55 comments/ 51787 views/ 23 favorites Just Walk Away By: DG Hear A big 'Thank You' to Estragon for making this a much better read. This story could have been in a number of categories. * It's been over a year since I just walked away from my relationship of a year and a half with my girlfriend. Angie and I met when I was in a male dance review. I was twenty-two at the time. She seemed special to me. I guess I should go back and tell you a little about us. My name is Jack Holder and I'm originally from Newport, Kentucky. I now reside in Cincinnati, Ohio. In high school I played sports and did get a couple of offers for a baseball scholarship. I wasn't really college material, and just not really interested in playing ball. However, I did love working out and wished I could own my own gym someday. My Uncle Ralph owned a gym so I guess exercising and being in shape was in my blood. With my shirt off I actually had the six-pack abs and muscled thighs that you see on some of the guys that work out. They don't just appear; it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to get a body in shape. I've worked out a minimum of three times a week ever since junior high school. Even during the summer I worked out at my uncle's gym. I told him I wanted to own my own gym someday. It made him smile; he was like a second dad to me. Both of my parents were teachers and my sister, who is three years older than me, went to college and became a teacher also. When I told my parents that I wasn't going to college they were a bit disappointed in me. I did tell them that someday I would own my own gym and be a teacher of proper exercising. Upon graduation my Uncle Ralph offered me a full time job in the gym. I readily accepted it; I was going to be doing what I always wanted, only I wanted my own place. Uncle Ralph told me to save up my money and some day I would be able to open a gym. He taught me most everything I needed to know as well as paying me a decent wage, but I wanted to live on my own and after paying my bills I wasn't saving much. I was now twenty-one and one day a good-looking women, probably in her forties, came into the gym. She said she heard about me from some of our clients. She asked me if I was interested in making some extra money. "Doing what?" I asked. "I run a business, it's an all male revue. We do a lot of private parties and mostly some special gigs. I'd like you to be one of our dancers." I had to laugh. "Lady, I'm not a dancer." "Jack, my name is Hillary Bottoms and you really don't have to be a dancer. In fact there is very little dancing. You just have to look good and move around stage and flirt with the ladies." "I don't think so," I replied. "Jack, you would only have to work on Fridays and Saturdays. You will be paid three hundred dollars a night, plus tips. Believe me, you can make a thousand a week easy. We'll teach you everything you need to know. Are you willing to give it a try?" Six hundred a week plus tips! That was almost double what my uncle was paying me. I thought for a few minutes and figured I could save up enough money in a couple of years to start my own business. To make a long story short, I accepted her offer. I did have to sign a two- year agreement. Hillary said a lot of guys left her hanging and going with other male revues after she had trained them. She invested time and money in her employees, that's why she had two-year agreements. After two years we could re-sign or leave. I had my Uncle Ralph look at the terms of the agreement and he had his lawyers look at it. He smiled at me. "What is it, Uncle Ralph?" I asked. "You do know that there will be a lot of ladies vying for your attention. The best advice I can give you is to treat all women special. They may not all have perfect bodies but they all deserve to be treated with respect. By the way, condoms are a necessity in the business." "How do you know so much about what women want, Uncle Ralph? You've been married to Aunt Mae for over twenty years." "So you know, before I met your aunt, I worked in an all male revue also. It's not something that we talk about. Your mom, my sister, considered me the black sheep of the family. "I learned a lot about women. In fact some of the heavier or not as good- looking women often are a lot better lovers. It's like they try harder and enjoy it more," said Uncle Ralph. My Aunt Mae was a good-looking woman but probably not anything overly special. I do have to say she had one of the best personalities of all my relatives. They had three kids, my cousins, and they all really seemed happy. I would always remember what my Uncle Ralph had told me. Uncle Ralph and I agreed on Friday and Saturday hours for me to work. Those evenings I would be doing the male revues. No one but Uncle Ralph knew about my side job and I was able to keep it that way. **** I was very nervous at first but Hillary was right. All I had to do was pretty much strip to the music and shake my ass. I was proud of my sculptured body and really didn't mind showing it off. I did have to spend some time in a tanning booth and also oil down my body to give it a different look. I started with full male revue shows, which contained ten of us. All these guys really had some nice bods. Hillary said I fit right in. I became friends with some of the guys but we were never close. They shared a few of their secrets; it was more bragging than it was sharing, but I took it all in; it made me even better. After two months I was ready to do some of the more private parties. Hillary had some strict rules when it came to the ladies. We weren't supposed to touch them during our performances but if they wanted to party afterwards we could go for it. Many would touch us during our performance by putting money in our g-strings. The g-strings were nothing more than a pouch over our package and a string to hold it up and for the ladies to put tips in. We actually did have some performances where we would have a small sheet to block what the women in front of us were doing. As I said, we couldn't touch them at that time but they sure as hell touched us. I loved it when I would bare my cock and I would hand them a can of whipped cream and they would spray a little on my cock and lick it off. I was young and bold and I have to say I loved it. I should tell you that most of our customers were housewives out for a good time, or friends and families attending bridal showers or other parties. As my uncle had told me, most were not super models but they did everything they could to please us male strippers. That was what we were, male strippers. I have had more sex in the two years I was a stripper than most men have in a lifetime. I would say eighty percent or more of my sex partners were either married or divorced. Sometimes it bothered me having sex with a married woman but I always told myself that they initiated the sex and besides we were lucky if we ever saw them again. I know it kind of turned me against marriage, being with all these married women. I never really had a steady girlfriend or felt in love with anyone. I guess I thought about finding that special woman, but now I wondered if there was any such thing. I should tell you that we also did a lot of college parties. Of course the women were younger but not necessarily better. They wanted the sex but knew they didn't have to try as hard. It was just all about sex with these college girls and I did my best to please them. About two months before my two-year agreement with Hillary was up, we did a college sorority party. It was being put on for the graduating seniors. Of course all the grades were invited. It was there I met Angie. She was a good-looking woman. Blonde, blue eyed and stacked like a brick shithouse. Where did that statement ever come from? How is being compared to a brick shithouse even a compliment? Anyway, Angie was a beautiful woman. She came up and put five dollars in my g-string. I couldn't take my eyes off her. I was infatuated with her. It never happened to me before. When I did my whipped cream routine she didn't even use the whipped cream. She just took my hard cock in her mouth and very sensually sucked the head. I did everything I could not to come. I had to make her the last participant in my routine. As the party ended she came up to me, smiled, and asked me if I would like to go back to her house with her. She shared a house with four other girls but each had her own bedroom. When we got there it wasn't five minutes before we were having sex. It started by her taking out my cock and taking most of it in her mouth. In the next few minutes we both got naked. She had one beautiful body and I wanted her. She sat on the edge of the bed. I pushed her over on her back and stood at the edge of the bed. I lifted her legs and held them up with my hands. I pushed my hard cock into her. It was one of the few times I didn't wear a condom. I don't know why, I just wanted in her so bad. I fucked her hard and put her legs on my shoulders. I wanted my hands free to play with her breasts. "Oh fuck! Oh fuck! I'm coming!" Angie was yelling. I pushed into her hard and felt her pussy grip my cock as I came. I held in it her until her spasms stopped. After we both came she moved to the center of the bed and asked me to lie next to her. I wasn't used to staying around after having sex but I wanted to stay. "Jack, I need you to know that I'm not that kind of girl. I don't pick up men and bring them to my house. I never have sex on the first date and here I am with you and it's not even a date." I didn't know what to say. As I mentioned I usually had sex and left but with Angie it was different. I can't say I loved her because I hardly knew her but I did have some new feelings that I can't describe. We talked for a good half hour and I wanted her again and told her so. She laughed as she mounted me as I lay on my back. This time my hands were free to gently rub her breasts as she rode me. I felt something special with Angie that I don't recall feeling with any other woman. After coming for the second time we both needed to clean up. We got in her shower together and ended up having shower sex. After cleaning up again she invited me to spend the night, which I have never done before, but with Angie it was different. The next morning she introduced me to her roomies. They had all been at the party the night before and were shocked to see me. They couldn't believe that Angie brought a man home with her. I guess we must have started some good rumors. I asked her out for breakfast and we talked about her. I wanted to know everything there was about this woman. I had feeling that I've never felt before. Angie was to graduate in a month. She was from a wealthy family in Kentucky and attended the University; she was a Kentucky Wildcat all right. She told me she was getting a degree in Business Management and already had a job offer at an insurance firm. I think her dad helped get her the position. He was a wealthy businessman and had a lot of contacts. I told her that I would be leaving the male revue in another month or so. I told her I worked in my uncle's gym and was saving up enough money to buy my own business. Angie still lived with her parents even though she was twenty-four. She didn't have many responsibilities and she liked having servants help her when needed. Of course during the year she lived with the girls at college. Hillary asked me to stay on but I told her, "thank you, but I need to get on with my life". Besides there was a woman in my life now and I didn't think she would appreciate me staying in the business. Angie and I continued seeing each other after her graduation. I was back working for my uncle and told him about Angie. He wished me luck but tried to explain that we were from opposite sides of the tracks. Our family was middle class at best, and hers was from money. Uncle Ralph said he knew the family, not personally but being in business himself he knew a lot of people. I did think Uncle Ralph knew more than he was letting on. Angie and I started dating but we lived forty miles apart. She wasn't going to move and I couldn't afford to. We got together at least twice a week. We almost always ended our date with sex. She would come by my apartment and we would just let it happen. She said she loved me every time we got together. On one date I told her I wanted her to meet my parents. I know she was a bit skeptical but this all had to happen some time. My parents liked her a lot. My older sister and Angie got along but my sister, who was now married, told me it wouldn't work out. I got pissed at her but she told me blood and water don't mix well. Did my sister just call us water? About a month later I told Angie I needed to meet her parents if we were to become a couple with any kind of future. She did ask me over for Sunday dinner and I met her parents and younger brother and sister. Her parents treated me nice and asked a lot of questions. I did my best to answer them truthfully. Angie told me not to mention that I was in the Male Revue or that's how we met. We didn't want to stray too far from the truth, so we told them that we met at one of the sorority parties. That wasn't too far from the truth. I did tell them that I had attended the party with friends since I didn't go to college. When I told them I hoped to someday own my own gym, Mrs. Lockhart seemed a bit surprised. I told the Lockards that I now worked for my Uncle Ralph. Mrs. Lockard seemed a bit disturbed. Afterwards Angie told me that her parents were very protective of her and like most parents wanted the best for children. They hoped that some day she would meet that special person and have a family. We dated a lot after that but rarely did I see her parents. Then one day I told Angie that I found a gym for sale in Cincinnati. It was an extra twenty-mile drive from where I lived in Newport, Kentucky. Angie was happy for me and we went out and celebrated. We had been going together for over a year and the sex was great but I wanted more. I wanted to see Angie all the time. I told Uncle Ralph that I was going to ask Angie to marry me and move to Cincinnati with me. He looked at me and said, "Jack, there is something that I have to tell you. Mary Lockard and I met when I was in the Male Revue. I fell for her like a ton of bricks. As you can see, Angie takes after her mother. Of course her mom's name was Bailey at the time. I actually asked her to marry me and she told me she couldn't because her parents wanted her to marry someone with money. "She cried and said she did love me but it would never work. After that day she started dating Eugene Lockard and they were married a year later. Jack, I don't want to see that happen to you. You're like a son to me and I've never told that story to anyone. I can't tell you what to do but be careful." I was rather shocked at what Uncle Ralph told me but I was either going forward with Angie or going forward on my own. On our next date I asked her to marry me. She stared at me and after what seemed like an eternity of silence, she said, "Jack, I love you, I really do, but I can't marry you right now. Let's just continue dating till you get your business going." I knew it was her way of saying her parents wouldn't approve of us getting married right now. If my business succeeded they might think differently. I didn't push the issue; what was the use? I told her I would ask her again in a few months when my business was even better. I couldn't see her but maybe once a week after opening my new gym. I had to spend a lot of long hours there, rather than pay out more money for extra employees. My business was thriving and four months had gone by. I would meet Angie every weekend for a date and lots of sex. I thought I'd surprise her and go see her at her office on Friday. I told one of my employees that I would be back Sunday and to take care of the business. I left for Kentucky and arrived just as Angie was leaving the building. She hadn't seen me yet, and of course she wasn't expecting me to be there. I had my reports from the bank showing my business was successful for her parents to see. I also had a ring in my pocket. I was going to ask Angie to marry me again. I was waiting by her car when she came out but she was with another person and they walked to his car instead. I didn't want to jump to conclusions. Up to now we hadn't ever argued, let alone her being dissatisfied with me. I got in my car and followed them to the Ramada Inn. I stayed back and watched them enter the building; they both had an overnight bag. My worst fears were met when they went by the check-in counter and right to the elevators. They must have already got their reservation. The Inn only had three floors so I rushed to the stairwell up to the second floor. I looked down the hall and saw them entering room number 226. I wasn't sure what to do. I must have stood there for five minutes. I thought that maybe I should just leave. Angie and I had a date the next day and maybe I could let her explain. I couldn't help it when I knocked on door of room 226 and a moment later Angie opened the door. "Jack, what are you doing here? Please, you must leave; we can talk tomorrow." I glanced in the room and didn't see her male friend. "Please, Jack, we'll talk tomorrow." She had tears in her eyes. "No, Angie, we'll talk right now." The bathroom door opened and I heard a man's voice. "Who's at the door, Angie?" he asked. "Umm, just a friend. He saw us come in and stopped to say hi," answered Angie. I didn't go along with Angie. I pushed the door open and walked into the room. "What do you want?" asked the man, whom later I found out his name was Nicklaus. He was probably ten years older than Angie. I grinned even though it was a sad grin. "I came here to propose to Angie. I thought we were in love but I guess we were just fuck buddies." "I think you better leave," said Nick. "She doesn't want to see you anymore. Look Buddy, you lost I won. Take it like a man and leave." Angie was sitting on the bed crying. I guessed this guy was from money. The type of guy her parents wanted her to marry. "Listen, whoever you are...." "My name is Nicklaus Smith. I manage the agency where Angie works." "I don't give a flying fuck what your name is or how much money you have. I was just going to walk away but your high falutin' attitude pissed me off." I walked over and hit him hard in the mid-section. He doubled over and fell. I looked over at Angie, who told me not to hurt him and I said, "I hope you're happy with your choice in life. I don't ever want to see you again." She continued to cry. "By the way, tell your mother that my Uncle Ralph said hi." Angie looked at me confused. She looked up at me as I walked out the door. I decided to stop in the bar and have a stiff drink or two. I sure the hell needed it. As I was on my third drink I saw Angie rush out the door and get in a taxi. Her friend Nick wasn't with her. I got in my car and headed to see my Uncle Ralph and let him know what happened. I still don't know how I didn't get a DUI. "I'm sorry Jack, I really am. I wished it could have worked out for you but the deck was stacked against you from the beginning." I told my uncle what I said to Angie about saying hi to her mother from him. He just laughed. "I liked her a lot too, Jack. Some things are just not meant to be. I did meet your Aunt Mae and we've had a very happy life together. Hopefully the same thing will happen to you." Chapter 2 I pent the night at Uncle Ralph's. He didn't want me driving. I ended up going to work on Saturday. I knew it was over between Angie and me. I wouldn't be seeing her that evening. It was a week later that I got a call from Angie. Just Walk Away "Jack, I need to talk to you. I can't leave it like this. I really do love you." "Right! You prove it by fucking some rich bastard behind my back. I take it that wasn't your first date. Remember you told me you don't fuck on the first date?" "Please, Jack, I need to tell you the truth. Nick's father and my father are good friends. I went out with him a few times. I like him but I love you." "Right, I get it. Money begets money. Your dad wanted you to marry money and your friend Nick is the chosen one. Just like your mother was the chosen one for your father. Did you ask her about my Uncle Ralph?" "Yes, she told me how they met and she really loved him but it just wouldn't work out. I told her the truth how we met and we both cried. I just want you to know that I'll always love you. I wish things could have turned out different." "Yeah, I get it! Like mother, like daughter, just so you know there are more important things in life besides money. Too bad we won't be able to share it together. I really did love you Angie, but you broke my heart and I will never forgive you for that. Goodbye, and please don't call me again." "Jack, please let me talk. I need to tell you..." I hung up, sad and disappointed but life must go on. I notice that Angie had called my cell phone in the following weeks but I never answered it. **** I spent a lot of time at my business. It was a few more months before I even started dating again. I went out with women but I found I wasn't good in relationships. I don't think I was ready to commit myself to any one woman again. Six months had gone by and I saw in the paper where Angie was marrying Nick. I guess her father had won. I decided to do my best and put it all behind me. One day a good-looking woman came into the gym. I couldn't take my eyes off of her. She asked if I could be her personal trainer and show her what exercises to do. I easily volunteered my services. Her name was Sheila; she said she was single, twenty-six, and said she worked in a factory. I remember some of my friends that worked in factories always said there were a couple of women that seemed to stand out where they worked. I had to figure that Sheila was the one who stood out in her place of work. She had one fine nice tight ass body. I've been around women long enough to know she was a flirt but I decide to go along with her. To be honest here, I didn't feel I could trust her since being bitten by Angie but I saw no problem with dating her and having sex. I could feel her muscles as I helped her work out. By the third time she came in to work out I had decided to ask her out. She said yes and after a nice dinner we went to a movie. She dressed in a skirt and blouse and looked great. At the movies I thought I'd make my move and put my hand on her thigh. Without her even looking at me she put her hand on top of mine and pulled it slowly further up her leg. I could see a slight smile on her face. She then reached over and rubbed my package. We looked at each other and knew what would happen after the movie. We sat back and finished watching it but I didn't take my hand off her warm thigh. I could feel the heat radiate from her pussy. After leaving the theatre we went to her condo. Sheila lived in a nice area. It was all fairly new condos in a typical suburban area. I told her she must have one hell of a good job to afford such a place. That's when she told be she had told me a white lie. She was single but also divorced. Her ex-husband had shot and killed a man and she got the benefits of him being incarcerated. After he went to prison she filed for divorce. He was in prison for life. She didn't want to talk about him right now but said she would tell me his story at another time. She told me she really liked me and I was only one of a few people that would tell her story to. That night we had sex; she called it making love. My problem was I didn't love her. I cared for her but wasn't sure I could trust her since she was so flirty. Since breaking up with Angie, I guess I didn't trust any woman. Sex with Sheila wasn't only good, it was fantastic. I kissed and massaged her tight lean body. She was all about letting loose when having sex. She was one of the few women that I have been with who loved her tits squeezed and nipples rubbed. I even took out the ice cubes and rubbed her nipples until they stuck out like pencil erasers before sucking them. She liked her sex a little bit rough. She wasn't into weird but she liked to be fucked hard. The first time I went to use a condom, she told me it wasn't necessary; she wanted to feel me coming in her. Our first time together she sucked my cock and I ate her pussy in a sixty-nine position. Afterwards she wanted on top so she could rub my chest while I held on to her hips as we fucked hard. She told me she loved my cock over and over again. I loved to watch our joint juices running out of her pussy and down my cock and balls. Our orgasms lasted for minutes at a time. I have to say she was one woman who knew how to use her pussy and get the most out of sex. I was tired of the dating scene and decided to be monogamous with Sheila. Over the next few months she asked me to move in with her. I told her I preferred to wait for now. I worked long hours and left for the business all hours of the day and night. It wouldn't be fair to her as a steady companion. The truth is I didn't want to commit myself to living with her. I couldn't picture a long-term future with her right now. I guess I'm saying I didn't know her well enough to make that big step. We did see each other three and four times a week. Always going to parties and eating out. Outside of the flirting, she was a hell of a lot of fun. One day she mentioned that a couple of her friends invited us over for a BBQ. She said it was about time I met some of her closer friends. Bill and Marcie lived about six condos down from Sheila. Bill was a supervisor where Sheila worked. Right off the bat I thought Bill was an arrogant ass. I'll do my best to explain why. I didn't say anything to Sheila but I could tell that Bill would constantly hit on her. I wasn't going to say anything unless Sheila would complain or say something about his so-called accidental touching. Bill and Marcie had two beautiful little girls ages four and three. I loved talking to these two little cuties. Bill would keep telling them to go away and play somewhere. I knew it bothered Marcie just by her actions. I believe she was afraid of this asshole, but Sheila thought he was the best boss ever. The little girls wanted to go in their little swimming pool but Marcie told them she was cooking and couldn't be there to watch them. Of course Bill wouldn't watch his kids, he was too busy flirting with Sheila. April, who was four, asked me if I would watch her and her little sister Mandy while they played in the pool. I couldn't turn these two little sweeties down and went to the back yard with them and watched them play in their little pool. I noticed that Sheila and Bill were so busy talking with each other that they didn't even notice I was gone. Marcie brought me out a beer and thanked me for watching the kids. She sat down a few minutes and we both laughed at watching the kids have fun. A couple of things I need to mention is Marcie is probably a good fifty pounds overweight. She has one of the prettiest faces I've ever seen. It seems that a lot of the heavier woman are also some of the most beautiful. I'm speaking from experience here, but of course also it is an opinion. Earlier when Sheila introduced me to Bill and Marcie I thought Marcie looked so familiar. When I asked her where she was from she told me Newport, Kentucky. "I'm originally from Newport myself," I said. Marcie smiled and said, "I know, you were three years ahead of me in high school. I was at all your ballgames." Bill jumped in and said, "No wonder you didn't remember her. Back then she was a cheerleader. She had a killer bod till we got married. I have to admit she was one sexy woman. Then she let herself go to hell." "I had two kids a year apart and never lost the baby weight after the pregnancy," replied Marcie. "I'm trying to diet and I walk every evening. I've lost a couple of pounds." "It sure doesn't show," Bill laughed at Marcie. I knew she felt really embarrassed. Bill would do nothing but degrade her. I was ready to tell him to shut his fucking mouth but the two little girls came running into the room asking to go in their pool. Something else that bothered me was the whole time Bill was degrading Marcie, Sheila didn't say a word. Why wouldn't she stick up for her friend? While sitting watching the kids play Marcie and I talked. She was really a sweetie and I did feel sorry for her living with an asshole like Bill. She said she had to get up and finish preparing the food. She took out the steaks she marinated the night before. She also took out the homemade potato salad and baked beans she had made. She told Bill the steaks and burgers were ready to put on the grill. He makes this grand entrance like he had to do everything. The meat was on a tray setting next to the grill. All he did was set them on the grill and turn them over. We all sat down to eat and Sheila told Bill how great the steaks were. I looked over at Marcie and told her I loved the potato salad and baked beans. I asked her where she had bought them because I would start shopping there. I did know that she had made the foods herself. It got a smile from her, "I made the salad and beans myself. Thank you for the compliment. If you like I'll give you some leftovers to take home with you. We'll never eat all of it." Bill butted in. "Your steak all right, Jack? You said you wanted it done medium." I knew he was fetching for a compliment. "Steak was great Bill. I really like the sauce you marinated them in. Sure brings out the flavor." I saw Marcie look down but had a smile on her face. Sheila thanked them for inviting us over and said we would see them again. I thanked them both for dinner and gave the two little girls a hug. On the way back to Sheila's, we just walked over, I told her that I thought Bill was a blowhard and I didn't like the way he downgraded his wife all the time. "That's just the way he is. You'll get to like him after awhile. You do have to agree that Marcie sure let herself go after having the kids. I can see why Bill wouldn't like coming home to her, let alone have sex with her." I didn't reply to her statement but I did have to wonder how she knew about their sex life. The more I found out about Sheila, the more I didn't think I could trust her. The factory where Sheila worked was on alternating shifts. One week she would work days, another week on afternoons. She never had to work the mid-night shift, which was good. I often got confused what shift she would be working what week. I stopped by on Monday evening and she wasn't home. As I was leaving I saw Marcie taking a walk with the girls. They ran up to me and gave me a hug. "Hi Mr. Jack," they said with a smile. They had manners and always called me Mister Jack. Marcie said, "I guess you forgot that Sheila is on afternoons this week." She had the prettiest smile. "I always get confused. I was going to ask her if she wanted to go out for dinner. Now I know why she didn't answer her phone. Have you and the girls eaten yet? Would you like to go out for dinner?" "We were going to eat after our walk. I'm afraid the girls aren't the best dinner guests. We don't go out very often unless it's to McDonalds or Burger King." "McDonalds sounds good to me. It's my treat." "I don't think Bill would like me going to dinner with you. He's pretty protective of who I talk to." "Look, there's McDonalds a half mile away, we can walk there. Surely he can't be that protective. It's only a couple of happy meals," I said with a smile. The girls said they wanted a happy meal over and over. Finally Marcie gave in and we walked over to McDonalds. We sat in the play area so the girls could play in the balls. Marcie and I talked. She told me how she and Bill met. It was at college. I had to ask how they met at college since Bill was a good six years older than Marcie. "I went to a community college and got an associate degree in accounting. Bill was working at the factory and was told if he completed a few management courses that he could be promoted to supervisor with a hefty raise. One thing led to another and we began dating. "He seemed a bit arrogant but I was young. Well, I got pregnant and he married me. I thought I loved him but after nearly five years I guess I'm just afraid of him. I'm always stressed out and then I eat and things get worse." "Did you get your degree?" I asked. "Yes I did, but Bill didn't want me working. Of course I preferred to stay home with April. A few months later I was pregnant again with Mandy. I never lost the weight after Mandy was born and ever since then, Bill degrades me. I don't love him but I can't just leave him. I don't know what to do." "Why can't you leave him? Your girls deserve much better and so do you." I could tell she was holding back tears. "Where could I go? I don't want to move back in with my parents. They told me when I married Bill that it wouldn't last. I don't have a job and couldn't afford our house if I did have one. Then Bill told me after one of our fights that he wouldn't let me leave with the girls. "He doesn't love them but he tolerates them. He knows that the girls are my life. I made my bed and now I have to sleep in it." "Things will improve; call me anytime if you need anything." I don't know why I told her that. She seemed so nice and the girls were sweeties. I'd hate to see them get hurt in any way. On Saturday I stopped over to see Sheila. We went out for dinner and when we returned to her apartment she told me we were invited to a really big party at one of Bill's friend's house. "What's the reason for the party?" I asked. "They celebrate nude day," said Sheila. "What? You mean everyone gets naked? What is it, an orgy?" I asked. "No way am I going to get nude at somebody's party. Besides, I don't want you nude in front of anyone but me. I can't picture Marcie going to a nude day party either." "Not everyone gets nude. It's just a reason to throw a big party. I went last year and it was a lot of fun. Besides with your package, you have nothing to be worried about. As far as Marcie goes, she didn't go last year and probably won't go this year. She would look bad enough in a swimsuit, let alone nude." Sheila laughed, but I didn't think it was very funny. I didn't plan on going but I told Sheila I would think about it. The more I knew about Sheila the more I didn't think we should be together. How many packages has she seen to know mine is larger than most? Of course I can't say too much since I've been with so many women. We did have sex that night but I told Sheila I couldn't stay. I really didn't want to be with her then. I needed to think about all the things that were going on. On Monday I stopped over to see Marcie. "Jack! What are you doing here? If Bill knew you were here he'd kill me." "What? Are you that afraid of him? Has he hurt you before?" I asked. "He's slapped me a few times after an argument. He bruises my arms or legs where no one can see it. I am afraid of him, Jack. I don't want you to get involved. You're too nice of a guy to have to worry about my problems. Why are you here?" "I wanted to talk to you." About that time two little girls came over and said hi to me. They were both smiling. "Girls, sit down and eat your French toast. Jack would you like to eat with us?" I couldn't remember the last time I had French toast and sat down and ate with Marcie and the girls. Afterwards the girls went in to watch TV while Marcie and I talked. "Marci, do you know about the party this coming Saturday?" "Yes, Bill forbids me to go, but I wouldn't want to go anyway. I know he goes there to whore around. We haven't had sex in over a year. I know he hasn't given up sex. Just not with me." She had tears in her eyes and was holding back crying. "Has he been with Sheila?" I asked. "Yes, a number of times. He always tells me what a firm body she has and how he likes fucking her. He never says making love, not even to me. It's always fucking. I know she went to the party last year. He bragged about having sex with her. I'm sorry Jack, I know she's your girlfriend but you're too good for her." I liked Marcie. Maybe I just felt sorry for her or maybe it was more; I didn't know. All I knew was she deserved a lot better than Bill. I was going to give Sheila an ultimatum. I was already sure what her choice would be. Chapter 3 I stopped at Sheila's place on Friday and told her I wasn't going to any nude party and if she went it would be over between us. "Sheila, I thought you and I might have a future together. Whatever we both did in the past is over and done with. I thought we could start over fresh. I don't like Bill and he treats Marcie like a second-class citizen. I want nothing more to do with him. I know he's your boss but he doesn't have to be your bed partner. I've heard about your past with him." Sheila looked shocked. She asked me if fat Marcie told me about Bill and her. I was pissed when she said Bill wanted a real woman, not an overweight slob. "You can't tell me what I can and cannot do. If I want to go to the party, I'll go. There is nothing wrong with going out and having a little fun." "I'll stop by here tomorrow to take you out to dinner and maybe even dancing. If you choose to go to the nude day party then it will be over between us," I said. The next evening I arrived at Sheila's and like I expected she wasn't home. I drove down to Marcie's and she was surprised to see me. "What are you doing here Jack?" "Is Bill home or did he go to the party?" "He went to the party. He slapped my ass and grabbed and bruised my arm saying he was going to fuck a real woman. Jack, I can't take it anymore, I don't know what to do." She was near crying. "I have a suggestion if you are willing to go along with me. Can you get someone to watch the girls for a few hours?" "Yes, Trina, down the street, watches them when I need a babysitter." "Call her and ask her to watch them. See if she could watch them for the night. I'm taking you out." "I don't understand, where are you taking me? I'm sure Bill won't allow it." "We're going to the party together. You will be my date." "I can't! Bill will kill me." "I will be there to protect you. If you want out from underneath Bill, now is the time to do it. I promise you nothing will happen to you. I will protect you but you have to trust me. Do you trust me Marcie?" "God, yes I trust you but I'm scared. What happens after you leave and he comes home? I don't want him hurting the girls. I'm not sure how we can survive." "Let me worry about that. I promise you with God as my witness that no harm will come to you or the girls." "Jack, why are you doing this? No one has ever helped us." "I like you Marcie and you're in need of help and I can't walk away and leave you and the girls in the hands of an asshole like Bill." I wasn't sure why I didn't just walk away. Is it possible that I might have some deep- rooted feelings for Marcie? She got hold of the babysitter and she would take the girls for tonight. I told her to get her bathing suit. "Jack, I can't wear a bathing suit in public. I'll look like a cow and everyone will laugh at me." "A few assholes might laugh but we'll get the last laugh, I promise." She shook her head and said, "I can't believe I'm doing this. You do realize I'm putting all my faith and trust in you." Just Walk Away "I won't let you down, I promise." The babysitter came over and walked the girls to her house. I gave her forty dollars in advance to watch the girls. We told her we would be by in the morning to pick them up. She looked at us a bit strange, probably wondering who I was but she had no problem taking the girls or the money. Marcie came out in her one-piece bathing suit. She looked a bit embarrassed. "Here's what an elephant looks like in a bathing suit," she remarked. "Jack, are you sure about this?" "You don't look that bad. Believe me, we have a lot heavier women come in the gym all the time and they aren't anywhere as pretty as you. If you are willing, after this is over, I'll help you exercise if you want. No cost to you, I'll be your trainer." Out of the blue Marcie hugged me. I held her tight in my arms. I guess we might each have had feelings for one another. On the way to the nude day party she told me she had a crush on me in high school. I told her I wished I had known it back then. I didn't date that much and outside of baseball was somewhat of a loner. I saw a big bruise on her arm. She told me it was when Bill grabbed her before he left. I thought to myself that son of a bitch has hurt her for the last time. I asked Marcie "Do you know why Sheila's ex-husband was in prison for murder?" She told me it happened three years ago. He had come home early from work and found Sheila in bed with another man. He got his gun and shot the man three times. He ran out of the house but was caught within the hour. He was found guilty of pre meditated murder since he came home early and used his gun. No one knows why he didn't shoot Sheila. He got life imprisonment and Sheila ended up with all their assets. There were a lot of rumors flying around at the time, but that's the story Bill told her. It was getting dark when we arrived at the party. There must have been fifty people there at least. When I walked in the pool area I saw Sheila. She still had her bathing suit on, what little there was of it. Her tits were busting out of it and the bottom was a thong bikini showing her whole ass. She was talking to Bill and came over to me when she saw me. Smiling she said, "I knew you would change your mind. You're just like me, always looking for a good time." I didn't say anything to her. I waved to Marcie and she came into the yard. "What the hell is she doing here?" asked Sheila. "She's my date. It's over between you and me." Bill saw Marcie and started toward her yelling. "What the fuck are you doing here? You and your fat ass is embarrassing me." He grabbed her arm and that's when I pushed Bill into the pool. He went to come out and I told him he better think twice because I had enough of his shit and if he as much talked to Marcie, I'd kick his fucking ass. Everyone was staring at us. I knew it was really embarrassing Bill. He knew if he made a move toward me I'd squash him like a bug. "She's my fucking wife! What the hell is it to you?" "She's my friend and she won't be your wife much longer. She'll be applying for a divorce on Monday. Until then I suggest you stay the hell away from her." I took my shirt off so my muscles showed. I took Marcie by the hand and she introduced me to Henry, the man giving the party. He just asked that we not cause any trouble. I just told him I would not start any trouble but I wouldn't let Bill harass Marcie. He said he always liked Marcie and if Bill started any trouble, he'd ask him to leave. I said we weren't planning on staying at the party long. The full time we were there we did get Bill and Sheila's attention. Marcie and I got into the pool. She said she felt better with her body underwater; it made me laugh. After Sheila saw us together she was one of the first women to take off her top. I guess she was doing it to get even with me but I had no feelings for her, especially now. Needless to say she attracted the men. It wasn't long before Bill was playing with her tits. Marci and I stayed in the water for about a half hour. We got out and got a drink. About that time a number of people were taking off their swimsuits. Sheila was one of the first followed by Bill. I guess it was a nude party after all. They wanted our attention in the worst way. Bill grabbed Sheila by the pussy and I just laughed and shook my head. Marcie was nervous so I told her it was time for us to leave but not before I talked with one old guy taking pictures. I asked him if he would make me copies for a hundred dollars. He was more than happy with the offer. I told him to get as many of Bill as possible and handed him fifty dollars in advance. We thanked Henry for the swim. I think he was happy that we were leaving. I could hardly blame the guy. I guess Marcie and I were stick in the mud compared to everyone else there. And he wouldn't have to call the cops if Bill and I got into it. Marcie and I left the party; we had brought along a change of clothes. After getting dressed we went to the Olive Garden for a nice dinner. We had a couple of more drinks and I took her home. We walked into her house and she kissed me. I mean really kissed me. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have done that," said Marcie. "What happens now?" "First, don't be sorry, I loved it but I won't do anything else. You're still married and I don't want to give Bill any ammunition. Tonight I'll sleep on the couch to make sure you're safe." Bill never did come home that night. I figured he stayed at Sheila's. The next morning Marcie packed a suitcase for the girls and herself. I called Sheila's number and told her that Bill could come by and get some of his things. He had better be out by the time Marcie got back on Monday. We were on our way to see a judge friend of mine to get a restraining order against Bill. After Sunday he wouldn't be allowed near Marcie till they had a court hearing. We picked up the girls and I took Marcie and the girls to the zoo. "What are we doing Jack? I'm a mess right now, I'm not sure what I'm doing and we are at the zoo?" said Marcie. "Exactly! You need to be with your girls and try to enjoy yourself for a little while. The problems will still be there a couple of hours from now." We did have a nice time at the zoo. For a few hours it was all about the girls and the animals. Afterwards we stopped at Burger King for something to eat. I remembered the girls liked that place. I took them by my sister's house and asked here if she would watch the girls for a couple of hours. She knew I was serious. I introduced Marcie and the girls. "What's going on, Jack?" asked Sue, my sister. "We're going to see Judge Aaron about getting a restraining order. I called him this morning and he said I could come by his house but Marcie has to come with me. He has to see the bruises on her arm." My sister hugged me. "Sure Jack, I'll watch the kids. Marcie, it was nice meeting you and good luck. Don't worry, I know my crazy brother and he'll protect you." Sue smiled at me. I knew I was doing the right thing. After getting the restraining order we spent the night at my apartment. I never had a lease, I just rented it by the week. I let Marcie and the girls have my bed and I slept on the couch. It was odd, but the girls never asked about their father. The next morning we stopped by my gym and I let my employees know that I wouldn't be there the rest of the day. I took Marcie and the girls home. Bill and Sheila must be on afternoons. I saw both of their cars at Sheila's. Marcie and the girls went into their house. I went down to Sheila's to have a talk with Bill. I knocked on the door and Sheila answered. "What do you want?" asked Sheila. "Didn't you cause enough trouble?" "Tell your boyfriend to get his ass out here, we need to talk." Bill came to the door. "I'm not coming out there. What the fuck do you want?" He asked, talking through the screen. "This is a restraining order. If you go anywhere near Marcie or the kids, you'll be arrested. She's applying for a divorce today. We're asking for a custody hearing on Friday." "Who the fuck do you think you are? That fat bitch can't make ends meet without me. She can have the fucking kids. Let's see how she expects to support them," laughed Bill. "You can't protect them all the time." "Let me make this very clear. If you touch a hair on any of their heads I'll fucking find you and beat the living shit out of you. You're nothing but a bully and take it out on your wife and kids." "I can't believe you would give up a woman like Sheila for a fucking cow like Marcie. Well Buddy, she's all yours." I took a couple of steps toward the door and Bill quickly shut it. I slipped the restraining order in the mailbox, and went back to Marcie's. She said Bill had already been there and took a lot of his things. When it was time for Bill and Sheila to go to work, we had Trina come over and watch the kids. I had called my lawyer friend Bill Nash and he had the divorce papers drawn up. For now she was asking for custody, alimony and child support. He was able to get Marcie a meeting on the decree on Friday. He had a copy of the papers served on Bill at work on Tuesday. I had to work all week but I told Marcie if Bill came by to call the police and to call me. I promised her I would be there. I did go by each night and slept on the couch and was usually woken up by the girls in the morning. On Friday Marcie had her custody hearing. Bill was stupid and said he would represent himself. The grounds for divorce stated cruelty and adultery. The judge overseeing the case told Bill that it would be wise to have an attorney present. Bill told the judge he didn't need one. What an asshole and stupid as well. Marcie told the judge she was emotionally and physically abused by Bill. She did still have bruises on her arm from the last time he hurt her. Bill denied ever hurting her. He came back with she just bruised easily. When it got time to prove adultery Marcie took out the pictures that I had picked up from the old man at the party. He had at least twenty different shots of Bill having sex with Sheila and even a few with a couple of other women. Bill yelled out that the pictures meant nothing. It was just a party. He even said that Marcie and I were there. The judge asked if it was true and Marcie said it was but we had left before there was any sex or nudity. Bill was really pissed when the Judge ordered him to pay three hundred a week child support and two hundred a week in alimony. This would be in effect till the divorce case would be heard in two weeks. The restraining order would also stay in effect. For now Marcie and the kids could stay in the house. Bill was allowed to come by and collect his personal things with a police escort. He also had the right to see his children on the weekend. He was pissed when he left the courthouse. He said no fat bitch was going to take him like that. Marcie should have been happy but she was scared. Outside Bill was waiting for us but kept his distance. "You don't know who you're fucking with. You might have won the first round but Marcie can't go ten rounds. Even with me giving her five hundred a week. Hell, the condo is fifteen hundred a month. She'll be begging me to take her fat ass back but I wanted rid of her for years now." He walked away laughing. Marcie looked at me. "He's right, I can't do it financially. The girls and I will have to find another place to live. We just can't afford it. I need to find a job and then there will be child care. Jack, did I make a mistake?" Chapter 4 I was reading the paper one morning and I came across the court news. I read where Marcie and Bill's divorce was filed. What was more surprising was the one underneath theirs. It was Angie and Nick; I couldn't help but smile at least a little. Deep down I new I still loved her but was doing everything I could to forget her. Their divorce was listed as irreconcilable differences. I had to wonder what it was. I'd have to ask Uncle Ralph if he knew anything about it. Inside my gut I was both happy and sad. Angie was the only woman I have ever loved and she shit on me. **** At Marcie's divorce hearing Bill had a lawyer with him this time. Unfortunately for him the judge kept the same rulings as the previous judge. Bill still had to pay the three hundred a week in child support and the two hundred in alimony. He told the judge that he wanted a DNA test done and it was approved, but he still had to pay the child support till the test results were final. I asked Marcie if there was any chance that the girls weren't Bill's. "No, Jack, I will be honest with you. I've only been with one other person and her name was Cindy. I'm sure she didn't make me pregnant." I was a bit shocked. We had quite a few gays come in the gym. It never bothered me but I was surprised that Marcie told me about it. Her friend Cindy was now in the service. They had met at the community college and became best friends. Marcie said she was heart broken when Cindy left on deployment. That's when she met and slept with Bill. She got pregnant and that takes us up to now. **** When Bill asked about the separation of assets we had all the paper work ready. The condo was appraised at less than was owed on it. If they were to sell it they would have a negative amount still owed. The economy and real estate market was still very low. Marcie's lawyer said that if Bill would sign the house over to Marcie that she and the girls could still live there. Bill saw it as a way of getting out from underneath the negative debt. He readily agreed to signing over his interest in the house. His lawyer asked about the rest of the assets. All the furnishing and such. They didn't have much in savings and they did have two vehicles that had liens on them. It was decided that both of them would keep their vehicles. The couple of thousand in savings would be divided equally. When it came to dividing the household goods that both have bought together Marcie agreed to let Bill have whatever he wanted. Needless to say he asked for a lot of the major items. He made a list and presented it to the judge. The judge told him he was not getting anything that belonged to the kids. He had asked for the bunk beds and dresser. He mainly got the big screen TV and one of the bedroom sets and the surround sound system plus some other things. They picked a day that he was to come over and pick up his things. He had to have a police officer with him seeing the restraining order was still in place. Bill did have visitation rights to see the girls but he never used them. After the divorce hearing I stopped by to see Marcie. She was sitting at the table crying. "What's the matter Marcie?" I asked. "I don't know how I can make it on what Bill is giving us. I should have let the condo go but the girls love it here, their friends are on the same block. What am I going to do, Jack?" "I have a couple of suggestions if you want to hear them," I said. "Please, anything that might help us out." "Rent me a room! You have a spare room seeing Bill took the furniture from it. You have your room and the girls share the other bedroom and have their bunk beds. I pay two hundred a week where I live now. I would just as soon pay it to you. I can move in my stuff next week. I don't have all that much but I'll put the extra things in storage." Marci stared at me. "Would you make it two hundred fifty if I included meals?" She was smiling at me and knew I liked her cooking. "It's a deal! Do you want to hear the rest of my proposition?" "There's more?" asked Marcie. "I'm in need of a bookkeeper. Not necessarily full time, maybe three days a week. I'll pay you a hundred dollars a day. We also have a woman at the gym who watches the children of members for five dollars an hour. I'm sure she wouldn't mind watching April and Mandy." "Oh my God! That would be wonderful. When can I start?" "Let's say I move in this weekend and you can start on Monday." "Jack, I need to know why you're doing this. I love everything you have done for us but you need to know that I'm not in love with you. To be honest with you I was crying because I got a letter from Cindy and she is moving back to Ohio in a couple of months. I think I still love her Jack but when she see's me she'll probably walk away." Damn! This was a lot to take in. I was at least glad that Marcie was honest with me. Why couldn't Angie have been like that? "If she loved you then, she'll still love you. Have you written her over the years?" "Yes, I've kept it from Bill. I've sent her pictures of the girls and of course I was in a few of them. I wasn't quite as big as I am now. She's the only bright spot in my life other than the girls. Help me Jack! Help me lose some weight." **** Over the next couple of months everything was working out great. I had a nice place to stay and good food prepared by Marcie. I loved watching the girls and started to think of having a family of my own some day. If I could only find the right woman. Marcie worked out everyday at the gym. Even the days she does the bookkeeping she stayed and worked out. She was determined to get in shape. She has already lost twenty pounds and is looking pretty good. It was sort of funny that we've seen each other naked by accident, (using the shower) but we never had sex. I guess once she told me about her and Cindy we just stayed friends. I have to admit I loved her like a sister. It was funny that even my parents treated her like a daughter. One day she decided to tell my parents and my sister the truth about her and Cindy. I think my family took it quite well. They realized that life has changed over the years. Marcie's daughters still called my parents grandpa and grandma. I stopped by to see my Uncle Ralph to ask him if he knew anything about Angie and Nick. Even though it's been way over a year I couldn't get her out of my system. "Yeah, Jack, Angie came to see me a couple of months ago. I know it may sound stupid coming from me but I think she loves you Jack. Now that she's divorced, I think you ought to talk to her." "I can't, Uncle Ralph. She really hurt me bad." "Jack, I don't want to interfere with your life, but you do need to talk to her. She gave me her phone number to give to you. Here it is. Please Jack, do me a favor and at least listen to what she has to say." I couldn't believe my uncle Ralph. He's the same man that told me to be careful that it wouldn't work out. I talked with Marcie and told her all about Angie. It felt good just getting it out of my system. I think I cried while spilling my guts. When I was finished talking Marcie hugged me and said she thought I should see Angie and listen to what she had to say. Meanwhile back at the home front, the DNA test came back and confirmed that Bill was the father of the girls. Now they were just waiting for the divorce to become final. Bill was offered a promotion if he moved to Dayton, Ohio. He accepted it but was surprised when Sheila said she wasn't moving. There was a big argument when Bill found out he wasn't the only guy Sheila was sleeping with. **** The day came when Gunnery Sergeant Jacynthia Quinn, USMC, came to the gym. She was a good-looking woman who looked like she wouldn't take shit from anyone. She had on her uniform and asked if Marcie was there. Marcie came out of the back room crying when she heard her name. I watched them hug. I was happy for both of them. Marcie asked me if she could leave the girls there while she and Cindy went out for lunch and talked. First she introduced her daughters to Cindy. Both of the girls hugged the Marine. I could see an immediate bond forming. Marcie gave me a hug and said, "Thank you." Nothing else needed to be said. Just Walk Away Later I found out more about Jacynthia Quinn. She was passing through on her way home to Columbus for leave, having returned from her third deployment in Afghanistan with an oak leaf cluster to her Silver Star that she received and wore proudly from her duty in Iraq. She didn't know what to expect when she stopped by to visit her friend Marcie. After they had dinner together Marcie invited her to stay at the house for a couple of days. I would spend more time at the gym to give them some privacy. At the end of the week Marcie told me that Cindy wanted her to move to Columbus with her. She even said that after her divorce was final they could get married in New York. ("Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is history). Cindy told her that her next duty station was recruiting for the Marines and would finish her career in Columbus. Marcie wanted to know what I thought. I told her to follow her heart. Forget what others think. Life is too short to worry about what others think. She told Cindy that she would move to Columbus with her but she needed to sell her house first. She couldn't afford to sell it at a loss but at least wanted to break even. They decided that they would have a long distant relationship till things were resolved, speaking of the divorce and selling of the house. It was a lot closer than Iraq. At least they would be able to see each other every week or so. Until then, they would speak on the phone almost nightly. One night I had just eaten dinner and was sitting on the couch when the phone rang. I rarely ever answered it since no one ever called me at Marcie's house. She was taking a shower and I thought it might be Cindy so I answered it. "Jack? Is that you?" My heart fell into my stomach. I knew that voice. It was Angie. My voice cracked when I said, "Yes, it's me. What do you want Angie?" "I talked to your Uncle Ralph and gave him my number to give to you. I don't know if you had seen him or not, but I must see you." "What's so important Angie?" "I have to tell you in person, not over a phone. Can I come by your gym tomorrow?" "Sure, I'll be there all day." I tried to act like it was nothing but deep down I wanted to see her. The last thing she said to me was, "Jack, I still love you," and then hung up. I was a mess. I didn't know what to think. Marcie came out of the bathroom and asked me who called. I told her that it was Angie. She wanted to see me. "What about?" asked Marcie. "I don't know, but she said she has to tell me face to face. She's coming to the gym tomorrow." "Jack, I know you still have feelings for her. You try to hide them but I can tell. I had the same problems with Cindy. They won't just go away, you have to see her." I went to work the next morning. Angie was already there waiting on me. She looked so beautiful and had tears in her eyes. I tried to act nonchalant but it wasn't working out so well. God, how I missed her. I didn't realize how much till I saw her. "Hi Angie, you're looking good." That was an understatement. "What is it that you have to say to me?" "Can we talk in your office? This is extremely personal." She had my attention as we went into the office. The gym was busy with a number of women exercising. This was a time of day for women only. Many had brought their kids. It was a good service that we provided. Angie said, "One second," as she walked out of the office, returning a minute later with a little boy, maybe a little over a year old. With tears in her eyes Angie said, "He's your son." I was totally speechless; I had no idea what to say. He was as cute as a button. "I tried to tell you I was pregnant the time I called you but you said you didn't want to ever see me again and to never call you. I didn't know what to do. The day you saw me with Nick I was going to tell him it was over between us. We did go on a couple of dates and yes we had sex. "It was the worst mistake I've ever made in my life but I thought if I ended it with Nick that you might never know and we could be together. When I saw you at the door to the motel room my heart just sank. I didn't know what to do. I don't know if you knew it but I left a few minutes later. "I tried to tell you but you wanted nothing to do with me. That's when I went ahead and married Nick. I told him that Jimmy wasn't his but he said he didn't care. I was living a lie and I hated it. I thought you should know that you had a son. In fact I put your last name on his birth certificate without Nick knowing. "When he found out he was furious. I told him I couldn't take it anymore and was going to tell you the truth. You deserved to know you had a child. He said if I told you or anyone else that Jimmy wasn't his child he would divorce me. "I told my mother and asked her what I should do? She told me that I should follow my heart, that she made the mistake of not following hers. So, here I am. I love you Jack and wanted you to know that you have a son." She was now crying. She got a couple of tissues off my desk. What the hell was I suppose to do? I had no doubt that she was telling me the truth. She could have had a life on easy street staying with Nick but she chose to tell me the truth. "I'm not here for child support or anything like that. Jack, what I did to you was horrible. I cheated on you and I'm so sorry for it and I don't know how to make it up to you. Tell me to leave and I'll go. If you want to be in Jimmy's life that fine with me. You can see him whenever you want, I just need you to say something." "Damn you! Damn you! Damn you! You meant the world to me. I've never loved anyone the way I loved you. I've been trying to forget you for over a year and now you come back and tell me I have a son. Do you expect me to just forgive what you've done to me?" "I don't know Jack. You deserve a lot better than me but I thought you would want to know about your son." I walked over and took the little fellow into my arms. I knew I had tears in my eyes. I was so confused. "Did you tell my Uncle Ralph about Jimmy?" "Yes, and your sister too. They both said I needed to tell you myself, so here I am. I can't expect you to forgive me but I've always loved you." "I need some time to think, Angie. I want to be part of my son's life but this is so much all at once. Where can I get in touch with you?" She kind of smiled. "I'm back home with Mom and Dad. I told them I was coming to see you." "Give me a few days to think about this. I'll come down and see you this weekend." I kissed and hugged my son. I knew I wanted him to be part of my life. Truth be known I wanted Angie to be in my life also. Epilogue: I talked with Marcie and Cindy about my situation. I got some good information from both of them. Cindy said, "When Marcie first got married I hated her for leaving me. We kept in touch and it was her letters that I held dearest to my heart. I did three tours of duty in Afghanistan and two in Iraq, not caring what would happen to me at any time. "It was then I got the letter where Marcie told me she was getting a divorce. I felt I had something to live for. I decided I was going to fight for her. I loved her then and I loved her now. I learned life is too short to worry about the past. If you love this woman and have a child with her there shouldn't be much to think about. "You're g good man, Jack. I know because of the way you helped Marcie and the kids. "It seems to me that she made the first move and now it's up to you. If you really love her you're going to have to forgive her to make it work," said Cindy. She paused, and went on. "Jack, it couldn't have been easy for her to admit everything she did. She gave up her life and marriage to be honest with you. I don't think you will ever have a problem trusting her. Most of all she says she still loves you. You have a son and a woman who loves you. Don't just walk away." I knew deep down what I was going to do. I called my sister and she told me she had talked with Angie and believed she really loved me. She told her that she needed to tell me herself; I shouldn't hear about the baby from anyone else. My Uncle Ralph pretty much told me the same thing. "Jack, you have a second chance here with a woman who loves you. I'm not going to tell you what to do. This one is up to you." On Saturday I showed up at the Lockard's. Mrs. Lockard answered the door. "Hi Jack, good to see you again, come sit down, I'll let Angie know you're here." I looked over and saw Jimmy playing in the living room. I sat down and he quickly crawled over to me. I picked him up and put him on my lap. I hugged and kissed my son. I now had tears in my eyes. I couldn't help it, it just happened. I knew what I was about to do was right. Angie came in the room and looked at me holding Jimmy. She couldn't help but smile. I asked her if she would ask her Mother and Father to please come into the room. I had something to say. Her Dad came in and nodded before sitting down. Her mother looked a bit nervous but sat down also. I got up and set Jimmy on the floor and asked Angie to sit down, which she did. I got down on one knee and said, "Angie, the last time I came to town to see you was to ask you to marry me. I loved you with all my heart and realize I still do. I think we can leave the past in the past and go ahead together as husband and wife. I'm asking you to marry me and move to Cincinnati with me." Angie was crying and her mother was crying, in turn made little Jimmy cry. Mr. Lockard sat there in silence. After wiping her tears, Angie said, "I love you Jack and always have. I'll be the best wife and mother I can be." I slipped the ring on her finger and leaned over and kissed her. Even her Dad smiled. I think life was going to be just fine. We were married the following week by a Justice of the Peace. I made a deal with Marcie to buy her house for what she owed on it. She moved to Columbus with Cindy and the girls. I would miss the girls but there was nothing stopping us from going to Columbus and seeing them from time to time. Since I lost my bookkeeper, Angie said she took accounting for her business degree and took over the family books. I thought our first time together making love might be difficult but it was far from it. Making love is nothing like just having sex. The two of us become one and we could cuddle forever. Eight months after we got married I was informed that Jimmy was going to have a little sister. Life couldn't be much better. After Marcie's divorce was final she asked Angie and I if we could watch the girls for a week. She and Cindy were going to New York to tie the knot. Even Bill was happy about it because he wouldn't have to pay alimony but would have to pay his child support. I'm pretty sure he didn't want to mess with Cindy. Sheila ended up selling her house and moving somewhere. I really didn't care because I was with the woman I loved. Thank God that I didn't 'Just Walk Away'. * Thank you for reading my story. Comments are welcome and appreciated DG Hear