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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.
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FunTranscript
00:00The supercharger whine was louder than my racing heartbeat.
00:03I was amazed my heart could even beat in its condition.
00:07Tears blurred my vision, and I figured I should slow down before I wrecked my only possession.
00:12As my speed dropped, I heard sirens again.
00:14I thought the cops would give up after 140 miles per hour, but no luck.
00:19Screw it, I thought.
00:20I pulled over and waited for the police.
00:22Maybe jail would be an escape from my nightmare life.
00:25The cop approached, surprisingly, without his weapon.
00:28Jesus Grant, he said, do you know how fast you were going?
00:31It was Fred Lively, an old friend turned cop.
00:34I wondered how our friendship would hold up now that I was a speeder, or rather a felon,
00:39as driving over 100 miles per hour was a felony in some states.
00:43What's wrong?
00:45Fred asked.
00:46He'd been at the hospital earlier.
00:48It was hard to believe that today had started as the happiest day of my life.
00:52I was at the hospital for the birth of my daughter.
00:55After complications, they sent me home since I'd been there all night.
00:59My wife Bonnie, who is over 35, gave birth to our baby who had an inguinal hernia.
01:04Though not serious, it required surgery.
01:06It was more common now with older mothers.
01:08And Bonnie, at 36, wasn't the healthiest.
01:12I loved her dearly.
01:13I had worn a bright yellow t-shirt with a smiley face and my name as Daddy on the back
01:17to show my pride.
01:19Now it just made me feel foolish.
01:21Fred reminisced about when his youngest was born.
01:24I realized I was locked in for 18 more years.
01:27It drove me a bit crazy.
01:29He shared his struggles with male postpartum depression, something not often recognized.
01:33Bonnie is upset about you leaving the hospital, he said.
01:37Why don't I escort you back?
01:38Fred.
01:39I just want to go home and think, I replied.
01:41I'll drive under the speed limit.
01:44You can escort me if you want.
01:45No need for that, Grant, he said.
01:47Drive safely.
01:48Fred put on his sunglasses and drove off.
01:51I went home to the house Bonnie and I had shared for 11 years.
01:54I was 23 and she was 25 when we moved in.
01:57Despite our differences, we fit together perfectly.
02:00Now I waited for her to come home and assure me everything would be fine but it wouldn't
02:05be.
02:07Everything was messed up.
02:09I considered having a beer on the deck but I needed to move to think.
02:12I went upstairs, changed into running shorts, threw away the yellow t-shirt, grabbed my
02:16iPod and headed out to run the trails behind our house.
02:20My name is Bonnie Martin and I feel empty and lonely even though I'm surrounded by
02:25family and friends.
02:26They likely think I'm just tired or sore from giving birth yesterday.
02:30Only my closest friends and family have an idea why I'm upset.
02:34They know it's because my husband Grant left the hospital unexpectedly.
02:38My dad tried to comfort me, saying that the birth of a child is tough on fathers too.
02:42He shared that when I was born he felt overwhelmed and wanted to run away but assured me Grant
02:47would be back soon.
02:49Grant is tough, dad said.
02:52He cut Brandy's umbilical cord, he'll be back any second.
02:54Brandy, our youngest daughter, was born yesterday.
02:57We named her Brandy as a blend of our names.
02:59I have two other daughters, Marie, 14, from a previous relationship and Tara, 8, whom
03:05we adopted.
03:06Grant has always been a loving father to Marie, treating her as his own from the start.
03:10When we got married, Marie even stood with us at the altar saying me too during our vows.
03:15Our life has been idyllic.
03:17No arguments, financial stability, and a great bed life.
03:21We even had spontaneous hooky-nooky sessions up until I got pregnant.
03:24I wanted to experience pregnancy with Grant since my first pregnancy with Marie was difficult
03:29and filled with disappointment from my parents.
03:33Despite our efforts, we found out Grant had a low seed count, making it difficult to conceive.
03:38After adopting Tara, we wanted to share the pregnancy experience, but it never happened.
03:42I wanted to see life like those pregnant women on TV, with a loving partner rubbing my belly.
03:47Going to birthing classes and picking out names.
03:50Maybe it was my bad memory of being pregnant with Marie or wanting to share the entire
03:53experience with Grant.
03:55I would have had a hundred babies with Grant if he wanted.
03:58Feeling overwhelmed, I told my mom I was tired and wanted to sleep.
04:01She cleared the room, and as I reached for the table beside the bed, a wave of pain almost
04:06made me black out.
04:07As I gasped in pain, my mother slapped my hand.
04:10Bonnie, don't you want to go home?
04:14She snapped.
04:15When you tear your stitches, Brandy may go home before you do.
04:17What are you reaching for?
04:19My phone, I said.
04:20I need to call Grant.
04:21She handed me the phone without a word.
04:23I pressed the one key on my BlackBerry to call Grant's iPhone.
04:27Our phones were set to connect automatically, and we had personalized ringtones for each
04:30other.
04:31The phone rang twice before going to voicemail, which meant Grant had manually sent my call
04:36there.
04:37He didn't want to talk to me.
04:39I pretended to have a conversation to fool my mother.
04:42She watched, smiling, and when I hung up, she kissed my forehead and told me to sleep.
04:47As she left, she asked, why didn't Grant come back?
04:51My mother was a big fan of Grant, too.
04:53Um, he's not feeling well, I said.
04:56The nurse probably told him not to risk making Brandy sick because of her complications.
04:59That's silly, my mom replied.
05:02Why?
05:03I asked.
05:04I think it's great he wants to be careful with his daughter.
05:07Remember, Brandy had surgery last night, she said.
05:10Grant gave blood and told the doctor to make sure it was used for her.
05:13If being around him could make her sick, surely his blood could, too.
05:17I was shocked by her words.
05:19I didn't know if it was true that blood from someone with a cold could make you sick.
05:24But I realized my situation might unravel.
05:26In fact, my mom continued, Grant ran out of here, after speaking to the doctor again this
05:31morning.
05:32I needed to get my mother out before I broke down.
05:35Mom, could you send Brenda in on your way out?
05:38I said.
05:39She looked puzzled but nodded and left the room.
05:42I had to be careful while running as I wasn't paying much attention to where I was going.
05:46Running trails differ from tracks or roads.
05:49The surface changes and can be unstable, especially after rain.
05:52I ran at a good pace trying to lose myself in the music on my iPod Shuffle, which played
05:56random songs.
05:58Somehow it felt like everything was planned by a higher power, as if my luck had run out.
06:03My iPod played an Amy Lee song that hit too close to home.
06:07Her lyrics about failed relationships felt personal.
06:10Meeting Bonnie had felt like destiny, but now our relationship was in shambles, and
06:15I couldn't understand why I ever loved her.
06:18Bonnie had initially doubted us due to past experiences, but after I persistently pursued
06:23her, she eventually agreed to a date.
06:25On that date, she tripped.
06:27I caught her and we knew we were meant to be.
06:30Despite our differences, we fell in love.
06:33In high school and college, I was popular, played sports, and enjoyed partying.
06:37I never settled down, enjoying the freedom and attention from various girls.
06:42I figured I'd settle down later in life.
06:44Bonnie, on the other hand, had joined a convent right after high school.
06:49Before taking her final vows, she took a leave, lost her pureness, and then went on a spree
06:53of relationships until she found herself pregnant.
06:56She moved back with her parents and focused on raising her daughter Marie, swearing off
07:00men.
07:02Getting Bonnie to date me was hard.
07:04She was dedicated to giving Marie the best life and had no time for romance.
07:08Our first date was simple, an early movie and ice cream.
07:12When she slipped and I caught her, it felt magical.
07:15She often says she saw our future children in my eyes that night.
07:18Bonnie's past and my reluctance to commit made our connection unlikely, but somehow
07:22we made it work.
07:23Now, as I ran, I was overwhelmed by how much everything had changed.
07:28Meeting Marie for the first time was nerve-wracking, because my future with Bonnie depended on
07:32her.
07:33We were supposed to go to the park for our first date with Marie, but Bonnie wanted to
07:36impress me.
07:38Bonnie isn't a supermodel.
07:39She's beautiful but curvy with big legs, a big bum, and huge bosom.
07:45I wouldn't change her for anything.
07:47I loved snuggling up to her at night, back to the date.
07:50I was more nervous about meeting Marie than Bonnie's parents.
07:53When introduced, Marie, a three-year-old, burst into rapid-fire chatter, showing me
07:57four fingers to indicate her age.
08:00She asked if I knew how to play jacks and ran off to get them.
08:03Bonnie, half-dressed, ran in angrily, asking what I did to Marie.
08:07I was confused but ready to leave.
08:09Suddenly, Marie returned with her jacks and insisted we play.
08:13Bonnie realized her shirt was unbuttoned and fixed it, saying she wanted me to stay.
08:18From then on, we were inseparable.
08:19We married, adopted another girl, and lived happily.
08:23About nine months ago, Bonnie told me she was pregnant.
08:25We were ecstatic.
08:28Since we thought we'd never have a child together.
08:31Bonnie had strong feelings about pregnancy, seeing it as the ultimate expression of love.
08:35Each day she grew bigger and happier, and even hornier.
08:38I reassured her that the few pounds she gained made her more attractive to me.
08:43Yesterday should have been the happiest day of my life, but it turned to despair when
08:46a doctor mentioned Brandy's biological father.
08:49I realized Brandy wasn't mine, and Bonnie had known it.
08:52I felt betrayed and needed to get out of the hospital.
08:55Pushing past well-wishers, I left the room before the walls closed in on me.
08:59The nurse told me my wife had just woken up and asked for me.
09:03Meanwhile, friends and Bonnie's sister Brenda were teasing me, calling me Daddy, sarcastically
09:08because of my shirt.
09:10I felt like a joke.
09:12It was like a Twilight Zone episode with everyone mocking me.
09:15The nurse insisted, Daddy, your wife wants to see you badly.
09:18She needs a kiss.
09:19Better not go.
09:21Someone joked.
09:22That's what started this.
09:23Their voices seemed distorted and dripping with sarcasm.
09:26I felt intense hatred towards them.
09:29Screw her, I shouted, silencing the room.
09:31Someone finally broke the silence with, you already did.
09:35That's why we're here next.
09:37I remember being in the parking lot, starting my car, and peeling out, lost in thought.
09:41I ran faster on the trails, accompanied only by Amy Lee's depressing music.
09:46Back at the hospital, Brenda entered her sister's room.
09:50Despite their shared upbringing, Bonnie and Brenda were very different Bonnie, voluptuous
09:54and family-oriented, had joined a convent while spelt Brenda became a model and avoided
09:58motherhood, even getting her tubes tied at 22.
10:03Brenda found Bonnie looking disheveled and emotional in the hospital bed.
10:07She couldn't understand why anyone would go through such an ordeal for a child.
10:10Bonnie had gained at least 20 pounds, and Brenda thought she was lucky Grant loved her.
10:15Hi, sis.
10:16You wanted to see me?
10:18Brenda asked.
10:19I need a favor, Bonnie replied.
10:21I need you to talk to Grant.
10:22Isn't he coming here?
10:23Brenda asked.
10:24I did something stupid and bad for the best reason.
10:27I did it for Grant, but he won't see it that way, Bonnie said crying.
10:30Okay, I'll go, Brenda agreed, uncomfortable with the emotion.
10:34What should I say?
10:35Brenda asked.
10:36Just ask him to call or see me.
10:37Tell him I love him and we can get past this.
10:40I made a mistake, Bonnie said.
10:43Brenda shook her head and left.
10:45It seemed like too much work to her, with too much misery for fleeting happiness.
10:49Meanwhile, Grant returned home after a good run.
10:53The girls would be excited to hear he saw a deer, squirrels, chipmunks, a raccoon, and
10:58a skunk.
10:59Dragging his tired body inside, he realized the house no longer felt like home.
11:03He had tried to exhaust himself to avoid thinking about Bonnie's betrayal, which affected the
11:07entire family, not just him.
11:10For 11 years, Maria had been his daughter, and he loved her deeply.
11:14But in a fit of anger, he questioned her parentage.
11:17Despite spending more time with Marie than anyone else, he felt betrayed by the thought
11:21that she might not be his biological child.
11:24Tara was adopted, and now Brandy, born of Bonnie's infidelity, felt like a symbol of
11:29that betrayal.
11:31Grant reflected on Bonnie's past wild days and felt their relationship meant nothing
11:34to her.
11:36She had deceived him, making him raise another man's child.
11:39He contemplated divorce and how it would impact his daughters.
11:43He considered fighting for custody, but worried about the girls needing a female influence.
11:48If Bonnie got custody, he'd miss out on their lives.
11:51The best short-term solution was to stay with Bonnie for the sake of the girls.
11:55But he knew he could never accept or love Brandy.
11:58He imagined a scenario where they pretended to be a family until the girls were older.
12:02This meant daily contact with Bonnie and her baby, a constant reminder of her betrayal.
12:08Grant decided he could handle it for the girls' sake, but with conditions.
12:12No relationship with Bonnie beyond co-parenting, no lovemaking, no affection, and Bonnie would
12:16sleep in the basement.
12:17Just then, he heard a tapping on the fence.
12:19Annoyed, he walked across the yard and opened the gate.
12:24Bonnie's sister Brenda stood at the gate.
12:25Hi, Grant, she said with a smile that was more frosty than warm.
12:29I hugged her, but she just stood there, unresponsive.
12:33Bonnie wants you to call her.
12:35She says she loves you, made a mistake, and you can get past this, she waited for me to
12:38respond, making the moment awkward.
12:40Nope, I said.
12:42I have nothing to say to her, period.
12:44Brenda sighed.
12:46The doctor is letting her come home tomorrow.
12:49You can talk then, right?
12:51Tell her not to come back here.
12:53I don't want her or her baby.
12:55She can stay with your parents.
12:57Brenda was shocked.
12:58What's going on?
12:59You and Bonnie are in love.
13:00Why can't she come home?
13:02Ask her to explain.
13:03I snapped.
13:04Mom and dad have Marie and Tara.
13:07There's no room for Bonnie and the baby.
13:09Figure it out.
13:10My girls can come home or stay with your parents.
13:13Bonnie can move in with you.
13:14I'll tell her, Brenda said, walking to her car.
13:17Before leaving, she added, I know she loves you very much.
13:20I closed the gate and went back to drinking.
13:23After a while, my phone rang.
13:24It was Bonnie, tearful.
13:26Grant, why can't I come home?
13:28We need to work this out.
13:30But you what?
13:32I yelled.
13:33You got bored and cheated?
13:35No, I did it for us, she said.
13:37I was speechless.
13:38I hung up.
13:39She called back, but I didn't answer.
13:42Later the phone rang again, this time from her parents' house.
13:45I answered out of respect.
13:47Daddy, I have a question, said Marie.
13:50Hi, angel, I croaked.
13:52If you're home, why am I stuck at grandma's?
13:55Come and get me.
13:56I'd love to, but I've had a couple of beers.
13:58I shouldn't drive, especially with you in the car.
14:01Oh, daddy, she giggled.
14:03I'm 14 now, not a baby.
14:05You'll always be my baby, I said.
14:08Then I heard Tara.
14:09Daddy, I'm your baby.
14:10Brandy can be mom's baby.
14:11I laughed.
14:13Then Bonnie's father came on the line.
14:16Grant, what's going on?
14:19Bonnie's been crying all day.
14:20You need to talk to her.
14:22You can't resolve anything without talking.
14:24You're right, sir, I said.
14:25I'll go to the hospital tomorrow.
14:27Aren't you bringing her home?
14:29He asked.
14:30Maybe, but it's unlikely, I replied.
14:32The next morning I went to the hospital.
14:34Some people cheered, assuming I'd come back.
14:37I ignored them and went to Bonnie's room.
14:39A nurse was disconnecting her from the monitors.
14:42Bonnie's face lit up when she saw me, but I stayed distant.
14:46The nurse left, and Bonnie invited me to sit by her, asking me to lock the door.
14:51Why did you lie to our daughter last night?
14:53She asked.
14:54I didn't think I should bring her home without asking you, I said.
14:57Grant, when I didn't want her to play volleyball, you signed her up anyway without asking me.
15:02But now, because of my mistake, you suddenly need my permission to bring her home.
15:06She snapped.
15:07I'm not her father, I'm her dad, I said.
15:10You're lucky I can't get up right now, she said.
15:12You're her dad, her daddy, and her father.
15:15Don't let your ego hurt our daughter.
15:17I messed up, not her.
15:19So I can take her and Tara home?
15:21I asked.
15:22Of course.
15:24They belong with you, she said.
15:27That should make things easier for your parents, I said.
15:29Yes, they'll get some peace and privacy back.
15:32You know they still do it, right?
15:33We'll be like that too.
15:35How will they have privacy with a baby crying?
15:38I asked.
15:40Brenda said there's no room for you, the baby, and the girls at your parents' house.
15:44If I take the girls, there shouldn't be a problem, right?
15:47Bonnie looked deflated.
15:48What do you mean, until we work this out?
15:51It sounds like we might not.
15:53And what do you mean, my baby?
15:56She's our baby.
15:57You spoke to her every day in my womb, and now you want to abandon her.
16:02That's nonsense, Grant.
16:04Bonnie tried to sit up, wincing in pain.
16:07But I was unmoved.
16:08Don't you see, honey?
16:11It was the perfect pregnancy.
16:13It brought us closer together.
16:16This was everything I dreamed of.
16:18Suddenly I realized the truth.
16:19I had thought Bonnie's pregnancy was an accident or her reverting to old habits.
16:24But it was a planned betrayal.
16:26She cheated to get pregnant and tricked me into thinking the child was mine.
16:30My heart hurt even more.
16:32My eyes filled with tears and I had to look away.
16:34Do you understand now?
16:36I needed us to have a baby together.
16:38I love you so much and I wanted to share this experience.
16:41I dreamed of your seed growing into a mini us.
16:44It just didn't happen.
16:46So I did it another way, but I swear she'll be all yours, just like the others.
16:51No one will ever know.
16:52Yeah, I said slowly, trying to keep the anger out of my voice.
16:56No one will ever know that the woman I loved cheated to fulfill her fantasy.
17:00They won't know that our life together wasn't enough for you or that you broke my heart,
17:04but they'll know this farce ended.
17:06We're over.
17:07No, we're not, she screamed.
17:10I love you, Grant.
17:11It was just lovemaking only twice.
17:14I hate that guy.
17:15I did it for us and our baby.
17:17It's over now.
17:18We'll be fine.
17:19No, Bonnie, we were fine.
17:21We had a great life, you, me, and our girls, but you ruined it, I said.
17:25I had three plans to fix this, but now I can't decide anything with you.
17:28I'll never trust you again.
17:30What were the plans?
17:31She asked quietly.
17:32Divorce, and I get custody, I said.
17:35Are you crazy?
17:36She asked.
17:37No, I didn't want custody of your baby, just the other two.
17:40What about me?
17:41She asked.
17:42Who'd get custody of me?
17:43I don't care.
17:44Maybe your lover.
17:45He's not as good as you.
17:48I don't love him.
17:49He doesn't love me.
17:50I used him, she said sadly.
17:52Bonnie looked at me pleadingly.
17:54We heard a key turning in the lock, but the door didn't open.
17:57Are the other plans better?
17:58I don't like that one, she said.
18:00I don't want anything where we're not together.
18:03Divorce and you get custody.
18:04I pay child support for the two I thought were mine.
18:07No alimony.
18:08Your lover can support you.
18:09I get visitation.
18:10That's worse, she said.
18:12Marie and Tara would hate me.
18:14Brandy would be confused.
18:15Her look told me she wanted to hear the last plan.
18:18We pretend we're still married for the girls, I said.
18:20She smiled.
18:21I could live with that, she said.
18:23Could you live with it for ten years?
18:26I asked.
18:27Hell yes, she said.
18:29That gives me the best chance to keep my family together.
18:31And I know you'll forgive me and love Brandy.
18:34It's not going to happen, Bonnie I snapped.
18:36It would be a pretend marriage, only for the girls.
18:39We'd build a room in the basement for you and the baby.
18:42No relationship between us.
18:44Her jaw dropped.
18:45I chose ten years because Tara will be in college then.
18:48We can go our separate ways.
18:49This is about the girls.
18:51The house would be off limits to your lovers.
18:54When I'm ready to date, I won't bring anyone here either.
18:56You've got this all wrong, Grant.
18:58She sniffled.
18:59I love you.
19:00Not being able to touch you hurts me.
19:02Whether you know it or not, you love me too.
19:05I could have you back in my bed in a week.
19:08I don't want any love-making buddies except you.
19:11In over ten years, I've never slept with anyone but you.
19:14I wanted us to share something.
19:16I made a mistake, but we're married.
19:18We always will be.
19:20I don't want anyone else.
19:22Brandy would only be ten when you leave.
19:24She'd be too young to understand.
19:26She's your daughter, Grant.
19:27She was conceived with you in mind, and you'll love her as much as the others.
19:30No, I said.
19:32No?
19:33She asked.
19:34No to all of that.
19:35I snapped, my voice rising.
19:37A couple of heads poked in through the door, but I didn't care.
19:40I won't interact with your daughter.
19:42She's too much of a reminder of what I've lost.
19:45I don't care if she doesn't understand losing me because I'm not her father.
19:48I don't love you anymore, Bonnie.
19:50She looked stunned and started crying.
19:53You did this to us.
19:54Your games burned up all the love I had for you.
19:57I don't think you ever really loved me.
19:59If you did, you'd see this from my side.
20:02Even if we tried to pretend marriage, it wouldn't work.
20:04I can't stand being around you, and I'm not as easy to seduce as you think.
20:09I loved you, but that's over.
20:11Forget the fake marriage.
20:13First thing Monday, I'm filing for divorce.
20:15I walked out past several shocked faces.
20:18Bonnie's father followed me.
20:20Grant, stop, he called.
20:21I slowed down so he could catch up.
20:23What the hell is going on?
20:26He asked.
20:27We were outside the hospital when he pulled me onto a bench in the parking lot.
20:31He handed me a handkerchief and looked away as I wiped my tears.
20:34Grant, you have to let us help you to fix this, he said.
20:39Bonnie's been crying all day.
20:41This has to do with the new baby, doesn't it?
20:43I nodded.
20:44I heard some of it, he said.
20:46You love Marie and Tara like they're your own.
20:48Why were you yelling about Bonnie's daughter?
20:51Bonnie wanted another baby so badly she cheated to get pregnant.
20:54It wasn't just once.
20:56She planned the whole thing and lied to me about it.
20:58If not for an overworked doctor I'd never have known.
21:01I'm not going along with her plan, I said.
21:04I feel like I'm stuck in a nightmare and just want out.
21:07What do you want to do? he asked.
21:09I'm filing for divorce, I told him.
21:12He looked shocked and tired.
21:14Bonnie said it's okay for me to take the girls home.
21:16Verify with her if you need to.
21:19No, son.
21:20If you're splitting up, you'll both want time with them.
21:22You don't have enough room for Bonnie, the baby, and the girls.
21:25That's true, sir.
21:26But my house has no space for Bonnie and her child.
21:30You and Marie can visit anytime.
21:32You can take the girls to see their mother and half-sister.
21:35I hope we can all still be friends.
21:36I don't want anything bad to happen to Bonnie, but she hurt me too much.
21:41You don't think this is temporary? he asked.
21:43No, sir.
21:45When you speak to her remind her that a quick, simple divorce is best.
21:48I'll pay child support for my girls, but not for Bonnie's child or any alimony.
21:53I won't pay for her betrayal.
21:55If it comes down to it she's admitted to fraud which could get me custody and her in jail.
21:59I want this for Marie and Tara.
22:01They need the best life possible, even if it means a divorce.
22:05The next few days were tough.
22:07Bonnie moved to her parents' house, and I took the girls to visit her but didn't go
22:11in.
22:12Bonnie kept calling and sending her parents to talk to me.
22:15Surprisingly, Brenda was the most understanding.
22:19One night, Bonnie convinced Brenda to bring her to my house.
22:23She knocked loudly, trying to get in.
22:26I called her and told her she'd wake the girls.
22:28She begged to hear my voice, promising to leave if I spoke to her.
22:32I stepped out and saw Bonnie and Brenda on the porch.
22:35I sat on the porch railing opposite the chairs.
22:38Hey, Brenda, I said, smiling.
22:41Then I turned to Bonnie and let my smile fade, showing all my anger and revulsion.
22:45Do you have two minutes?
22:46I said coldly.
22:47How are the girls?
22:48She asked.
22:49They're fine, I replied, telling her about our day.
22:52She smiled.
22:53I always knew you'd be a great father.
22:55It's hard to believe you haven't visited your other daughter who needs you.
22:59Time flies when you're listening to nonsense.
23:01Your time is up.
23:04If you bang on my door again I'll call the police.
23:06She reached for me.
23:07Grant, I love you.
23:09Please forgive me and give Brandy a chance.
23:13As I closed the door I heard Brenda say, leave him alone, Bonnie.
23:17You've done enough.
23:18He's hurting, too.
23:19You did this.
23:20Bonnie snapped back.
23:21Shut up, Brenda.
23:22He's mine and he always will be.
23:24I'm not letting him divorce me.
23:26The next morning I made breakfast for my daughters and dropped them off at school.
23:31Brandy comes home today, Daddy, Marie said.
23:35That's great, Angel, I said, trying to hide my anger.
23:37Remember the rules, Daddy, Tara added.
23:39What rules, baby?
23:40I asked.
23:41What rules, baby?
23:43I asked.
23:44Marie is too old to be your baby.
23:45I'm your baby and Brandy is Mom's baby, she said.
23:49I laughed and let them out, then drove to work.
23:52After three unproductive hours, my secretary Joan told me I had urgent calls from the police
23:57and the hospital.
23:59I took the police call first.
24:01My house had been broken into.
24:03I rushed home in my Camaro.
24:05The alarm wasn't on, even though I was sure I set it.
24:08Two officers showed me a broken window.
24:11Inside, nothing was ransacked, but the breakfast dishes were cleaned, the laundry was done,
24:15and some pictures and Bonnie's items were missing.
24:18Bonnie had broken in, turned off the alarm, and cleaned up.
24:22I explained to the officers, who left after I declined to press charges.
24:26I wondered why Bonnie hadn't taken our wedding album, one of her favorite things.
24:30I found a note on top of it.
24:32Dearest Grant, I'm sorry I didn't love you at first sight like you did me.
24:36Still, you've always been more important to me than I am to you.
24:39You could have chosen anyone, but you chose me, a chunky girl with a kid, which showed
24:43your love.
24:44I had to think of my daughter, so it took time for my love to grow into an obsession.
24:48I would do anything to keep you in my life because no one else could ever compare to
24:52you.
24:53My wild past taught me that no one made me feel like you did.
24:56When you said my lover and I laughed at you, you were half right.
25:00He never knew about you.
25:02I didn't mention I was married.
25:03I laughed at the idea that anyone could replace you.
25:07He didn't even remember me from before, showing how shallow he is.
25:11I needed him because he was quick and potent, unlike you.
25:14I knew he could get me pregnant quickly, and he wouldn't care about the child, just like
25:18with Marie.
25:20She's always been yours.
25:21I thought this would be a good thing.
25:23I didn't enjoy the lovemaking.
25:25I used lube, didn't kiss, didn't move, and didn't end.
25:29Both times were terrible and I showered multiple times afterward.
25:33I only felt better after making love to you.
25:35I was relieved when I got pregnant because it meant I wouldn't have to see him again.
25:39I did this to share something wonderful with you, not to tear us apart.
25:44It seemed like a small sacrifice for a great reward.
25:48My body has always belonged to you, and I didn't think letting someone borrow a tiny
25:51part would make you reject me, especially for something we both wanted.
25:56You love Marie with all your heart.
25:58If having her required me to sleep with someone else, would you say no?
26:02Knowing how much you love her now.
26:04It's the same with Brandy.
26:05Despite everything, Brandy is your daughter.
26:08You helped create her, even if biologically she isn't yours.
26:11You signed her birth certificate, making you her legal father.
26:14I'm not trying to trap you.
26:17I'm showing you who you are.
26:18I believe you'll love Brandy as much as you love your other daughters.
26:21I love you more than anything.
26:23Being apart will hurt, but I'd sacrifice anything for our children.
26:28I hope time will heal us and make us stronger.
26:31Yours forever, Bonnie.
26:33I had no idea what she was talking about.
26:36In a few months we'd be divorced, and the court would decide custody of our daughters.
26:40My heart missed Bonnie, but my pride wouldn't allow forgiveness.
26:44Reading her letter didn't change my mind.
26:46I still wasn't ready to forgive her, but I wanted to find this guy and break his bones
26:50for abandoning Marie.
26:52Then the phone rang.
26:53It was the hospital again, probably Bonnie wondering if I'd read her letter.
26:57What I said into the phone.
26:59Grant, you have to come over here now said Bonnie's mother, Mary Jim, has had a heart
27:02attack, and there's a problem with Brandy, Brandy, Brandy is not my problem, I thought.
27:08I couldn't have been more wrong.
27:10At the hospital, two nurses tried to pull me in opposite directions.
27:13One, a stern black woman, wanted to take me to pediatrics, while the other, from the cardiac
27:18unit, had a kinder expression.
27:21The cardiac nurse won.
27:23I hate deadbeat dads, said the black woman as she let me go.
27:26I'll come and pay, or sign the papers, so my health care can take care of it, until
27:30the divorce goes through, I said.
27:32She looked confused and left.
27:34In the cardiac ward, I saw Jim.
27:37His heart attack had been mild.
27:39Mary was by his side.
27:40He'll be laid up for a while, she said.
27:42I'm sorry I won't be much help, but my husband has to take first priority.
27:47Don't worry about it, Mary, I said.
27:49I can handle my girls.
27:52If there's a problem, I can always call Bonnie.
27:54Mary looked at me and said, no one told you?
27:57Told me what?
27:58I asked.
27:59A doctor took Mary to talk about Jim's care.
28:01I decided to find Bonnie to get some answers.
28:04The mean nurse grabbed my hand and led me to pediatrics.
28:07We've been calling you all day, she snapped.
28:10Your wife disappearing is hard, but you still have responsibilities.
28:13She handed me papers to sign, and put the baby in my arms, forcing me into a wheelchair.
28:18You're lucky we're busy today, she snapped.
28:20When you didn't pick her up this morning, we should have called family services and
28:24had you arrested.
28:25What kind of an idiot abandons a newborn?
28:27I sat in the wheelchair, shocked.
28:30If Brenda hadn't walked by, I might still be sitting there.
28:35Mom told me to help you, said Brenda.
28:37Dad will be fine with some restrictions.
28:39Mom's more worried about you.
28:41Brenda asked a friend to drive her car to my house.
28:44He didn't complain, probably because Brenda is so attractive.
28:48Here, Brenda, why don't you take the baby, I said.
28:51Oh no, she said, I have no maternal instincts, you're the super dad, you can handle it.
28:57We went to my Camaro, I'd need to find the new car seat we'd bought.
29:02As we drove, Brenda said, that is the weirdest thing.
29:04What?
29:05I asked.
29:06She's quiet and calm, I've never seen this baby quiet.
29:09Are you sure they gave you the right one?
29:11Don't start, I said.
29:14I'm only keeping her until Bonnie gets back.
29:17Meanwhile I'm going ahead with my divorce plans and maybe get Bonnie charged with abandonment.
29:22Huh, she said.
29:24I'm serious, Brenda.
29:25This is nonsense.
29:26Huh, she repeated.
29:28I'll give her two days to get back.
29:30Then I'm taking the baby to social services.
29:33Huh, said Brenda as we pulled up to my house.
29:36Do you need anything?
29:37She asked.
29:38No, I said.
29:39We have everything we need.
29:41Grant, you're a great guy, she said.
29:43What Bonnie did was wrong.
29:45She's tearing herself up over losing you.
29:47I think she started to resent the baby.
29:49She needs to get her head straight.
29:50Please don't take it out on the baby.
29:53Settle your issues with Bonnie when she gets back.
29:56I realized she was right and nodded.
29:58Grant, Brenda said, grabbing my face.
30:01It was the first time I remember her reaching out to touch anyone.
30:05I meant it, when I said you're the only person who calms her.
30:09She wasn't even this peaceful with Bonnie.
30:12Maybe she sensed her mommy's distress.
30:14You're the best man I know.
30:16Let my niece feel that.
30:17You don't have to accept her as your child but she is related to you.
30:21Marie is still yours, isn't she?
30:22Of course she is, I spat.
30:24Then accept Brandy as Marie and Tara's half-sister, if not your daughter.
30:28Think of her as their cousin or something.
30:31She's part of your family.
30:32I nodded grudgingly.
30:34I loved her so much, Brenda, I said sadly.
30:37Grant, she still loves you.
30:39She hasn't given up on you.
30:41There's no one else for her, she said.
30:44She was about to say more but we were interrupted by the girls running out of the house, excitedly
30:48cooing at the baby.
30:50They didn't notice their mother's absence.
30:52I sensed challenging times ahead.
30:55Meanwhile, Bonnie was at the convent.
30:57Walking down the familiar halls I wore a somber expression, not out of respect, but because
31:01my heart was breaking.
31:03I missed Grant so much that it felt unbearable.
31:06If this plan didn't work, I still might consider other options, including giving up entirely.
31:11Once I expected to live my life within these walls, maybe as a teacher, but that was over
31:15ten years ago.
31:17Bonnie, how good it is to see you again, said Reverend Mother Agnes.
31:21She was Sister Agnes when I was here, and she was old then.
31:25She's ancient now.
31:27Her face still had some of the smile I remembered, but she looked much more serious and strong
31:30in spirit, if not in body.
31:33It's good to see you again too, Mother Agnes, I said.
31:36Bonnie, you're here as a lay worker to help us.
31:39No need for formality.
31:41We're still friends.
31:42Call me Agnes we discuss my duties.
31:44I'd be installing a computer system in the convent, which could take years.
31:48I hoped to finish sooner so I could return to my family.
31:51Grant's solutions to my betrayal were unacceptable, and none of my ideas were any good either
31:55I even considered giving Brandy up for adoption, which Grant hadn't suggested because we both
32:00believe a child needs their parents.
32:03Grant was being stubborn, but I couldn't abandon my daughter's father.
32:07I loved Brandy, but if I had to choose between her and Grant, she'd lose.
32:11I'd find her a good home, maybe with family, but I couldn't take their father away from
32:15them.
32:16Alone in my room, I watched Grant on my iPad, holding Brandy and rocking her to sleep.
32:21Marie followed him everywhere, and I knew she would choose to stay with him if it came
32:25to a divorce.
32:27Grant handed Brandy to Marie so he could stand up, then took her back and put her to bed.
32:32He read Tara a bedtime story while Marie looked at something in her hands.
32:36I realized he'd bought Marie a cell phone despite my objections.
32:39I smiled, knowing he was just trying to distract them from missing me.
32:43Over the next few months, I installed computers in the convent and taught the nuns how to
32:49use them.
32:50Each day, I returned to my room and watched my family.
32:53Grant cared for our daughters better than I expected.
32:56Despite his words, he formed a bond with Brandy.
32:59He walked with her, giving her ice chips for teething pain and talked to her about her
33:03sisters and our relationship.
33:05Hearing him talk about how much he loved me, in the past tense, hurt deeply.
33:08It was even more painful to hear how much my betrayal affected him.
33:13After that night, I stopped watching him for a few days because I was too depressed.
33:17I began to see how deeply I had hurt him and wondered if what I did was worth it.
33:21I started doubting my plan, unsure if my husband would ever want me back.
33:27My sister was visiting my family more often and getting closer to Grant, which wasn't
33:30part of my plan.
33:32What I thought would take a few months was nearing a year.
33:35There were a few triumphs over the past 11 months.
33:38My father recovered from his heart attack, and when my mother offered to take Brandy,
33:42Grant refused, saying she had enough to worry about with Dad's health.
33:46He'd hold on until I returned, which made me believe his feelings for Brandy were growing.
33:52Another success was getting him the DVDs.
33:54Denny had a habit of recording his trysts, and I took the DVDs from him so no one would
33:58ever know what I did.
34:00One night I heard Grant telling Brenda that he thought I'd been cheating on him for
34:03weeks, maybe years, and was back in my old ways.
34:07It hurt that he thought I could do that.
34:10Brenda was the only one who knew where I was.
34:12I asked her to leave the DVDs somewhere Grant might find them.
34:16Brenda asked Grant if she could look through my clothes for something to wear while helping
34:19with housework, and they found the DVDs.
34:22Watching through hidden cameras, I saw Grant's reaction.
34:26The DVDs showed me lying on the motel bed, lifeless.
34:30Denny struggled to mount me, and I looked at the camera with a sad or disgusted expression.
34:35The conversations during and after lovemaking were telling.
34:38Denny made crude remarks, and I responded with disdain, making it clear I wasn't enjoying it.
34:43Hearing this, I hoped, would help Grant see I wasn't doing it for pleasure.
34:47A few weeks later, Brenda asked Grant how he felt about me.
34:51He didn't answer in anger.
34:54Just said he didn't know that made me happier than I'd been since leaving then one night
34:57While holding Brandy, she spit out her bottle, and clearly said Dada Grant looked angry at
35:02first, but then shook his head and gave her the bottle back a few days later Grant asked
35:07Brenda to watch the girls for Ann.
35:08That evening, when she asked where he was going, he just said he was going out this
35:12worried me because, if he started dating I might lose him in our state.
35:16I had only a few months before Grant could divorce me for abandonment, so I couldn't
35:20risk him starting to date.
35:21I walked into the bar for a drink, but it wasn't by accident.
35:25I chose that place and time to find Denny, a local pervert who married a rich older woman.
35:31Despite her control, he had the time and money to mess around.
35:34This bar was his hangout.
35:36I wanted answers.
35:37He was already boasting to his friends about a dancer when I sat near his table and joined
35:41the conversation as if I knew him.
35:43Dude, you've moved up.
35:45I said Denny, I've been in California for a year.
35:48You should see the chicks I brought back, California women.
35:51Ha, maybe we should get together, he said.
35:54I'm not sure you're up to it, I laughed last time I was here you were with some chunky
35:57chick oh please, he said older married women, are the real test.
36:02Getting a bigger older married chick chasing you is something I pretended to believe him
36:06and invited him to talk in the parking lot his friends wanted to come, but I told them
36:10maybe next time they paid for my beer.
36:13And Denny and I headed out, both grinning for different reasons.
36:16Denny, a big guy tamed by his wife, looked tough to smaller, domesticated guys.
36:22But he was like a zoo tiger, scary in a cage, but not so much in the wild.
36:27We got to the parking lot, and I sat on the hood of Denny's M3.
36:31Tell me about the chunky chick from last year, I snapped.
36:34Denny loved telling his tales, so he started.
36:37That witch was really into me, he began.
36:40I felt like I knew her from somewhere.
36:42She acted like giving me a head was her dream.
36:45She got so wet I thought I'd drown.
36:47We drilled for hours and she came back for more, so she must have liked it.
36:50Are you still seeing her?
36:53I asked.
36:54Hell no, he snapped.
36:55I hit him and quit him.
36:57That witch wanted to leave her husband for me.
36:59She begged me to marry her and have kids.
37:02But I've never had a woman pin a kid on me, and I never want those vile little critters.
37:07He was about to say more when I strike him.
37:09My first punch stunned him and he staggered back.
37:12Why the foo he started.
37:13But I strike him again and blood erupted from his face.
37:17You broke my nose, he screamed.
37:19If you don't tell me the truth, I'll break your back, I said.
37:23What do you want to know, he asked, spitting blood.
37:26He had no guts and my hatred turned to pity.
37:28I abandoned my plan to tell his wife because it would only hurt my girls.
37:33Denny didn't know Marie or Brandy existed and it was better that way.
37:37Tell me everything, I said.
37:39Don't leave anything out.
37:40I'm not one of your friends, so don't try to make yourself look good.
37:44Just tell me the truth.
37:46Okay.
37:48The truth is, I was shocked when she came on to me.
37:51Half the women around here don't fall for my crap anymore.
37:54My wife is old and doesn't want lovemaking often.
37:57And when she does, it's like screwing a corpse.
38:00I use a lot of hookers.
38:01So when this woman came to me, I didn't care if she was chunky.
38:05She was pretty and had big chest.
38:06It was free lovemaking.
38:07Why refuse?
38:09But the lovemaking was awful.
38:10She didn't even take her clothes off or let me touch her.
38:14And she called me names.
38:16He looked at me for a reaction.
38:18I never thought I'd see her again, he said.
38:20But a few weeks later she came after me again.
38:23The second time was worse.
38:24She didn't move and looked like she hated me.
38:27She closed her legs and tilted up when I came trying to keep my seat in.
38:30She hated me or maybe all men.
38:32She seemed like the kind of woman who'd cut your throat while you slept.
38:36He wiped the blood from his nose.
38:38She looked ashamed or like she wanted to cry both times.
38:41I swear she had tears in her eyes.
38:44It seemed like she was punishing herself.
38:46She kept mentioning her husband, which was weird because most married women don't.
38:51They feel guilty and avoid talking about them.
38:54But she kept saying things like, my husband's meat is bigger than yours or my husband does
38:58it better.
38:59It was creepy.
39:00I thought she might bring him next time to show me how.
39:04She didn't even want me to touch her afterward.
39:06Most women want to feel less used but she just wanted me to leave.
39:10She even joked about coming and going.
39:12I figured she'd cheated on her husband he found out and left her.
39:15She hated us because her screwing around made her lose Mr. Wonderful.
39:20Life is strange and people are complex.
39:22He looked at me as if he'd said something profound.
39:24Get out of my sight Denny, I said, but what about the California bit?
39:29He caught himself.
39:31Who are you? he asked.
39:33Mr. Wonderful, I said as I walked away.
39:36I had a lot to think about.
39:38I'd parked a couple of blocks away just in case.
39:41Denny was more of a wimp than I expected.
39:44He didn't even try to slap me, he just spilled his guts.
39:47I felt bad.
39:49I probably could have just asked him and gotten the truth.
39:52Plan B could have been to show him the videos but when he called my girls vile, nasty critters
39:56he deserved in back whipping.
39:58Even though he didn't know they existed.
40:01Denny was an idiot but losing control and resorting to violence was wrong.
40:05What if I'd gotten caught?
40:07Who would take care of my girls if I went to jail?
40:10Brenda wasn't the motherly type and their grandparents were too old.
40:14It was just me.
40:16Bonnie loved them too but where was she?
40:18The talk with Denny made me see things differently.
40:20Life isn't just black or white.
40:23There are many shades of grey.
40:25The only women in my life right now are my daughters and Bonnie's daughter.
40:29The thrumming of my Camaro's engine made me think more about my situation.
40:33There were many issues at stake.
40:35Did Bonnie cheat on me?
40:37Absolutely.
40:38The more I thought about it the more I realized I was right.
40:41Her reasons didn't make sense.
40:43We were fine and might have had a baby eventually but she had to mess it up.
40:47Neither of us was getting younger.
40:49Especially her.
40:52If we'd waited it might never have happened.
40:55Maybe there was a reason for what she did but the way she went about it was totally
40:58wrong.
40:59We could have tried artificial insemination instead of her sleeping with some prick.
41:04The rest of the issues were murkier.
41:06Did Bonnie love me?
41:08I believed she did.
41:09Even Denny seemed convinced she loved me.
41:12Do I still love Bonnie?
41:13As much as I want to say, hell no I hate that cheating woman, I can't.
41:17She's been gone for nearly a year.
41:20Brandy is starting to talk and walk.
41:22I haven't dated or planned to but I wonder where she is every day and night.
41:27I'm sure she's found someone else and moved on.
41:30But I sometimes wish we could have worked this out.
41:32More than anything, I wish none of this had happened.
41:37But if I'm honest, I'm not sure that's true anymore.
41:39If it hadn't happened, I wouldn't have Brandy.
41:42And I can't pretend I don't love that little girl.
41:45I love her as much as the other two.
41:47She might not be my biological child but she's the child of my heart.
41:51I'm more her father than Denny.
41:53She looks at me, calls me dada.
41:55And if I have my way, she always will.
41:57My time in the convent taught me unexpected things.
42:00Within a week, novices approached me to buy beer, pills and other items.
42:04Apparently, the modern age had reached nuns too.
42:07During my previous time here, such women would never have considered joining the convent.
42:12It seemed the rules on abstinence and chastity had loosened.
42:16A few months ago, I found two men in the storage room who were supposed to be working on the
42:20north wall.
42:22My shock at seeing men inside the convent was secondary to my shock at what they were
42:25doing screwing a novice.
42:27I quickly left.
42:28Later, one of the workmen offered me a quickie in exchange for my silence.
42:33I slapped him.
42:34Yes, I missed lovemaking, but not with a random guy.
42:37I missed my husband making love to me.
42:39Despite everything, I was a one-man woman.
42:41I missed Grant deeply and cried myself to sleep that night.
42:45Watching my family became unbearable as I realized Grant might never forgive me.
42:49It was enough that he seemed to accept Brandy.
42:52He might not claim her, but it was clear he loved her.
42:55The next morning, my cell phone rang repeatedly.
42:59Someone urgently wanted to talk.
43:01I answered sleepily.
43:03Hello?
43:05I croaked.
43:06Bonnie, get home now, said my sister Brenda.
43:09Why, I asked.
43:10Grant went out last night.
43:11She said if he's dating, it's more reason to stay away.
43:13He's probably moving on, I said.
43:15No, dummy.
43:17She snapped.
43:18Let me tell you what happened before you jump to conclusions.
43:21You already made one bad decision.
43:24Are you ready to listen this time?
43:26Brenda's harsh tone wasn't surprising.
43:28She's never been a people person.
43:30Go ahead, I said.
43:32For the first time since you left, Grant went out.
43:35We've tried to get him to go out before, but he never would.
43:38I was a bit jealous.
43:39If you never got back together.
43:42I thought I might have a chance with him.
43:44He's a good guy.
43:46I felt a surge of anger, but didn't show it.
43:49Anyway, his big date lasted about 45 minutes, she continued.
43:53Maybe they just weren't compatible, I said.
43:56But if he's dating, he'll find someone.
43:58Can I finish?
43:59Brenda asked.
44:00Sorry, I said.
44:01When he came home, his hands were busted up like he'd been in a fight, she said.
44:05I gasped, causing her to laugh.
44:08You still love him, she said.
44:10Of course I do, I snapped.
44:11I'll always love Grant.
44:13Get on with the story.
44:15This morning a friend told me that Denny got strike up.
44:18His lip was swollen and his nose was broken.
44:21I visited the house early this morning so the girls could make me breakfast.
44:24I'm their only female role model since their mother ran out on them.
44:28Brenda, I said beginning to cry.
44:32At breakfast Marie said Grace, and Grant mentioned your name at the end.
44:35Marie sneered and Tara thought about it.
44:38After breakfast I asked Grant why he'd done it.
44:41He said he'd been thinking about you.
44:43I asked if that's why he started dating.
44:45He smiled and said he'd never look for anyone to replace you.
44:48He wasn't interested.
44:50I asked if he still loved you.
44:51He said he loved you with all his heart and regretted not talking to you before driving
44:55you away.
44:57He hopes you're happy wherever you are and whoever you're with.
45:00But he didn't drive me away.
45:01I snapped.
45:03And I'm not with anyone but him.
45:05So shouldn't you drag your back home and tell him that she asked?
45:08I didn't answer.
45:09I grabbed my purse and keys, ran to my car in my flannel nightgown, and took off without
45:13packing or changing clothes.
45:16At gas stations the men didn't notice anything amiss, but women and girls pointed and laughed.
45:22My phone rang again.
45:23It was Brenda.
45:24I answered.
45:25Did you think about what I asked?
45:26She snapped.
45:27I'm giving it serious consideration.
45:29I laughed.
45:30Good.
45:31She said you may be crazy, but you're a great sister, and I think you two need each other.
45:35And you may be an emotionless mannequin with no rear, but you're the best sister ever,
45:39I said, then hung up and focused on driving.
45:42We got home late that evening.
45:44After all the drama during the morning drive to the girls' schools and daycare, I decided
45:48we needed a treat.
45:50The drama wasn't the girls' fault.
45:51It was because I mentioned their mom.
45:54So we stopped at McDonald's for dinner, planning to eat and bond in front of the TV.
45:59However, Marie immediately started in as soon as she got into the car.
46:04Why did you mention her, Daddy?
46:05She abandoned us.
46:06We don't need her, she said.
46:08Marie, there's a difference between love and need, I said.
46:12I understand why you're confused.
46:15I felt the same way.
46:16I don't know why she did it, but maybe I didn't handle it well.
46:20I think she felt cornered and then left to think things through.
46:23Marie didn't know all the details.
46:25She only knew her mom had disappeared.
46:27No Daddy, snapped Marie.
46:29She bailed.
46:30She left us all.
46:31Even Brandy.
46:32She's no mother.
46:33You're right, Tara said, getting into the car.
46:36We talked about it all the way to daycare and then to McDonald's.
46:40Other issues soon took precedence, like Tara wanting a phone because Marie had one.
46:45Tara argued that since Marie got a phone at 14, she should get one at 10.
46:49She even joked that Brandy would need 1x5 to call if her applesauce was too cold.
46:54Marie dropped the bags of food when she saw Bonnie come out of the bedroom.
46:58Tara turned to see what caused Marie's reaction.
47:01I was holding Brandy's hand as she took a few steps.
47:04When Brandy saw Bonnie, she reached for me and started crying, yelling Dada.
47:08Hi Mom, don't I deserve an iPhone? asked Tara, not missing a beat.
47:13What does your dad say?
47:15Bonnie asked, reaching for Brandy.
47:17Brandy cried and reached for me.
47:19Bonnie stepped back as I picked Brandy up.
47:21Why are you here?
47:22Did you forget something? asked Marie.
47:25I missed you girls and your dad, Bonnie said slowly.
47:28Someone told me your dad might not be as angry.
47:30You should have stayed gone forever, said Marie, stomping away.
47:34So do I get my iPhone? asked Tara.
47:36I took the food to the girls' room.
47:38Marie found a movie to watch while they ate and I promised we'd talk later.
47:42I went back to the living room with Brandy in my arms, ready to put her to sleep.
47:47Wow.
47:48I felt myself at home, I said to Bonnie.
47:50She smiled.
47:51I came right here after talking to my sister this morning.
47:54I didn't change her pack.
47:56When she said maybe we could talk, that's all it took.
47:59Is there someone you need to call?
48:00I asked.
48:01She smiled again.
48:03There's no one more important to call than you.
48:06I could call the Mother Superior at the convent, but she told me many times to come home and
48:10face my problems.
48:12There aren't any other men in my life, Grant.
48:14There never have been, and there never will be.
48:18She continued to stare at me.
48:19Why are you staring at me like that?
48:20I asked.
48:21Because I've missed you, dummy, she replied.
48:24And I've watched you do this every night for 11 months.
48:28You're the best father.
48:29What do you mean?
48:30I asked, feeling my anger rise.
48:33You've imagined me taking care of Denny's baby.
48:35Grant, she isn't Denny's baby.
48:37She's yours.
48:38She's afraid of me now.
48:39She's bonded to you.
48:41You're her dad.
48:42I was there when she first called you that.
48:45No, you weren't, I retorted.
48:47Yes, I was, she insisted.
48:50She grabbed a book from the shelf.
48:51Camera, she said.
48:53I have them all over the house.
48:54I couldn't be here, but I needed to see you.
48:56What if there'd been an emergency?
48:58I needed to know you and the girls were okay.
49:01You did great without me.
49:02The girls wrapped you around their fingers.
49:04Especially Marie.
49:06You bought her a $300 phone at 14.
49:08No wonder Tara wants one now.
49:10She approached me slowly.
49:12You can throw me out, but you need to know I was right.
49:15I hate what it took to prove it.
49:17I imagined you holding me as our baby grew.
49:20It became an obsession.
49:21I believed she was yours.
49:23After being with Denny, I came home to you
49:24because I needed to pretend she was yours.
49:28After a while, I truly believed it.
49:30She stood next to me as Brandy snored on my shoulder.
49:32What I did was awful, she admitted.
49:35I deceived, cheated, and lied to you.
49:38I swear I'll never do it again.
49:39I just want to be with my family.
49:42I know I need to earn your trust again,
49:44but please give me a chance.
49:45So now we know why you're here, I said.
49:48Why did you think I was here, she asked.
49:51I thought you'd come to get your baby, I said.
49:53We discussed divorce and me getting custody of my two.
49:56I wanted nothing to do with you or Brandy.
49:59I remember, she said.
50:01If I'd offered to put her up for adoption,
50:03would you have taken me back?
50:05I thought a baby should be with its mother, I said.
50:08So you both needed to go.
50:10I wanted custody of my girls or visitation rights.
50:12What if I offered to take her off your hands now, she asked.
50:15I'd throw you out and see you in court, I said.
50:19You abandoned her.
50:20Grant, I was only making conversation.
50:22I wouldn't dream of taking her.
50:24That's not why I came back.
50:26Then why did you come back, I asked.
50:28Grant, I came back for you.
50:29I miss you every night.
50:32I love how you smile at me.
50:34I want to grow old with you.
50:35I came back because I can't live without you.
50:37Whatever it takes to get your forgiveness, I'll do it.
50:40You lived without us for almost a year.
50:43Why now, I asked.
50:45I missed you and my family.
50:47I want everything back.
50:48I held her hand and walked her outside.
50:50Bonnie, I'm an ordinary man with a simple life.
50:53Let me remind you of what you did simply.
50:55You wanted a baby to experience pregnancy again.
50:58You chose another man to get pregnant.
51:00You abandoned the baby and made me care for her
51:03because I signed the birth certificate.
51:05You used the law against me and spied on us.
51:08Did you notice something?
51:09She looked puzzled.
51:10It was all about your desires.
51:12You wanted a child, cheated, got pregnant,
51:14and then abandoned the baby.
51:16It was selfish.
51:18Now you return asking for another chance?
51:20No way, Bonnie, not happening.
51:22I considered it for my daughter's sake,
51:24but you're the last example I'd want them to follow.
51:27Bonnie was in tears, but you love me and the girls.
51:30Don't keep me away from them.
51:32At that moment, a man approached us.
51:34Can I help you?
51:35I'm looking for Mrs.
51:38Bonnie Henderson, he said.
51:39I pointed him toward Bonnie.
51:41Mrs. Henderson, you've been served, he announced,
51:43handing her an envelope before walking away.
51:46Any further discussion will be with my attorney.
51:49I filed for divorce due to irreconcilable differences.
51:53I intend to keep custody of the girls,
51:55offer no alimony, and allow limited visitation.
51:58If contested, I'll pursue legal action
52:00for paternity fraud and abandonment.
52:02No, please don't, Bonnie pleaded.
52:04I love you.
52:06I just wanted you to be happy.
52:08My daughters approached.
52:10Time for you to leave, mommy.
52:11We have homework, Tara said, leading them back inside.
52:14Goodbye, Bonnie.
52:15Bonnie stood there crying and returned to the convent.
52:19She never attended the divorce hearings
52:20or contested the proceedings.
52:23The judge finalized the divorce
52:24and I continue to live happily with my daughters.
52:27As for Bonnie, her future remains uncertain.