Husband Gathered Families, Exposed Cheating Wife and AP Epically, Then Vanished Silently.Sad Story
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Our Workflow:
1. Begin by formulating inquiries, conducting research, crafting a script, and developing insightful opinions or commentary. Refine these elements until they are polished and ready for production.
2. Engage in voice recording sessions to narrate the stories, pose questions, and express opinions in a dynamic and captivating manner, ensuring an enjoyable experience for viewers.
3. Capture gameplay footage until a sufficient amount of engaging material is amassed for background usage.
4. Utilize editing software to incorporate the gameplay footage, while simultaneously transcribing captions, refining voiceovers, integrating sound effects, adjusting colors, and refining the composition by adding or removing clips as necessary.
5. Conduct a thorough final review of the video to ensure it meets the quality standards expected for our channel. If any shortcomings are identified, return to the editing phase to make necessary adjustments, including re-recording lines or modifying opinions and commentaries.
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00:00Jack lived in a room that was spacious enough for his needs at 16 by 16 feet.
00:05It featured beige carpet covering the length of the room, but that suited him just fine.
00:10He didn't require or desire much more.
00:12Jack Hebert definitely didn't need the 3,200-square-foot house his wife had insisted they buy.
00:18Initially, he had objected.
00:20With just him, his wife, and their 16-year-old daughter, they simply didn't need that much space,
00:25especially since De Iter would likely move out in just two years.
00:28She had been talking nonstop about going to Florida State ever since she saw a photo of the campus.
00:33But as usual, Jack gave in and made the 25% down payment of $52,500.
00:39Then, two years after De Iter left, Jacqueline hit him with the usual,
00:43we've grown apart, it's not you, it's me, and this will help us reconnect.
00:48He wondered how a 47-year-old woman having a 31-year-old lover was supposed to help them reconnect.
00:54But this time, to Jacqueline's surprise, Jack didn't give in.
00:57He didn't just agree, you'll end up with nothing, she screamed.
01:01Her normally pretty face contorted in anger when he told her he was moving out.
01:05That's fine.
01:07At least I won't end up with an old woman, he said, finishing packing his suitcase.
01:11Miller's electronics sold him the equipment.
01:14It was easy to hide them around the large house.
01:17Jacqueline wasn't very meticulous with cleaning or observant of her surroundings.
01:21He found out Jacqueline's lover was a teacher at Baylor Lake High School.
01:25That's where they met.
01:27Brian taught English and Jacqueline was the librarian.
01:30Jacqueline and Brian thought Jack should go along with their plan.
01:34They'd have their affair.
01:36Then Brian would return to his wife and Jacqueline would return to her husband.
01:40But Jack Hebert didn't become the head accountant for St. Elizabeth Public Utilities by being careless.
01:46He earned that position through careful and meticulous work.
01:50As planned, Brian and Jacqueline went to Sweet Peas for their fried catfish dinner that night.
01:55Brian's parents happened to be there seated at a table.
01:58Brian awkwardly introduced Jacqueline as a colleague.
02:01So where's Michelle? Brian's mother asked directly.
02:04She's at home with the girls, Brian stumbled.
02:06Yes, she mentioned that, his father interjected.
02:09Said you had some kind of parents-teachers conference or something tonight?
02:13Yeah, well we do, but we took a little break to grab a bite, Brian stammered.
02:17Both of Brian's parents replied skeptically, clearly not buying his excuse.
02:22After a quiet dinner, the once affectionate couple went to Foxtrot's lounge for some dancing.
02:28Jacqueline loved dancing, but Jack didn't enjoy it much, considering himself clumsy on the dance floor.
02:33At Foxtrot's, Jacqueline's mother and stepfather were dancing.
02:37Yes, dear, your husband slipped Roger a couple hundred bucks to bring me here for dancing and drinks, her mother chuckled.
02:43Then she glanced at Brian and raised an eyebrow.
02:46But what are you doing here?
02:48She asked Jacqueline.
02:49We, well, you know, Jack isn't really into dancing, so Jacqueline trailed off.
02:54Come on, Monique, they're playing our song, Roger insisted.
02:57That's not our song, you old goof, Monique laughed, letting Roger lead her back onto the dance floor.
03:03But Jacqueline was determined to proceed with her affair, if only to defy her uptight husband and salvage her evening.
03:10Brian didn't mind.
03:12The dinner and dancing had just been a means to an end for him.
03:15Wow, nice house, Brian whistled as he pulled up to the South Shore Baylor Lake home.
03:19Thank you, Jacqueline said with a coy smile.
03:22They entered the house, Brian giving Jacqueline's backside a playful squeeze.
03:26Hello, Brian, Michelle greeted from the living room couch.
03:29I, uh, what, what are you doing here?
03:32Brian nearly shouted.
03:33Oh, I thought I'd show your wife and daughters where you'd be living, Jack Hebert said, entering the room with a box of his belongings.
03:40Hi, Jacqueline, I just came by to pick up a few more things.
03:43I already told you.
03:45Yeah, Michelle said, her voice tight.
03:47I told you after Stacy.
03:49I told you that's it.
03:51The pregnant woman struggled out of the soft couch, walked over to Brian, and slapped him hard across the face.
03:57Well, looks like you all have a lot to talk about, so I'll be on my way, Jack smiled.
04:01The girls really enjoy the swimming pool.
04:04You a hole, Jacqueline snarled at Jack as he walked away.
04:08By the way, you owe Danny 12 bucks for babysitting Mealy and Mandy tonight, Jack added, pointing to the neighbor girl playing with the girls in the pool.
04:16Then he left the house.
04:18They had almost $84,000 in equity in the house.
04:22Jacqueline screamed, cried, and begged Jack for forgiveness.
04:25She couldn't bear to lose the house or the nearly $17,000 worth of furniture she'd bought.
04:30Her new Mercedes Benz still had three years left on the loan.
04:34Jacqueline pleaded and cried for Jack to forgive her.
04:37She knew she couldn't afford the car on her own salary, and she nearly fainted when Parker Johnson, her lawyer, delivered the news.
04:44Jacqueline would be responsible for half of Deidre's tuition and living expenses for as long as she was in college.
04:50She also struggled to make ends meet on the salary of a public school librarian.
04:54No, honey, Monique chuckled dryly when Jacqueline suggested moving in with them.
04:59But it's just until I can, Jacqueline protested.
05:02Honey, it's a two-bedroom condo, Roger pointed out.
05:06I am so thankful your father isn't here to see this, Monique remarked.
05:10She gave her daughter a pointed look.
05:13Remember? Monique prompted.
05:15You brought that Jack Hebert boy home, and your father warned you that he was trouble.
05:20He'd be shocked to see how wrong he was.
05:23Their eldest, John J.R., called his dad.
05:26Dad, mom's asking if she can stay here, J.J. said.
05:29Son, if you've got the space, then of course let her stay, Jack replied.
05:34Well, it's just... I don't want any trouble, J.J. admitted.
05:38Son, that woman changed your diapers, took care of you, fed you all those years.
05:42If you have the space, give it to her, Jack insisted.
05:45Love you, dad, J.J. said.
05:48Michelle Melanson kept her word.
05:50She didn't forgive Brian for his attempted affair.
05:52Brian found it impossible to live on half his salary and ended up moving back in with his parents.
05:58At least this arrangement allowed Brian's parents to spend plenty of time with Amelia and Amanda, their two granddaughters.
06:05When Michelle had her baby, Barry Melanson, named after her father, they got to see him often too.
06:10Barry? I thought we were naming him after me, Brian complained.
06:14We were, Michelle snapped.
06:16But your little Johnson made sure there's no we anymore.
06:19Jack initially planned to stay in the apartment temporarily,
06:22but he grew to enjoy not spending hours on chores like cutting grass,
06:26raking leaves, mulching gardens, planting flowers, or vacuuming the pool.
06:30He also discovered he liked not having to change wallpaper, paint spare bedrooms, or replace old carpets.
06:36Cleaning out the garage, attic, and tool shed was another task he didn't miss.
06:41Jack kept his furnishings minimalistic.
06:43He developed a passion for cooking.
06:46Jacqueline used to complain about his mess in the kitchen,
06:49but here he had to choose between microwaving endless frozen dinners or learning to cook.
06:54He chose the latter and enjoyed it.
06:56One evening, driving home with a new recipe for blackened chicken,
07:00he noticed a colorful building out of the corner of his eye.
07:03Jack had driven past the same building every day without really noticing it.
07:07Why he chose to glance over at that moment was a mystery to him.
07:10The curtains were drawn back, revealing a plate glass window labeled Kizzy School of Dance.
07:15Inside, seven couples were gracefully twirling and gliding.
07:19A car horn snapped him out of his trance,
07:22prompting Jack to turn into the building's parking lot.
07:25He stayed in his car, captivated by the sight.
07:28An attractive young woman with a radiant smile on her face demonstrated basic dance moves to her students,
07:33then encouraged them to practice.
07:36Even without hearing the music, Jack imagined the fluid motions and melodies filling his mind as the dancers moved.
07:42As the class ended, some couples lingered to chat while others headed to their cars in the twilight.
07:48Jack made a spur-of-the-moment decision and stepped out of his car.
07:52Hi, can I help you? the young instructor asked, breaking away from an older couple.
07:56Yeah, do you teach singles? I'm not part of a couple, but watching them dance was beautiful.
08:01Jack stammered awkwardly, questioning why he was even there.
08:05Kizzy smiled warmly and took his nervous hands in hers.
08:09Boy, are you in luck today, she assured him.
08:11Okay, Jack agreed reluctantly.
08:13Come on, let's see what we can do, Kizzy said, guiding him to the front desk.
08:18He signed up for her 12-week program and committed to attending on Wednesday nights.
08:23Six o'clock, and I'll introduce you to your dance partner, Kizzy said, handing him his receipt.
08:28This really is my lucky day, Jack grinned.
08:31Later that evening, as he cooked dinner, Jack found himself humming the music that had played in his head while watching the dancers.
08:38Jack first met Jacqueline Adams at Cabrini High School.
08:41Her family had recently moved from Stepping Stone, Louisiana, so that her father could work at the Bagot Mattress Factory.
08:47She was attractive, but not notably standout among the other beauties at Cabrini High School.
08:52Jack Hebert was far from standing out among the elite at Cabrini High School.
08:56He wasn't particularly good-looking, wealthy, or athletic.
09:00He didn't own a nice car, didn't have a poetic soul, and couldn't dance, but he was intelligent.
09:06After being overlooked by the popular crowd at Cabrini High School for a few weeks,
09:11Jacqueline Adams was thrilled when Jack Hebert quietly invited her to Jade Garden for Chinese food.
09:16When her father dismissed Jack Hebert as a deceitful person, Jack gained some respect in Jacqueline's eyes.
09:22Cabrini held an autumn formal, and Jacqueline expected Jack to ask her.
09:27As the event neared, she finally asked him when he planned to invite her.
09:30I can't dance, he confessed to her, so she went with Joe Manzella instead.
09:35Suddenly, Jacqueline and Joe became a couple.
09:38Jack felt a bit disappointed and hurt, but he was also practical.
09:41They were both 18 and free to date anyone they wanted.
09:45In a few months, he would attend the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette,
09:49while Jacqueline could go wherever she wanted, likely never crossing paths again.
09:54But Joe's smirk did irritate Jack.
09:57Hey Hebert, how's it going? Joe teased.
09:59Oh, going well, Manzella. And how's Gina? Jack replied,
10:03referring to Joe's older sister, known for her promiscuity.
10:06Joe was strong, but Jack was clever.
10:08When Joe swung at Jack, he ducked, causing Joe to hit the cinderblock wall instead.
10:13Ouch, that must hurt.
10:15Jack chuckled as Joe stared at his swollen hand in dismay.
10:18Jacqueline attempted to make Jack jealous by dating other boys,
10:21but eventually admitted defeat and returned to him.
10:24She skipped the winter formal and the spring formal because Jack couldn't dance.
10:28Twenty-nine years later in apartment 2 Billion, Jack was eager to finally learn how to dance.
10:33It was Wednesday, and Jack dressed in his burgundy shoes,
10:36medium brown suit, light blue shirt, and burgundy tie.
10:40Those burgundy shoes were the most comfortable pair he owned.
10:44I could have sworn today was Wednesday, Jill,
10:46an administrative assistant from Human Resources, remarked,
10:49as Jack walked past her cubicle.
10:51It is Wednesday, Jack replied.
10:53No, Wednesday is Navy Blue Day.
10:55The young woman grinned.
10:56You usually wear your blue and gray tie, or the one with the yellow dots.
11:00Not anymore, Jack grinned back.
11:02Mixing things up a bit.
11:04Is that a new suit?
11:06Rhonda, another accountant, asked.
11:08No, it's his Friday suit, Bill, one of the…
11:10Ike-eyes chimed in.
11:12Oh, Rhonda nodded, staring at Jack curiously for a moment before returning to her computer screen.
11:17No, Bill, look, it's stuck on something.
11:19I can't get to the next page.
11:21If wearing a different suit caused a small stir in the office,
11:24Jack leaving 20 minutes early nearly caused a panic.
11:27He drove to Tommy's Peel Boys, a small restaurant next to the dance school,
11:31and almost ordered his usual ham and cheese with olive dressing.
11:34No, you know what? Give me a large shrimp.
11:37There's hot sauce on the table, right?
11:39Yeah, shrimp and a Coke, Jack ordered.
11:42He enjoyed his sandwich thoroughly, checked his watch again,
11:45and then walked next door.
11:47Nervously sucking on a mint, Jack stood apart from the other patrons,
11:50who were all couples.
11:52Great you're here, Kizzy exclaimed upon spotting Jack.
11:55I'd like you to meet Michelle Melanson, your partner.
11:58The last time Jack had seen her, Michelle had been seven, almost eight months pregnant.
12:02All he remembered was that she was a pretty, plump young woman
12:06with two very pretty little girls,
12:08and her face had been blotchy from tears and red with anger.
12:11Michelle Melancon stood at four feet eleven inches
12:14and probably weighed around 170 pounds.
12:17Her face was small and round with a button-like mouth,
12:20a short nose, and big brown eyes that were also round.
12:23Her bright carrot-orange hair was tightly coiled and kept fairly short.
12:27Her breasts were more than a handful.
12:29Her belly still carried some baby fat.
12:31Her hips were round and her backside was also round.
12:34In her snug jeans, her thighs looked thick and round.
12:37Michelle's entire appearance was rounded.
12:40High bubbles.
12:41Jack greeted her without thinking, which made her burst into laughter.
12:44Why you call me that? She chuckled.
12:46I don't know.
12:47I don't know.
12:48Jack admitted, blushing slightly as they became the center of attention
12:51among the other couples.
12:53It just came to mind.
12:55Jack learned that Michelle's parents
12:57had paid for 12 weeks of dancing lessons for her
13:00as a way to get her out of the house for a couple of hours.
13:03When Michelle arrived for her first lesson,
13:05Kizzy had no male partners available for her.
13:08Michelle didn't mind and sat watching the class,
13:11admiring their movements.
13:13Then, Kizzy texted me to come here this Wednesday, Michelle bubbled.
13:16By the end of the first lesson, Jack was covered in sweat.
13:19He had to remove his jacket halfway through,
13:22and then Michelle reached up, loosened his tie,
13:24and unbuttoned the top button of his shirt without thinking.
13:27There? Isn't that better?
13:29She asked as they danced another box step.
13:32Relax, Jack.
13:34Let the music move you, Kizzy encouraged.
13:37When the lesson ended, Michelle eagerly took his hand.
13:40Will you be here next week?
13:42Please say you will.
13:44I had such a great time, she bubbled.
13:46You had fun? Dancing with an old guy like me?
13:49He teased, picking up his suit jacket.
13:51You're not old, she insisted.
13:53Twice your age, he pointed out.
13:55Yeah, well still, she shrugged.
13:57I'll be here, he assured her with a smile.
14:00While dancing with her, Jack tried to look into her big brown eyes,
14:03but sometimes his gaze would drift down to her impressive chest.
14:06Whenever he noticed, he quickly redirected his eyes back to hers,
14:10and she would smile warmly at him, making him blush.
14:14As she exited the building energetically,
14:16he couldn't help but admire her curvy backside and those snug jeans.
14:20As if sensing his gaze, Michelle turned at the door
14:23and flashed him a wide smile.
14:26Did you have fun? Kizzy asked.
14:29You know what? I really did.
14:31I mean, I know I'm not great at it, but I really enjoyed myself, Jack admitted.
14:35First off, you're not bad at all.
14:37You're just starting out, another woman chimed in.
14:40And secondly, dancing is all about having fun, her partner added.
14:44Focus on having fun, and the rest will follow.
14:47Couldn't have said it better myself, Kizzy agreed.
14:50The next morning, Jack went to his closet intending to grab his Thursday suit,
14:54but ended up choosing his Wednesday suit instead.
14:57Now I'm completely confused, Jill teased as he walked down the hallway.
15:00He just smiled, his cell phone buzzed and he saw it was JJ, so he answered.
15:05Dad, you won't believe this, but Shauna JJ began nervously over the phone.
15:09Is your mom driving you crazy? Jack interrupted.
15:13Yeah, did you hear the school letter go? JJ asked.
15:17No way, Jack exclaimed. Yeah, and that guy Brian too, JJ confirmed.
15:21Wow, Jack responded. Any idea why, did she say?
15:24No, I tried asking, but she just said she doesn't want to talk about it, JJ explained.
15:29Jack recognized that phrase.
15:31Jacqueline used it whenever she was in a tight spot and wanted to avoid discussing something.
15:35And with Shauna, I mean the baby is due soon, and JJ continued.
15:40Alright, I'll talk to her, Jack sighed.
15:42They met at Jade Gardens. Jack couldn't help but smile sadly.
15:46Clearly Jacqueline thought it was a date.
15:48She had applied heavy makeup and squeezed into a dress with a low neckline.
15:53A year ago, Jack might have been excited to see her dress like that,
15:57anticipating a romantic evening.
15:59But today the outfit seemed worn and ill-suited for an older woman not aging gracefully.
16:03Well, don't you look nice, he said kindly, taking his seat across from her.
16:08Thank you, and you look, is that a new suit? Jacqueline noticed.
16:12Yeah, I wore the wrong one the other day and almost gave everyone a heart attack, Jack chuckled.
16:17Realized I'd become too predictable, so I donated all my old suits to Goodwill and got all new ones.
16:22Well, that must be nice, Jacqueline said bitterly.
16:25Yes, it is nice, Jack replied cheerfully.
16:28The waitress approached and asked if they were ready to order.
16:31You know, Jacqueline, I know your usual order by heart.
16:34You get the same thing every time, Jack remarked.
16:37But I bet you $1,000 you can't guess what I want.
16:40She stared at him, trying to think of his usual order.
16:43Ready to order?
16:44The waitress asked again.
16:46She'll have spring rolls and sweet and sour pork, right?
16:49Jack said.
16:50Right, Jacqueline confirmed.
16:52And I'll have sweet iced tea and Kung Pao chicken with fried rice, Jack finished the order.
16:57So how have you been? Jacqueline inquired.
17:00I'm good, Jack replied.
17:02Work's going well, got a new place to myself, just mentioned my new suits.
17:06Prices have gone up since our last purchase and Rhonda announced she's pregnant, so I'll need to find a temp.
17:12And you?
17:14The waitress set down his sweet iced tea and Jack nodded in thanks.
17:19Jacqueline complained about losing her job, living with JJ and his wife and feeling disliked by Shawna.
17:25Deidre was still upset with her, but Penelope and Percy were at least kind to her.
17:29But neither of them has any room, she concluded sadly.
17:32Well get your own place, you're an adult, Jack suggested as their food arrived.
17:36With what? My good looks? Jacqueline snapped.
17:39I just lost my job, remember?
17:41Well, if you can't use your looks, try your charming personality, Jack joked.
17:46Screw you, Jack, Jacqueline retorted.
17:48Let's just eat, Jack said. Seriously.
17:51Every time I order this it seems hotter than the last.
17:54As Jack ordered a bowl of chocolate ice cream for Jacqueline and Neapolitan for himself, she brought up the idea of getting back together.
18:01No way, he grinned, even as she leaned forward revealing her sagging breasts.
18:05But why not? She almost yelled.
18:07So I can wait around for the next time you say we've drifted apart.
18:10And it's not you, it's me needing excitement, just closeness to strengthen our relationship.
18:15Jack asked, spooning some ice cream into his mouth.
18:18Jacqueline thought about throwing her ice cream at him and his fancy suit.
18:22The waitress returned and dropped the bill on the table.
18:25Jack quickly checked it and placed his credit card on the tray.
18:29The waitress hurried away without a word.
18:31It could have been hormones, Jacqueline suggested.
18:33I'm getting older, my periods are becoming irregular.
18:36Instead of seeing doctor.
18:38Palure about it, you decide to be with another man, Jack said, signing the bill and leaving a flat 15% tip.
18:45But he understood you were always too busy and Brian, Jacqueline whined.
18:49I was busy with all the stuff you insisted had to be done right then, Jack said, standing up.
18:54I was always running around with our daughter.
18:56He shook his head sadly.
18:58I've heard all these excuses, my fault, hormones.
19:01Brian listened, Jack said.
19:03But I haven't heard Jacqueline say she's sorry or admit it's her fault.
19:06But I am sorry, Jacqueline said quickly.
19:08JJ and Shauna need that room for their baby, Jack said.
19:11So you need to find a nice little apartment or something.
19:15Saint.
19:16Elizabeth Courthouse has a program to help you find a job.
19:19Use it.
19:20Jacqueline burned another bridge.
19:22When she got back to JJ and Shauna's small bungalow, she screamed at Shauna, calling her names.
19:28Thanks, Dad, JJ said with bitterness in his voice on the phone.
19:32Nope.
19:33I talked to your mom and told her you guys needed that room for the baby, Jack argued.
19:37Whatever she said or did after that, that's her responsibility.
19:40Jack caused a stir at Saint.
19:43Elizabeth's public utilities when he showed up on Friday.
19:46Instead of his usual medium brown suit, he wore khakis and a button-down shirt.
19:51But when 5.10 rolled around the next Wednesday,
19:54Jack emerged from his office wearing snug blue jeans, a baby blue pullover shirt, and penny loafers,
20:00with his suit draped over his shoulder.
20:02It sent a mild shockwave through the building.
20:05And you're leaving 30 minutes early, Rhonda asked.
20:07Go, Jack.
20:08Go, Jack Garrett, from it cheered at Tommy's.
20:10Jack ordered a fried oyster peel boy and a cola.
20:14After finishing, he had to admit that the hot ham and cheese with olive dressing was still his favorite.
20:20Well, hey, you never know until you try, he mused aloud.
20:23Michelle awaited him with a wide smile, bounding over to greet him.
20:26That looks way more comfortable than that fussy old suit, she complimented, rubbing his arm.
20:31Hi, Bubbles, you're looking good too, he grinned.
20:34She burst into laughter at being called Bubbles.
20:37He felt much more relaxed and genuinely enjoyed their lesson.
20:40Well, back to the kids, Michelle said as Kizzy congratulated everyone on a great class.
20:45I'm sure Barry's hungry by now.
20:47Barry?
20:48Oh, right, the baby, Jack smiled.
20:50How are the little ones?
20:52Millie's been asking why we can't live with Daddy almost all the time now.
20:56Mandy's starting to fuss about it too, but that's just because Millie is.
21:00And as long as Barry has a dry diaper and a boob to suck on, he's happy, Michelle confessed.
21:05She beamed a big smile when he glanced at her ample chest.
21:08See you next Wednesday, Bubbles.
21:11Jack grinned.
21:12I'm going to come up with a nickname for you, Michelle teased.
21:15Yeah, sure, can't wait, Jack replied.
21:18Next, Percy called Jack, complaining about his mother.
21:22Dad, please do something, Percy whined.
21:25She's been here for two days and already Addison's ready to end her, or me.
21:29What, am I supposed to be the enforcer? Jack asked.
21:32That's exactly what Jacqueline asked him when he called her to tell her to leave Percy's one-bedroom apartment.
21:37My place is only $425 a month.
21:41You can't say you can't afford $425, Jack reasoned with her.
21:45I got fired from my job, Jack.
21:47It's hard to rent an apartment with no money, Jacqueline raised her voice.
21:51Jacqueline, we sold the house, Jack reminded her.
21:55We each got a check for $42,000.
21:58What happened to all that money?
22:00She didn't answer his question.
22:02Instead, she pleaded with him to reconsider reconciliation.
22:06Do you remember what you said to me when I asked if you wanted to go to the Catskills?
22:10Jack reminded her.
22:12My last vacation I said hey, why don't we go to the Catskills?
22:16We loved it there last time we went.
22:18Remember what you said, no?
22:19You know I don't, she snapped.
22:21But I'm sure you do.
22:22You said why bother?
22:24Well Jacqueline why bother, reconciling, why bother, Jack said.
22:28Penelope gently let her mother know that as much as she loved her,
22:31there simply wasn't space for her at her apartment.
22:34And besides that mom, you hate dogs.
22:36And Samson and Delilah were here first, Penelope added,
22:40as her two Irish wolfhounds sought her attention.
22:43Jill asked as he walked past her cubicle holding his suit.
22:46Alright Jack, where are you headed?
22:48What's up? He chuckled.
22:50I don't interrogate you every time you leave.
22:53Yeah, but you're not smiling like that every time either, she grinned.
22:56Jack knew that if he spilled the beans to Jill the whole office would know by morning coffee.
23:00They all knew about his divorce from Jacqueline and the reasons behind it.
23:05Women were approaching him, calling Jacqueline names and reassuring him.
23:09Not all women were like her.
23:11Some men were patting him on the back quietly while others avoided him altogether.
23:15Okay Jill but this stays between us, Jack said.
23:18You know I won't spill, Jill promised eagerly, eyes shining with curiosity.
23:23Well, every Wednesday after my divorce, you know, trying to make ends meet on half of everything, Jack explained.
23:29Yeah, that woman Jill nodded in agreement.
23:32But anyways, I make some extra cash posing as a male model for the art classes at ULD, Jack whispered.
23:39You do what? Jill exclaimed, eyes widening in disbelief.
23:43Yeah, University of Louisiana at Degard, Jack confirmed.
23:46They have these art classes where they pay me 100 bucks to strip down and just stand there.
23:51I was so embarrassed the first time.
23:54One girl said she used up all her red paint trying to get my blush right.
23:58But hey, after that, Jack managed to hold his laughter until he reached his car.
24:03He was still giggling when he walked into Kizzy's.
24:06Okay Jackhammer, what's so funny? Michelle asked, taking his hand.
24:10He blushed but shared with her what he had told Jill, the office gossip.
24:14They both burst into laughter, Michelle covering her mouth with her delicate hand.
24:19Well, I'd definitely pay to paint you, she confessed as Kizzy called the class to order.
24:24Okay Jackhammer, you ready? Michelle teased.
24:27Yeah, that's what all the ladies call me, Jack replied, causing Michelle to blush immediately.
24:32I didn't mean it like that, she exclaimed, playfully slapping his arm.
24:36Any issues here?
24:38Kizzy asked with a smile.
24:40Yeah, she just hit me, Jack joked.
24:42You should have heard what he said, Michelle retorted.
24:44I'll come up with a different nickname, Michelle promised as they danced.
24:48Sure thing, Bubbles, Jack grinned and spun her around.
24:51That's it, keep going, Kizzy encouraged.
24:54A few other couples joined in the encouragement and both Jack and Michelle grinned broadly.
24:58I mean, do you want to Jack stuttered as Kizzy ended the class?
25:02Michelle smiled up at him, her smile making him even more nervous, but he pushed through.
25:07Uh, would you like to grab a cup of coffee or something, he asked.
25:10Can't, Michelle replied, remember, I'm breastfeeding.
25:14Oh right, I totally forgot, Jack nodded in agreement.
25:17But how about a big malt at Clark's, Michelle suggested, taking his hand in hers.
25:22Yeah, that sounds great, Jack agreed, smiling through his blush.
25:26We'll take your car, Michelle decided.
25:28However, when she saw that Jack drove a smart car, she nudged him toward her minivan.
25:33I'm not squeezing into one of those, she declared.
25:36It's like trying to fit a basketball into a golf ball.
25:39Come on, they're bigger than they look, Jack protested, but he got into her minivan.
25:44She sent a quick text to her parents letting them know they were stopping at Clark's.
25:48Yes, it's a date, she texted back when her mother asked.
25:51Before they could make the short drive from Kizzy's school of dance to Clark's drive-in,
25:56Michelle's phone buzzed eight times.
25:58Do you want to answer that, Jack asked.
26:01No way, it's my family trying to drive me crazy, she said after glancing at her phone.
26:06Michelle got a large chocolate malt, and Jack opted for a vanilla cone dipped in chocolate.
26:12So Jack Rabbit, why did you decide to take up dancing, Michelle asked,
26:15as Jack watched the cute waitress skate away, her backside outlined by the familiar red shorts.
26:21Jack Rabbit, huh? Jack grinned.
26:24Yeah, that's what my lady friends like to call me.
26:27Forget it, Michelle laughed as her phone buzzed again.
26:30And stop checking out all those girls in shorts, she ordered.
26:33I was just thinking about how good you'd look in them, Jack blurted out before he could stop himself.
26:38Before she could respond, a police car pulled into the space next to them.
26:42Seriously? Michelle exclaimed as her older brother stepped out of the police car.
26:46Is there a problem with your phone?
26:49Officer Richard Voisin asked his younger sister.
26:52No, I'm ignoring it, just like I'm ignoring you, she snapped.
26:55Aha, Richard smirked.
26:57Hi, I'm Jack began to introduce himself.
26:59Jonathan Archibald Hebert S.R. Richard interjected.
27:03I ran the tags on your car.
27:05Really? Michelle groaned.
27:07Can't I just enjoy my Malton piece?
27:09Richard affectionately pinched his sister's nose.
27:12After what Brian did to you, we can't let just anyone into the family circle without checking them out, Richard said, nodding at Jack.
27:19Don't worry about answering your phone, he assured Jack as he started to walk around his car.
27:24I've already given everyone the all clear on Jack.
27:26I hate you, Michelle yelled at him.
27:28Aha, love you too, Richard chuckled, opening his door.
27:33You should bring him over on Sunday.
27:35Jack chuckled, and a moment later Michelle joined in.
27:39I'm so sorry about that, she said.
27:42What an awkward first date, huh?
27:44Actually, I think this is turning out to be a great first date, Jack replied.
27:49And that's what I'm going to call you, she giggled after taking a big slurp of her malt.
27:53Archibald, huh? Archibald, huh?
27:55Archie, please don't, he protested.
27:58But Archie, she teased. Her phone buzzed a few more times, but she ignored it while they enjoyed their ice cream treats.
28:04When she parked next to his car, the only one in the lot at Kizzy's School of Dance, they continued their quiet conversation.
28:11Michelle noticed Jack becoming increasingly nervous.
28:14You trying to kiss me, Archie?
28:16She finally asked.
28:18Yeah, I want to, he admitted.
28:21She grabbed his shirt front and kissed him.
28:23Give me your phone number.
28:25You're coming over for Sunday dinner whether you like it or not, she insisted after they pulled apart.
28:2931 messages, she exclaimed, checking her phone again.
28:33Seriously?
28:35After another long kiss, Jack stepped out of her car, waved and drove off, leaving her to deal with 31 text messages.
28:42Jack entered the building and Whitney, the friendly but somewhat naive receptionist at the lobby desk, blushed as she greeted him.
28:48Up on the third floor, some women blushed too, while others avoided making eye contact.
28:53A few of the men chuckled and Garrett flashed him a thumbs up.
28:56Then Jack recalled what he had joked about with Jill the night before, and couldn't help but burst out laughing.
29:02You said you wouldn't tell anyone, huh?
29:04He teased Jill when he spotted her in the break room.
29:07But I didn't, she protested, looking guilty.
29:10That Sunday he passed inspection, especially since he wore his saint's pullover shirt with khakis.
29:15And look at that, the man knows how to tuck in his shirt, Michelle's father, Barry Voisin, remarked to Michelle's older brother.
29:22Mister? Archie, can we go swimming at your house again?
29:26Asked Amelia, Millie Melanson.
29:29Well, I'm sorry, sweetheart, but I don't live in that house anymore, Jack explained.
29:33Then he remembered his apartment complex did have a swimming pool.
29:37Often he would return home from work to find various people lounging around the pool.
29:41But my apartment does have a swimming pool, he offered.
29:45Can we go swimming at your apartment?
29:47Mandy asked eagerly.
29:49Sure thing, Jack agreed.
29:51Do you really want to see this body in a bathing suit?
29:54Michelle whispered mischievously.
29:56Absolutely, Jack replied with enthusiasm.
29:58Archie, you're so naughty, she laughed aloud.
30:02He passed inspection again, especially when he told Barry and Richard that he usually went to Red Sports Bar to watch the Saints play.
30:09Oh man, they used to have the hottest wings.
30:12I swear, your tongue would go numb after eating them.
30:15Do they still have those wings?
30:17Barry inquired.
30:19Yes, both Jack and Richard confirmed.
30:21If anyone found it a bit odd that Michelle's boyfriend was 20 years older than her, no one mentioned it.
30:27Jack and Barry both reached for the final biscuit to mop up the last of the rice, gravy, and smothered steak.
30:34Marie Voisin playfully tapped Barry's knuckles with her spoon.
30:37He's our guest.
30:38You give him that biscuit, she instructed her husband.
30:41But I really need that biscuit, Barry complained, patting his full belly.
30:45I'm about to waste away here.
30:47Well, I wouldn't want that to happen, Jack chuckled.
30:50Go ahead and take it.
30:51No, no, you look hungrier than me, Barry grinned broadly.
30:55All right, then.
30:56See you on Wednesday, Jack said as he said goodbye to Michelle's six siblings, Milly and Mandy, her parents, and everyone else.
31:02Do I have to wait that long? Michelle asked.
31:04Well, no, we can go to Side-by-Side and then Foxtrot's.
31:07We've practiced enough, right? Jack suggested.
31:10Ooh, Side-by-Side, Marie chimed in.
31:13Barry, why don't you ever take me to Side-by-Side?
31:15Because I'm cheap, Barry joked.
31:18We're taking my van.
31:20I'm not getting in that tiny thing you call a car, Michelle teased, wrinkling her nose at Jack's smart car.
31:26Oh, come on, that's a Mercedes-Benz, Jack insisted.
31:29That's no Mercedes-Benz, Michelle laughed.
31:32Yeah, it is.
31:33It's made by Mercedes-Benz, Jack explained.
31:36They hugged and kissed for as long as they felt comfortable, with Michelle's entire family watching.
31:41Jack promised he'd be there at 6.30 the next evening.
31:45Jack marveled at how easily he slipped back into the dialect of his youth.
31:49His maternal grandparents spoke mostly Cajun French,
31:52while his paternal grandparents spoke heavily-accented English mixed with Cajun French
31:56when they were excited or frustrated.
31:58Many dinner table conversations were a blend of both languages.
32:02When Henry Jonathan Hebert and Elise Cynthia Arnault wanted to keep something from their children's ears,
32:07they spoke in Cajun French to each other.
32:10Little did they know their three boys understood Cajun French perfectly well.
32:15In high school and college, Jack gradually lost his accent.
32:19As an administrator at St. Elizabeth's Public Utilities,
32:22he made a conscious effort to speak clearly without his Cajun twang.
32:26But an afternoon at the Voice & Family table brought his heritage right back.
32:30He went online, found side-by-side Steakhouse's number,
32:34and left a message for a table for two at 6.45 the next evening.
32:38Even a call from his ex-wife didn't ruin his good mood.
32:41"'Hi Jack, it's me,' she said sweetly.
32:44"'Yeah, I see that,' he replied, resisting the urge to slip into a Cajun accent.
32:49Jacqueline used to make fun of the accent when his parents couldn't hear.
32:52She also criticized their cooking, calling it unhealthy.
32:56"'Grease isn't food no matter what y'all think,' she'd sneer.
33:00So Jack was careful not to give Jacqueline any more reasons to criticize him.
33:03"'So how have you been?' she asked.
33:05"'I've been all right,' you know, Jack said, then cringed.
33:09"'Well, I finally did it.'
33:11"'I got myself a little place,' Jacqueline said.
33:14"'Oh, that's good to hear,' Jack responded.
33:16"'So I was thinking maybe you'd like to come over,' Jacqueline coaxed,
33:19turning on the false charm.
33:21"'What? Why?' Jack questioned.
33:24"'Oh, you know, see the place?
33:26"'I'll make stuffed bell peppers, your old favorite, remember?'
33:29Jacqueline said.
33:30"'Jacqueline, I don't think so,' Jack declined.
33:33And just like that, Jacqueline's forced cheerfulness faded away.
33:37She turned whiny and self-pitying,
33:39mentioning that none of their children would talk to her anymore.
33:43"'Deidara, my baby, she hung up on me, can you believe it?' she sobbed.
33:47"'I will. I'm busy tomorrow,' Jack reluctantly replied.
33:50"'How about Wednesday then?' Jacqueline quickly suggested,
33:52her tears drying up as fast as they had started.
33:55"'No, I've got plans on Wednesday too,' Jack said.
33:58"'What are you doing?' Jacqueline demanded to know.
34:01Jack briefly considered telling her what he'd told Jill.
34:04"'I'm taking a course at school, brushing up on a few things,' he said.
34:08It wasn't entirely untrue.
34:11Over the years he had taken courses at the University of Louisiana at DeGuard
34:14to sharpen his skills.
34:16He just didn't feel like mentioning that he was refining his dancing skills.
34:20"'Well, how about Tuesday then?' she proposed.
34:22"'Yeah.' OK, Jack agreed.
34:24At 10.30 on Monday morning,
34:27a young woman named Lacey called his cell phone to confirm his reservation for two
34:31at Side-by-Side Restaurant at 6.45 that evening.
34:35"'We look forward to seeing you, mister.'
34:37"'Hebert,' Lacey said cheerfully.
34:39"'Not as much as I do,' Jack joked and Lacey giggled.
34:42Michelle also giggled when Jack called her to remind her about their date that evening.
34:46"'Like I'm thinking about anything else?' she asked.
34:49With a love you, Auchi Michelle ended the call.
34:52Jacqueline had not said love you until they had known each other for nearly a year.
34:56Then, it was only in response to Jack's own declaration of love.
35:00Jacqueline had never used any terms of endearment with him.
35:04The only time she called him honey or baby was when she wanted something.
35:07Once again, at 6.30 Jack had to greet Michelle's entire family.
35:12Her parents, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephew.
35:15She only had one nephew named Richie, Mealy, Mandy and Barry,
35:21who flashed him a toothless grin.
35:23Michelle wore a slightly snug dress that clearly was her best outfit bought long ago,
35:27likely before she was pregnant with Amelia.
35:30"'Damn, Bubbles. I should have gone home and dressed fancier,' Jack commented,
35:34though he was already in a sharp black pinstripe suit, crisp white shirt and a bold red tie.
35:40"'Why? You look good,' she replied.
35:43"'Yeah, but not nearly as good as you,' he said, making her blush with pride.
35:47"'Why don't you say things like that?' Marie asked Barry.
35:50"'Because then I'd have to say it all the time,' Barry teased, kissing his wife.
35:54"'You're fibbing,' she laughed, returning his kiss.
35:57"'I'll give you a police escort,' Richard joked.
35:59"'Do it, and I'll end you,' Michelle threatened playfully.
36:03"'Mr.'
36:04"'Hiebert.'
36:05The hostess greeted them at the restaurant.
36:07"'Right this way.'
36:08Michelle looked around the fancy restaurant in awe.
36:10The fanciest place Brian had ever taken her was Casa Ol, a Mexican restaurant.
36:15Her menu had no prices and she asked about it.
36:18"'Sweetheart, it's so you don't worry about what you're ordering,' Jack explained quietly,
36:23taking her small hand in his.
36:25"'You can get whatever you want.'
36:26Looking into his warm brown eyes, Michelle felt her heart flutter.
36:30"'I love you,' she blurted out suddenly.
36:33Her eyes widened and she gasped silently, trying to correct herself.
36:37"'I'm so happy to hear that because I'm in love with you too,' Jack smiled warmly.
36:41"'You are?' Michelle gasped.
36:44Meanwhile, Jill remarked as Jack exited his office.
36:47Dressed in his usual Wednesday attire of jeans and a pullover shirt.
36:52"'What a difference a day makes, huh?'
36:54"'Huh,' Jack responded, curious.
36:57"'Well yesterday you looked like you'd lost your best friend when you left here,' Jill observed.
37:02"'But tonight you've got that Wednesday night smile plastered all over your face.'
37:06Jack grinned even wider and continued on towards the elevator.
37:09The previous evening, he had visited his ex-wife's new apartment.
37:13Jacqueline had rented a one-bedroom unit that was slightly larger than Jack's,
37:17with a neat and tidy environment.
37:19The apartment complex was well-kept, with no abandoned cars in the parking lot,
37:23and clean grounds.
37:25At the Voisins' home, they bowed their heads for a prayer before the meal began.
37:29Since Sunday's lunch, Jack had made a habit of giving thanks before eating.
37:33"'I'm not poisoning you, you know.'
37:36No need to pray, Jacqueline teased when she noticed him bowing his head.
37:40Throughout dinner, Jacqueline continued to complain.
37:43She griped about the high rent, the cost of furniture,
37:46her boring job at the courthouse, and the noisy neighbors.
37:49"'Must have been some great closeness,' Jack muttered to himself.
37:52"'That's all I can think about. It must have been really great.'
37:55Once again, Jacqueline brought up the idea of getting back together.
37:59"'Did you hear what I said?' Jacqueline asked, trying to hide her irritation.
38:04Jack finished chewing his casserole, took a sip of his iced tea, and faced her.
38:08"'Why did you cheat on me?' he asked directly.
38:11"'What? What does that have to do with Jacqueline?' stammered.
38:14"'It has everything to do with it,' Jack replied firmly.
38:18He placed his napkin on the table.
38:20"'Jacqueline, for whatever reason you decided to sleep with Brian Melanson.
38:24"'I told you not to do it. I told you I wasn't okay with it.
38:27"'I warned you it would end our marriage. But you went ahead anyway.
38:32"'The only reason it didn't, I messed that up pretty badly, didn't I?
38:36"'I really didn't think,' Jacqueline admitted weakly.
38:39"'I know you really didn't think I would fight back so hard.
38:42"'You really didn't think I would leave or file for divorce?
38:46"'You really didn't think you wouldn't get your way like you always did?'
38:49"'Jack sighed.
38:50"'See? You're just as much to blame as I am. You always-'
38:54Jacqueline started to argue.
38:56"'Jacqueline, I still haven't heard you say you're sorry.'
39:00He interrupted, standing up.
39:02"'You're not done yet. You still have.' Jacqueline protested.
39:05"'I'm done.' Jack cut her off, heading toward the door.
39:08"'Don't call me anymore, okay? We have nothing more to say.'
39:11He stopped at Clark's and ordered a chili cheeseburger and a vanilla malt.
39:16"'I'd be nervous driving around in that thing,' his waitress admitted, eyeing his small car.
39:21"'Yeah, but I get 42 miles to the gallon,' Jack agreed cheerfully.
39:26When he arrived home he and Michelle exchanged text messages incessantly until ten o'clock.
39:31"'Goodnight, Archie,' she sent, along with a kissy face.
39:34"'Love you.'
39:35"'Goodnight,' he replied.
39:36"'Love you more,' came her response.
39:39I know he chuckled back.
39:41He laughed when she replied with a smiley face sticking out its tongue.
39:45Now it was Wednesday afternoon and Jack was excited about dancing with Michelle.
39:49Whitney blushed deeply but wished him a good evening.
39:52After a hot ham and cheese peel boy with olive dressing and a few dashes of hot sauce,
39:57Jack was energized and ready.
39:59"'Archie!' Michelle exclaimed, bounding over to greet him.
40:02"'Hi, Bubbles!' he smiled, admiring her outfit.
40:05"'You look good, yeah?'
40:07They danced, following Kizzy's instructions, correcting those who needed it
40:11and praising those who did well.
40:14When the class ended, Jack bent down and softly kissed Michelle's lips.
40:18"'So it's Brian's weekend with the kids,' Michelle coyly mentioned.
40:21"'What are you thinking?'
40:23"'I'm thinking I want to make love to you,' Jack blurted out.
40:26She kissed him back, standing on her tiptoes.
40:29"'Okay, that sounds good, yeah,' she agreed.
40:33On Thursday Jack had a heart-to-heart talk with Barry, Michelle's father.
40:37He learned that Michelle's wedding had been rushed and there was no honeymoon,
40:40so Jack planned a romantic weekend getaway, and on Friday he left work at noon.
40:45Jack couldn't help but laugh.
40:47Jacqueline's Mercedes-Benz was sitting in the lot of the Superior used car lot.
40:51They called them pre-owned, but even the salesperson admitted they're used cars.
40:55"'You know what?'
40:57"'Yeah, give me that one.'
40:59Jack agreed and bought Jacqueline's car.
41:01Then he returned to his small apartment and packed his suitcase.
41:05His mood soured slightly when he pulled up to the Voisin house
41:08and saw Brian Melanson struggling with Barry's car seat and Mandy's car seat.
41:12Millie was already seated in the front.
41:15A thought struck Jack.
41:17"'Here, let me help,' he said, taking Barry from Brian.
41:20"'You get Mandy.'
41:22"'Hi, mister.'
41:23Autchie, Millie greeted him.
41:25"'You're not going to hit me, are you?'
41:26Brian asked nervously.
41:27"'Huh?'
41:28"'No, no, go ahead, get her.'
41:30Jack reassured him as he quickly secured Barry's car seat.
41:33Jack kissed Millie on the forehead and kissed Mandy, too.
41:36"'Can I talk to you for a minute? How about Monday night?'
41:39Jack asked Brian.
41:40"'Monday?'
41:41"'No, I'm not busy,' Brian agreed.
41:43Jack then helped Michelle with her suitcase.
41:46The two-hour drive allowed them plenty of time to chat and get to know each other.
41:50Michelle shared that Brian had been a friend of her brother Richard's and had always been kind to her.
41:54"'I mean, I know I'm overweight, but he always says hi and tells me I'm pretty,' Michelle said.
41:59"'Hi, you're pretty,' Jack replied.
42:01"'And because I'm allergic to latex,' Michelle added.
42:04"'I think I know what you're going to say.'
42:07Jack said with a slight grimace he had bought a pack of protection,
42:10but if Michelle couldn't use latex they'd have to decide whether to take the risk Jack hoped
42:14with Michelle looking stunning in her snug pink blouse and cocky shorts
42:18that they'd take the chance clearly Michelle was hoping the same.
42:21Squeezing his hand frequently baton rouge traffic was as chaotic as ever and Jack felt relieved
42:26when they finally reached Gonzales Bourbon Street was a new experience for Michelle
42:30who had never been out of Degard Louisiana Café du Monde, was a delightful treat.
42:35And Jack agreed they should eat there every day.
42:38As night fell over the city, Michelle took Jack's hand and looked up at him with her big brown eyes.
42:44"'Let's go back to the room,' she suggested.
42:47She talked non-stop on the way to the hotel, in the creaky old elevator.
42:51And while he struggled with the key card he pulled her close,
42:54hugged her tightly and then kissed her.
42:57"'Are you nervous Bubbles?' Jack asked her softly.
43:00"'No,' Michelle denied.
43:02Then nodded burying her head in his chest.
43:05"'You're about to see me naked and I'm overweight,' she admitted.
43:08"'And you're beautiful too,' Jack said.
43:10He didn't try to deny that she was overweight.
43:13She knew she was 40 to 50 pounds heavier than she wanted to be.
43:16Trying to convince her otherwise would have been insincere and dishonest.
43:20So Jack told Michelle the truth.
43:23She was beautiful, regardless of her weight.
43:25She was beautiful.' He guided her to the bed and gently pushed her down.
43:29She sat on the edge, watching as he turned off the room's two lamps and closed the curtains tightly.
43:35"'There,' he said, finding her in the darkness and touching her.
43:39"'Now I can't see you.' He kissed her deeply.
43:42"'But I can feel you,' he whispered, running his hand up and down her arm.
43:46"'And I can feel you,' she whispered back.
43:49"'I love you, Archie.' He interrupted their kisses to lift off her blouse.
43:52They kissed again.
43:54Michelle pulled off his saint's pullover shirt and they kissed some more.
43:57"'You're so beautiful, Michelle,' he whispered as he unhooked her strong bra.
44:02"'Why don't I feel like Bubbles?' she asked.
44:05"'Who knows?' Jack said, and she chuckled.
44:07His hands explored her breasts and noticed the effects of breastfeeding.
44:10"'Sorry,' she murmured.
44:12"'What? Why? You're so hot, Bubbles,' Jack protested.
44:16Their kisses were full of passion and love.
44:19Upon hearing his declaration of love, Michelle eagerly kissed him back,
44:23pressing her breasts against him.
44:25Then she pushed him onto the bed, climbed on top, and straddled him.
44:30Meanwhile, Brian appeared nervous and anxious.
44:33Jack ordered coffee with evaporated milk from the counter
44:36and then walked over to Brian's table.
44:38"'Hey, Brian, how's it going?' Jack greeted him,
44:40sliding into the bench across from him.
44:43"'Good, I'm good, you?' Brian stammered.
44:45"'I'm good, too.'
44:47"'Got a crockpot of black bean soup waiting for me at home,' Jack replied,
44:51bowing on his coffee.
44:54"'So what did you want to talk to me about?'
44:56Brian brought up the subject.
44:58"'Why did my wife want to cheat on me?'
45:00Jack blurted out, skipping small talk.
45:02"'Ha!' Brian was taken aback.
45:04Jack had imagined various scenarios, but his direct question wasn't one of them.
45:08Jack swallowed a mouthful of scalding coffee and set down his cup.
45:12I gave her everything she asked for.
45:14That huge house she wanted. I hated it, but I got it.
45:17Her car? She had a good Lincoln, but she had to have a Mercedes-Benz,'
45:21Jack explained, looking at Brian.
45:24"'I'm just trying to understand.'
45:27I gave her everything. Never cheated, never mistreated her.
45:30And then she decides to have a fling.
45:33I'm trying to figure out why.'
45:35She was feeling old, Brian offered.
45:38"'What? So am I. We're all getting older,' Jack protested.
45:41Brian raised his hand.
45:43"'You asked why, but you won't hear it if you keep talking,' Brian said.
45:47They stared at each other silently for a moment.
45:50Finally, Jack nodded in agreement.
45:52"'She's getting older,' Brian continued.
45:54"'Her youngest is out of the house now, Deidre, right?'
45:57Deidre Jack confirmed.
45:59"'She's feeling old, maybe not as desirable,' Brian elaborated.
46:02He smiled and shrugged.
46:04All it took was a compliment like,
46:06"'You look nice today. Were your daughters old enough for college and she was happy?'
46:09Brian confessed.
46:11"'I always told her she looked good,' Jack said angrily.
46:14"'Yes, but coming from you, it's different,' Brian explained.
46:17"'You're the husband. It's expected from you, but it doesn't count the same way.'
46:22Brian finished his coffee and glanced at the counter.
46:25"'Go ahead,' Jack said.
46:27"'Get yourself another.' Brian got up and returned with a fresh cup.
46:30"'Anyway, she's smiling at me, flirting a little.
46:32"'It's flattering a little. It's flattering when a younger guy pays attention,' Brian continued.
46:37He blew on his coffee, then winced when he burned his lips on the hot mug.
46:41"'It's hot,' Jack agreed, sipping his own coffee.
46:44"'That's how I ended up with Cindy.
46:46"'The school secretary, Stacy, the chemistry teacher.'
46:49"'That's the one Michelle caught me with,' Brian confessed.'
46:53Both men sat silently for a moment.
46:55All it takes is a little attention, and then they start complaining about their husband.
46:59"'He ignores them, doesn't take them out, prefers to sit around watching TV,' Brian said.
47:05He took another sip of coffee, grimacing slightly at the heat.
47:10"'You just got yourself that smart car,' Brian recalled.
47:13"'And all I had to do was ask if you were still upset about the Saints losing season,
47:17and she started listing all your faults.'
47:19Brian shrugged.
47:20"'Oh, he bought a new car?
47:22"'How selfish.
47:24"'He doesn't take you dancing? Prefers football?
47:27"'I bet he's not good to you in bed either, is he?'
47:29Brian mimicked.
47:30"'Forget that I'm busting my ass for her every day,' Jack snapped.
47:34"'Most husbands do,' Brian admitted.
47:36"'But all I have to do is suggest it's not enough.'
47:39Jack finished his bitter coffee, thinking to himself more than to Brian.
47:43"'And Michelle fell for you?' he muttered.
47:46"'Oh, her. Always the chubby kid.
47:48"'Just had to tell her she was cute.'
47:50Brian scoffed.
47:51"'Worst mistake.'
47:53He stopped short, remembering he'd seen Jack outside Michelle's house the previous Friday.
47:58As the serpent left the Garden of Eden, he became an English teacher,
48:01Jack thought to himself, standing up.
48:04He couldn't help but grin.
48:06Brian Melanson knew how to charm women,
48:08but Michelle had confided in Jack that Brian wasn't great in bed.
48:12Michelle had revealed that Brian didn't enjoy giving BJ honor
48:15Jack showed who's the best lover around here,
48:17smiled politely, bid Brian goodnight, and exited Jitter's coffeehouse.
48:21Jack drove back to his small apartment,
48:23dished out some black bean soup,
48:25and added extra hot sauce to spice it up.
48:27He and Michelle exchanged text messages throughout the evening.
48:31On Tuesday morning, Jack woke up not just with a smile,
48:34but also without feeling like a failure or a loser,
48:37a feeling that had plagued him for some time.
48:40He had carried lingering questions about why Jacqueline had cheated,
48:44whether it was her first time,
48:45and where he had gone wrong as a husband and provider.
48:48However, he now saw more clearly that he hadn't failed.
48:51While he might have lost focus at times, it wasn't solely his fault.
48:55He also realized he had outgrown the bachelor pad he was renting,
48:59Epilogue.
49:00It was their twelfth dance lesson that evening.
49:02Jack had enrolled them in twelve more lessons,
49:05and paid for both his and Michelle's sessions,
49:07despite Barry offering to pitch in.
49:09Why do we have to go to McDonald's?
49:11Mealy asked, holding one of Jack's hands while Mandy held the other.
49:15Because they have hamburgers, french fries, and you can get a milkshake,
49:19plus there's a playground slide,
49:22and there's a toy in the box too, Mandy added.
49:25As Jack and Michelle gracefully twirled on the dance floor,
49:28their movements fluid and beautiful,
49:29Jack looked down at Michelle with a smile.
49:32She looked back up at him, her face flushed with happiness and excitement.
49:36It's hard to believe twelve weeks ago you didn't know you're left from your right,
49:39Kizzy complimented.
49:40The music began to fade, and Jack spun Michelle away from him.
49:44Then, as Michelle spun back toward him,
49:47Jack knelt down on one knee.
49:49Michelle looked at him puzzled.
49:51The other couples stopped dancing and turned their attention to Jack and Michelle
49:54standing in the center of the large room.
49:56Michelle voiced in,
49:58I love you with all my heart,
49:59Jack declared loudly and confidently.
50:02Will you marry me?
50:04He presented a stunning yellow gold ring adorned with a one-carat diamond
50:07flanked by four smaller diamonds.
50:09Michelle stared in awe at the ring,
50:11then threw herself onto Jack,
50:13bringing him down to the floor as she kissed him passionately.
50:16Oh, Archie, she exclaimed with laughter.
50:19The other couples clapped and cheered,
50:21enjoying the joyful scene as Jack struggled to stand up again.
50:24I suppose that's a yes, Kizzy teased,
50:27as Michelle finally released Jack.
50:29And all of you are coming to our wedding?
50:31Got it?
50:32Michelle declared, admiring her ring.
50:34Seriously, Dad?
50:36JJ joked when Jack shared the news.
50:38My stepmom's younger than me.
50:40Deidre pretended to be dismayed
50:42that she wouldn't be the baby of the family anymore.
50:44Millie assured her that being a big sister would be fun.
50:48It's awesome, she explained.
50:50I get to stay up 15 minutes later because I'm the big sister.
50:53So I get to stay up 15 minutes later than you?
50:55Deidre asked playfully.
50:57Yep, Millie confirmed.
50:58Dad, why do they keep calling you mister?
51:01Archie?
51:02Percy inquired as they toured Jack's new house.
51:05JJ Shauna holding their son Trey.
51:07Percy with his wife Addison,
51:09whose belly looked ready to pop at eight months pregnant.
51:11Penelope with her partner Alyssa.
51:13And Deidre all turned to listen to the story.
51:16The first time I met Michelle I called her Bubbles, Jack explained.
51:19Bubbles?
51:20Alyssa queried.
51:22Her kewpie doll face creased with a smile.
51:24I don't know.
51:25She was just so lively and cheerful.
51:27And it just slipped out, Jack confessed.
51:30And then I discovered his middle name is Archibald.
51:32Michelle chimed in, squeezing his hand.
51:36And he's a huge Saints fan, Penelope nodded in understanding.
51:39Archie Manning is still the greatest quarterback the Saints ever had.
51:42JJ, Percy, and Penelope echoed what they'd heard all their lives.
51:46While Millie and Mandy showed their new older siblings the stakes marking where their swimming pool would be dug,
51:51Deidre sidled up to her father.
51:53Sorry dad, I accidentally let it slip that you and Michelle are getting married next Saturday, Deidre admitted.
51:59Honey, so what?
52:01I'm not hiding it from your mother, Jack shrugged.
52:04He smiled as Millie assured Shawna that she'd teach Trey how to swim.
52:07While she got kind of upset, Deidre added,
52:09It's her own darn fault, Jack said.
52:12She's the one to blame.