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Paying the Piper

 This is a work of fiction, none of the people are real. Everyone engaged in sexual activity is an adult over 18-years of age.

Cindy Thompson was trying desperately to control her heartrate and breathing. The 34-year-old wife and mother of twins was in a crisis of her own making, and she was terrified there was no way out...

The Story;

Cindy had met and fallen in love with Rick Thomas their junior year of college. He was fun, energetic, and made her laugh like nobody else. He thought of fun ways to surprise her and always seemed to know how to best show her he cared. Sometimes they would just take long walks on Sunday afternoon or sneak into one of the empty classroom buildings on campus where they would just sit, talking for hours. He was handsome and kind, which in college was a rare combination. Her parents loved him, and first sight and his family were smitten with her as well. Rick's sister Kathy once said, only half-jokingly, "If he ever breaks up with you, we're sure going to miss him."

By the middle of their last semester Rick landed an entry level job with major investment firm on the west coast. Cindy had earned a degree in education and began looking for teaching jobs in Orange County, close to Rick's assignment in Anaheim. She was hired by a local school district to teach 7th grade math. To celebrate their mutual new employment Rick took her out to a special dinner in San Clemente, overlooking the Pacific. Right before dessert he got down on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage. As per Rick, the ring was gorgeous, just under two carats and set in the gold band that was his paternal grandmother's. Cindy cried tears of joy, violently embraced Rick with all her might while whispering in his ear, "Yes, yes, forever yes" as the patrons around them exploded into applause.

Fast forward 9 years. Cindy was 32 and the mother of twins, Michael, and Sara. They were 6 years old. Cindy was still teaching but growing tired of the low pay and long hours. While she loved some aspects of the job, being away from her family and putting up with idiot parents convinced her, enough was enough. Both she and Rick were very good with finances so Cindy could step away from her teaching job even if it took her a year to land on her feet. It only took five months and it happened by random chance.

Cindy had kept in touch with her best friend in college, Kelly. They met their freshman year and immediately hit it off. They ended up being roommates all four years. After graduation they lived together during Cindy's 9-month engagement to Rick. If Cindy was fun-loving and adventurous, Kelly was a hurricane! It would be tough to say Kelly took risks, because Kelly didn't seem to know the meaning of the word. Along with her free-spirit, Kelly was absent any sense of planning or long-term thinking. She enjoyed the moment and rarely if ever thought, "maybe I should stop and consider how this could turn out." Without any, "look before you leap" DNA Kelly had led them on many an adventure. Fortunately for Kelly, she had Cindy to balance her and look out for her. More than once, Cindy had dragged Kelly away from potential disaster. Kelly's anger would flair up in the moment and later she would thank Cindy for being the friend she loved and needed.

So, it was one of these occasions that Cindy was on hand to pull Kelly's ass out of the fire if need be and, as it turned out, inadvertently set her career on a new course. It was late January when Kelly called Cindy and asked her to be her "date" to a wedding in three weeks. Kelly's boss was getting married in Napa and she had been invited to the festivities. She was excited to party and see what adventure may ensue (including sexual) but she had grown up emotionally and realized it would be better if her wingman was by her side.

"This will be so much fun Cindy," Kelly said, pleading with her pal, "Lots of wine, dancing, and a gaggle good-looking young professionals!"

"Married with twins' sis." (Cindy's nickname for Kelly) "So much fun for whom?"

"Oh, don't be a prude girl," Kelly retorted, "Let that gorgeous blond hair of yours down a bit. Some fun away from Rick and the kids may put a little spring in your step!"

"Rick puts plenty of spring in my step, thank you sis. How about I bring him along?"

"Sorry girlfriend, but the invitation says guest not guests," Kelly replied wondering why her friend couldn't be just a little looser every once and a while.

Cindy finished their chat by promising to check with Rick and get back with her. Later that evening, after the kids were down Cindy broached the subject with her husband. His response didn't surprise her. "You better go and keep an eye on her Cinderella." (His pet name for her.) "I'm sure it will be fun. Maybe you can swing by Frogs Leap and pick up a case of their 16 cab for us." When she asked about the kids Rick replied, "I've been wanting to see mom and dad. It's been 4 months since our last visit so I'm sure they'll jump at the chance for a long weekend with their grandkids. Go take care of your pal and enjoy a 'twin-free' weekend babe." She marveled at how she married such a good natured and generous man. (Not to mention hot!) About 10 minutes later she was expressing her appreciation in a very amorous manner! She fucked his brains out off and on for the better part of an hour.

Three weeks later a somewhat frustrated Cindy sat at a table in one of the nicer wineries Napa. She watched Kelly dance with one of the groomsmen who was probably about 8 years younger. As Cindy kept an eye on her rambunctious friend, she chatted with one of the bride's cousins. They were comparing notes about weddings and observed that this one had started late and was generally disorganized. Sally, the cousin, noted offhand, "Somebody could make a killing if they were a great event coordinator!" That got Cindy to thinking as she also contemplated how to pry Kelly away from her 22-year-old dance partner, who clearly wanted to do more than the salsa!

It took about 6 months to set up but Cindy was finally embarking on her new career with her own event planning business, We Plan, You Play. She was by nature an organizer. Her lesson plans and classroom execution were always impeccable so the transfer to weddings, reunions, business meetings and any other gatherings was seamless. She studied several good companies, researched the shit out of what it took to find the right niche and launched into her newfound passion with relentless drive. Two years in, she was thriving on smaller weddings, especially destination weddings along California's beautiful coast. It was then she met Bennett Davis.

Bennett was the owner / operator of three high end boutique hotels, all of which were perfect for destination weddings. Sand Diego, Santa Barbara and the Monterey Peninsula were each home to one of his properties and he had done quite well for himself. He worked hard, had an amazing staff who he paid well and from whom he demanded excellence. He had leveraged everything he had (and then some truth be told) when he was 26 to purchase a rundown 90-year-old mansion in Santa Barbara. He had just enough money and big enough balls to open it on time and barely under budget. His first two years were spent working 100 plus hours, 7 days per week. He almost failed simply because word of mouth, even when complementary, traveled painfully slow. However, by year three he broke even and in his fourth year the profits began to come in. Three years later he opened in San Diego and in another two years the gem in Monterey became a reality.

14 years in he still took his business seriously, worked long and hard hours but was also known to enjoy a good time, especially if it included fine wines, dancing and the opposite sex. Davis was, what women who knew him well described as a "CBNA", confirmed bachelor - not an asshole. He treated people with fairness and honesty even when letting potential female suiters know he was not looking for a long-term relationship. At 40 he was comfortable in his own skin and very much at ease with the life he had built for himself.

And so it was about 16 months prior to Cindy's moment of crisis that Davis Bennet and his head of staff Lori Templeton were meandering through the L.A. Convention Center on South Figueroa attending a gathering of service providers in the hospitality industry. At the end of the third isle, having spotted nothing of real interest yet, they came across Cindy Thomas and her We Plan, You Pay display. Bennett would later tell Cindy privately, he was impressed by her presentation, but it was her bright blue eyes that hinted at a deeply mischievous personality that grabbed his attention. She would later admit (only to him) that she did a very, very subtle double-take when she spotted him because in her words he was "gorgeous but didn't look like a prick." They struck up a conversation that lasted 45 minutes. It was professional but the connection was instantaneous.

He asked tough questions: What was her track record? Who were the key people on her staff? How did she interreact with the property leadership team? What was her worst event and why? Best and why? How did she determine overhead and profit margins? He also managed to toss in a few casual but slightly personal questions. What is your favorite wine? Can you dance worth a flip? Beach or mountains? He noticed her wedding ring, but he was just enjoying a bit of friendly banter while determining if this was someone with whom he wanted to do business.

For her part, she responded enthusiastically to his questions. She could tell he knew his business but didn't seem to take himself too seriously. She also enjoyed the more personal approach he took.

"Pinot Noir, only Willamette Valley and preferably 2014. In particular, Evening Land La Source from Eola-Amity Hills"

"I can waltz if need be but The Carlton, the Twist and the Tango, are my favorites but only with my husband."

"Mountains in the summer, any quiet beach in the summer."

She smiled as she answered but decided not to reply with any questions about him. Lori Templeton took all of this in with a wry grin. She knew when her boss was genuinely interested in someone. He was very polite and friendly to everyone he met, but he had a way of leaning in a bit when he really wanted to engage the person with whom he was speaking.

As they wrapped up the conversation and all the necessary information was exchanged Bennett said, "Mrs. Templeton and I are going to grab dinner at Fogo de Chao in a couple of hours, would you care to join us?

Lori noticed he used her formal name, something he rarely did, and she assumed he wanted to make sure Cindy knew his intentions were not inappropriate. Cindy begged off noting she was heading home after she took down her display to see the Rick and the twins before bedtime. However, she also mentioned an interest in a site visit and inquired if that would be possible in the next couple of weeks. By the time they were done it was agreed she would visit his original location in Santa Barbara, (his favorite of the three) a week from Wednesday for lunch and a tour. Lori and Cindy exchanged numbers, Cindy shook both their hands and ended their initial interaction.

As they walked away Lori kept glancing at Bennett. He could feel her gaze. "What?" he asked as innocently as possible. "I assume you saw the ring on her left-hand boss." "Well, a guy can flirt from time to time, can't he?" he replied feigning hurt. She never looked at him but replied knowingly, "Oh, is that what it was?"

Cindy's site visit couldn't have gone better. She had agreed to meet Bennett and Lori for lunch. It was only about 120 miles from their home in Orange County, but Cindy gave herself 4 hours to make the trip. She did it in just under 3 so had a little time to check out the Old Mission which was less than a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Always careful about her time she arrived at 11:45. The parking attendant opened her door, smiled warmly, and said, "Welcome to the Winfield Scott Hotel Mrs. Thomas!" She was encouraged that her hosts were possibly as good as they had claimed!

As she began to climb the short stairs into the hotel lobby she looked up and saw Bennett Davis, dressed in a finely pressed pair of Khaki slacks and a crisp dark blue M.J. Bayle shirt. His loafers and belt were fine Italian leather. His apparel made his handsomely rugged features stand out even more. The deep blue made his dark hair and even darker brown eyes stand out. Cindy rarely took note of men, beyond Rick. She wasn't a prude or naïve, she just had a man she thought was gorgeous, so most others didn't compare. Bennett was in the same league in the looks department, maybe even a notch above and this caught her by surprise. She also noted Lori was not by his side.

"So glad you could make it Cindy, I'm excited to show you the place and think about how a partnership could be great for both of us." Bennett exclaimed as he held out his hand in greeting.

"Thanks Bennett, at first glance the place looks beautiful!" Cindy replied taking his hand with a warm smile.

Perhaps neither of them was yet aware, but the connection they felt when they met in L.A. was genuine. They both respected hard work and success. Neither of them was pretentious nor cared for people who were full of themselves. They were both driven to be the best they could. And neither of them was hard on the eyes.

Cindy had chosen to wear a light but relatively modest black Tory Burch sleeveless sundress with a pastel Painted Linen scarf that made her bright blues eyes sparkle. Her dress was slightly shorter than knee length which showed off as just as much of her long legs as she wanted. Her Stuart Weitzman sandals were comfortable but also classy with enough heal to bring her 5'7" height closer to 5'8". Cindy was pragmatic. She knew men like Bennett appreciated a woman's looks which was never a hinderance when doing business. However, she was what some of her friends would call, "innocent as a dove, but sly as a fox."

She took Bennett's extended arm and immediately began asking questions about the property as they glided into the hotel lobby. It seemed every staff member knew her name and when they arrived at the table on the patio for lunch there was a small vase of Californian wildflowers as a centerpiece. The lavender, deep red, and bright white colors really popped against the white linen and Pacific blue background. Not surprisingly, there was also a bottle of the Pinot Noir Cindy had mentioned when they first met. As Bennett pulled out her chair she thought, "This guy is very good, I'll need to be on my A game, so I don't get fleeced!" They chatted for a few minutes about the drive, the recent wildfires, and the glorious ocean view. Within 10 minutes Lori came bounding around the corner, smiling, and carrying a small folder for the business part of the meeting. Cindy rose and hugged her. While she was taken with Bennett, she also genuinely liked what she knew of Lori and was happy to see her.

The three chatted for another 45 minutes over lunch and then began to get down to business. Cindy had limited her wine to a glass and a half so to stay focused, but also to let her potential partners know she was here to work, not play. After lunch, Lori excused herself and for the next hour or so Bennett gave her a top to bottom tour of the Winfield Scott. Cindy was no novice and had done her homework. She knew the hotel must have been named for the famous 1583 shipwreck off the Santa Barbara coast. The ship went down with a reported 1.5 million in gold bullion, and she joked that perhaps Bennett's good fortune was due to treasure hunting.

He smiled, winked, and replied, "That's not the kind of treasure I want!" They laughed and continued the tour. A little later Lori rejoined them, and they adjourned to Bennett's office to discuss options in detail. They came to several mutually beneficial agreements about Cindy bringing weddings and family reunions to Bennett's properties and everyone seemed pleased about the possibilities.

Late in the afternoon, their business concluded, Bennett had Cindy's white VW Passat brought around front. Lori said her goodbye's and the two of them remained for just another moment together. Bennett shook her hand with firmness but also with warmth perhaps holding it just a bit longer than he should and said, "It has been a delight being with you today and getting to know you better. I know we can do some great business together, but I'm also glad to get to know you better as a person." He then leaned in and gave her a polite kiss on the cheek. Cindy smiled and thanked him for a wonderful day and said she would be in touch with Lori about a couple of weddings she thought would be perfect for this location.

As she drove down the long driveway and left the property, she felt a strange sensation that caught her off guard. Her panties were slightly moist, and she realized there had been a very physical attraction to Bennett. She shook her head as if trying to dislodge the thoughts but the picture of Bennett standing at the top of the steps when she arrived, the little details he had made perfect and his soft kiss on the cheek before she left would not leave her alone. She was aroused!

She was still daydreaming when she glanced in the rearview mirror before changing lanes. Out of the corner of her eye she caught a glimpse of a book on the back seat. It was one of Sara's favorites she must have left in the car. The Most Magnificent Thing was sitting face up and it brought Cindy quickly back to the real world. "Oh girl," she thought, "You've been spending too much time with Kelly! You're not a 16-year-old sophomore, you're a happily married woman, get your head out of your ass!"

She was genuinely disturbed with herself. She was married to an amazing man and had two beautiful children. There was no room in her life for acting like a giddy teenager much less flirting with anyone not named Rick Thomas. After spending 20 minutes chastising herself she popped on a podcast that discussed women's issues in business and began to disengage. However, if she had been honest with herself, she would have admitted she edged a little too close to crossing a dangerous line.

Back at the hotel, Bennett went to his office and quickly took care of a few business issues. He then retired to his room for an hour of relaxing before his evening run on the beach. He tossed off his clothes and stretched out on the bed. He began thinking about the day and more to the point about her. She was beautiful inside and out. Bennett had been with several good-looking women in his life, some even stunning, but none of them like Cindy. Her eyes, her personality, her outstanding legs, the way she walked, mostly the view when she walked away of him were all swirling through his noggin. She was married dammit, but she was amazing! Then he did something he rarely did because he rarely had to, he masturbated. Images of Cindy writhing under him, crying out for him to fuck her filled his mind with the most erotic musings. He came quickly.

At the same moment Rick was at home with Michael and Sara preparing dinner. He too was thinking of Cindy as he moved around the kitchen cooking their meal and laughing with their kids. He realized at that moment, how truly blessed he was. When Cindy arrived, the table was set and they enjoyed a delightful hour over the meal, listening to Sara explain how she found the neighbor's cat Ralph in their yard and had played with him for a while before Mrs. Bowling had come over and took him home. She wondered if maybe they should get a pet.

Later when the kids were in bed, Cindy, perhaps wanting to assure herself she was a one-man woman, took a hot bubble bath, put on her sexiest barbie doll lingerie, and made passionate love to Rick. Only once while her husband was working his oral magic on her clit, did she close her eyes and imagined it was Bennett between her legs...

Six months, and four We Plan, You Play weddings hosted at Winfield Scott later, the line was crossed although not without warning. Perhaps it started with an inadvertent touch on the arm, or Bennett placing his hand on the small of her back as he held the door open for her. Maybe it was the time spent together since Bennett made it a point to drop in every time Cindy's company was on site. Whatever the case, Cindy never shied away from his gestures, compliments, or even mild flirtations. Rick had only traveled with her once to see the venue, but it had been early on, and Bennett was away that day on other business... or so they were told.

It was almost 1 AM. Cindy and Lori had just said goodbye to a very happy mother and father of the bride after another over the top successful wedding. The clean-up team was about done when Cindy and Lori sat down on the patio, alone enjoying a lovely glass of Dom Perignon that was left over from the reception. OK, technically they MAY have ACCIDENTALLY slipped it out from the bar and into Lori's tote bag, which inadvertently was placed in the very back of the hotel giant walk in refrigerator under a box of lettuce, but these mistakes can happen!

"I know it's late" said Lori kicking off both her dress shoes that were killing her feet, "But can we talk for just a minute?"

"Sure" replied Cindy copying her friend's idea and rubbing her toes. "Anything specific?"

"You know I've come to really enjoy working with you and consider you a friend, right?" Lori said with some trepidation in her voice. Cindy nodded in agreement wondering where this was headed. "And I don't feel I ever have the right to butt into anyone's business uninvited, but I need to tell you something or I'll feel like I've let you down. Is that OK?" Cindy didn't respond but nodded her head in agreement.

"You know he's going to fuck you if you let him" Lori said in a hushed tone. Cindy raised an eyebrow but didn't reply so she continued. "I love both of you to pieces but I saw the first day we met in L.A. that you were the kind of woman with whom Bennett is attracted. To put in bluntly, you are drop dead gorgeous inside and out. You are a hot woman with an amazing head on your shoulders and that drives him nuts. The only reason he hasn't come on too strong is because he respects you and your marriage. I won't say he would never ruin your marriage because that just isn't true. He may not think bedding you would be harmful if kept secret, but in his heart, he knows the tragic results that could occur. One of the things that makes him so great at business is his ability to think 5 steps ahead when the other guys is still on step 2. So, he's laying low, not pushing it, but if he thinks you want it, he won't hesitate to take you to bed.

Cindy was listening intently although she found it hard to keep eye contact with Lori whose gaze wasn't accusatory or judgmental, but nor was it gentle.

"Cindy, I don't see any way you fuck Bennett and keep your life intact. He won't take you away from Rick and marry you. You won't divorce your husband, keep the twins, and sail off into the sunset. Bennet isn't a cad, he won't drop you, in fact whether you guys have sex or not, he'll probably be your friend for life. He's smitten with you in that way, and he is incredibly loyal. It's not just the business, although he's very impressed with that side of you, he loves who you are as a person. But never enough to settle down with you. You must ask yourself if you want your family as it is today, or a fuck buddy for the rest of your life, with about a 95% chance it will ruin your marriage."

Cindy had tears in her eyes when she responded. "Oh Lori, I'm so confused, I don't know what to do. Rick is an amazing man, even 10 years into our marriage we laugh easily, have serious long talks and rock it in bed. He supports and challenges me in all the right ways. I can't imagine my life without him and the thought of hurting him makes me almost sick to my stomach... But Bennett..." her voice trailed off for a moment... she was trying to find the words. "He's intoxicating in a way Rick isn't. I feel like he's dangerous, but somehow, in a good way. Certainly, in a way that makes me want him sexually and in every other way."

She paused for a moment and took a couple of sips of champagne. Lori gave her time to breath without interjecting. She wanted her new friend to wrestle with reality without rescuing her. Whatever decision Cindy made; it must be hers. Lori had the courage to tell her the truth but now it was time to shut up and listen.

"I've never felt overwhelmed by anyone in my life. I fell desperately in love with Rick pretty quickly, but I wouldn't say I was so smitten I felt out of control. The way I'm feeling with Bennett is out of control. When he looks at me a certain way, touches my hand or even leans toward me in a slightly intimate way I just melt inside. I don't know why, but I know if the moment was right and he led me to his bed, I would go willingly wanting to give myself to him."

She continued, "Six months ago, I would have been offended if anyone suggested somebody could be more desirable than my husband or that I could enter an affair. I'm no progressive. I think all this horse shit about women should be free to roam outside a marriage and expect their husband to remain loyal is beyond nonsensical. Marriage is a commitment both ways. I've tried to picture Rick coming home and telling me he's been with another woman, and it kills me even to imagine it. So why am I being such a fucking hypocrite and playing with fire?"

"What are you going to do?" Lori asked tenderly, saddened by her friend's pain.

"Well, 80% of me says I'm staying faithful to my husband and kids" Cindy began. "I won't quit working with you guys because it's just too good a business deal to let go. That 80% says I can do it and not give in to the desire between my ears and between my legs. But the other 20% says, 'fuck him, fuck him, fuck him!" It says I can keep it hidden and discrete. It says I can let this run its course, get it out of my system and then return to how I know it should be. In all honesty, I'm not sure. Most days, I long for the 80% to win out. But there are moments..." At this point she put her head in her hands and began to sob.

Lori stood and came around to Cindy's side of the table. Gathering her friend in her arms she held her for a few moments without saying a word. Finally, she said, "Well, you know the truth, you know the risks, I really hope you make the right decisions going forward."

The next day Lori strode into Bennett's office without invitation and with a grim look on her face. She locked on her boss's eyes and held his gaze for a moment before speaking. "If you fuck her, I'll quit and never work for you again. And don't think you can hide it from me boss. I've worked by your side almost every day for the last 7 years. I'll know even if you hide it... I'll know!" She turned without waiting for a reply and almost, but not quite, slammed the door behind her as she left...

Ultimately, it was the perfect storm. Three weeks after Lori spoke to Cindy and confronted Bennett, they had the rarest of circumstances. A hard rain from a storm that blew up out of nowhere on an outdoor wedding that was almost completely ruined. Everyone scampered to help move indoors with Cindy and Lori both shouting directions to the staff while trying to get the bride and groom into the hotel lobby. Four hours later, well after midnight, what could be salvaged was, the reception had been as good as they could make it, and everyone had gone back to their rooms to crash. Cindy and Bennet stood at the very back of the patio, in the shadows away from any prying eyes.

Bennett put his arm around Cindy's shoulder. He knew she was upset even though she couldn't control the weather. She always strove for perfection, which was one of the things that drew him to her. As he held her in a half hug looking out at the Pacific he said, "You did the best you could partner. You can't dictate to Mother Nature, and everyone had a pretty good time despite the downpour. Hell, in a couple of years it will be their talk around the Thanksgiving table providing laughs for years to come!"

Cindy didn't pull away; she allowed her head to lean into his chest. It felt so good to be this close, it felt safe and yes, it felt arousing. Cindy's 80% was beginning to lose the battle. She sighed deeply as if giving up, said nothing, turned for a full hug and looked up into Bennett's eyes.

Before he leaned in to kiss her, he said," Think about this carefully. I'm not going to push myself on you, you must want it as much as me. If not, let's stay friends and business partners. We may always wonder 'what if' but if it isn't 100% both ways, we should stop right this moment.

In the next instant, the 80% dissolved, the line was crossed, and they both took a step that within a few months they would regret for the rest of their lives. "Take me to bed" Cindy breathed. Bennett leaned down and attacked her mouth with passion and ferocity known only to the most intense lovers. Their tongues battled for control and depth while their hands began to wander and explore. Cindy moaned as Bennett's right hand cradled the back of her head while his left slid down and began to massage her ass. Bennett deftly pushed her up against the patio wall, grabbing both of her hands and pinning them over her head. Cindy loved the vulnerability she felt as he explored her 34C breasts. "You are the most beautiful, erotic woman I have ever met" Bennett whispered as he again moved his mouth to cover hers. Cindy moaned in response and pushed her chest and pelvis into his. Within another minute Bennett swept her up into his strong arms. She gasped at his loving but aggressive touch as he carried her around to the back door of his bedroom kissing her deeply all the way. Neither noticed Lori standing on the upper deck of the patio looking down with a tear in her eyes.

When they reached the bedroom, it was more of the same only stronger. Bennett didn't set her gently on the bed, as Rick would have done, but he tossed her onto the King size mattress. Her dress was now bunched up around her waist with her powder blue lacey French cut panties were in full view because her legs were spread just wide enough. He short blond hair dipped down over one eye and the spaghetti string straps had fallen from her shoulders. As Bennett stood over her peeling off his shirt, he marveled at how intoxicating she was to him. He was breathing heavily with anticipation.

She laid back, leaving her legs still parted enough to be inviting but not lewd. She bit her lower lip and said playfully but with a bit of an edge, "Oh you bastard what are you going to do to me?" This only inflamed her lover more, "I'm going to fuck you so hard you won't be able to walk straight tomorrow" he growled. "I'm going to give that pussy what it's been begging for, a thorough pounding!"

Cindy would verbally urge Rick to be more aggressive from time to time, but they had never taken it to this level. She felt herself becoming more aroused by the second. When Bennett dropped his slacks and kicked them off, she saw the outline of his cock in his briefs. But when he stripped them off, she gasped. Her husband, who was now a distant memory was not poorly endowed, probably 6+ inches fully erect. Had she been thinking about him she would have remembered how much he pleased her with his size and abilities. But she wasn't thinking about Rick, or her kids or her job or anything... she was looking at and drooling over a fully erect Bennett Davis and his 8-9 inches of thick hard cock.

She got to her knees, pulling her dress over her head. Discarding it onto the floor she began to crawl over to where he stood stoking himself. "Fuuuuccckkkk yessss" she hissed looking up at him, "Give me that dick you big cocked bastard, give it to me now!" She tried to engulf all of him, but she found him too long and too thick. Tring to keep him in her mouth she slid off the bed and onto her knees. Cindy was now able to wrap both hands around his girth and began working hard to lick, kiss and suck him with gusto. For his part Bennett moaned softly, "oh fuck, fuck fuck..." while she worked her magic. She was so turned on by his oral response that she didn't fight him when his right hand gripped her hair and pushed her willing mouth up and down on his shaft.

Bennett only lasted about 4 minutes when she felt him tense between her lips. "Oh shit Cindy, I'm going to cum" he said between clenched teeth while easing his grip on her head. He didn't want to assume she would swallow. Cindy, rarely if ever swallowed Rick's but this wasn't Rick; this was the hottest sex in her life, and she was determined to give as good as she got. She pulled off him and looking up said, "Make me take it lover, punish me with your cum, fill my mouth and make me swallow!"

This resulted in two immediate outcomes. Bennett grabbed her hair again and pushed her mouth onto his rapidly expanding manhood and almost as quickly exploded into her mouth stream after stream of his seed. Cindy noted Bennett, like Rick was salty but Bennett's cream seemed thicker. She swallowed every drop and let her mouth slip off his softening dick as she tried to catch her breath.

Her lover now wanted desperately to keep the intensity up and reciprocate. Again, picking Cindy up, this time he did lay her down more gently but them immediately dove into her pussy. Pushing her legs up so he could remove her sexy underwear, Bennett knelt before her. He pushed her legs apart and her bare shaved cunt was now his for feasting. "Ohhhhh fuuuccckkk" Cindy screamed grabbing the back of his head and pushing his face down into her. "Yeeessss, right there you fucker, oh my yes, lick my clit, fuck me with your tongue!" Needing no encouragement his oral skills over the next 5-7 minutes brought her to two earth-shattering orgasms. And then the real fucking began.

Cindy knew he was hard again and didn't wait for him to initiate. She was wild with passion. She rolled over pushing her ass up and her face down. She rested on her knees and forearms. Looking back over her shoulder she demanded. "Give it to me Bennett, I'm on fire, give it to me now." Knowing the power had shifted and he was in control for the moment he rubbed his cockhead back and forth over her soaking pussy. He teased her with evil precision not allowing himself to enter her even when she pushed back into him.

"Tell me, Cindy. Tell me what you want" he firmly insisted.

"I want your cock in my pussy now. I want your hands pulling me back by the hips forcing you deep into me!"

"I don't know" he replied with a menacing look like a lion about to devour his prey while he rubbed is hard cock on her clit. "You've teased me so badly over the last couple months. Pretending to be the good faithful wife, while tormenting me with your hot body and sweet charms. You know what you've been doing so admit it and ask me nicely, beg me bitch for what you really want."

"Damn you Bennett, I need your cock, I'm soooo horny for you. Yes, I admit it, I've been a bitchy tease. I've been a bad girl and I need you to put me in my place. Please lover, please fuck me, give it to me now!"

Bennett needed no more prodding; he was wild with lust. He grabbed her hips firmly and drove his cock into her again and again mercilessly giving her what she craved most. As he fucked her, he spanked her ass telling her he loved making her pussy his. She came within two minutes screaming into her pillow. "Yeeeesssss oh fuck, oh shit, aaaggghhhh!" Her paramour slowed his thrusts making them long and deliberate while she caught her breath. She moaned with each penetration. He took her deeper than Rick ever had hitting spots she didn't know she possessed. Then without warming he picked up the pace and began driving into her violently. She felt another climax building and this time they came together with such intensity that when it was over, he collapsed on top of her, and she felt his strength cover her like a warm blanket.

For the next two hours they would talk the language of lovers. Pillow talk with sweet caresses and then the longing would overtake them again and they thrashed about on the bed. They fucked in the shower, he bent her over his small desk and she rode him hard telling him he was her bitch. By 4:30 AM they were spent. The lay in each other's arms for a few minutes silently basking in the afterglow of their passion.

Then they began to talk. How would they keep this a secret? What precautions would they take to keep their tryst off the radar. He worried she would be overcome with guilt, and this would be one and done. She assured him that she could handle her emotions and wanted to be with him as often as possible without raising suspicion. They fucked missionary one last time kissing and looking into each other's eyes, and then he allowed her to shower alone before returning to her own room. As he heard the water running and her softly humming to herself, staying out of the shower was about the hardest thing he had ever done.

She kissed him good night / morning and told him she'd be heading home after grabbing 3-4 hours of sleep. She wanted to rest before going back to her family. What she really wanted was to sleep until midafternoon, but she knew that would arouse suspicion. He promised to see her off when she left. Cindy then silently crept back to her own room set her alarm, dropped on the bed and was instantly asleep. Bennett stripped the sheets from the bed, laundered them himself, remade the bed and was asleep before the morning crew arrived at 6:30 AM sharp. What could possibly go wrong?

It was midafternoon Sunday when she arrived home. Sara and Michael heard her pull up and she was barely able to get out of the car when they surrounded her with hugs at the waist. They were almost 8 years old and getting big. She had only been gone since lunch on Friday, but they swamped her with excited news about the weekend.

"Daddy took us to the big kids park yesterday and we did the giant slide!"

"Ralph came back, and Mrs. Bowling brought us cookies when she came to get him."

"Daddy made us Mickey Mouse pancakes for breakfast and told us maybe next week we could go to Disneyland and ride the rides."

"Mommy did your daddy ever take you to ride the rides?"

The last question made her flinch just a bit. The mention of daddy and rides flooded her mind with some of the crude talk she and her lover had exchanged only 12 hours ago. And "yes" she thought as she went to grab her overnight bag, last nights "rides" had her walking a little funny today. She cringed mentally when she saw Rick standing in the doorway wiping his hands with a dish towel. He had on a pair of Adidas shorts and one of his cycling shirts. "Damn" she thought, "He looks so good, what the hell am I doing?"

What she said as she set her bag down and they embraced was, "Hey baby, it was a tough wedding, I'm so glad to be home and in your arms! I hope the twins weren't too crazy!"

"We always miss you Cinderella, but I love the time with the kids on the weekends, and I'm so happy you are thriving in your business. I watched the radar when the news mentioned the storm and figured you had your hands full. Let me get you a glass of wine and rub your feet."

"Son of a bitch" she mused, "His pet name for me, loving the kids so well, sacrificing so I can pursue my passion... shit, wrong word girl, get it together! Now wine and a foot rub, I can't lose him or this family!"

Later when the kids were in bed, they decided to take the wine and conversation to the hot tub. Fortunately for Cindy and her poor pussy Rick admitted he was worn to a frazzle and asked for a raincheck but offered to massage her ass and whisper in her ear until she fell asleep. She feigned slight disappointment but quickly followed up with an admission she was also beat. She didn't explain the real reason and he didn't ask because he assumed nothing but faithfulness on the part of his wife.

Monday, Rick asked her if she was up to going out Tuesday evening. She quickly responded with an enthusiastic yes. Early Tuesday morning, while Cindy was still sleeping, he got up and secretly packed some things for them both. Before he headed off to work, he left her a note,

Dress for date night is nice casual Cinderella, (bright blue sundress that shows of your legs if you don't mind) and be ready to go around 4 PM. No worries about the kids it's all set it up. Panties and bra optional!

At four sharp they hugged the kids and thanked Kelly who as in town and demanded to babysit. They then hopped in the car and took off. Rick took her to the Ritz-Carlton overlooking Dana Point. Cindy was overwhelmed when they pulled into the parking lot.

"Kelly is spending the night?"

"Yep"

"I didn't bring a change of clothes."

"Well, I hope you won't need too many clothes, but you do have a bag in the trunk. While you were giving the kids an early bath Kelly double checked it. She may have traded out what you'll be wearing to bed this evening."

"You let her in my lingerie drawer?"

"Yep. She mentioned it was a bit on the 'boring housewife' side of night wear, but she found something bright pink she thought would do. She also told me not to worry, she'd take you lingerie shopping this week."

"Bastard!"

They took a long walk on the beach, had an amazing dinner, and made vigorous love for over an hour. (Cindy had recovered from her time with Bennett and was horny for her husband.) Around midnight, they sat on their 6th floor balcony looking out over an unusually docile Pacific Ocean and talked about their lives, dreams, and future. Rick shared his big news that he was in line for partnership which meant more money and less travel. He even talked about the opportunity to accompany her occasionally on her wedding weekends. It was dark and they were both looking out at the ocean which meant he couldn't see her face. Had he, it may have been his first clue something wasn't right. Cindy quickly rebounded, got up and came and sat in his lap. "I'm so proud of you Richard Michael Thomas." She smothered him with kisses, and they soon found themselves going for round two, this time on the balcony.

During a very leisurely breakfast in bed, the picked up the conversation where they'd left off a few hours earlier.

"Babe, I'm so proud of your coming promotion, and I'd love for you to travel with me from time to time, but I hope you're not thinking I should drop my business because we can afford it."

"Never" replied Rick. "I know how much you love it, and your career is just as important to me as my own. You're amazing at what you do, and I want you to take it as far as you want."

"How the hell did I find such an amazing guy?" she wondered to herself. "I can't screw this up. Bennett and I need to revisit our plans to make sure they are airtight."

The complete absence of logic and love never entered her mind. There was no shred of guilt, only desire to live this dream. In the years to come she would wonder to herself she how she could have been such a completely selfish idiot. Men were often guilty of "thinking with their wrong head" but truth be told Cindy was doing exactly that. Her libido was on the rise as she entered her mid 30's and she somehow convinced herself she could have it all and nobody would get hurt.

She was certain at some point in a few years she and Bennett would call it quits. She knew they shared a deep emotional connection, but Bennett would never fall completely in love, and she would never desert her family. He'd find another woman to float his boat and she would enjoy a long life with her loving husband. The twins high school years, college, weddings, and grandkids all seemed to be part of a plan she thought was in the cards. Never, in her wildest dreams could she imagine the tragedy that was looming.

The next month Rick was promoted to partner, she had another wedding, this time at the San Diego hotel and she had a long talk with her lover (between their wild sexual romps) about how to safeguard what they were doing. Cindy had been on the pill for two years. Once she began her business, she and Rick decided they were blessed with two wonderful kids and that was enough for both. Fucking Bennett once or twice a month was free since pregnancy wasn't a worry. It was late June when things began to unravel.

Bennett and Cindy were in his office at the WS discussing some new terms in their agreement. Bennett had initially offered some bonus incentives if Cindy brought in more business than expected. They may have been lovers and their trysts were still going strong, but, as the mob always said, "It's business, not personal" and Cindy was reminding Bennett of their deal. He was bemoaning the fact that he had underestimated her business savvy but was agreeing to what she was due. It was at that moment that Lori appeared in the doorway.

"I'm glad I caught the two of you together, I need to speak with you both" Lori said not waiting for an invitation to join the conversation. She plopped down in one of the leather chairs and continued.

"Bennett, do you remember our conversation about four months ago? I told you if the two of you hooked up, I'd quit." The look on Cindy's face was first one of shock and then dismay. Bennett was the better poker player and remained stoic.

"The fact that you ignored that warning or just chose sex over me was surprising, but I guess inevitable. The night of the storm I was on the 2nd floor of the patio sipping a glass of wine when the two of you kissed and you (looking at Bennett) picked up Cindy (looking at her) and carried her to your bed. It was one of the saddest moments of my adult life. Not just for me, but for what I firmly believe it would do to the two of you."

She continued, "I'm not judging, but I can't be part of this." Cindy began to object, but Lori raised her hand indicating she wasn't done. "Actually, I guess I am judging. I believe what you are doing is short-sighted and childishly selfish. You're acting like teenagers thinking only about your own gratification and not the bigger implications. I began that next Monday looking for new employment. The only reason it has taken me this long is because I've had to sort through several good offers. I'm moving to Austin, Texas in early August and going to work for an event planning company there."

She then turned her gaze to Cindy. "Please remember I warned you Cindy. The shit may not have hit the fan yet, but don't think the piper won't come calling looking for his due. I'm disappointed in you even though I've only known you for less than a year. You seem to be lacking any common sense not to mention a loyalty to the vows you took before God, your family, and friends when you married Rick. He doesn't deserve what you're doing to him. I'll leave your kids out of this, because frankly, when I think about the damage this will eventually cause them, I want to cry."

Lori concluded addressing them both. "I'll be professional. I won't allow this to impact the good years we've had, and I intend to honor my commitments." Bennett visibly flinched at this. "But please only speak to me about work, not what you two are doing, not making any excuses and not making any scenes. The staff here is amazing and I know they don't deserve to be caught up in any of this. I will tell them I just couldn't pass up the offer and I'm sure you will find a fine replacement. Your GM of bartending, Sharon would be a good choice if you ask me, but that is your call. Thank you for 7 great years and I wish both of you success."

With that she rose and left the room. Tears were streaming down Cindy's face and Bennett hung his head muttering "Fuck me!" They sat for a few minutes in complete silence as a light breeze blew through the open French doors. They had planned on spending the evening together and everything that entailed, but that clearly wasn't going to happen. Neither of them knew what to say. Cindy finally dried her eyes.

"Bennett, I'm going to head home. This isn't the time to try and figure anything out. I know we're both to blame, but for my part I'm so sorry for my role in causing this. I'll call you in a few days."

She then got up, walked out of his office and out of the hotel. She asked the valet to grab her car as she had to head back home unexpectedly. She drove back to Orange County, crying the entire drive and checked into the Courtyard Marriott using her business American Express because Rick never looked at it. On the way she had stopped on time to buy a bottle of Maker's Mark. She checked into her room and drank herself to sleep. The first shoe had dropped.

Lori made good on her promise and moved to Austin about 10 days after she completed her final two weeks for Bennett. He never tried to talk her out of it or offer her more money. He knew that would only insult her. He tried to broach the subject once or twice, but Lori would not engage. "Nothing you can say Bennett" was her reply. Cindy wanted to call but couldn't find the words. In the end she texted Lori, "I'm sorry for how my actions have hurt you. You warned me, but I can't let this / him go."

Sex between Bennett and Cindy was a bit off in early September. Maybe they were both struggling with guilt, or maybe they were just miffed to be called out by Lori. However, their lust for each other was never snuffed out and by early October they were back to their previous form.

One Saturday evening after a late morning wedding they had an unusually longer evening to enjoy each other's bodies. The had left WS and had traveled in Bennett's BMW M8 series convertible up the coast to a secluded stand-alone VRBO chalet overlooking the Pacific. "Oh, my it is glorious" Cindy mewed throwing her arms around her stud.

He picked her up effortlessly and headed up the stairs. "The French doors in the bedroom open up to an Ocean view baby."

"Well then take me upstairs and let's fuck looking at the Pacific."

"Sorry, but the only thing I can look at while fucking you, is your gorgeous face and body. The ocean pales in comparison."

By now they were entering the bedroom. He laid her down on the bed then, grabbing her ankles, flipped her onto her stomach. He aggressively yanked her lululemon skintight leggings down to her knees in one smooth motion. He smacked her ass and growled, "You've been teasing me with the tight little ass of yours all day, it's time to paid for your wicked ways!" With that he dove face first into her soaking snatch.

"Yes, I've been soooo bad baby, make me pay, punish me hard, I need you to take me. Take my married pussy!" Cindy loved the submissive role she took most often with him. She could go either way with Rick, but with Bennett she felt most aroused when she just let go and let him have his way. He was domineering with this love making but not selfish. She could never keep track of how many orgasms she had but they were almost always much more intense than with Rick. Had she stopped to think about how that might be impacting her marriage she may have been inclined to change course. At this moment however, the only thing she was inclined to think about was devouring Bennett's big fat cock with her mouth before they fucked for the next hour straight!

Cindy told Rick before she left, she was doing some location scouting in the Monterey area and wouldn't be home until late Sunday night. This was true enough; she just hadn't told him she was going to be traveling with her paramour. Bennett had gotten a late 2 PM check out so Sunday morning they played in bed, walked on the beach, had brunch and then fucked for two more hours before it was time to begin the trip back.

Along the way they stopped in Big Sur for a glass of wine. As they continued south for the rest of the 5 plus hour drive, Cindy felt so content and full of life she marveled at her good fortune. Her business was thriving, her kids were doing great, she had two amazing men in her life and was confident that Lori's concerns were needless. It had been 15 months since she had met Bennett, 8 months since they began their illicit affair, (not what Cindy would call it) and everything seemed to be just fine. Her utter selfishness in betraying and regularly lying to Rick never gave her pause for one moment. In fact, she had become so far removed from reality that she actually thought her wild sexual flings with Bennett once a month were good for her as a wife. She was about to find out just how wrong she was.

The first weekend in December Cindy was coordinating a wedding at Bennett's Monterey Hotel just east of Berwick Park. The Spanish Moss was a bit smaller than Bennett's other venues, but it was perfect for wedding parties of 50 or less. The Carlisle wedding was 38 in number which meant two things. It was a very easy event for Cindy to manage and not all the rooms in the hotel were booked.

Had Bennett looked over the reservation list he would have noticed a Mr. Thomas had reserved the Belladonna Suite which included an ocean view, a large whirlpool tub and a king size four poster bed. There was no Mrs. Thomas listed. Mr. Thomas, the newest partner in his Investment Firm, was going to surprise his wife and join her for the weekend. He had taken care of all the details including fresh cut flowers, Cindy's favorite wine chilled to perfection and the best oils for the bubble bath. Rick didn't feel he and his wife had drifted apart, but he did sense they had lost some of their connection and intimacy. Naively he had chalked it up to long work hours and raising kids. He was about to find out how wrong he was.

Since none of the local staff had ever met Rick, it was no problem for him to wait incognito until the rehearsal dinner was concluding and Cindy was wrapping up her work. He had noticed Bennett twice earlier in the evening, but he was out of his direct view and easily concealed himself. He had given thought to calling Bennett and letting him in on the plan, but he didn't know him all that well and didn't want to take a chance he would accidently spill the beans.

An hour after the dinner had concluded and Cindy had not yet appeared in the lobby, Rick decided to find her and spring his surprise. However, he didn't find her in the room where the meal had been served or on the patio outside the venue. He did hear voices around the corner and one of the voices was unmistakably his wife's. Maybe she was wrapping up some details about tomorrow's nuptials with one of the staff. In the instant before he rounded the corner he heard his wife say in a sultry voice that was clearly sexually aroused..."Not here baby, please don't rub my clit like that, wait until we get back to your room."

A second later Rick rounded the corner not believing what he heard, only to be confronted with the absolute worst image in his life. His loving wife was backed up against the wall, her hands pinned over her head and Bennett's other hand under her dress and in her panties stroking her, preparing her for sex. They didn't see him at first since it was fairly dark and Cindy was moaning, "Take me to bed lover and fuck me all night." Her eyes were closed tightly as Bennett's magic fingers were working her towards her first orgasm of the night. It never arrived.

Cindy opened her eyes for a split second and screamed, "Rick...what...NNOOOOOO!" Bennett turned his head and immediately released Cindy from his grip. He stepped back as if he had seen the Ghost of Christmas future and his own tombstone. His dark complexation turned pale. For his part, Rick took all of this in and instantly realized his life was over. He slumped against the wall, tears instantly forming in his eyes. He felt himself continuing to fall to his knees as he began to comprehend what was taking place.

Cindy went to his side as he was bent over on hands and knees shaking violently, "Rick, baby, please, oh Rick, oh no, what have I done?" Too dumbstruck to react quickly Rick allowed Cindy to hold him for a moment as they both began to sob. For his part, Bennett stepped back several paces with his hands behind his head as if he had just run a long sprint and was trying to catch his breath. There was a sense of terror in his eyes.

After a moment, Rick looked up at Cindy who was holding his face in her hands. He spoke the only word that came to his mind," Why?" Cindy began to reply but as Rick began to gain a bit of emotional equilibrium, anger began to settle in. "No Cindy" he said standing abruptly and backing away. She was on her knees looking up at him with pleading eyes but unable to form any words. Nothing she could have said at that moment would have made any difference anyway.

"No Cindy, don't speak to me, don't say a fucking word." He looked at Bennett with hatred in his eyes. "Take her back to your room you mother fucker. She's all yours!" As he turned to walk away Cindy stood and tried to reach for him from behind. He whirled on her, "Don't you dare touch me you bitch! You're the mother of my children, you were the love of my life... you were everything and now you have destroyed us, you've destroyed me. Just go with your stud and leave me the hell alone." Cindy was stuck with the only bolt of common sense she had shown in over a year. She let Rick go. She knew this was not the time or place to try and placate him or explain or lie or anything else. She had ripped his heart out; she could see that in his eyes. She needed to leave him alone... for now. She was also in a state of shock herself and wouldn't have been able to form any meaningful words anyway. She turned to Bennett and motioned for him to leave her alone. Then she returned to her room, to a perfectly made bed, with perfect white sheets. pillows and blankets... She threw herself down on the bed.

Cindy Thompson was trying desperately to control her heartrate and breathing. The 34-year-old wife and mother of twins was in a crisis of her own making, and she was terrified there was no way out...

For his part, Rick was beginning to gather his thoughts and come out of the emotional fog that was suffocating his ability to think. He went back to his room and sat at the desk for an hour without moving. At some point he was able to rouse himself and begin to consider what he should do. He knew he wasn't staying here a millisecond longer than necessary. But what should he do? Where should he go? He decided it was best to drive home. He wouldn't arrive before 7 AM anyway and he could go by the office which would be empty on a Sunday. He could shower, shave and put on clean clothes. By then, he'd have an excuse to give to Mrs. Bowling about his early return. He could fake it for a while, if for no one else than his children. Before he left, he wrote Cindy a note and left it in an envelope on the desk with her name on it.

Cindy,

I'm going home to the kids. I don't know what else to do right now and I need time to think. To say you have crushed my heart and soul would be like saying the Titanic sprouted a small leak. I'm sinking in despair, and I have no idea which way to turn. When you come home, or if you come home, please text me ahead of time. I will plan to leave the moment you arrive. I will not speak to you, nor do I want to even look at you until I've had time to weigh all that has happened. I will tell the children I have to go out of town this week for work, but their mom will be home with them. I hate the thought of leaving these precious lives with you but now I have no other choice. Do not attempt to call or text or contact me in any way after you let me know when you are a few minutes away. I know I can't trust you to honor my request, but I'm hoping there is some small shred of human dignity left in your callous heart to abide by this initial first step to the end of us. Actually, you took the first steps when you began fucking your boyfriend, however long ago that may have been.

I loved you with all my heart, mind, and soul... and you pissed on it and threw me away. At this moment I hate you with a pure hatred. How the fuck could you?

Rick

When Bennett ventured out of his room an hour or so later he found that Rick as gone. He also discovered the note and took it to Cindy the next morning. He was going to take it right to her, but he stood outside her door as she wept, and he didn't have the heart to give her what had to be more terrible news. He cursed and blamed himself for being so casual in their tryst. He was always on his toes, he should have been alert to potential catastrophe, but he wasn't and now someone for whom he cared a great deal was broken and he had no power to help heal. Later, after her sobs subsided and it was clear she had dosed off for a bit he crept into her room and placed the note on the bedside table. He then went and stood guard by her door, why he wasn't sure, but he felt he had to do something.

Cindy awoke around 6 AM after 3 short hours of tossing and turning. She hadn't meant to sleep at all but the emotional turmoil had worn her out. She rose, washed her face and peed. She began to cry again as she exited the bathroom and that is when she saw the note. Cindy prided herself in being strong for herself, her family and her friends, but as she looked at the envelope she was completely undone. She already knew it would be bad, even terrible and she also knew she deserved whatever message Rick had delivered. Quietly, with tear-filled eyes she sat on the bed opened it and read. Once again, she collapsed on the floor, sobbing uncontrollably.

Bennett entered the room knelt down next to her and held her. She clung to him. In her heart she wanted to blame him, lash out at him for seducing her but she knew their "relationship" was a two-way street. She remembered the first time when he demanded she agree she was all in, or he would stop then and there. She also remembered Lori's warnings. No, Cindy realized she was a lot of things, including some very bad things, but she wasn't a victim. She made her choices and now she was going to have to live with them.

"I'm going home as soon as I can pull myself together Bennett. I don't know what will happen, but I must face the music."

"I know Cindy, I wish it could be different, but I know you well enough now to know you won't run and hide or shift the blame for your decisions. You are an amazing woman and friend, if I could take this from you I would, but I know I can't. Just know, I'm always here."

"Thank you, Bennett, I truly hope none of this will hurt you but who knows? I may call you and give you an update when I see where this stands, but I think we should both prepare ourselves to know we may never speak to each other again."

He hugged her tightly, as a friend, not a lover, simply said, "I know" then got up and left the room quietly closing the door behind him. He told the staff to bring her car around but give her space. She had a difficult family situation come up and she was a bit upset this morning. The newer staff shook their heads yes and went about their business. The veterans were not fools, they knew who Mr. Thomas was and what had happened. There was a pall over the entire property the rest of the day.

When Cindy was 15 minutes away from her home, she texted Rick. "!5 minutes out, any chance you could come back after the kids are asleep and we can talk? All my fault but hoping for a way forward. Cinderella"

Rick replied, "I'm ready to go, kids have had dinner. This is our last contact until I reach back out to you Cindy. Please honor my request."

She teared up again as she realized it was most likely the name "Cinderella" would never come from his lips again. She was no longer his loving wife and best friend; she was his cheating whore wife who disrespected him in the most terrible possible way... in the arms of another man. What would become of all of them?...

At the end of what was, for Cindy, the longest week of her life Rick called her. She answered halfway through the first ring.

"Hi Rick, I'm glad you called" she said in a kind and hopeful tone of voice.

His was flat, "Cindy I'll be coming home this afternoon around 5 PM. I've kept up with work all week, somehow..." He began to choke up before he could catch himself, there was a painful pause. She waited... "I will put on my poker face and try to be myself around the kids. I'm praying I have the strength to do that for three hours. Then I will go to bed in the spare room and won't speak to you until tomorrow morning when the kids are up. I'll make sure I'm up early so they don't notice our sleeping arrangements. Is that acceptable to you?"

"Yes Rick" Cindy said softly, "whatever you think is best." "When do you think we can talk?" She didn't want to press too hard, but even though she knew all of this was her fault, she was dying inside for some understanding of what was going through his head.

"I have Mrs. Bowling lined up for babysitting Sunday afternoon. We can find a private corner of the park to go sit and talk then. I think it best if we stay with the kids together all-day Saturday since we're not sure how many, if any more days we will have together with them."

His words "if any" caught her like a surprise blow to the stomach. She wanted to vomit at the pain she was hearing in his voice. She'd never heard him anywhere close to this before. He'd always been strong, even when the going was tough. Then again, it had never been this tough. Betrayal was a cruel task master. "OK honey" was all she said.

"Cindy" Rick replied in a tone so flat and void of emotions it shook her to her core. "Please never speak to me in terms of endearment again. I'm not honey, or baby and you certainly are not my Cinderella. We're two adults who are in a god-awful nightmare and we won't be able to wake up anytime soon, if ever. Don't use words that pretend to offer love or affection to me... ever again.... Please." He hung up without waiting for a response. Cindy slumped in her chair, her shoulders shaking as she wept.

Somehow, they managed through Friday night pizza and movie, even laughing a bit at Michael's description of why he thought the family should buy a dog. Saturday was more of the same, pretending everything was fine. Once or twice they thought Sara was feeling something was off, but they doubled down and tried that much harder to be the loving couple in front of their children. The worst moment was when Michael called for a "group hug" as they walked along the beach. The dead look Cindy saw in Rick's eyes almost undid her even as his hug was firm, lying about his true emotions.

Sunday morning was pancakes and lounging around in PJ's. Rick announced to the kids that mom and dad were going out together and Mrs. Bowling was going to watch them that afternoon. Sara and Michael were not excited about the idea. They wanted more family time together, but their dad was firm, so they scampered off to their rooms to change for the rest of the day.

When they arrived at the park they walked for some time until they found a quiet out of the way spot that had a small picnic table. Rick sat facing the park, opposite Cindy. "Just like him" she thought, "He always wants to be able to see the crowd around him, to know if any trouble is coming his way."

"I'd like you to go first, if you don't mind," Rick began. "I'm afraid if I speak first, I won't be able to control my words. I promise I will not interrupt you and want you to say whatever you want to. It is up to you if it takes 5 minutes or 50. It is important to me that you have your say. If that is acceptable, please feel free to begin any time you want."

Cindy thought for a moment. It felt a bit like a negotiation and in that setting she never wanted to speak first. However, she had caused this so it was only right that Rick be allowed to move the conversation forward as he believed best."

"Sure" Cindy replied trying to sound supportive of his wishes. "I'm not sure where to begin Rick. I've been thinking about what I would say since last Friday nig..." she let that drop. She couldn't bring herself to think back to that moment and the horror, hurt and utter despair she saw in his eyes. "You deserve the truth, and I will try to give it to you."

"I've been in a physical relationship with Bennett for the better part of 8 months." He put his head in his hands at this disclosure but then looked up as if to say, 'go on.' "I've never been attracted to a man or had any type of inappropriate relationship with anyone prior to meeting him. I didn't seek him out nor did I pursue him because of anything lacking in our relationship. While I didn't pursue him, I cannot say I resisted his friendship and flirting. I realized early on that while the business side of this could be amazing, for the first time ever, I was drawn to someone other than my husband. I'm not defending him, and I'm not trying to make this worse for you than it already is, but the first time we were together he stopped me before our first kiss and made me decide if we would move forward or not. He said he didn't want to push himself on me and only would continue if I wanted it as much as he.

I kept going. I wasn't forced or coerced. Nobody made me do anything I didn't want to do. I can't say yet, why I was attracted or did what I did, but I'm not going to play the victim. Whatever comes of this between you and me lies squarely on my shoulders. "Bab... she quickly corrected herself, "I'm sorry, Rick, I want to tell you I love you with all my heart, that this meant nothing to me and beg you to forgive me and give us a chance to heal. But I know now that I've kept back a part of my heart from you these last few months. You didn't notice any difference, at least, I don't think you did. But when I was with you a tiny part of me was somewhere else... with Bennett."

"If it wasn't, I would never have done what I did. I lied to you, and I lied to myself. I told myself I did love you completely, that this would pass, and everything would be just fine. You would be blissfully ignorant, and we'd raise our kids and grow old together. I guess deception starts with yourself before you can deceive others. So, I betrayed everything that I have held dear. I have no idea how this will turn out and how it will affect our children, but I know it won't be good even if our relationship is salvageable."

"Finally, at least for this first conversation, I do want to say how terrible I feel about what I have done. Sorry, doesn't begin to describe my emotions. I'm not sorry I got caught. I am devastated for what I have done to the only person who has ever loved me unconditionally for who I am. Whatever becomes of us, I will need to dive into that with some professional help. I've fucked up more royally than I thought possible. I always thought I was a pretty good person. I've discovered, probably too late, that I'm not. I have deep flaws that are ugly. They are mine, no one else. I'm responsible. I'm so deeply ashamed and want you to know that."

Rick head was bowed, and he was crying. It was good they were in an out of the way spot because his emotions were overwhelming. Joy, contentment, friendship, love and mutual respect had all been stripped away and replace with despair, grief, loss, humiliation and emptiness. He wanted to respond in anger, to shout at her and revile her, but he didn't have it in him. She probably would have welcomed a tirade over the soft sobs coming out of his mouth. Once again, it hit her like a ton of bricks, how much she had taken from him.

After 10 minutes that seemed like 10 hours, he finally gathered himself together and spoke. His voice was barely above a whisper, but it was not weak. It was matter of fact.

"Cindy, I don't know if this is the last time, we will ever speak alone together just the two of us as husband and wife or not. I'm still trying to sort out my feelings. I appreciate you not disrespecting me more by telling me you love me, and it was all a mistake, only sex, nothing more etc. I thank you for being honest about what has happened. At least I'm assuming you're being honest, but I guess ultimately, I'll never know." It was Cindy's turn to put her head in her hands in despair. What he said was true, but it hurt like a mother fucker. She fought to look back up at him as he continued.

"You've been fucking Bennett for eight months behind my back once a month or more. You are right, I was completely ignorant of your actions, because I trusted you with everything, my love, my heart, my life itself. I know I can never trust you again. Cinderella is dead and there is no prince charming to come to the rescue. I've never been hopeless in my life, and I hate how it feels, but I think it is the one honest, unclouded emotion I recognize in my heart."

"I don't know what I'll do but I won't divorce you now or anytime soon. I heard a psychologist once say in a lecture, 'if you are married with kids and are thinking about getting a divorce, go out and throw yourself in front of a bus. Children can deal with loss so much better than the choice of abandonment that comes with divorce.' That always rung true with me but I never thought I'd be in a spot where it applied to me."

"However, the alternative of 'playing house' for the next 11 years until the twins graduate and go off to college is untenable to me. I cannot abide the thought of it. I can hardly bring myself to look at you much less pretend we're who we were. So, about 48 hours into this unmitigated disaster, I'm stuck; hopeless and despairing. I see no way forward. I'm going to talk to a counselor this week and see what she may have to offer." Cindy looked hopeful at this. As if to read her mind Rick quickly added, "I'm not doing it for you or our marriage, I'm doing it for my sanity and with the hopes that I can find a way forward that will allow me to keep at least a small shred of my dignity and love my children well."

Rick paused her and Cindy asked, "Where will you and I stay? Should I get a hotel or a small apartment?"

"I want us to stay in the house for now" Rick replied. "I think if I have an overnight business trip once a week to give me breathing space, and you go away for at least two 'work weekends' in the next month like you normally do, I can abide it. What you do, where you go and who you spend your time with when you are away is up to you. I won't let myself care about you right now, so if you feel better in Bennett's arms knock yourself out."

"Rick I have no plans to.." Cindy began to protest. Rick held up a 'talk to the hand' sign. "Please stop right there Cindy. You are acting as if you are talking to someone who cares about what you do, who you fuck or don't fuck, how you slut around or don't. The only way I'm still breathing right now is to care about you, the same way you've cared about me the last 8 months. You didn't give a rat's ass about me or my life, now I'm making the same choice with you. Perhaps the counselor can help me find a better way to protect myself, but until then, you're on your own."

They both sat and cried for the next half hour without saying much of anything. No hands were held across the table, no soothing 'we'll find a way through this,' words. Arms crossed, heads down, crying. Lori's prophetic warning had come true. The piper had come calling and the payment was more than Cindy felt she could bear. At that moment, she had no way of knowing the piper had not yet fully arrived.

For the next month they lived a surreal life. They pretended things were normal and good in front of the kids. They went to Sara's soccer games and Michael's karate lessons. They were convincing at their parent teacher conference in the middle of the month. Miss Snyder never detected that anything was amiss. After the children went to bed, behind closed doors it was a different world. Cindy looking pleadingly at Rick for some willingness to talk and Rick doing everything he could to keep from coming completely apart. Cindy had taken responsibility, perhaps unlike some wives would have done, but that didn't erase the betrayal and humiliation Rick felt.

Each week Rick would tell the kids he had an overnight business trip and would leave late afternoon and not return until supper the next night. He used this time to walk and think and plan for a way forward. He knew if he were to go on, he'd need to keep seeing his counselor for a long time to come.

Rick had made partner in his firm because he was great at analytics. He could measure the upside and downside of investments better than most. He had a keen eye for details and even the smallest opportunity or risk didn't escape his notice. He now applied this thinking to his home life.

"Positives and negatives of staying with Cindy?"

"Impact on the kids long-term and short-term of staying together in a lie or getting a divorce, or...???"

"How would the firm take it if this came out? Part of why they like me is / was my commitment to Cindy and family."

"How will finances work going forward in divorce or in marriage, or...???"

"What will Cindy do with her business? Continuing with Bennett's hotels is a nonstarter but is she aware of this?"

"Is Cindy just sorry for what has happened, or does she want something different and better in her life? There was pain in getting caught but how will she come to grips with who she has become and what she's done?"

"What are all my options? Is there something besides divorce or staying together?"

It was this last question that finally grabbed Rick's attention as the best possible pathway. There was a third option. It was radial, it would be incredibly difficult to pull off, but perhaps it would provide best for everyone concerned, even him. So, on the third 'business trip away from home' evening, Rick sat on the patio of the Marriot Courtyard where he had been holing up. He began to look at his solution from every angle and perspective. His planning would have to be precise and the execution even better, but maybe... just maybe...

It was two weeks later, the plan still in the formative stages but, in Rick's mind coming together well enough that he decided to have a serious conversation with Cindy. He knew it could last a couple of hours, but it had to be done. He arranged for Mrs. Bowling to babysit and then intentionally drove with Cindy back to the park where they had their first conversation about her cheating. Back at the same picnic table where the disaster was laid bare before both, they continued the conversation. Rick began.

"Cindy, I know the last few weeks have been terrible for both of us. I appreciate you honoring my request for space and time to think. I want to share a few things with you and then give you the opportunity to respond. I hope that is OK with you." Cindy nodded her head yes and he continued.

"I don't want to rehash everything that has happened, especially the night I stumbled upon you and your boyfriend Bennett. I've already told you that I am crushed beyond words. I'm not a perfect person or a perfect husband but I've always been 100% committed to us and our children. I've never cheated on you, even in flirting with other women. The thought of somebody replacing you in my heart is unimaginable. I was smitten from the day I met you and I thought you felt the same. Complete together, not needing anyone else. I just always assumed we would grow old together. I was wrong about the depth of your commitment to us and about any chance we would have to remain husband and wife."

Cindy looked at Rick with longing in her eyes. "Rick," she pleaded, "I know I don't deserve a second chance, but I hope we can consider some way to address the hurt and betrayal I've brought into our relationship. I don't want to give up on us, I want to work with all my strength and every fiber of my being to see if we can stay together."

Rick looked off into the distance for a moment before responding. "I know you mean what you say Cindy, and I've thought long and hard about that option for us. On the one hand, I do think there could be enough confession and forgiveness for us to stay together." At this, Cindy looked hopeful. "But" Rick continued, "I've determined that won't work for me for two reasons. First, while I'm sure we could get to forgiveness, I see no way of ever getting trust back. The truth is, if you told me the sky was blue and the grass was green, I wouldn't believe you. Never again will you walk out our door for work, that I won't suspect you going to meet your lover, or a new lover. Never again will I be able to live with you without doubts about your fidelity. Secondly, I will never be able to touch you as a husband touches his wife without seeing the face of the man you intentionally picked over me, time and time again. You wanted him, not me. You gave yourself to him without a thought about my love or our relationship. There is no way I see myself ever looking at you again, and not seeing a reflection of Bennett Davis looking back at me."

Cindy's shoulders slumped. She knew he was right, and she wanted to make him understand that she would be faithful going forward, for the rest of their lives, but she also knew she had no right to demand his trust. "I want to fight for us Rick, don't you think we're worth fighting for?"

This was the first moment Cindy saw what could only be described as sheer rage in his eyes. As he glared at her, she physically recoiled from him. He seemed to gain some control of his emotions but there was a cutting edge in his words. "Fight for us, you're going to fight for us? You want me to fight for us?" What do you think I've done every day we've been married? Working hard and advancing in my career was fighting for us. Spending time with our amazing children was fighting for us. Trying to remember all the things you love and enjoy making sure I provided them regularly, was fighting for us. From the little things to the big ones, I've always intentionally fought to make sure you knew I was crazy about us being together forever. How did you fight for us Cindy? You fucked Bennett Davis repeatedly. I'm sorry, I don't see how I'm the one giving up on fighting for us Cindy. You stopped 8 months ago and now you're hurt I won't accept what you've done and move on as if nothing has happened?"

Rick sighed deeply and continued as tears fell from both their eyes. "There are so many questions I want to ask you Cindy, but there is no point in asking someone a question who has lied to you repeatedly over a long period of time. How could I ever trust your words? Perhaps you are sorry, but maybe you'd just say it so you can go back to fucking Bennett behind my back. I want to ask if you've learned anything from this, but no matter what you say, I'll imagine the most important lesson to you will be how not to get caught the next time. I want so badly to go back to the talks we used to have when we shared our hearts with each other but that couple no longer exists. You killed us with your cheating, lies and betrayal. There is no going back there is only going forward with the best possible solution for all of us."

"I realized the other day our night out at the Ritz was after you had been with Bennett. You fucked him over the weekend and then you came home and let me wine and dine the slut I thought was my faithful wife. Goodness, how you must have been laughing at me inside. Your little cuckold, not knowing what a fool he was, so excited to hear how proud his wife was of him. What a complete idiot I've been. But, no more."

Cindy had no rebuttal, only a deep sadness for how terribly she had wounded the man she professed to love with all her heart, all the days of her life. He was right, he had fought for them every day. She was the one who spit on his love with her infidelity. It was her callousness to the husband whom she had adored alone less than a year ago. But her infatuation, her lust and her selfishness had thrown all that away. "Are you going to divorce me Rick?" she finally asked when she was able to formulate the words.

"No Cindy, I'm not going to divorce you and I'm not going to stay married to you. I'm creating a solution that I think will work for everyone. It won't be without pain and loss, but I do believe it is the only tenable solution. I promise I will explain it all to you in just a few more weeks. I'm not going to tell you what to do Cindy, but I am going to explain my steps, my pathway in detail. I'm not asking your input on my choices because, quite frankly, I don't trust you to have my best interest or the best interest of our children at heart. Once you understand my decisions you will be free to make your own. I won't seek to control you in any way."

"But how will I know if you don't share it with me now?" Cindy asked genuinely confused by the direction the conversation had taken. She so wanted to reach out and hold him and have him hold her, but it seemed that would never happen again.

Rick looked her straight in the eyes with dead calm, almost a morbid sense of accepting fate and replied, "You will know."

They talked for a few more minutes, Cindy poking and prodding gently about Rick's vague explanation but he wasn't budging. He was emphatic that she would understand when the time came. "A few months ago, my friend and colleague Lori warned me that if we danced to his tune, the piper would eventually show up and demand payment. I guess she was right."

Rick was surprised to hear that Lori knew what was happening and how she had tried to warn both Cindy and Bennett. This only hurt him deeper. "You mean, before you ever fucked Bennett (he refused to say made love or had sex, just fucked) you were warned, and you didn't stop? You didn't come to me to tell me about your struggle? You just kept right on going?" Tears were now freely flowing from his eyes; her husband was weeping.

Cindy burst into tears again and dropped her head into her hands sobbing uncontrollably. Rick moved and she thought perhaps he was coming to hold her. "Please God, let him come and hold me" she begged in her heart.

Instead, he stood and moved in front of her with his arms folded across his chest. When she looked up he said, "The piper has coming calling for at least a partial payment, maybe someday the full payment will come due."

Two weeks and four days later Rick left for his weekly 'business trip' where he could have some time alone to process and work through his pain. He hugged and kissed his children goodbye, and, to Cindy, he seemed a bit sadder than he had in the last couple of days. "I guess saying goodbye even for 24 hours is hard for him," she thought.

Cindy was sleeping a little better at night, because she was taking Melatonin to help her nightly wrestling match with sleep. Rick had suggested she let the kids spend the night with Mrs. Bowling and her cat. She had become almost an aunt figure to the kids. Rick suggested she could get a good night sleep after a couple of glasses of wine. Cindy agreed and Mrs. Bowling was more than happy to host her young friends.

It was 5:30 the next morning and her cell phone had been ringing nonstop for three minutes before she heard it, turned over and picked it up. The screen caller ID simply said 911.

"Hello" Cindy said trying to force herself to wake up.

"Is this Cindy Thomas, wife of Richard Thomas?" a very professional voice said on the other end of the line.

Cindy sat bolt up in bed, nobody called him Richard. "Yes, it is, is everything alright?"

"I'm sorry Mrs. Thomas, but let me verify that you live at 918 South El Camino Court, is that correct?"

"Yes" she said almost shouting into the phone.

"And can you please tell me the type of car your husband drives?"

A dark grey 2019 Lexus ES, why? Has something happened?"

"Mrs. Thomas I'm sorry to inform you that your husband has been involved in a one car accident on California Highway 79 just west of the Pacific Crest Trailhead near Warner Springs."

"Oh, no, my God" cried Cindy, "Is he OK? Is he at the hospital or in an ambulance?"

"I'm so sorry to tell you, Mrs. Thomas, but the crash was fatal. I don't know any other details accept his body is being transported to UC San Diego Medical Center and should be arriving there within the hour. I'm terribly sorry for your loss."

Cindy was stunned and for a moment couldn't move or even grasp what she had just heard. Then her head exploded with the news and her shrieks would have been heard down the block by anyone who may have been up at that hour. She cried and screamed into her pillow for the better part of an hour before she was spent.

Finally, she began to process. She had to tell the kids, but when and how? She had to call her mom and Rick's parents back in Denver. She needed a friend but wasn't sure where to turn. She had to get to UCSDMC right away, but could she even bring herself to drive? Kelly was in Europe on business so she wouldn't be able to help for several days if at all.

She splashed some water on her face, dressed as quickly as she could, put her hair up in a ponytail and was heading for the front door when the doorbell rang. "How odd," she thought, "It is so early." It was Brad Stanton, the family lawyer and one of Rick's best friends. He looked like somebody had beaten him with a baseball bat. "Cindy, I heard the news about the crash, it was just on the early morning news. I'm so so sorry!" With that she melted into his arms sobbing and shaking violently. Brad held her for a moment in the front doorway.

It wasn't a moment later Mrs. Bowling came out of her house in a bathrobe scurrying across the lawn with concern written all over her face. Cindy was unable to speak so Brad filled in the blanks. Mrs. Bowling began crying but also moved in to take the younger woman, into her caring arms.

After a few moments Cindy began to rally slightly and insisted on getting to the hospital in San Diego. "I must see him! I have to see my Rick!"

Brad and Mrs. Bowling agreed she'd take care of the kids, make up a quick story about where mommy was and get them off to school. They would learn soon enough; it didn't have to be at this moment. Brad insisted on driving Cindy and within 5 minutes they were on the road. Cindy's phone began blowing up with calls and texts from friends. She called her mom who said she would be on the first flight possible. Cindy then had to break the news to Conner and Lilly Thomas, Rick's parents. It was awful. They too promised to be on the first flight they could grab. They figured they'd be there by the time the kids got home from school. Cindy then turned her phone off, starred out into the Pacific and began to cry again.

The next five days were hell. Explaining to the kids, thank goodness grandparents and Mrs. Bowling were there to help. Talking with the authorities, the insurance companies, (there were three separate life insurance policies) making funeral arrangements, reaching out to clients who were on the books for weddings or family gatherings Cindy was running. The list seemed endless.

Cindy was also filled with questions. What was Rick doing over an hour outside of town on a desolate road that early in the morning? While nobody was using the word 'reckless' he was certainly speeding. A toxicology report indicated there was nothing in Rick's blood except blood. No alcohol, drugs or any other substances that would have inhibited his driving ability. His stomach contents revealed he'd had a steak the night before with salad and potatoes, but nothing to drink except water. Cindy was flummoxed.

For his part, Bennett had picked up his phone to text Cindy several times after he heard the news, but in the end, he decided against it. He was certain she was hurting more deeply that could be imagined, and also realized that hearing from him would only make it worse.

Lori was in a meeting with a new client when she got the news. Her administrative assistant Stacey saw the hurt and pain in her face, but also thought it a bit odd she didn't look completely shocked. Lori didn't attend the funeral.

It had been on Friday morning and everyone who knew Rick had been present. Cindy was overwhelmed to hear people talk about him. She knew he was amazing, but as story after story was shared it became clear that her husband had been one of the most faithful friends, caring co-workers, generous bosses, and well-respected person most of them knew. This only drove her to deeper despair as she couldn't help but think if she'd been more in tune with her husband, her affair with Bennett would never have happened and Rick would still be alive today. She was about to find out just how right she was.

It was late Sunday afternoon when Brad showed up at the house. He spoke briefly to Cindy's mom and in-laws who in short order grabbed the kids and headed out the door.

When Cindy came down the stairs, she saw Brad sitting at the kitchen table looking like the cat who had just swallowed the canary. Cindy was puzzled by his appearance and his demeanor. She offered something to drink, he thanked her but declined, inviting her instead to sit with him.

He began, "Cindy I need to tell you two things before I hand you what I've been instructed to hand you. I'm your friend, but I'm not here today as your friend, I'm here representing a client. That client is Rick." Cindy put her hand over her mouth and gasped. Rick continued, "Cindy I say my client is Rick because although he is dead, I'm still acting as his counsel, handling his affairs, both legal and financial. The second thing you must know beyond a shadow of a doubt is I had no idea of what was going to happen to Rick." This seemed odd to Cindy, "How could anyone know what would happen in an accident or even that an accident was going to happen?"

Rick recognized her confusion. "Rick told me verbally and in writing, should anything ever happen to him I was to carry out his wishes. He paid me in full for the work, even though I offered to do it as a friend. He insisted everything be done legal and proper. I do not know the contents of this note, but I do know it is a letter from Rick to you. I am instructed to deliver it to you and leave immediately before you open and read it.

Cindy took the letter from Brad, her hands shaking violently. "What else did he instruct you to do?" she asked. Brad looked a bit sheepish but said, "I'm so sorry Cindy, but that is confidential between me and my client. Rick strictly forbid me from giving you any of the information about our conversations, my responsibilities and his wishes. Again, I am so very sorry." With that Brad got up and left not waiting for Cindy to respond.

Cindy opened the letter and the Piper again appeared to collect some of his due.

Cindy,

By now you know I'm dead and the funeral is over. Brad has handed you this note and has left. The kids are with my parents and or your mom. They know not to come home for a couple of hours as this will be tough for you to digest. This is the third option Cindy; it is the best pathway I could find. I loved you with all my heart and now that is gone. You took it away. This, I believe is the best I can do.

1. You will learn that I purchased 3 acres of property two weeks ago out by the lake at Eagles Nest. This is the reason I was driving on highway 79 where the accident occurred. The story is, I bought this property since I was promoted, and we were both making good money. It was to be a surprise for you and the kids. A place we could build and grow in during the summers and long weekends.

2. This, of course, is a sham. The purchase of the property is a cover story, but whatever you do you must stick with it. The insurance companies will not release the death benefits if they can find something fishy about my death. I visited the new cottage to do some work and decided to get up early and come home. I was in a hurry because I had a 9:30 meeting with a client. That is why I was driving fast and lost control of my car. The insurance companies may dig around a little, but they won't find anything. Brad will take care of this as long as you stick to this story.

3. As far as the insurance is concerned, I've changed my will in the last few weeks. 90% of my money (roughly $3,000,000.00) will go into a trust fund for the kids. They will be able to access whatever they need to pay for college and also grad school if they chose. The rest will be theirs upon their 30th birthday, split evenly 50/50. Again, Brad will take care of these details when the time comes. I'm leaving you 10% or about $300,000.00 to help tide you over until you begin working again in a month or so. I would have left you nothing if my conscience would have allowed it, but I realize you must take care of the kids while you pretend to grieve for me so there is enough to get that done.

4. As far as our beautiful children go, I told you a while back about the psychologist's advice that death is easier for kids than divorce. I investigated deeply and found several studies that indicate this is correct. That is why I couldn't divorce you Cindy, I couldn't do that to my children. I think someday they will learn the truth about everything and at that point they may hate me. I hope they don't but if they do I hope there will be someone to explain to them how unfair life can sometimes be. I'm thankful that for now, and the foreseeable future they can grieve loss and not carry the burden of rejection that comes with divorce.

5. I can't tell you what else to do with your life. I'm guessing you may run back to Bennett but maybe there is someone else who has piqued your interest. Whatever you do, please think of the children first this time and do what is best for them. They'll be out of the house in 9-10yars so perhaps you could keep your lovers away until then.

6. Finally, I have one small favor to ask. When you are finished with this note, burn it until there are no ashes left. If the insurance companies find this, it will ruin our children's financial future. Read it through a couple more times but please, if I ever meant even the slightest thing to you, burn this note. Don't worry, though, maybe someday you'll hear from me again.

Rick

Cindy cried as if she had never cried before. She fell to the floor, sobbing and wailing, calling out Rick's name. She was crushed by the impact of her affair, and she was fearful it was more than she could bear. After an hour or so she finally found the will to sit up and read through the note two more times. Then she walked to the fireplace and burned it until there was nothing left but a small pile of ashes. The Piper had indeed come calling... or so she thought.

Epilogue:

It had been twelve years since that fateful day when Rick Thomas died on California Hwy 79. Truth be told, he died the moment he saw his wife in the arms of another man, betraying him, betraying them, their children and their future. The rest of it had just been the details of how and when.

Cindy never remarried and always kept Rick's secret about his death. She had done as he wished and used the 300K to care for their family during her grieving process. It was over a year before she returned to work. She tried to put on a brave face and make a go of it, but her business was primarily weddings and family reunions, and it was more than she could bear. She went to work for a company that did business event planning and did very well in her career.

On the relationship front she dated occasionally but never met anyone that measured up to Rick. She also saw herself as damaged goods, although counseling had help with that, so she wondered if she met someone and married, would she cheat again? Michael and Sara begged her to go out on dates and try to meet someone. "Dad would want you to be happy" they insisted. "Yes" he always wanted me to be happy" she thought, "And I used that as part of my excuse to destroy him." The pain would come flooding back.

As for Bennett, about 4 months after Rick's death he felt enough time had passed to send Cindy a note. True to Lori's observation, they were no longer lovers, but Bennett was loyal and always tried to be a supportive friend.

He decided one morning to send her a text. It read, "I'm so deeply sorry... B"

A moment later he had her reply, "So am I... goodbye."

They never spoke again.

Michael and Sara had graduated from high school and were now 20 years old and in college. Michael, like his mother, loved people, loved the energy groups of folks enjoying themselves could create so he was at USC studying hospitality and marketing. Sara, was more like her daddy and loved analytics. Making things work, figuring out the solution was what got her out of bed it the morning. She ended up at Stanford studying economics. Even though they had been only 8 when their dad had died, both were deeply hurt by the loss of their father. The idea that "daddy won't be coming home" was crushing for quite a while, but their mom and their grandparents had worked very hard to help them move through their pain and begin to enjoy life. Each of them, in their own way decided part of their motivation in life would be to honor their dad's memory.

It was a warm spring morning as Cindy sat at her desk in her condo. She was sipping a cup of hot black coffee reviewing a new contract for an executive planning retreat when her doorbell rang. When she answered to door she was greeted by Brad Stanton.

"Brad, it has been several months" Cindy said with a smile reaching out to hug him, "It is so good to see you!"

Brad returned the friendly hug but was a bit stiff. "Thank you, Cindy. May I come in and speak with you for a moment?"

Cindy noted there was something in his voice that sounded official. This was not a drop by and catch up with a friend chat. "Of course, Brad, can I get you cup of coffee?"

"No thank you, I can only stay a couple of minutes."

They sat at the kitchen table and Brad began, "Cindy as you know today would have been Rick's 45th birthday." Cindy cringed; she had completely forgotten today was April 7, Rick's birthday. She made a mental note to call the kids as soon as Brad left.

"As you know, before Rick died, he changed his will and left instructions about what he wanted done in the event of his death. Cindy, I will be honest with you and tell you I knew something was up. He was off badly but he wouldn't tell me what was amiss. As his friend I pressed him. As his lawyer I was bound to carry out his directives. He never allowed me to understand or know what was going on... until today."

Cindy's eyes went wide with surprise but also confusion. "What do you mean Brad?"

"Cindy before Rick died, he wrote me a long note, one that he never gave me. This morning at 6 AM sharp there was a loud knocking on my door. When I answered it was a currier with an envelope addressed to me. I didn't recognize the return address, it was some P.O box in Austin, Texas.

I was a bit angry to be bothered so early in the morning, but my curiosity was peaked. I went back to my office and opened it. Inside was a letter from Rick. It was typed and it was 12 pages single spaced. Attached via a paperclip was a handwritten short note from someone named Lori." Cindy was beginning to shake as the hurt, pain and memories began to come back in full force.

Brad continued, "The note simply said, 'please read carefully and follow the instructions... L'. I then began to read Rick's note. The first line was so quintessential Rick, "Hey buddy, get your ass out of bed, I need you to help me finish some incomplete business. Yes, I know it is 6 AM, I told them 6 on the dot sharp and paid a little extra to make sure they were dependable."

"I won't go into the rest of the note in detail Cindy, except to tell you Rick shared everything with me. The whole nine yards in detail." He paused for a moment as he let that sink in. he could see tears beginning to form in her eyes. "I have no idea how you could have done such a thing to a guy as amazing as Rick, a guy who gave you every ounce of his love and devotion. A guy who ultimately gave you his life.

Brad got up and finished his task. Handing Cindy a white letter sized envelope with her name written on it he said, "Cindy, I don't ever want to speak to you again. I'll keep up with Michael and Sara because they are the kids of my best friend. If I see you at a social gathering, I'll be polite, for his sake and theirs, not for yours. But do not ever attempt to contact me in any way. Do you understand me?"

Cindy could barely form a word, but she looked at Brad and said, "Yes, I understand." With that, he turned and left, but as he did so she heard him mutter, "Selfish fucking slut!"

The envelope sat on the table as if daring Cindy to open it. She recognized the handwriting, it was Rick's. It took her a few minutes to muster the courage to open it, but she finally did...

Cindy,

It has been twelve years since the events that led us to this morning. In my last note to you I mentioned that perhaps someday you would hear from me again. Maybe someday the kids would learn what happened to us and to them. Well, today is that day.

1. When I found out Lori had tried to talk you out of fucking Bennett and you ignored her advice I decided to turn to her for help. She is the only person on the planet who knew my intentions. She begged and pleaded with me to not go through with it. She even said I could grab the kids and come stay with her in Austin. Imagine that a woman with true character, I wish I had met her before I laid eyes on you. Anyway, when I refused, she agreed to go along with my wishes.

2. My first request was that she hold this note until today, my 45th birthday. At that point she was to deliver this note along with one for him to Brad promptly at 6 AM. His note instructed Brad to read my letter to him and then deliver this one to you. I had a fallback plan to get this note to you no matter what, but I'm hoping Brad and Lori are in good health and were able to help me complete my work.

3. This morning both Michael and Sara are receiving a similar note from me outlining everything that happened 12 years ago. I left out nothing. Since they are adults now, I believe they have the right to know the truth... all the truth. The statute of limitation for insurance fraud in California is four years so their inheritance is secure. As I mentioned in my previous note to you, they may hate me for this but I'm sure Brad and Lori will help them process what transpired. Good luck to you trying to undo the lies you've told your children for the last twelve years. I'm sure if they are willing to speak to you, they will have more than a few questions.

4. If your mom and my parents are still living, they will receive a similar note as will the partners at my firm.

5. As for Bennett, there will be a full page add in the Santa Barbara News Press today outlining his shenanigans with you. It explains IN DETAIL how the two of you planned and created amazing wedding events all while you were cheating on me, and he was fucking a married woman. The article ends by strongly encouraging folks to take their business elsewhere. I probably can't destroy him, but I sure hope this will make his life miserable for a while. Maybe the two of you can get together (if you're not already) and have a good fuck to ease the pain! By the way, you are named specifically in the article so some friends and colleagues may have some questions for you as well

6. Cindy, almost thirteen years ago, I thought we were as happy and content as any couple could be. It all turned out to be a lie, a tragic lie. So, Cindy, you called the tune, you enjoyed the dance, now it is time to pay the piper... in full!

Rick

Within a few moments of Cindy reading Rick's note her phone began to blow up.

(Side note... 6 months later all three BD properties were sold at a major loss to the owner to an investment group out of Austin... The Templeton Group. Davis Bennett, at age 53 was financially ruined.)

From Edger Allan Poe's The Cask of Amontillado

"At length I would be avenged; this was a point definitely, settled--but the very definitiveness with which it was resolved precluded the idea of risk. I must not only punish but punish with impunity."

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