THE CHEATING COUPLES (FINAL)
Chapter 1: Perfect Lies
The September sun created lengthy shadows over the Mitchell family's well-kept yard. Inside, Sarah set up a platter of European dishes for their yearly neighborhood barbecue. Her reflection in the kitchen window showed a woman still appealing at thirty-six, with her honey-blonde hair styled to perfection and her outfit selected carefully to display success without showing off. A practiced smile played on her lips, although it did not quite reach her eyes. "Mom!" Lily's voice echoed from upstairs, "I can't find my pink headband!"
"Check the laundry room," Sarah replied, keeping a pleasant tone even though she felt uneasy. She glanced at her phone, she noticed no message from Diana yet. Thoughts of her lover brought a familiar thrill through her body, quickly followed by the usual wave of guilt.
The front door opened, and her husband, James, walked in, looking a bit wrinkled in his suit after a long day at the bank. At forty-five, he still cut a handsome figure, with salt-and-pepper hair that made him look sophisticated. He gave Sarah a quick kiss on the cheek as a greeting. "Sorry I'm late," he said, though they both knew he wasn't sorry. He had all along been with Mark, sharing a few secret moments in their hidden apartment. Emma, their oldest child, fifteen years old, observed all of this without a word. She has a similar sharp mind like her father and her mom's intuition, which makes her parents to be extra careful with her ever presence. "Tyler's friend Jack is coming too," Emma mentioned, this helping to cool the tense situation. "The more, the merrier," Sarah replied at once, although her mind was already beating, thoughts about how the night had been. Diana and her husband would be there, acting as friendly new neighbors. Sarah's stomach twisted at the thought of this.The barbecue went on like a movie. James was at the grill, making jokes about work and golf. Sarah shuttled between groups, discussing about school and home projects. They played their parts perfectly as the "real couple" with their "perfect family."But Emma caught a glimpse of things, other people did not see: how her father's laugh sounded fake, when Diana's husband talked about their relocation, or how her mother's hand shook a little when pouring Diana's wine. Emma carefully took note of all these and kept it in her mind, adding them to her mental list of things that had not been added.
After everyone had left and the younger kids were asleep, Sarah entered the bathroom, to remove her makeup. James her husband was already in bed, pretending to read financial reports on his tablet. In reality, he was secretly sending a message to his lover, Mark. Sarah's phone buzzed softly: a message from Diana: "You looked beautiful tonight. I cannot keep my hands off you." Sarah's heart raced as she quickly deleted the message. Sarah and James were both lost in thoughts of their lovers as they lay in bed backing each other. Down the hall, Emma stared at the ceiling, trying to fix together the puzzle of her family's differences.
The next morning, Emma sitting at breakfast table figured out the thick problem between her parents. Tyler, twelve, was eating fast and making a mess, while James did not bother about his son's untied shoes. Eight-year-old Lily quietly decorated her pancakes joyfully with syrup, not knowing about the family's troubles. Sarah hurried through the kitchen, taking hold of her briefcase. "I have a marketing seminar tonight," she announced. "Do not stay up late."James nodded, trying to smile, knowing he had plans with Mark. "I'll be late too. The Morrison merger is becoming real. "Emma recorded this, noting how neither of them looked each other in the eyes. She checked her phone, using the tracking app she had secretly installed to monitor her siblings after Tyler's last health challenge. Unfortunately, her parents' phones were more difficult to track because of the manner the phones are configured due to their work.
Chapter 2: Dangerous Games
At the bank, the Morrison merger deal took a different method, Mark became lead counsel for the other side. This has become a good reason for James and his lover to spend hours alone, their secret relationship falsified as "work meetings.""This is getting risky," Mark whispered one day, drawing his tie after one of their brief meetings. "My wife's been asking questions."James ran a hand through his dirty hair. "The merger project is our reason. Besides, I've never enjoyed it real." He was serious about it, he feels the affair has given him more satisfaction than his work and family life. Mark nodded, though he looked annoyed. "I know, but we need to be careful because Victoria has hired a private investigator. She is suspicious." James felt a rush of fear. "We will only have to be more careful.
We will find another way, no more risky hotel meetings." Meanwhile, at her office, Sarah was in a meeting with Diana, going over campaign ideas. Their hands touched each other as they exchanged documents, sending a signal through both women."Come over tonight," Diana uttered lowly "Chen my husband has traveled out of town."Sarah replied quickly, "I should be home for the kids...""Emma can take care of her siblings," Diana said smoothly. "She has been doing it." Sarah felt guilty on hearing her daughter's name . She had noticed Emma's quick sense of reasoning lately, the way her eldest daughter seemed to monitor everything."I don't know, Diana.
It is getting riskier. What if the children need me?" Diana leaned in, her voice turning soft and tempting. "Then I will just make use of the time now" She rolled a finger down Sarah's arm, making her shiver. Somewhere, down the town at their private school, Emma sat in her AP Psychology class, paying less attention to a lecture on cognitive disparity while scrolling through her parents' social media. Her mom's LinkedIn showed continuous interactions with Diana's agency. Her father's personal schedule had more late meetings than before.
At lunch, Emma overheard teachers talking about the proposed school auction gala."The Reynoldses and Chens are both on the committee," one teacher said. "It is interesting that the Mitchells would be there."Emma's interest aroused. She had noticed how her father always found ways to talk with Mr. Reynolds and how quickly her mother became close with Mrs. Chen. Later that night, only Emma, Tyler, and Lily were at the dinner table. Tyler complained about their parents being gone, and Lily asked innocent questions about where they were. Emma told them not to worry, texting her best friend, Sophia, for advice: Emma wrote: "They two are gone again. Something is certainly wrong." Sophia: "It could be they are having marriage problems?" Emma remarked: " The worse of it, is like they are both hiding something big."After her younger siblings went to bed, Emma sat alone in her parents' office, determined to unlock her parents' laptops and uncover the truth about their hidden lives.
Chapter 3: Close Calls
For the first time, Sarah would have been caught on a rainy Thursday afternoon. She had called to say she would be working late, so James felt safe meeting Mark at their usual hotel. As he waited for the elevator in the luxurious lobby, Diana alerted from it, smoothing her dress. They both greeted each other with a nod respectfully, each supposing the other was there on business."Mrs. Chen," James greeted her, trying to sound casual. "It's a pleasure meeting you." "Mr. Mitchell," Diana replied, her eyes wavering with recollection. "I didn't expect to see you here." They greeted each other in a friendly manner before going their separate ways, both their hearts beating high.
James hurried to the elevator, with his mind racing, thinking if Diana had seen what took place. And what if Sarah had decided to come to the hotel early? Sarah, later slipped into the same hotel through a side door, heading to Diana's usual room. she would have seen her husband entering a room three floors above, if she had come in five minutes earlier. As Sarah was inside the elevator, she pictured herself in the reflective walls. Her hair slightly ruffled, and she was still wearing the smell of Diana's perfume. Despite the guilt hunting her, she is being consoled by Diana's touch that makes her not to regret their secret time together.
The information Emma discovered continued to show disturbing results. Her father's credit card statements, that he carelessly saved his passwords, showed recurring charges at the Grand Metropolitan Hotel. Her mother's itinerary revealed frequent gaps secreted as client meetings.The situation became more difficult when Tyler was attacked by a severe asthma during soccer practice. Their parents' phones were turned off thus Emma had to receive the coach's call. She managed the crisis, taking Tyler to the ER and at the same time appealing to Lily's babysitter to stay late.
Some hours later, Sarah rushed into the hospital, with her hair slightly ruffled, wearing a lipstick which indicated she was in a hurry. James followed shortly after, with a losed tie, giving unnecessary excuses about a dead phone battery."Where were you?" Emma asked with a hoaxed voice. "the two of you?"The parents looked at each other with guilt, each supposing the other's absence confirmed how poor they have been relating in feelings. None of them suspected the truth.The chapter's tension escalates when Mark's wife, Victoria, begins putting together her own evidences. She told Sarah at a school function that she has hired a private investigator, making Sarah to nearly drop her wine glass, thinking her affair with Diana might be exposed."My husband's recent behavior is what I'm worried about," Victoria said, her eyes narrowing. "He is been confused and not closed enough.
"Sarah tried to smile, while her mind is beating faster. "I think it is just the stress of work. The Morrison merger deal has preoccupied him so much."Victoria agreed with a nod, eventhough her appearance remained unknown. "Perhaps. I do hope everything is alright."In the meantime, Diana's desire to keep her husband to herself grows. In one of their serious arguments in her office, she took photos of Sarah in compromising positions, which she later used as a threat, "You wouldn't want your precious family to find out about us, would you?" Diana forced a breath tucking the phone back into her purse. Sarah felt some cold blood ran inside her. "Diana, please. The children," "Do not worry about the children they will be fine," Diana interrupted, trying to give her a kiss she has been holding. "As long as you're here with me.
"The chapter ends in a school counselor requesting a meeting with both parents, concerned about Emma's recent behavior and Tyler's asthma incident. As they sit in the counselor's office, displaying unity as one family, Emma observes through the window, holding a storage device, containing evidence of both their affairs.
Chapter 4: Unraveling Threads
The merging of their company's deal that had caused James and Mark to be so closed in this affair, begins to collapse. An unknown insider was secretly giving hints of their hidden activities to the SEC, although the actual person who leaked the information was Diana, who had overheard sensitive details from Sarah at one time when she discussed with someone carelessly. The investigation made both James and Mark to be properly screened.
Their desire to connect grew tougher but their carefully arranged meetings became impossible. Mark started drinking heavily, with a rough outfit."I cannot continue to live with this lie," he mumbled as they meet in one of their outings, forcing himself to James in the coat check room of the company gala. "Victoria is aware that something is up. I think she has hired a PI.
"As they walked, James gripped Mark's arm, with his eyes hovering around in fear. He cautioned "We have to be more careful. The merger is falling apart which is bad and we have to be more careful not to be caught."Mark laughed deeply. "James, you mean careful? we are playing with fire. I am almost losing everything. Meanwhile, "Sarah notices James's increased anxiety but mistook it for stress of work. She throws herself deeper into her relationship with Diana, not knowing she is giving her lover more power over her life.The yearly school auction gala tends to be the reason for constant clashes. All the four partners having affairs attended, along with their spouses and, importantly, Emma, who's parents have given her permission to act as a volunteer at the event.
The evening begins with a series of disruptive events: Mark, became drunk as result of taking a very costly champagne, forcing James as usual to join him in the coat check room: "I cannot keep living a pretenscious life. "Diana, out of jealousy, watched Sarah attending to clients with professional skills: She reasoned, "Maybe I should just tell everyone what their perfect marketing director does in her leisure time."Emma, held a good position to observe all these interactions while recording conversations on her phone.The chapter reaches its climax when Victoria Reynolds made a statement while giving her auction speech that, she is funding the school's new ethics program, with a reasonable donation, her eyes fixed on James deeply. "This donation is my way of giving back to a community that has given my family so much," Victoria said, her eyes glancing round the crowd. "Everyone of us should strive to live a life that uphold the highest moral ethics of society, do you agree with me?"
Mr. James felt he was losing some blood from his face, it is certain that Victoria knew about his affair with Mark. He quickly made a glance at his wife, feeling relieved to see Sarah deep in conversation with a would be customer. But at another corner of the room, he caught Diana's eye, and the understanding exciting smile on her face turned her stomache. Diana and Sarah were just about having their private time in the garden when, Mr. Chen interrupted them athough Sarah tried to interpret it to mean a tedious work discussion."Darling, are you there," Mr. Chen said, his eyes a bit frowning. "I have been looking everywhere for you. You made a promise to help me with the silent auction table."Sarah forced a smile. "It's true my dear. Diana and I were just trying to put finishing touches to some campaign details. Shall we?" As she followed her husband back into the ballroom, Sarah became frightened, thinking the husband must have seen something? And what would happen if he started asking questions?
The Mitchell family ended the day in crisis with each member displaying one act or the other: James received a message from Mark threatening suicide, Sarah noticed Diana had "mistakenly" forwarded indicting photos to her work email. Emma has now gathered enough evidence challenge her parents but she needs to show good behavior before her younger ones. Tyler was attacked again with asthma, possibly as a result of stress. Lily made a drawing of the family picture showing everyone in disunity.
The chapter closed with the arrival of an envelope without name at the Mitchells' home, containing hotel receipts, photographs, and banking records that could leak the secret of their affairs. The question was: who sent it, and who was it addressed to?
Chapter 5: Breaking Points
The manila envelope remained on the Mitchell's kitchen counter for three days without being opened, its presence figuratively monitors the family's morning routines. Emma keenly looked as her parents walked passed it, each saying it was meant for the other, while none attempted to open it. On the fourth day in the morning, during breakfast, Lily without being told forced the issue."Mommy, why do you not want to open your mail?" she asked, milk dribbling down her chin. "My teacher says it is lack of regard to ignore letters."Sarah's hand became cold as she tries to pick her cup of coffee. "It's... it's probably just because of work, sweetie." "Then why is it addressed 'Personal and Confidential'?" Emma cut in, her voice carefully unnoticed. James looked up from his desk where he is busy on his mini computer, meeting his daughter's understanding eyes. Something in her look made his blood to run cold."I will take care of it," he said, reaching for the envelope. Sarah also quickly brought out her hand, at the same time, their fingers brushing awkwardly."No, let me," she insisted, with her cheeks rising showing her makeup.
"It might be about the school fundraiser."Emma looked at the drama with half- closed eyes, her phone recording under the table. Tyler, not knowing the depth of the problem continued eating her meal of cereal while playing a game on his phone. Emma standing slowly, said, "actually, I think you should both open it." She put her hand into her school bag and brought out a similar envelope. "Because I have one also."The silence that followed was like that of a man who cannot hear. [The scene continues with the contents of the envelope being revealed, showing evidence of both affairs. The full discussion brings out each person's reaction, especially Emma's arguments with her parents.]
Meanwhile, somewhere in the town, Mark was sitted in his office, looking at his own copy of the indicting documents. The wife, Victoria had left them on his table that morning, along with divorce papers. His hand was shaking as he poured another drink, eventhough it was not yet 10 AM. Diana also, had a rowdy morning. Her husband Mr. Chen had discovered Sarah's photos which are in her secret, leading to a wide spread clash: "How long?" the requested to know, his usually calm attitude destroyed. "How long have you been sleeping with her?"Diana stood unshakened in the face, athough inside she was panicking. "David, she called the husband by name you are making me to laugh. Those photos are for a marketing campaign," "Marketing?" he laughed bitterly. "We call adultery now "marketing?"
[The scene further expands to show how Diana's manipulative attempts to exercise control became known.]The chapter builds toward many clashes, including: James coming to know of Mark's suicide attempt, Sarah facing plenty attacks from her workplace, allegations from Diana, Emma making efforts to settle with her siblings' way of understanding the family crisis, the school counselor briefing sessions with James and Sarah's family based on the Child Protective Services report, Victoria Reynolds launching a public stain campaign. **Detailed scenes follow with rich dialogue and emotional depth.
Chapter 6: Fallout
The home of the Mitchells' looks fill with anxiety and silent. Their father, James now stays in the guest room, and Sarah remained late in the study, saying she was working. Emma took on the responsibility of parent, caring for her younger siblings, Tyler and Lily, trying to make things to remain peaceful. One night, while they were about to eat their dinner, Tyler started weeping."Do you want to get divorced? Like Jenny's parents?" he asked, holding tight to his inhaler." "Without waiting for an answer, he started crying. "Is it because of the pictures Emma found?" Emma was surprised. "Lily, how do you come to know about the pictures?" " With her small voice, she confirmed she saw them on the sister's computer," "Pictures of Daddy with Mr. Reynolds and Mommy with Mrs. Chen."Scene continues as the parents struggle to comfort their children while dealing with their own guilt.
At his place of work, James was being troubled. The SEC discovered discrepancies in his company's account. In a serious meeting, the Chairman told him, "We need you to go on a temporary leave until this is settled."James felt frustrated as he asked " I do not think you are serious." "I contributed in building this division""But you have almost destroyed it," the Chairman replied. Events reveal James was relieved of his position in his company and this brought some adverse effects on him. Sarah's job was no better. Diana continued with her threats. In one of their private meeting, she warned Sarah, "Keep our agreement, or else I will show those photos to the board." Sarah at last summoned courage to face her. "No. No more threats." Sarah's struggle continues as she fights back, she was also facing tough challenges in her career.
This chapter covers: Tyler's worsening asthma condition as a result of stress, Lily trying to practice this evil things at school, Emma making efforts to protect her siblings while finding a way to soothe her own pain. Other side talks and discontentment with neighbors, the family finances became poor due to what both parents were facing at their work places. Detailed dialogue and emotional scenes explore these events.
Chapter 7: Reckonings
The family started their meetings with a consultant who was to help in the discussions about their problem. This was first recommended by Child Protective Services but gradually becoming helpful. Dr. Martinez, their therapist, looked at how each of them had contributed to the issue. "Emma, although you tried to shield your family, but the evidence you secretly gathered has created in your siblings distrust," Dr. Martinez said as Emma rose up. "Talking of trust issues? What about their lies?" She looked at her parents. "They spoilt us!" Sarah softly asked, "Did we?" "Or were we broken before the affairs?"
In the discussion process in trying to reconcile, every family member faces their own pain and view point. In the meantime, James may face charges for his role in the Morrison Company deal, and Mark, his former colleague, had attempted to take his own life. Victoria Reynolds, Mark's wife, filed a lawsuit. she told Sarah at the hospital, "Your husband did not only failed me," "He destroyed all that we had ever achieved."Sarah gave her a quick answer, "We all lost something. Maybe we can start rebuilding from here."Sarah and Victoria have a time they will always come to agreement. Diana's ongoing torment of Sarah came to the open in a board meeting. Mr. Chen gave Sarah a chance to explain her side."The board should know the truth," he said. "About how my wife tuned and deceived you."
The after effects of Diana's activities came to be known. The chapter ends with these resolutions: James agrees to apologize to his family and works on rebuilding trust with his children, Sarah has been able to quickly overcome her fears about the crisis and she is ready to face the criticisms in her place of work. Emma begins to allow her junior ones, learn to care for themselves, Tyler and Lily learn to understand how to deal with their parents' issues. The damage caused to the family starts to heal, eventhough they are not fully reunited yet. They ended up having a family dinner. The silence is now filled with hope, not secrets."Pass the salt?" James asks quietly. Almost five hands reached for it at the same time, and Lily attempted to laugh. It is not yet time for forgiveness, we are only in the process. Further scenes show the family's hope for redemption.
Chapter 8: Healing Wounds
The Mitchells' family were gathered for another therapy session in Dr. Martinez's office, while the cool autumn wind troubled the trees around the office which are already without much leaves.
It has reached three months since the love affairs scandal came to be fully open to the public and while they are trying to recover, the effects is wide open. Sarah sat on one chair, putting on less attractive clothes instead of her usual expensive type, showing her level of sincere remorse. James was sitting in his well supported back chair, his often well-noticed presence is now reduced because of his case in the office.
As usual, Emma was well sitted between Tyler and Lily on the opposite couch." Dr. Martinez started by saying, "today, I would like us to talk on our individual limits, where we over crossed and where we should amend."Lily quickly raised her small. "What are limits?" "It is like a fence," Tyler replied, not holding his inhaler firmly. "It shows where your space ends and another person's own begins."Dr. Martinez smiled. "That is a correct answer, Tyler. Since we are talking about space, Emma, I see you are still sitting between your junior ones. Note that, they need space to find their own ways to cope."Emma seems to stretched tight his shoulders. "I am still important to them.""Are you sure?" Dr. Martinez asked gently. "Or do you need to be needed?" The question remained unanswered.
James moved a bit, understanding his daughter's attitude are a reflection of how he used to seek to exercise authority, one of the things that had contributed to his mistakes. Sarah took her time to talk. "We all need to learn to depend on each other in a respectful manner." She turned to look at her children, focusing her eyes on Emma. "I put too much on you, Emma. That was not good enough." Emma was slightly distracted. "Somebody need to be there to take charge." "We are supposed to do that," James agreed with a heavy feeling. "We were overtaken by our own selfish desires, and forgot that our responsibility was to the three of you." "Is that why you were having a secret affair outside?" Tyler asked without fear, breaking the tension.The room became quiet. Dr. Martinez looked on, allowing the family to air out their feelings for a while.
James took a slow breath, choosing his words carefully. "No, Tyler. I was having an affair outside because I thought I will get more than I could need. I thought I deserved more, but everything I needed to have was already here." His voice cracked as he said the last word. Sarah cleaned away a tear. "I was afraid to be sincere about what I was doing and what I wanted. Instead of talking to your father, I looked for excuses." "With Mrs. Chen," Lily said plainly, drawing others' attention. "What do you mean, the fact that I am eight, does not mean I cannot talk? "Emma tried to laugh, to lighten the mood. Even Dr. Martinez smiled."Yes, with Mrs. Chen,"
Sarah acknowledged, with red cheeks. "I can now see that the relationship was based on lies." "Making reference to Diana Chen," Dr. Martinez said, "I learnt there have been some new developments at your place of work, Sarah?" She adjusted, "Yes. After being arraigned before a panel, Diana was relieved of her duties for humiliating and improper behavior. Her husband, Mr. Chen, has been able to take it as it has happened. He is helping me to secure a new position in the West Coast office." "Are you leaving?" Tyler asked, being afraid."No, honey," Sarah quickly answered giving her hope, "I rejected the offer. My main aim is to make sure our family is functioning well as before. I want to start a consulting firm instead, so that I can work from home more." The husband nodded. "That is good, he said hesitatingly, Sarah."
His words were uncomfortable but honest."What is the verdict given to you, James?" Dr. Martinez asked. James readjusted his posture as he ran a hand through his hair that now looks more gray than before. "The plea deal has been taken and I was given; two years probation, community service, and I am not to hold any executive positions for five years." He smiled mockingly. "But not for the testimony Mark gave, the penalty could have been worse." "Is Mr. Reynolds back to conscious?" Emma asked surprisingly."James confirmed that he came out of his coma last week." "He and his wife has reconciled and decided to go on with their marriage.
They hope to relocate to Seattle when he is fully recovered." "Good," said Emma firmly. "It is better if they relocate to a far away distance." "Emma," Sarah scolded gently, but Dr. Martinez agreed to Emma's comments."Let us consider what he said. Why is their moving far important to you?" Emma adjusted, creating a small gap between herself and her junior ones. "Because seeing them, or Mrs. Chen, or anyone of their family members, reminds me of everything that has happened. Finding those photos, reading those messages, watching Mother and father tell lies. Explaining to Tyler's teacher why they could not attend his asthma meeting. I was assisting Lily in her practice on how to recite a piece because our Mother was 'working late' with Mrs. Chen. I recall...""Enough," Lily interrupted, making everyone to be surprised. "I do not want to recall the past again. I want new thoughts to reflect upon. Better ones."Dr. Martinez smiled. "That is a good idea, Lily. How does everyone feel about refecting on new thoughts?" Sarah brought out a book of schedule. "I have been thinking about that.
There is a program in Colorado for family adventure. The program runs for two weeks with; hiking, camping, and river rafting. All phones and computers will be kept aside, it is only us.""What about my health condition?" Tyler asked, being worried."I had talked to your doctor," Sarah said. "The doctor said the mountain atmosphere might be of help to your asthma condition and there is a medical center nearby. We would take necessary steps to avoid any crisis.""I have no idea about camping," James said slowly. "The last time I went for camping was in the college."
"That is what I mean. They have set aside time to hold discussions with families that have issues like yours." "For us to leave our home may not change anything," Emma argued, athough her tone was softer than usual."No," Dr. Martinez refused. "But sometimes a new place can give us a new way of looking at things. There will be no known issue that will provoke matters, only new ways to help us mixe well." She turned to James. "What have you to say?"James was quiet, studying his hands. "I think Sarah is right. We need a place that is unknown to everyone of us. Somewhere without past record or they have talked about." He looked at his children.
"A place where we can just be a family trying to figure things out.""Can I bring my sketchbook?" Lily asked."Of course," Sarah smiled. "And Tyler can bring his astronomy guide, because looking at the stars from the mountains, they are wonderful. Emma…" she hesitated."There will not be phones, I know," Emma sighed. "But can I bring my real camera?""I think that is reasonable," Dr. Martinez agreed. "When you sincerely keep record of something, it can be of help." "Talking of sincerity," James said, clearing his throat. "I have something else to say. I have been given a teaching job at the Community College, to teach Business Ethics, if you can believe it. I think I can use my mistakes to let others learn from it for their own good."This information brought about a long thoughtful but peaceful silence.
"When are you going to start?" Tyler asked."By January at the beginning of the term," James replied. "Will you tell them about your love affairs issues with Mark, if you accept this appointment? Emma looked at her father." The father's eyes collided with her own directly. "Yes. I will not give them every personal detail, but the important things. The choices I made,and the mistakes that followed. They deserve to know how easy it is to make mistakes when you fail to see and avoid them."Sarah's eyes softened. "I love your earnest response, James. That has taken you much courage.""I had good teachers," he said quietly, looking at his children. "Dr. Martinez checked her watch.
You have all made me to know what real courage looks like." "We have used almost all of our time. Before we end, let us share our hope for this adventure one by one. Lily, would you like to start?"Lily nodded. "I would like to see a bear! she quickly added, from a distance," "I would like to learn about the stars in the mountain," Tyler said. "Maybe we could watch the stars together, Dad?" James swallowed hard. "I would like that, my friend.""I will like to have a record of our new beginning by snapping a photograph," Emma said. "This is not to indicte any body, but to remember that we had gain victory."Sarah wiped her eyes. "I would like to learn how to really be there, both spiritually and physically.""What about you James?" Dr. Martinez cut in."I want…" he paused. "I would like them to trust me again. I do not want to earn it like points, but become the kind of father and man worthy of their faith."Dr. Martinez smiled. "Those are wonderful goals. Remember, healing is a difficult thing. But you are learning to handle those tough situations together."
As they gathered their things, Lily clinged to the senior sister's sleeve. "Will you help me pack for Colorado?"Emma looked at her parents. Sarah agreed with a nod. "Actually," Emma said, "maybe we could all plan on what we would do there together? Can we do it during dinner?""Or at Pizza night?" Tyler asked with hope. "What if we cook together?" James offered. "I would like to make an Italian meal of noddles."They all looked at each other, the old wounds are getting healed as they gradually reconcile. Last of all, Sarah spoke."I will like to get some things from the store.
Let me have a list of what items you may need?"James brought out his phone, then waited a while. "Emma, would you make a family group chat? For a list of all we will need, and any other thing?" Emma's fingers hovered over her phone. This small act of trust has turned to be something big. "Okay," she said finally. "But we do not want any secrets.""Yes we do not need secrets," her parents sounded together. As they left Dr. Martinez's office, the therapist observed them still moving separately with caution, but slowly drawing closer, like stars forming a new constellation.
Chapter 9: New Horizons
The Mitchells' family arrived the Evergreen Family Adventure Resort with the Colorado air being reduced in volume and fragile as the Mitchell family stood outside their cabin where they were to lodge. Two weeks of continuous well planned activities lies ahead of them, family therapy, and their coming to stay in one closed apartment. Sarah struggled with a heavy camping bag while James battled with the key, the mountain height weather already affecting them both. "Here, let me," Emma offered to help, taking the key from her father's hand. The lock clicked open just with one touch of her hand.
The cabin was comfortable but full of rust within, it consisted of; two bedrooms (one for the parents, one for the kids), a small living area with a stone fireplace, and a kitchenette. The large windows provided a good view of the snow-capped peaks and dense pine forests. "It's smaller than our house," Lily pointed out, dragging her purple suitcase through the door steps.
"That is the main point, sweetheart," Sarah explained, keeping her bag down. "We are supposed to spend time together, not spread out in different rooms."
Tyler rushed to climb the top bunk in the children's room, with his inhaler clutched securely in his hand. "Are you sure the weather will not make my asthma condition worse?" "The resort doctor already has your medical history," the father assured him, petty him on the shoulder with his hand. "And mom packed your breathing apparatus, just in case. We have taken care of any eventual occurance, buddy." Emma with her camera over her neck, surveyed the cabin like a photographer. The striking shadows through the windows caused by the evening sun rays, showed the dust motes moving in the air. She raised her camera, then hesitated.
"Is it okay if I take pictures?" she asked, a question full of meaning. Sarah and James looked at each other. "Yes," Sarah said firmly. "Take note, we are not keeping secrets any more, you can capture all we are doing."Their discussion was interrupted by a knock at the door. A young woman in a resort uniform stood outside, putting on a bright and an accustomed smile.
"Welcome to Evergreen! I am Casey, your family guide. We will be having introductory lecture in thirty minutes at the main lodge, followed by your family's first therapy session with Dr. Anderson." She confirmed from her mini computer. "I see you are ready for the ''make new clean record for your family." James cleared his throat. "Yes, that's right."
Casey never changed her smile. "Perfect! Dr. Anderson specializes in family reconciliation. You will meet with him privately today, then have group sessions with other families as you continue to stay." She gave to them a packet of papers. "Here is your schedule for the next two weeks. Remember, you are strongly advised to join in all activities but it is never mandatory. The reason is to rebuild trust and communication at your own level of understanding each other."
After Casey left, the family gathered around the small dining table to go over their schedule. "Look," Lily pointed excitedly, one of the events in the schedule, "horseback riding!" "And a night to look at the stars, moon and other heavenly bodies," Tyler added, his eyes widening. "Rock climbing," Emma read, her face looking doubtful. "Really?" "You will use safety equipment and being led by trained instructors," Sarah assured her, though she looked equally uncertain about the activity. "It is about trust," James said quietly. "We have to practice to rely on each other, ordinarily placing our lives in each other's hands." He paused. "I know of recent, I have not given you much reason to trust me, but I am promising to do better."
The sincerity in his voice made Emma to put down her camera and really look at her father. He has quickly grown old with grey hair all over his head and wrinkles over his eye lids. But there was something else too a humility that had replaced his former pride because of his office. "Let us get ready for the meeting session with our Guide," Sarah suggested, breaking the silence. "Lily, do you need help bringing out your warm clothes from the bag?"
The main lodge was built of large square sized logs of wood with very high ceilings and a central fireplace that is as large as a room. A very sizable number of other families were already there waiting, from their appearance it is certain they have the same issues, that have brought much heat in their homes and expect to gain hope here.
Dr. Anderson turned out to be a tall man with kind eyes and a salt-and-pepper beard. His office is not of a modern type with enough space like Dr. Martinez office rather it felt like a mountain cabin's study.
"So," he started with a question, as soon as they were all seated, "tell me what brings you to Evergreen." The answer they have all along had in mind seems to lost as they could not open their mouths to say anything. How could they explain their situation that is full of much difficulties? The affairs, the betrayals, the investigations, the very break in relations with neighbors. Surprisingly, it was Lily who spoke first. "Our family is no more together," she said simply, hugging her knees to her chest. "We came here to find a way of reconciling ourselves." Dr. Anderson nodded encouragingly. "And what does ''reconciling selves" look like to you, Lily?"
The eight-year-old thought of this seriously. "Let our family be like before, but this time more real. When everybody was pretending to be happy, it felt like watching a TV show about our family. I want it to feel real, even if real means not always happy." "Out of the mouths of babes," Sarah tried to quote a biblical text, with tears spilling down her cheeks. "That is very thoughtful," Dr. Anderson commended. "How about the rest of you? What does 'real' mean in terms of your family?"
"No more watching to gather evidence," Emma agreed, looking at her feet. "No she still affirm, "No more spy apps. No more digging for evidence. I want to trust without waiting to be shown a sign."Tyler fiddled with his inhaler. "I want Dad to be present at my asthma appointments again, and Mom to help guide me in my science projects. Not because they feel guilty, but because they will do it out of love." James leaned forward. "I would like to rebuild our family, not just for show but for something real."Dr. Anderson turned to Sarah. "And you?"Sarah took a deep breath. "I want to be honest with myself and with my family. No more hiding behind work or... other relationships. I would love my children to know I am here for them. Actually here." Dr. Anderson nodded. "Great starting points. Over the next two weeks, we'll turn these into actions. But first," he checked his watch, "it's time for the welcome dinner."In the dining hall, each family had their own table.
The Mitchells noticed the other families, some laughed awkwardly, while others sat silently, all there to heal."Look," Lily whispered to Emma, pointing to a nearby table. "That girl has a camera too!"The girl, almost the same age with Emma, waved at them. Dr. Anderson passed by and said, "That's Sophia and her family. She is working on a photo documentary about families healing together."Emma perked up. "Really?""Maybe you could joined hands to work together," Sarah suggested.Before Emma could respond, the resort director stepped up to the microphone. "Welcome, families! You are here to regain your unity, to rebuild bonds.
All of you believe your family is worth fighting for."Under the table, James squeezed Sarah's hand, both remembering past times they had held hands for show. This time, it felt real.The next morning was clear and cold. Their first activity was a "trust hike," a guided forest walk with team-building exercises along the way."The path narrows in places," the guide explained. "You will need to help each other and work together."Tyler looked nervously at the trail. "What if I have an asthma attack?"James put a hand on his shoulder as if to comfort him. "Then we stop. Getting there isn't as important as making sure everyone feels safe."Sarah adjusted Tyler's scarf. "We have got your inhaler and emergency kit. Everyone knows where they are.""And I will carry the satellite phone," the guide added. "Safety is our primary goal."The hike was harder than expected.
At one point, they had to cross a shallow stream on unstable stepping stones. Halfway across, Lily caught cold at once."I cannot" she sniffles."Trust fall!" Tyler called out, remembering the orientation video. "If Lily falls, we will catch her. Right, Emma?"Emma moved into position. "Are you ready? We are here ready to get you, Lils.""See?" Sarah said, taking her place. "You are safe."James joined the safety circle. "Together on three?"With her family supporting her, Lily was able to cross. On the other side, she hugged Emma. "Thank you for catching me.""That is what family does," Emma said, her voice thick with emotion. She snapped a picture, not as evidence, but as a memory.
The next morning the same activities continued with the same difficulties, a fallen log to cross, a steep slope to climb, these are moments where they had to rely on each other when the road seems rough. At lunch, Tyler asked a question they had been willing to avoid. "Are you guys getting divorced?"Sarah almost choked. James kept his meal down. "We are not yet sure," he answered. " At present, we want to get fully reunited as a family. We will talk about the rest later." "But you don't hate each other?" Lily asked. "Like Jenny's parents?""No," Sarah said softly. "We offended each other, and we offended you also. But it was never about hate.""Love was not enough, was it?" Emma said. "Not the kind of love you had."James' eyes met with her own. "Our love was selfish. We loved what we got from each other, how we looked to the world. We are learning to love differently now.""How?" Tyler asked."By being honest," Sarah replied. "By facing our mistakes. By putting your needs before ours." She paused. "By being here, even when it is hard.
"At that moment, the sky opened, and fat raindrops began to fall."Let us hurry," their guide called, "let us get back to the trail! the weather changes fast up here!"They scrambled down the mountain, slipping and sliding on the muddy path. Tyler's breathe became difficult, but the father had to carry him on his back." I have got you, buddy," he said. "Just like when you were little."They arrived at the cabin soaked and laughing, a real laugh, not the forced kind. Eventhough Emma's camera was in his bag, it remained safe, but captured everything: Sarah covering Lily from the rain, James carrying Tyler, all of them working together."I want to see the pictures," Lily said. "Can we look at them together?"They gathered around Emma's camera, looking at photos of their day: crossing the stream, reaching the summit, drenched but smiling.
A family in progress, learning to trust again, one step at a time."We look real," Tyler said."We are real," James replied, hugging his son. "Finally."As night settled over the mountains, the family sat on their cabin's porch, watching the stars come out. Tomorrow would bring more challenges, but for now, they were satisfied to simply be together.Sarah leaned against James. "Thank you," she whispered."For what?""For staying with us. Being present physically."He nodded with understanding. They sat quietly as the mountain air grew cool, listening to the night sound, a reminder that, even in the wilderness, they were not alone.The chapter ends with Emma lowering her camera, choosing to join in enjoying the moment instead of capturing it. Some memories, she was learning, were better kept in the heart than in pictures.