I refrained from contacting Izzy.
Initially, I felt defensive, convincing myself that none of this was my fault. I had been oblivious. I had simply fallen in love.
My family who attended the party eventually understood that, but the fact that my children couldn’t comprehend it filled me with resentment.
Ultimately, I severed ties with Jenna permanently. She continued texting me, but I eventually blocked her. Still, no one was allowing me the opportunity to explain my side.
Weeks later, a chance encounter with my cousin had me expressing some of my feelings, and by the end of that meeting, she handed me a therapist’s business card.
I called just a few days later. One thing the therapist told me resonated profoundly.
“Whether you knew or not is irrelevant. You chose the divorce; you hurt your family on a whim, as you’ve confessed,” the therapist explained.
“What your ex-in-laws revealed was shocking, no doubt. But what truly matters now? Do you want to lose your children for good?”
No, I didn’t want that.
And after that simple realization, the rest of his words fell into place. I recognized all the selfishness and foolishness I had exhibited. So, I decided to take action.
First, I reached out to David, and he shared the full story of how Jenna nearly destroyed Izzy’s future.
They had to involve lawyers and police to finally get her to fall silent and exit their lives. During our conversation, he hurled insults at me, accusing me of being manipulated by Jenna.
I acknowledged this and found solace in the fact that my feelings for her had dissipated. She would not deceive me again.
I sincerely requested David’s forgiveness, which he granted, albeit grudgingly.
Next, I contacted my ex-mother-in-law and implored her for understanding. She offered forgiveness only after delivering a lengthy lecture. She also told me I’d never find someone as exceptional as her daughter—and she was right.
While I’d never have Izzy as my spouse again, she remained the mother of my children.
I called her next. That conversation was the hardest I’ve had. Beyond seeking forgiveness, I had to plead for her assistance with the kids.
I couldn’t permit my relationship with them to fall apart completely.
Luckily, Izzy was kind enough to agree after acknowledging that I truly had no means of knowing who Jenna was. I finally breathed a sigh of relief.
Several weeks passed, but eventually, she reached out to say Caleb and Maya were willing to have a heartfelt discussion with me. We had to take it slowly and allow them to set the pace.
This is my ONE chance to genuinely rectify things and reconnect with my children.
I’m meeting with them tomorrow. Wish me luck.
