Before He Cheats (Work In Progress)

Chapter 23

I believe that I am doing a good job at this parenting thing. I’ve gotten some gender-neutral clothes and children’s books, and I am in counseling. I've had time to read books about parenting, and I understand what kind of parent I would like to be. The kind that Vanessa and I would be: patient, loving, present, and stable.

I allowed myself to imagine a reality where it was her. It was Vanessa carrying my baby. I wouldn't spare any expense, the best of everything for my wife and baby. They'd be spoiled and cared for endlessly. I'd be at every appointment, making sure that our baby was healthy and excitedly counting down the days until we met our little one. I would willingly wake up to get whatever she craved, no matter how late at night it is; endless foot massages and belly rubs, all of it. Whatever she wanted, she would get.

And our parents, the rest of our family, and friends would celebrate us openly and happily, and not reluctantly and quietly like they are for this situation. I would be excited to attend a baby shower. I'd help plan it, pay for it, open gifts, and proudly celebrate the baby that my amazing wife was willing to give me. The gender of our little blessing wouldn’t matter; I'd love it regardless.

However, thoughts of Vanessa giving me a little princess that looked identical to her are what I fell asleep thinking about every day.

If only it had been her. And it should've been, and it was all my fault.

I understand the importance of being a present father, son, and, most importantly, husband. It was one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned. Marriage is a gift I took for granted and lost, and now I’m on my way to making amends and getting it back.

I can relate to my dad; losing the one you love is devastating. And I will say that he and I deserve everything we are getting. It hurts to know that my dad and I have made the same mistakes, and I hope that Mom doesn't go through with the divorce. I hope that we both take the steps to learn from this. I won't make the same mistake again.

Vanessa hadn't left my mind in the past few months; everything I do is for her. I know that she would be happy to know that I am taking her advice and becoming a better man for her. A better father, son, husband, and overall person. One that is worthy of her.

My phone pinged, making me stop my pacing and go look at it.

Jenna: Hey Matt, I wanted to remind you again that the baby shower is this weekend. My parents and family would love to meet you. I also wanted you to bring your parents and immediate family as well. I want to meet over dinner to discuss this further. How does tonight work? Me and our baby miss you 💖.

This was the fifth text in a row that I got from her about attending the baby shower that I didn't want to attend and bringing my family. She was ecstatic at the idea of us being a couple along with meeting my parents and family under the guise of “joining the family”.

Little does she know that my mom wouldn't accept her due to her character and actions, and my father views her as the woman that I got caught up with. My sister's lack of response says everything in itself.

I couldn't help but let out a deep sigh. I was going to be attached to Jenna for a very long time, and I had no one but myself to blame for it.

Co-parents. Parenting for the child but not together romantically.

She wasn't get over on me anytime soon. I am getting better at her game, she isn't trapping me, I am subtly forcing her into the corner that she thinks she has me in.

Obviously, Jenna wants to be more than that, and it's not happening. There's only one person for me. Vanessa. Vanessa Alexandria Jackson-Woods.

The plan I am working on will ensure it.

I allowed myself to focus on the pictures of Vanessa on my desk. They were recently taken a couple of days ago: Vanessa running errands, having lunch with our family, and enjoying ice cream with our niece. She looked gorgeous, magnetic, and every bit of mine.

I have kept tabs on her since she left. Vanessa has never stopped being my wife.

It'll be harder to keep an eye on her once she goes on her trip overseas, but I'm not worried. The billboard that I rented got bought out by another person and replaced by an advertisement promoting heart health. I'm trying to figure out who had the audacity to stifle my plans, but the billboard company is keeping their identity a secret. It won't be for long; I have my people looking into it.

I couldn't help but wonder if anyone was onto me and my plan.

They won't be able to prevent me from getting back with my wife. No one can.

Not when the game is rigged in my favor.

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Hi, my lovely readers!! Thank you so much for bearing with me through my writer's block. I made this chapter extra special and long for you all. I appreciate all your support. 

Please be safe and cautious during this time. Don't forget that you are the most important person in your life, so don't forget to treat yourself as such!

Feel free to share your thoughts on this chapter, characters, dialogue, etc. down BELOW!

Expect Chapter 24 soon! No more long hiatus!

With love, Booklover082!

Character discussion:

Vanessa?

Miles?

Matthew?

Tamera?

Jenna?

Justin?

Helena?

Celeste?

Damien?

Pablo?

Yasmine?

Overall feelings surrounding Chapter 24?