids and spouses
49:33for 30 minutes,
49:34shared a quick kiss,
49:35and then went our separate ways.
49:37As I watched him walk away
49:38down the sidewalk,
49:39I thought about the saying
49:40that cheaters never prosper.
49:42In my case, though,
49:43I knew it wasn't true.
49:45Yes, I had done something
49:46terrible out of arrogance
49:47and a sense of entitlement,
49:48and I did suffer
49:49the consequences
49:50for a long time,
49:51but ultimately I believed
49:52that the pain I went through
49:53made me a better person.
49:55I hope that growth
49:56showed in my marriage
49:57and relationships
49:58with those I cared about.
50:00When I mentored
50:01younger people at work,
50:02I shared my story,
50:03hoping it would make
50:04a positive impact.
50:06I smiled as I touched
50:07the envelope in my pocket.
50:08It was my present
50:09to my husband
50:10for our upcoming anniversary,
50:11a two-week stay
50:12at a very exclusive resort
50:13in Thailand.
50:15There would be sun,
50:16sand,
50:17and an option
50:18to go without clothes.
50:19Even though I didn't have
50:20the super-fit body
50:21I had in my 30s,
50:22I still worked out
50:23and was considered
50:24one of the top three
50:25attractive moms
50:26at my hospital.
50:27Jeremiah still saw me
50:28as a hot young woman,
50:29and I hoped
50:30he'd always feel that way,
50:31so I endured the challenges
50:32and tried not to think
50:33about how time and nature
50:34were affecting me,
50:35especially when some
50:36of that aging
50:37was because of him.
51:03© transcript Emily Beynon
51:33© transcript Emily Beynon