His name was Simon. And before Catherine even returned from our honeymoon, I was already starting the process of ending our marriage. Simon was waiting for me when I arrived at his office. I had known him for several years through a business connection, so I didn't need to explain who I was. He looked at my suitcase.
You came straight from the airport. Yes. What happened? I sat across from him. My wife cheated on me during our honeymoon.
Simon didn't react dramatically. Tell me exactly what happened. I gave him the timeline. The calls. Richard staying at the same resort, Catherine meeting him downstairs, the lie about not knowing he was there, then the admission that she had slept with him, Simon listened without interrupting.
When I finished, I showed him the messages Catherine had sent me and the photos I had taken when I saw her with Richard. He looked through everything carefully. "Keep all of this," he said. "Don't delete anything. I won't.
And don't threaten her. Don't contact Richard and don't post anything online. " I wasn't planning to. Good. Let the evidence speak for itself. I nodded.
What do I need to do now? We'll file the paperwork and start separating the financial side. I also want you to make a list of everything you own individually and everything you own jointly. I can do that. Good.
And until I tell you otherwise, keep communication with Catherine focused on practical matters. I left his office with a folder of documents and a clear plan. Catherine returned 2 days later. I knew because she called me from the airport. Where are you?
I'm home. Why didn't you tell me? You didn't ask. I need to come home. You can.
Can we talk about the marriage? Yes. I don't think there's anything left to discuss. There was a long silence. You really hired a lawyer?
Yes. Her voice dropped. You were serious. I told you I was. I thought you were angry.
I am, but I'm also done. She started crying. Patrick, please. I'll have Simon contact you about the paperwork. You can't do this without even giving me a chance.
You had your chance. When? Before you slept with Richard? She said nothing. I ended the call.
That evening, Catherine came to the house. I was in the kitchen when the doorbell rang. I opened the door. She had a suitcase with her. She looked exhausted.
You really changed the locks? Yes. She stared at me. You wouldn't let me in? I knew you were coming.
This is our house for now. Yes. She looked around. Then she noticed the folder on the table. Is that from your lawyer?
Yes. You're actually doing this. I am. She sat down. Richard meant nothing.
I didn't answer. He made a mistake, too. I looked at her. You're still talking about him. I mean that it wasn't serious.
That doesn't matter. It should. No. She wiped her eyes. I love you.