• 2 months ago
Caught My Wife Cheating: My Revenge Left Her Completely Shocked.Story Audio Book
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.

Category

😹
Fun
Transcript
00:00In the quiet of the night, I checked the bedside clock.
00:04It read 2.30 a.m.
00:07My wife lay beside me, fast asleep.
00:10I was relieved that this time I hadn't disturbed her, and apparently I hadn't been talking
00:15in my sleep either.
00:17I kept having the same dream, a hazy recollection of an event two years ago.
00:22In it, I sat at my study desk with a half-empty bottle of scotch, an empty glass, and a colt.
00:27I'd pour a glass, gulp it down without tasting it, and check the loaded cylinder, contemplating
00:32ending lives.
00:34Thankfully, these dreams had become less frequent.
00:36Now, less than once every two months.
00:39In the dream, everything felt real, but in reality the details were different.
00:44There was a bottle of scotch, but I was on the living room sofa.
00:48There was no colt.
00:49I don't own a tool.
00:51I never made any threats.
00:52I just got very drunk and passed out.
00:55To understand this, we need to go back two years.
00:57In 2002, everything went downhill.
01:00My wife Kathy and I fought city inspectors over our home's design until an engineer finally
01:04approved our blueprints.
01:07Even then, we struggled with the contractor to stay on schedule until we moved in August.
01:11Meanwhile, we were both busy with our careers.
01:14My name is Fred Alpin.
01:16On March 6, 2002, Kathy and I celebrated our sixth anniversary.
01:20Despite house construction issues, everything else was fine.
01:24I've worked with Independent Investigations Corporation, ISE, in Indianapolis for eight
01:29years investigating fraud for large insurance companies.
01:32As a lead investigator, I choose and assign cases, and the work is profitable.
01:38At 30, with some gray in my dark brown hair, I'm 6 feet 2 inches tall and 185 pounds.
01:45People describe me as confident with average features and a slightly crooked nose from
01:48a college boxing match.
01:50Kathy, 29, is 5 feet 8 inches.
01:53With dark brown hair and blue-green eyes, she manages the accounting department at DCH,
01:58overseeing 20 accountants.
02:00DCH specializes in mergers and acquisitions and has been successful, but early 2002 brought
02:06issues to their Indianapolis office.
02:08In February, Greg Bartlett became the new manager of the Indianapolis DCH office, replacing
02:13the previous one.
02:15Greg, about 5 feet 5 inches and slightly overweight, was likable and admired by Kathy.
02:20Along with Greg, VP Jack Hansen was transferred from New York.
02:24Hansen, a fit and friendly man in his mid-40s with gray hair, had a wandering eye which
02:29made me wary, despite his professional reputation.
02:34By summer, the house construction was on track and the DCH office disruptions had settled.
02:39Kathy credited Hansen with the business improvements.
02:42We moved into our new home outside Indianapolis in early August, excited about the fresh start.
02:47On moving day I joked about making love in every room.
02:51Kathy playfully led me to the kitchen, where we shared an intimate moment, though our busy
02:55lives limited us to the bedroom, we maintained our connection there, finding time for each
02:59other despite our hectic schedules.
03:02During one of those nights while we were making love, I brought up the idea of starting a
03:05family.
03:06We had discussed it before, and Kathy had previously mentioned wanting to start trying
03:10in the fall, so we could have a baby in the summer.
03:14I think it's time you stopped taking your birth control pills and we start trying to
03:17get you pregnant, I suggested.
03:19I think we should wait a little longer, Kathy replied.
03:23Jack suggested I wait until next year.
03:26He said I might be up for a promotion by the end of the year, so I want to wait until after
03:30that.
03:31Jack?
03:32I asked surprised.
03:34Since when are you on a first-name basis with corporate vice presidents?
03:37He seemed pretty casual around the office, she explained.
03:40Why did you discuss our family plans with him?
03:43I questioned, feeling a bit irritated about her sharing our personal matters with him.
03:49He asked if we were planning to have children, so I told him we planned to start in the fall.
03:54That's when he suggested I wait until next year.
03:57I wasn't thrilled about it, but I agreed to wait until January.
04:01As the year ended, Kathy and I were swamped with work, leaving little time for each other.
04:06Promotions were meant to be special, but work often interfered.
04:09Kathy's department at DCH was busy with a major merger contract, while I managed three
04:14investigations needing closure by year-end.
04:17On the last weekend of November, we both had time off and did our Christmas shopping.
04:21Over dinner, Kathy shared good news.
04:23We're likely to close a deal with National Pharmaceutical by December 20th, which means
04:27I should get my promotion, she said.
04:29That's fantastic.
04:30Then we can start trying for a baby.
04:33How about tonight, I suggested?
04:36Not tonight.
04:37I'm still on the pill, and I want to settle into my new job first.
04:41And don't tell anyone about this.
04:43It could jeopardize the deal, she explained.
04:45Though disappointed, I understood.
04:48You know I won't say anything, I assured her.
04:51December is known for company Christmas parties, and both our companies had theirs.
04:55IISeq's party on December 6th was a standard event with drinks, appetizers, dinner, and
05:00dancing, but it wasn't very lively.
05:03Most IISeq employees are field investigators, so we don't know each other well.
05:07My only close friend there is Bill Ripley, with whom I've worked on many cases.
05:11The rest of the team are just acquaintances, unlike Kathy's close-knit group at DC&H.
05:17At the party, Kathy and I sat with Bill and his wife Susan, enjoying ourselves despite
05:21the subdued atmosphere.
05:23We stayed until midnight before heading home, where I led Kathy to our bedroom.
05:28After intimacy, we discussed our family plans, agreeing on having two kids spaced two years
05:33apart.
05:34Kathy planned to stop birth control in February for a November baby, aligning with her hoped-for
05:38promotion.
05:39Though I wasn't thrilled about the wait, I understood.
05:43Saturday took a turn when I came home from work to find Kathy staring out the window,
05:47clearly troubled.
05:49She didn't acknowledge me lost in her thoughts.
05:52I waited until after dinner to ask about her mood.
05:54We had a deal, whoever cooked could relax after dinner while the other cleaned up.
05:59Kathy had cooked, so I cleaned the kitchen and then joined her in the family room.
06:03Sensing she wasn't going to bring it up, I gently started the conversation.
06:07Kathy, what's going on?
06:10It's obvious something's bothering you, I said gently.
06:13Is there anything I can do to help?
06:16Kathy looked at me with sorrowful eyes.
06:18There's a problem with the national pharmaceutical deal, she said.
06:22Mr. Benson, their president, is making unrealistic demands.
06:26If we can't meet them, we might lose the contract.
06:29It could ruin everything for us.
06:31It won't ruin everything.
06:32No matter what happens, we have each other.
06:35Try not to worry too much.
06:37What's the worst-case scenario, I asked.
06:39You don't get it, she replied.
06:41If this deal falls apart, it could be because of me.
06:44And if I mess this up, I could lose my job.
06:46But how could it be your fault if you're not in sales?
06:49I asked.
06:51I can't say more.
06:53I'm not supposed to talk about it outside of DCNH.
06:56All I can tell you is that I didn't do anything wrong.
06:59If you didn't do anything wrong, then why would you lose your job?
07:02I pressed.
07:03I've said too much already.
07:05I could get into trouble just for telling you this much.
07:08Please let me handle this on my own, she insisted.
07:11I wanted to say more, but the look on her face told me the conversation was over.
07:16On Sunday I hoped Kathy would feel better but she seemed even more down.
07:19She avoided looking at me, and any attempt at conversation was met with silence.
07:24Monday morning I woke up early and made breakfast, but Kathy hardly touched hers.
07:29She drank her coffee quietly and headed for a shower.
07:33I cleared the snow from the driveway, and when I returned inside Kathy was already preparing
07:37to leave for work.
07:39Why are you leaving so early?
07:41It's only 6.30, I asked.
07:43I have important meetings to prepare for, she replied, giving me a quick kiss as she
07:48hurried out to the garage.
07:50Monday morning our neighborhood had its trash collection day so I had to gather all the
07:53waste baskets and take the trash out to the curb.
07:56I brought the baskets downstairs to the kitchen and emptied them into a trash bag.
08:01While dumping the bathroom waste basket something fell out and disappeared.
08:05I searched for a few minutes but couldn't find it.
08:08I took the trash outside, placed it in our large plastic can and rolled it to the curb.
08:14Returning inside, I quickly scanned the kitchen again for the lost object from the bathroom.
08:19Finding nothing, I went to take my shower and prepare for work.
08:22Kathy still seemed down so Monday evening I tried bringing up the topic again.
08:27Is work any better now?
08:28I asked.
08:29I can't discuss it with you, she replied.
08:32I'm under a lot of pressure, but I'll manage.
08:34By Wednesday Kathy began to improve.
08:36When I arrived home that evening, she kissed me and said she loved me, which hadn't happened
08:40since Friday night.
08:42She wasn't completely back to normal, no smile, but she seemed less distant and preoccupied.
08:46Can we talk about what's happening now or is it still off limits?
08:50I asked.
08:51I shouldn't say much, but it seems we've figured out how to please Mr. Benson, she said.
08:58Jack mentioned things might turn out alright after all.
09:01I sensed relief or determination in Kathy's voice, though she didn't smile, showing her
09:06stress.
09:07It always bothered me that she called Hanson by his first name, while referring to Greg
09:10Bartlett as Mr. Bartlett despite Hanson being a VP.
09:15That night Kathy sought comfort but wasn't interested in intimacy, and her issues weighed
09:19heavily on me.
09:20I held her until she fell asleep but couldn't sleep myself.
09:24After tossing and turning, I went downstairs for a drink.
09:28At the kitchen island, I sipped water and glanced through the mail, then noticed Kathy's
09:32briefcase.
09:33Feeling compelled, I opened it, finding papers, but no clear answers.
09:39Her day planner revealed a busy schedule with meetings involving Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Hanson
09:44and Mr. Benson, the president of National Pharmaceutical.
09:49I began to understand why Kathy was under so much pressure.
09:52However, I was puzzled why she, an accountant, was meeting with the client.
09:57She hadn't been involved in negotiations for previous deals.
10:00I wondered if this meant Kathy might be shifting from accounting to sales after her promotion.
10:05Kathy's planner showed more meetings set with Bartlett and another one with Hanson on the
10:08morning of December 20th.
10:10Additionally, she had written 10pm.
10:13On that day, the only thing that stood out in her planner was on the month at a glance
10:17page for December.
10:19There were some entries that didn't make sense to me.
10:22On December 6th, Kathy had written started, and each day after that was numbered 1-14.
10:28The number 14 was marked on Friday, December 20th, circled and underlined.
10:33I wondered if this had to do with her meeting with Hanson, or perhaps because it was DCA8's
10:37Christmas party day, or maybe they expected Mr. Benson to sign a contract then.
10:43I was still puzzled why she numbered the days from December 6th to 20th.
10:47I knew I needed time to figure that out.
10:50I put Kathy's planner back in the briefcase and closed it.
10:53When I returned to bed, the briefcase was back on the chair where I found it.
10:57Over the next few days, Kathy's mood improved, but she remained distant.
11:02Using my skills as an investigator, I pieced together that the 20th was crucial, likely
11:06the day Mr. Benson would sign the contract.
11:10On Friday, December 13th, I closed one of my three cases, and was close to closing another.
11:15That evening I met Bill Ripley for a beer to celebrate.
11:18I mentioned what I found in a planner without revealing it was Kathy's, describing the numbered
11:22days and the significance of the 20th.
11:25Bill couldn't help but suggest that I talk to Mary Farrell, who was among the top investigators
11:29for a woman's perspective.
11:31I dropped the topic so Bill wouldn't think I was fixated on it, and start questioning
11:35why.
11:36After a bit more chatting, I headed home.
11:38It was another frustrating weekend.
11:41Kathy was attentive but distant, and we went over a week without intimacy, which bothered
11:45me deeply.
11:46Monday morning I told Kathy I'd likely be working late to finish my cases.
11:50She reminded me about the party on Friday and said I needed to be home by 7 to get ready.
11:56I closed my second case on Tuesday and took Kathy out to celebrate, but she claimed she
12:00wasn't feeling well, and we still didn't connect.
12:03Wednesday night was the same.
12:05I knew she was stressed with work, but my patience was wearing thin.
12:09I resolved to wait until Friday when Kathy would know about the national pharmaceutical
12:12deal and her promotion.
12:14On Thursday I almost wrapped up my last case.
12:17I hoped to finish it quickly on Friday morning but worried it might take all day, making
12:21it hard to be home by 7 as promised.
12:24During dinner I mentioned this to Kathy.
12:26She got upset, reminding me of my promise.
12:28I apologized and suggested she go without me if I was late.
12:32She reluctantly agreed to wait until 9 but insisted she couldn't be any later I promised
12:36to do my best to be home by 7.30, and if not I'd meet her at the party Kathy didn't say
12:41anything more on Friday I invited Mary Farrell to lunch Mary nearly 6 feet tall with short
12:45blonde hair and piercing.
12:48Green eyes had been at IIC for 4 years and was both attractive and formidable over lunch.
12:53I explained about the notations on Kathy's calendar without revealing whose calendar
12:56it was and...
12:59After some thought she smiled.
13:01What's making you smile?
13:02I asked.
13:03The numbers, she said.
13:05It took me a bit but I think I figured it out.
13:07You said she wrote started on the 6th and then numbered the days 1 through 14 with the
13:1120th circled and underlined, right?
13:14That's correct, I confirmed.
13:16The 20th was highlighted.
13:17I think she wrote started on the 6th because that's when her last period began and then
13:21she counted 14 days to the day she's most likely to conceive, Mary explained.
13:26She's tracking her cycle because she's trying to get pregnant.
13:29Does that make sense in your case?
13:30I was surprised.
13:32Mary not only figured it out easily but it never crossed my mind before.
13:35I'm not certain but it could make sense in this case, I replied.
13:40Thanks for your help.
13:41I suppose a pastrami sandwich was a fair trade for the little help I gave you, Mary chuckled.
13:47After lunch Mary and I returned to the office.
13:49I spent the rest of the day on paperwork puzzled by why Kathy was tracking her menstrual cycle.
13:54She wasn't planning to stop her birth control so it seemed odd.
13:58A tight feeling grew in my gut as fragments of information didn't add up.
14:02From my training I knew the importance of patience and gathering all facts before drawing
14:06conclusions.
14:08Acting hastily could have serious consequences and patience had always been a virtue of mine.
14:13By 5 o'clock I finished work and headed home through rush hour traffic feeling accomplished
14:17for closing significant cases and gaining some clarity about Kathy's planner.
14:23I arrived home around 5.30pm parked in the driveway and fetched the mail.
14:28As I approached the front door I noticed the hall light was on.
14:31I peeked through the window and saw Kathy at the top of the stairs completely undressed
14:35holding a towel and a can of shaving cream.
14:38I leaned back not wanting to startle her and wondered what she was doing with shaving cream.
14:44Once Kathy reached the bottom step she turned into the living room and paused next to a
14:47wing chair appearing momentarily lost in thought.
14:51She looked stunning and I couldn't take my eyes off her.
14:55Not wanting to startle her by opening the front door I decided to enter through the
14:58garage so she'd hear the door and know I was home.
15:03I lingered for a moment savoring the view then hurried to my car.
15:07I opened the garage door, drove in and waited until it closed before entering the kitchen.
15:13Inside I thought I heard another door close elsewhere in the house.
15:16I moved through the kitchen, dining room and finally the living room but there was no sign
15:21of Kathy.
15:22Kathy, I'm home, I called out as I headed upstairs.
15:26Entering our bedroom I called her name again and this time she responded.
15:30You're home early, that's great, I'm in the bathroom getting ready, why don't you use
15:34the shower in the guest bathroom?
15:37Kathy suggested, why?
15:38I asked.
15:39I'm busy in here, she replied, I pretended not to hear and walked into the bathroom.
15:44What did you say?
15:46I asked.
15:48Kathy was sitting on the edge of the bathtub.
15:50When I walked in she hurriedly tried to cover herself but not before I saw what she was
15:54doing.
15:55Her hair down here was covered in shaving cream.
15:58She was about to start shaving.
16:00It was supposed to be a surprise, she explained.
16:03A surprise for who?
16:05I questioned.
16:06For you of course.
16:07I wanted to surprise you when we got home from the party tonight, Kathy said.
16:12Did I ever tell you I wanted you to shave down there I asked?
16:15No but I thought that I don't recall you ever mentioning wanting to do this I interrupted.
16:19Where did you get the idea that I wanted you to shave?
16:22I've never said anything like that.
16:25I told her firmly.
16:27Kathy struggled to find an answer and I could feel my anger rising.
16:31I thought it might be something new.
16:33A lot of women are doing it these days and I thought you might like it, she explained.
16:37Don't you think we should have talked about this first to see how I feel?
16:40I asked.
16:41Maybe, but it's not a big deal.
16:44It's my body and if I want to shave, it's my decision.
16:47It'll grow back if we don't like it, she reasoned.
16:51Her point made sense but I wasn't ready to give in.
16:53There was more to this than just her wanting to shave.
16:56Don't do it now, I insisted.
16:58Let's discuss it later.
17:00If it's that important to you, you can shave tomorrow.
17:04Kathy's expression showed not just anger but also fear.
17:07I understood the anger directed at me, but her fear puzzled me.
17:10I'm ready to do it now, so why should I wait, she demanded.
17:13Because your husband is asking you to wait, I replied.
17:17I don't want you to shave.
17:19I don't want to feel like I'm with a child.
17:22Why is it so urgent that you do it now?
17:24I was all set to do it and I want to do it now.
17:27It's my body and if I want to shave, I will, she asserted.
17:32Fine, go ahead and shave, but if you do, you'll have to go to the party alone, I stated firmly,
17:38turning to leave the bathroom.
17:39Why are you being so unfair?
17:41It's something I want to do, so why are you making such a big deal out of it?
17:45Kathy pleaded.
17:47I'm making a big deal because I don't think you're being honest about why you want to
17:50shave.
17:51You know I like your hair, so I know this isn't about me.
17:54If you can't tell me the truth, then I won't discuss this any further.
17:59You can leave it alone and we'll go to the party together or you can shave and go alone.
18:04It's up to you.
18:05Kathy gave me a moody look as she set down the razor and got into the shower.
18:09After she finished, I showered and then relaxed in my bathrobe, sipping a beer while she did
18:13her makeup.
18:14She remained silent, clearly angry, so I avoided conversation to prevent further tension.
18:19Instead, I discreetly watched her dress provocatively, suspecting it wasn't for my benefit but perhaps
18:25to provoke jealousy or for someone else.
18:29Kathy put on black thigh-high stockings, seemingly unaware of my gaze.
18:34She then slipped into a black cocktail dress, heading to the bathroom to fix her hair.
18:38When she finally stood before me, my anger softened, but I resisted fully letting it
18:42go, unsure of what the night would bring.
18:45At 7.30, I asked if she was ready.
18:48We drove silently for the first 15 minutes before Kathy finally spoke up.
18:52I'm sorry about the shaving thing, Kathy said.
18:55I thought it was a good idea at the time and I got nervous about tonight.
18:59I guess I snapped when you gave me a hard time.
19:01No worries, I replied.
19:04We can talk about it over the weekend.
19:06Let's just try to have fun tonight.
19:09I was trying to lighten the mood a bit.
19:12The party was catered at the company's offices in a large first-floor classroom.
19:17As soon as Kathy and I arrived, Hansen greeted us and pulled Kathy aside.
19:21I watched them closely, feeling my tension rise.
19:25Kathy nodded and shook her head during their conversation which seemed to upset Hansen.
19:29He smiled and suggested something to her.
19:31And although she didn't look pleased, she nodded.
19:34When Kathy returned, she said the national pharmaceutical deal was closing that night,
19:38with a meeting at 10 o'clock with Jack and Mr. Bartlett.
19:42If it went well, she'd get her promotion.
19:44Despite the news, she seemed unemotional.
19:47I asked if we could start trying for a baby afterward, and she agreed without much enthusiasm.
19:52Entering the party room, Kathy linked her arm with mine.
19:56The room was nicely decorated with tables along the perimeter, a band for dancing at
20:00one end, and a buffet at an open bar at the other.
20:04I scanned the room, recognizing most faces from my six years of occasional encounters
20:07with DCNH.
20:10Then I spotted him, a man around 35, 6 feet tall, with a trim build, dressed in a dark
20:15blue double-breasted Armani suit, standing alone by the bar.
20:19I pointed discreetly and asked Kathy, who's the guy over by the bar?
20:22I don't know, she replied, but her body language hinted otherwise.
20:26Why don't we grab a drink at the bar, I suggested.
20:29Some of my colleagues are here, I want to say hello to them.
20:33Could you get us drinks and I'll wait here, she countered.
20:36I headed to the bar, ordered a glass of red wine for Kathy and a beer for myself, then
20:41turned back towards the man in the Armani suit.
20:44Mr. Benson, how's your evening going?
20:48I greeted him, he looked briefly surprised.
20:51How do you know me? he asked.
20:53It's part of my job, I answered.
20:55I need to take this wine to Miss Alpen first, then I'd like to chat with you, if you're
20:59okay with that, Mr. Benson studied me for a moment.
21:03I could sense his wariness, though he didn't seem afraid.
21:07I briefly wondered if he recognized me but dismissed the idea, it must have been something
21:11else about me that caught his attention.
21:13Sure thing?
21:14I'll be right here, he replied.
21:17I brought Kathy her drink and mentioned I'd mingle while she caught up with her friends.
21:22Don't wander off, she insisted, stick close tonight, I won't be gone long.
21:28Not in the mood to hear shop talk right now, I replied.
21:31Kathy looked at me sadly as I left the table, but she didn't stop me.
21:35Once I was sure she wasn't watching, I headed back to Mr. Benson.
21:38I'm Fred from DCH Security, I introduced myself, just ensuring everything goes smoothly tonight.
21:44Looks like Mr. Hansen's planned an enjoyable evening.
21:48That's what he's saying, Mr. Benson replied.
21:50I'm just passing time until things kick off.
21:53Sounds like that starts around ten for you, I remarked.
21:56You seem to know a lot, he said nervously, part of the job.
22:00Tonight, I'm here to make sure you're undisturbed, especially later I added with a wink and
22:04a smirk.
22:06You're into brunettes, right?
22:08Love them, especially with long hair, he confirmed.
22:11Like Miss Alpen, I asked knowingly, exactly, he said with that same smirk.
22:16I wanted to punch him, but held back.
22:18I bet you're like me.
22:20Prefer a lot of hair up top, but none down below, huh?
22:23I said, winking again.
22:26Bald is nice, he chuckled.
22:28With that information gathered, I knew it was time to move on before I lost my temper.
22:31I need to circulate now.
22:34Make sure everyone's where they should be.
22:36If you run into any trouble, find me, I said firmly.
22:40As I walked away from him, I muttered curses to myself.
22:43When I returned to the other side of the room, the band had started playing, and a man approached
22:47Kathy, asking her to dance.
22:50She politely declined, then grabbed my arm and pulled me onto the dance floor before
22:54I could sit down.
22:56As we danced, I kept an eye on Mr. Benson to make sure he wasn't watching us.
23:01I didn't want him to realize I was Kathy's husband yet.
23:04I was still planning my next moves and didn't want them ruined before I was ready.
23:08I was still trying to piece together the final parts of the puzzle I was dealing with, and
23:12it was already 9.30.
23:15Nervous stress was making my stomach churn.
23:17The song ended, and I started heading back to our table, but then the band started a
23:21slow song.
23:23Kathy pulled me back onto the dance floor, holding me tightly.
23:26Kathy always liked dancing close, but this time it felt suffocating.
23:30At one point during the dance I noticed Benson watching us looking tense.
23:34I smiled at him and gave a thumbs up, then tried to ignore him.
23:38I wondered if seeing me dance with Kathy had made him suspicious about my identity, but
23:42at that point I didn't care anymore.
23:45After that dance we returned to our table.
23:48I had just sat down when Greg Bartlett approached us, holding a small package.
23:52He pulled Kathy aside, whispered something, handed her the package and left.
23:57Kathy came back to the table, hiding the package behind her back, and leaned down to speak
24:01to me.
24:02I need to go to the restroom, she said.
24:04When I looked into her eyes I sensed something troubling.
24:07Don't do it, I warned.
24:09Do what?
24:11She asked innocently.
24:13I grabbed her arm and held it firmly as I stared into her eyes.
24:17You know exactly what I mean.
24:19I'm not stupid.
24:20I know what's going on here.
24:22Stop it now, I demanded.
24:23I don't know what you're talking about, she insisted.
24:26I just need to go to the restroom.
24:29Kathy pulled her arm away from me and walked off without looking back.
24:32While Kathy was gone I pieced together the troubling details.
24:35It started when she began calling Mr. Hanson-Jack, which bothered me and worsened with her sudden
24:41depression over the national pharmaceutical deal.
24:44Despite her not doing anything wrong, she blamed herself.
24:48Her numerous meetings with Bartlett and Hanson, her tracking of her menstrual cycle despite
24:53being on birth control, and our argument about shaving all added to my suspicions.
24:59Earlier that evening, I saw Kathy undressed in our living room, through the window.
25:04Hanson's hand reached out from a chair and touched her, causing her to tense and then
25:07relax.
25:09Realizing the situation, I went to the garage to give them a chance to stop.
25:13As I headed upstairs to confront Kathy, I peeked out the front door and saw Hanson scurrying
25:18across the street to his car like the rat bastard he is.
25:21My guess was that Benson saw Kathy and decided he wanted her and made that clear to Hanson.
25:27She was the deal breaker.
25:29I figured Benson must have demanded that she shave herself for him.
25:32I didn't waste time trying to understand why this was all happening.
25:36I just knew I had to stop it before it went too far.
25:40Knowing Bartlett and Hanson were deeply involved, I had to mess up their plans and try to screw
25:44them over in the process.
25:46The final piece of the puzzle was Kathy going to the restroom.
25:50I was certain Bartlett's package contained shaving cream and a razor.
25:54Kathy was probably in there shaving so she could give Benson what he wanted.
25:57Well, screw her too.
25:59It was 9.45 and Kathy still hadn't returned to the table.
26:03I was getting anxious because time was running out.
26:06Without a clear plan, I decided to find Kathy and physically take her home.
26:10Deal with the consequences later.
26:12As I headed toward the door, the band announced a break and an idea struck me.
26:17Seeing Benson, Bartlett, and Hanson together at the bar, I knew I had my audience.
26:22I walked over to the band as they were setting down their instruments and spoke to the lead
26:26singer.
26:27Can you keep your mic on I asked I need to make a few announcements.
26:31Sure, no problem, he replied, handing me his wireless mic.
26:36It's already on.
26:37Just flip the switch on the side and you're good to go.
26:39Thanks.
26:40I paced back and forth trying to gather my thoughts.
26:43Then, taking a deep breath, I switched on the microphone.
26:47Can I have everyone's attention, please?
26:50I began.
26:51Many guests turned to look, but the room was still noisy.
26:54Can I have your attention, please?
26:56I repeated louder.
26:57Gradually, the chatter died down to a few murmurs.
27:01Spotting Kathy returning from the restroom, I glanced over at Benson, Bartlett, and Hanson,
27:06who were watching me with curious expressions.
27:09Can I get everyone's attention?
27:11Now the room was quiet and Kathy stood in the doorway, staring at me.
27:17I just want to take a moment to speak on this special occasion.
27:20First, I want to say what a fantastic party this is.
27:24Let's give a round of applause to those who organized it.
27:27Almost everyone started clapping and Kathy slowly walked toward me, her face showing
27:31fear.
27:32I've had a few drinks and I'm feeling good, so I hope this comes out right.
27:36I want to share some things about my wife Kathy and me.
27:39I smiled at Kathy and then turned to the three men at the bar.
27:43I couldn't tell what they were thinking, but they didn't seem pleased.
27:46First, some good news.
27:50Kathy and I are expecting a baby.
27:52Applause broke out among the guests.
27:54Kathy covered her face with her hands, looking mildly embarrassed to anyone unaware of the
27:58truth.
27:59Hanson appeared angry, Bartlett puzzled, and Benson's expression was unreadable.
28:05There's more good news.
28:06Kathy informed me tonight she's getting a promotion for her work on the National Pharmaceutical
28:10Deal.
28:11I hear Kathy, Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Hanson, and Mr. Benson will be upstairs signing the contract.
28:18Isn't that great?
28:20More applause filled the room.
28:21God, please stop.
28:23Kathy's voice reached me.
28:24She halted about ten feet away and slowly sank to the floor.
28:28The first two jerks looked furious while Benson seemed almost amused.
28:32This evening started off so oddly that I figured I'd share it with you.
28:37When I got home from work tonight, I found my wife in the bathroom about to shave, and
28:40not her legs or armpits.
28:42Some laughter rippled through the crowd, but most sat in stunned silence.
28:46We argued about it.
28:48She said it was supposed to be a surprise for me, and I told her not to do it.
28:52I thought I'd won that argument, or at least I thought so.
28:56Now I realize she wasn't shaving for me, she was doing it on Jack's orders.
29:01Kathy just came out of the restroom and I believe she shaved herself while she was in
29:04there.
29:05Now I'm sure you're all wondering why Jack Hanson would demand Kathy shave her pussy.
29:09An audible gasp echoed through the room.
29:12Kathy was now lying on the floor crying, and most guests stared at me as if witnessing
29:15a disaster unfold.
29:18Now there were only two jerks left.
29:20It seemed Benson had bolted.
29:22Hanson's face burned red and he trembled.
29:25Bartlett strode toward me as if he thought he could make me stop.
29:28Kathy shaved because she was supposed to be a gift to Mr.
29:32Benson tonight, and he wanted her shaved.
29:35Apparently your company's management thinks it's good business to encourage employees
29:38to sleep with potential clients to secure contracts, even if it wrecks a marriage.
29:43Bartlett was now right in front of me, trying to rest the microphone away.
29:47I yanked it out of his grasp and switched it off.
29:49Listen, jerk, you try grabbing this mic again, and I'll drop you like a sack of bricks.
29:56Now that I've finally come to think of it, I might do that anyway.
30:00Bartlett stepped back from me and glanced at Hanson.
30:02While they exchanged looks, I switched the microphone back on.
30:06Lastly, this is for Bartlett and Hanson.
30:08I'm filing a lawsuit against this company for what you did to my marriage, and I expect
30:12a decent settlement.
30:14Part of that will be your termination you two a-holes, and anyone else involved in this
30:18mess.
30:19Good night, everyone.
30:20Enjoy the rest of your party.
30:21The room fell into complete silence as I set the microphone down and walked over to where
30:25Kathy lay on the floor.
30:27I squatted beside her.
30:29Kathy.
30:31She looked up at me, tears streaming down her cheeks.
30:33Fred, I'm so Kathy, don't say anything.
30:36I cut in.
30:37Do you still think you'll get that promotion?
30:41I stood up and scanned the room.
30:44People stared at us, but when I looked back, they turned away.
30:48I glanced down at Kathy one last time, then left the room.
30:51I grabbed my coat and crossed the lobby toward the exit when Hanson blocked my path.
30:56Do you have any idea what you've done?
30:58He demanded.
30:59Yeah, I replied.
31:01I screwed you before you and DCNH could screw my wife, and I hope I cost you millions.
31:05I'd hate to think we went through all this for just a few hundred thousand dollars.
31:09You're going to pay for this, Hanson warned.
31:12Actually I think you'll be the one paying, I retorted.
31:14Along with my lawsuit, I'll be having a chat with the SEC.
31:18They might find your company's business practices interesting.
31:21I turned to leave, but Hanson grabbed my arm.
31:25Just a minute.
31:26I'm not done with you, he insisted.
31:29I shook off his grip.
31:30Touch me again, and you won't be walking out of here tonight, I warned.
31:34As I walked away, I heard him cursing under his breath.
31:38When I got home, I headed straight for the liquor cabinet and grabbed a bottle of scotch,
31:43drinking slowly to drown everything out.
31:45By my second drink, I noticed something blue in a potted plant.
31:48It was a blue plastic case hidden under the leaves.
31:51Opening it confirmed my suspicion.
31:53I had seen something fall from the bathroom wastebasket earlier in the week, but hadn't
31:57thought to look in the plant.
31:58I placed the case on the coffee table next to the scotch, and poured myself another drink.
32:03It's completely full, I muttered, staring at the contents.
32:09After more drinks, I woke up Saturday morning on the sofa, the scotch bottle nearly empty.
32:13My head throbbed and my mouth tasted awful, dizzy, and with a protesting stomach, I started
32:18the coffee maker and took a shower.
32:21Upstairs there was no sign of Kathy and I didn't expect her to be home.
32:25She was likely scared or angry after I had disrupted everything at DC&H.
32:29The shower helped and after two cups of coffee, I sat back on the sofa pondering my next move.
32:35It pained me to think about how much I had loved Kathy.
32:38Her willingness to be intimate with a customer for a deal, and even shaving for him on Hansen's
32:42orders was devastating.
32:45I doubted I could forgive her, but felt she deserved a chance to explain if she wanted
32:49to.
32:50I wouldn't chase her down for an explanation.
32:52If she didn't feel the need to explain, maybe I didn't need to know why.
32:56The why would only matter if she wanted another chance with me.
32:59I couldn't think of anything to do except wait and see if Kathy reached out to me.
33:03I started wondering where she had spent the night, remembering how she looked when I left
33:07the party.
33:09I felt a pang of guilt for leaving her on the floor like that.
33:12I realized I should have taken her home with me.
33:14I wasn't proud of myself, but in the moment I was hurt and angry, and I felt no sympathy
33:19for Kathy.
33:21The more I dwelled on it, the worse I felt and the more I wondered where she was staying.
33:26I was still sitting on the sofa at 11 o'clock when the phone rang.
33:30I figured it might be Kathy calling and I debated whether to answer.
33:34I picked up on the sixth ring.
33:37Mr. Alpen?
33:39Yes, this is Special Agent Mark Walker of the FBI, the voice on the phone said.
33:44Is your wife with you?
33:45My wife isn't home?
33:46I replied.
33:47I wondered why the FBI wanted to talk to Kathy.
33:50No problem.
33:52I need to speak with you, Agent Walker said.
33:54Me?
33:55I asked.
33:56What's this about?
33:57I'd prefer not to discuss it over the phone, he said.
34:00Can you come to my office this afternoon?
34:03I suppose so, I said.
34:05Where are you located?
34:07Agent Walker gave me directions to his office and we agreed to meet at 2 o'clock that afternoon.
34:12After hanging up, I tried to figure out why the FBI would be interested in me.
34:17I guessed it might relate to one of the cases I'd recently worked on, but if that were true,
34:21why couldn't he just tell me over the phone?
34:23Over the years, I'd spoken with various law enforcement agencies about cases I was involved
34:28in and it never bothered me.
34:30But for some reason, this invitation from the FBI left me feeling uneasy.
34:35At 1 o'clock, I dressed in jeans and a sweater and drove into town to meet with Agent Walker.
34:40I parked my car in a garage across from the high-rise where the FBI offices were located
34:44in downtown Indianapolis.
34:47I took the elevator up to the 7th floor and told the receptionist my name.
34:51I'm here to see Special Agent Walker, I said.
34:54Have a seat and I'll let him know you're here, she replied.
34:57I waited only two minutes before he entered the lobby to greet me.
35:01Unlike the expensive Armani suit from the night before, Special Agent Walker was now
35:04dressed in blue dockers and a white Oxford shirt without a tie.
35:09Mr. Alpen, thanks for coming in, he said, please follow me.
35:14I followed him into a conference room and as I sat down, Agent Walker offered me a cup
35:18of coffee, which I accepted.
35:20He poured two cups from the coffee maker on a nearby table and handed one to me.
35:24After taking a sip of his own coffee, he sat down across from me.
35:28Should I call you Special Agent Walker or Mr. Benson?
35:32I asked.
35:33Why don't you try Mark?
35:35He replied.
35:36And may I call you Fred?
35:38Fred will be fine.
35:39I imagine you must be pretty confused right now, Mark said.
35:42Yes, I am, but I think I'm starting to understand what's going on, I said.
35:46So you are undercover as Mr. Benson?
35:49That's correct.
35:50I'm relying on your discretion to keep everything we discuss here confidential, he said.
35:55I'm an investigator myself so I understand the importance of confidentiality, I said.
36:00I'm still unsure if you're on my side or not.
36:02I hope you can explain all of this to me, including how my wife got caught up in this
36:06mess.
36:07I'll tell you what I can and answer your questions, as long as it doesn't jeopardize our investigations.
36:14All right, I'll listen, I said.
36:15But I have to tell you I'm really angry that my wife was manipulated like this.
36:19This situation may have ruined my marriage.
36:22Things might not be as dire as you think, Mark said reassuringly.
36:26Let me fill you in first, and then you can ask your questions.
36:29That works for me, I replied.
36:31Earlier this year, the Security and Exchange Commission contacted the FBI, he began.
36:35They received troubling information about DCH's business practices from an insider and
36:39asked us to investigate.
36:42After following up on the SEC's lead, we found enough evidence to warrant further inquiry.
36:46I can't divulge details of our investigation, but it led us to conduct undercover operations.
36:52Mark stood up and started pacing as he continued talking.
36:56During our investigation, we discovered that DCH was attempting to interest National Pharmaceutical
37:00in a merger.
37:01Mr. Benson, concerned about DCH's methods, spoke with one of our agents, since no one
37:06from DCH had met Mr. Benson.
37:09He agreed to cooperate by allowing me to assume his identity.
37:12I convinced Mr. Hanson and Mr. Bartlett that I was Mr.
37:17Benson and led them to believe I was interested in their merger proposal, possibly even signing
37:21a contract.
37:23As they eagerly anticipated millions from the deal, I pretended to hesitate, expressing
37:27interest in talking to other firms first.
37:30The goal was to see how they would try to persuade me to sign with them.
37:33So, you involve my wife?
37:35I asked.
37:36Not exactly.
37:37During my initial visits to D.C.
37:40An H. I met your wife as I was escorted to the conference room to meet with Bartlett
37:45and Hanson.
37:46I mentioned to Hanson that I wanted to speak with Mrs. Alpen.
37:50His response was, she's quite attractive, isn't she?
37:54I agreed, but that wasn't my reason for wanting to talk to her.
37:58Why did you want to talk to her?
37:59I inquired.
38:00I told Hanson that, because Kathy was head of the accounting department, I wanted to
38:04discuss the financial health of the company I was supposedly planning to merge with.
38:08The real reason was that your wife had alerted the SEC about how D.C. and H. was conducting
38:13business.
38:14Kathy knew you were working undercover for the FBI?
38:16I asked.
38:17No, she didn't.
38:18I couldn't tell her, Mark replied.
38:21The information she provided to the SEC implicated people higher up in the company than Bartlett
38:26and Hanson.
38:27She implicated the company president and the CEO.
38:30Given that my mission was to investigate Bartlett and Hanson, I couldn't be sure she wouldn't
38:34expose me to protect them.
38:36So Kathy blew the whistle on the company executives.
38:39I didn't know what that meant for me.
38:42If she didn't know Benson was a fake, was she planning to have closeness with him at
38:45the party?
38:47I had questions for Mark, but I decided to wait until he finished to see if he would
38:50provide any answers in his explanation.
38:53As I was saying, I hinted to Hanson that I might back out of the deal, so...
38:57He asked what it would take to secure my commitment to D.C.H.
39:02I inquired what he had to offer.
39:04That's when Hanson said, I noticed you found Kathy Alpin attractive.
39:08How would you like to get with her?
39:10I was taken aback by that.
39:12I expected a bribe.
39:13Curious to see where this would lead, I indicated I might be interested, but I didn't commit.
39:18The next part may be difficult for you to hear, but it's crucial to the story.
39:22There's nothing you can say that would be more upsetting than what I've already been
39:25through, I said.
39:26Okay then.
39:27I waited a few days and then met with Hanson again.
39:31He asked if I had thought over his offer.
39:33I clarified if his offer meant arranging for me to have closeness with your wife, and he
39:37confirmed.
39:38Trying not to seem too eager, I replied that I was interested but still unsure if she would
39:42be worth it.
39:44Hanson reassured me she would be, and mentioned she had a shaved it.
39:48Wouldn't you like that?
39:49He asked.
39:50So you never suggested that Kathy shave herself?
39:52I asked.
39:53No, since I hadn't planned on having closeness with her.
39:57That idea never crossed my mind.
39:59I was also unsure how Hanson could deliver on his promise.
40:02So I asked him how he planned to convince a married woman to agree to this in exchange
40:06for a contract signature.
40:08Don't worry about that.
40:10If you want her, she's yours, shaved and all, was his response.
40:14That despicable guy, I said.
40:17Who does he think he is?
40:18He's a sleazy bastard.
40:20The more he talked about me having closeness with your wife, the more excited he seemed.
40:24I got the impression he had more reasons for pushing his offer than just securing the contract.
40:30I let him continue, and then asked when he could arrange for me to meet with your wife.
40:35He immediately said we could do it at the company Christmas party on the 20th.
40:39So...
40:40You were really going to go through with it?
40:43I asked.
40:44You were going to have closeness with my wife just to keep your undercover investigation
40:48going?
40:49No, that wasn't my plan at all, Mark clarified.
40:53Firstly it would be unethical for me to do so.
40:56Secondly I was almost certain the room where I was supposed to meet your wife would be
40:58bugged with hidden cameras and microphones to gather evidence.
41:02They wanted to use it not just to persuade me to sign the contract, but also to potentially
41:06blackmail me.
41:07How were you planning to get out of it?
41:10I inquired.
41:11I planned to back out at the last moment, claiming the conditions weren't right.
41:16Then I would propose closing the deal under the condition that Mrs. Alpen would join me
41:20in my hotel room after the party.
41:23Once alone I intended to reveal my identity and bring her here for questioning.
41:28Our plan was to arrest Bartlett and Hanson today.
41:31By this morning we expected to have enough evidence to charge them both.
41:35Then last night you approached me and introduced yourself, saying you were with security.
41:39I knew who you were and feared you might be involved in their scheme.
41:42I wasn't sure which side you were on until your speech, Mark continued.
41:46Oh damn, I said.
41:48I hope I didn't mess up your investigation, but...
41:52I couldn't just stand by and let my wife be used in some business deal.
41:55I understand, Mark reassured me.
41:57You actually helped.
41:59Your actions prevented me from having to attend the meeting with them last night at 10 o'clock.
42:04I left with my cover intact and was able to talk to Hanson again this morning.
42:08He offered me a large sum to sign today.
42:11I agreed to meet him in his office on Monday, where we plan to arrest him when he hands
42:14over the money.
42:16That's when we'll shut down DC&H operations and thoroughly investigate every deal they've
42:20been involved in over the past three years.
42:23I still don't know where Kathy stands in all of this, I admitted.
42:27Your wife was trying to do the right thing by reporting the company, he said.
42:31Regarding her involvement in the offer made to me, I suspect Hanson may have been coercing
42:35her, possibly blackmailing her.
42:38Did they mention using protection?
42:39I asked.
42:40Yes, once I agreed to the deal, Hanson emphasized that Kathy insisted I wear protection.
42:45We wouldn't want to get the poor girl pregnant, would we?
42:48Hanson said.
42:50Now I knew I needed to find Kathy.
42:52I wanted to hear her side of the story.
42:54She wasn't entirely innocent in this mess, but there were circumstances that might explain
42:58her actions.
43:00That's about all I can share for now, Mark said.
43:02Do you have any other questions?
43:04Not at the moment.
43:05Good.
43:06Again, please remember not to discuss any of this investigation with anyone.
43:09Also, I advise you not to tell your wife anything yet.
43:13Wait until we have Bartlett and Hanson under indictment.
43:16Before you reveal that this was all an FBI sting operation, that should only be a couple
43:21of days from now.
43:22We'll want to speak with her then anyway.
43:24I agreed to keep quiet about the investigation.
43:27Mark told me he would call when it was okay to tell Kathy about the FBI sting.
43:32He also mentioned they might want to depose me to get my side of the story.
43:36We shook hands, and I left the building.
43:39When I got home, there was a message from Kathy asking me to call her.
43:43I dialed the number she left, and a woman answered.
43:46May I ask who's calling?
43:48The voice inquired.
43:50Tell her it's her husband, I replied.
43:53Kathy's voice sounded nervous when she got on the line.
43:56Where have you been? she asked.
43:58I've been trying to reach you all day.
44:00Not all day, I corrected her.
44:01I was home until 1 o'clock this afternoon.
44:03Oh, that's about when I started calling you then.
44:06I wasn't going to make it easy for her.
44:09She needed to prove she was ready to explain herself, so I stayed quiet.
44:12Fred, can I come home? she asked.
44:15This is your home, isn't it?
44:16I replied.
44:17You should be here now.
44:18I'll be there in an hour.
44:20OK, I said, then hung up.
44:22I checked the clock.
44:24It was already 5 o'clock.
44:25I decided to have dinner ready when she arrived so we could talk afterward.
44:29I started cooking, and then went upstairs to prepare for what I anticipated would be
44:33our conversation.
44:35Returning downstairs, I grabbed the blue case from the coffee table and put it in my pocket.
44:40I cooked spaghetti with meatballs and made a salad.
44:43Then I opened a bottle of Chianti.
44:45Kathy walked in at 6.05 and dinner was ready.
44:49When she saw the meal and the wine, some tension visibly eased from her face.
44:53She realized things might not be as bad as she feared.
44:56We sat down at the table without speaking at first.
44:59I poured the wine and we began eating.
45:02After a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, I asked Kathy where she had spent the night.
45:06One of my friends drove me home after you left, she answered.
45:09I couldn't resist a slight jab.
45:11So you didn't stay for the rest of the party, I remarked.
45:15You pretty much ended the party with your speech, she retorted.
45:18I suppose I owe some people apologies for that.
45:21Not to you and certainly not to Barlett or Hanson.
45:24I guess you're right.
45:25I owe you an apology, she conceded.
45:27I interrupted her, suggesting we finish dinner first and then talk.
45:32We fell silent again, with nothing else to discuss between us.
45:36After dinner, Kathy began loading dishes into the dishwasher, but I interrupted her.
45:41You can clean up later.
45:42We need to talk now, I insisted.
45:44We moved to the family room and sat facing each other.
45:47Do you want to tell me everything or should I start asking questions?
45:51Either way, I need the truth, I said firmly.
45:55I'll tell you everything, she replied.
45:58You probably know when it began.
46:00It was the day after your Christmas party.
46:03Jack called me and said the big deal they had with National Pharmaceutical was in jeopardy,
46:07he said Mr. Benson insisted he'd only sign if I agreed to have closeness with him.
46:13I was furious and couldn't believe he'd ask that, but Jack said the deal was crucial for
46:18the company, promising a big reward, money and a promotion.
46:21I didn't want to, but Jack pressured me, saying many depended on me.
46:26I said I needed time to think.
46:28They stressed me out so much I couldn't think straight.
46:31When you came home, I couldn't bear to hurt you like that.
46:34Jack and Mr. Bartlett kept pushing me all day Monday.
46:38Mr. Hansen warned it'd be my fault if the deal failed and they'd fire me if I spoke
46:43up.
46:44I tried to tell you what I could.
46:46I knew if you knew everything, you'd do something rash and I'd lose my job.
46:51By Tuesday I refused again, so they told me to reconsider.
46:55Then Mr. Hansen claimed the company was missing over $100,000.
47:00He threatened an audit that'd make me look like a thief for years.
47:04Jack said I'd go to jail unless I cooperated.
47:06He promised the money and promotion if I obeyed, but threatened charges if I didn't.
47:11In the end, I had no choice but to agree to what he wanted.
47:15Jack and Mr. Bartlett kept pressuring me daily to make sure I didn't back out.
47:20They insisted I was doing the right thing and tried convincing me that you'd understand
47:24if you knew how crucial this deal was.
47:27I had been listening quietly until then, but I was starting to get angry.
47:31You can't think for a second that I would have ever been okay with what you were doing,
47:34I said.
47:35You should have told me everything.
47:38I would have found a way to help you out.
47:40I know, Kathy replied, once I made up my mind to go through with it I felt a bit relieved,
47:44but I felt so guilty about what it was doing to you.
47:47You have to understand, I was terrified of going to jail.
47:51I felt like I had to take the risk.
47:53On Friday, Jack called me into his office and said, Mr., Benson wanted me to shave all
47:57my hair off.
47:58I told him I couldn't do that because you would be upset, but he said it was non-negotiable.
48:05If I didn't shave, Mr., Benson would walk away from the deal.
48:08Jack told me to do it before the party without letting you see, and later I was supposed
48:12to tell you it was a surprise.
48:15He said if you got angry.
48:17All I had to do was apologize and let it grow back.
48:20The problem was, you came home earlier than expected and caught me getting ready to shave.
48:25So was I right?
48:26I asked.
48:27Did you shave in the restroom at the party?
48:29Kathy looked down at her hands.
48:31Yes, Mr. Bartlett sent someone to buy a razor and shaving cream and I went into the restroom
48:35and did it.
48:37When I came back to the party, I saw you with the microphone trying to get everyone's attention.
48:42I was so scared.
48:44I had no idea what you were doing, and I didn't know if there was any way I could stop you.
48:49I couldn't believe you said I was pregnant.
48:51I didn't say you were pregnant, I clarified.
48:54I said we were planning to have a baby.
48:57We had discussed this, right?
48:58Well, yes, but, but what?
49:00Are we going to start a family or not?
49:02I asked.
49:03Yes, we are.
49:04I'll stop taking my birth control pills tomorrow, and then we can begin.
49:07One more thing.
49:09Did you tell Benson he had to use a protection?
49:11Jack said he would make sure Benson used a protection, she replied.
49:15I'm glad he did because I hadn't thought about it.
49:17I was so stressed that I wasn't thinking clearly.
49:21Then you gave your speech, which pretty much ended my career at DCH and likely killed the
49:26deal with National Pharmaceutical.
49:28So what you're saying is Bartlett and Hanson pressured and blackmailed you into agreeing
49:31to have intimacy with Benson to close a business deal.
49:35They also insisted you shave yourself, but I messed things up by catching you in the
49:38act.
49:40Despite me telling you not to, you still went ahead and shaved.
49:42In the end, the only reason you didn't sleep with Benson is because my speech ruined everything.
49:48Is that about right?
49:49Yes, but I don't blame you for what you did.
49:51I understand your reaction, she said.
49:53Oh, good.
49:54So you forgive me for trying to stop my wife from sleeping with another man, I said sarcastically.
50:01That's not what I meant.
50:03I know you had every right to react the way you did, and I shouldn't be upset with you.
50:07I'm upset with myself.
50:08I should have been honest with you from the start.
50:10Do you think you can ever forgive me?
50:12Kathy asked.
50:14That depends, I replied.
50:16Is that everything?
50:18Have you told me all I need to know about what's been going on?
50:21Yes, I've told you everything.
50:24I love you, and I can't bear the thought of losing you because of this mess I got myself
50:27into, Kathy said.
50:30Well things don't look as bad as they did at first, I said, watching Kathy's smile slowly
50:34return.
50:35I just have a couple of questions I need answers to, and then maybe we can move past this.
50:40Okay, what questions?
50:43I could hear the relief in her voice.
50:45I took the blue case out of my pocket and tossed it onto the coffee table.
50:49I found this in the trash the other day, and it's full.
50:53You threw away all your birth control pills last week, but you didn't tell me and even
50:57tried to make me believe you were still taking them.
51:00Just five minutes ago, you said you'd stop taking them tomorrow.
51:04Can you explain that to me?
51:06Kathy looked like I had hit her.
51:07Her mouth opened a few times, but no words came out.
51:10When she finally spoke, I could tell she was lying.
51:13You're right, I stopped taking my pills, she admitted.
51:16I planned to let you get me pregnant and then surprise you.
51:19I knew how much you wanted to start a family, so I thought it would be a nice surprise when
51:23I told you.
51:25That plan would have only worked if we were actually having closeness, but we haven't
51:28since the day before you stopped taking your pills, I pointed out.
51:31I was just so upset about what missed her.
51:34Bartlett and Jack wanted me to do that I wasn't in the mood for it during that time Kathy
51:38explained.
51:39Were you aware that last night was the most fertile night of your cycle?
51:42I asked.
51:43That question seemed to stun her again.
51:44No, I wasn't aware of that.
51:46I had too much on my mind to think about it.
51:49She said, it just strikes me as odd that you were planning to have intimacy with Benson
51:53last night, which happened to be in the middle of your menstrual cycle, and it never occurred
51:57to you to insist on using protection.
52:01But Jack thought to require it, I pointed out.
52:03What are you trying to say?
52:05She asked.
52:06That I knowingly risked getting pregnant?
52:08I would never do that, she insisted, clearly shaken.
52:11I could see Kathy was deeply upset.
52:14I decided to stop playing games.
52:16One more question Kathy I began.
52:18How long have you been involved with Hanson?
52:20What was all she managed to say?
52:22No more lies.
52:23I know you were tracking your cycle and marked last night on your planner.
52:27I know Hanson insisted Benson use protection.
52:30And since we weren't intimate, Hanson is the only one left.
52:33He wanted to get you pregnant, didn't he?
52:35I looked at Kathy.
52:36Tears streamed down her face, and she didn't try to answer.
52:40It was Hanson who wanted you to shave, not Benson.
52:44And you did it despite me telling you not to.
52:46It shows he has more influence over you than I do.
52:49And in case you think I'm guessing last night when I came home, I looked in and saw you
52:53without clothes in the living room with Hanson touching you intimately.
52:57He kissed your stomach the way a man kisses a woman he wants to have a baby with.
53:02Did you think I'd be so naive to believe it could be mine?
53:04Or were you planning to leave me from the start?
53:07You spent last night with him, didn't you?
53:10Kathy cried loudly as I stood up and left the room.
53:13When I returned to the kitchen with my suitcase, Kathy looked up at me.
53:16Seeing what I was doing, she jumped out of her chair and ran to me.
53:20Please don't leave me.
53:22I love you.
53:23I don't love Jack.
53:24I told you he blackmailed me.
53:25I had no choice but to do what he asked.
53:28Why didn't you just keep taking your birth control pills and lie to Jack about it?
53:32You had no problem lying to me.
53:34Honestly, I trust what you tell that rat bastard more than anything you've told me lately,
53:38I replied.
53:39By the way, I forgot to mention that last night while I was watching you, and that a
53:42whole.
53:43I heard you say I love you to him.
53:46So where does that leave me?
53:47I don't love him.
53:48If I'm pregnant, I'll have a termination.
53:50I love you.
53:51Please you have to believe me, she begged.
53:53No I don't.
53:54And as for the baby, don't abort it just because of me.
53:58Kathy collapsed on the floor, crying.
54:01When I glanced back from the garage door, she looked as devastated as she did when I
54:04left her at the party the night before.
54:06I felt no love for her anymore, only disgust.
54:10Leaving the house we worked so hard to build was hard, but it held no happy memories for
54:14me.
54:15Thankfully, we hadn't lived there long enough to form those memories.
54:19It's been over two years since I walked out on Kathy.
54:22After leaving her, I moved into a furnished apartment and tried to start fresh.
54:27That's when the nightmares began.
54:29Unhappy with my job, I quit and headed to California.
54:32Once settled, I started my own insurance investigation company.
54:36I reached out to Bill Ripley, who became my partner two months later.
54:41He mentioned that Mary Farrell wanted to join us when she heard we were starting our own
54:44firm.
54:45We moved out here 14 months ago, and two months later we started dating.
54:49After three months, we decided to move in together.
54:52I was surprised at how quickly I fell in love again.
54:55While I wasn't rushing into marriage, I enjoyed having someone special to share my life with.
55:00I've kept in touch with my friends in Indianapolis through several contacts, including special
55:04agent Mark Walker.
55:06It turned out that Kathy had exposed the company president and CEO at Jack Hansen's urging.
55:11Hansen hoped this would expose their shady dealings and lead to their dismissal by the
55:15board of directors.
55:16He assumed he would then become the company president of DC&H.
55:21It seems Kathy wasn't lying when she said she didn't love Hansen.

Recommended