I sold my parents’ house and my car to fund my husband Jake’s dream farm. I trusted him completely — until one phone call on my way to the bank shattered everything.
Early morning, I sat on our worn bed watching Jake sleep. He looked peaceful, untouched by debts or bills. I nudged him. “Jake, wake up. I’m taking the money to the bank today.” He rubbed his eyes. “Morning, baby. You’re up early again.”
I brewed his coffee, listening as he painted his dream: land of our own, fresh milk, no chemicals, our name on every jar. He promised Benny would soon attend a good school. I nodded, though selling my parents’ lake house had already broken my heart.
Jake kissed my forehead. “You’re my lucky charm. Nothing will happen to us.”
I clutched the envelope of cash, ready to deposit it. But ten minutes later, one call changed everything.
At the bus stop, my phone buzzed. The name: Alex. I didn’t know any Alex. I answered. “Hey, baby… you’re not answering. Did she leave already? I waited all night…”
My stomach dropped. The phone wasn’t mine — it was Jake’s. Messages glared back: Miss you already. See you in thirty minutes.
I rushed home, placed the phone back on the table. Jake returned, winked, grabbed it, and left. “Meetings. Don’t wait up.”
I followed in a cab. Outside a house with green shutters, I saw him embrace a blonde woman. My heart pounded. I had to know.
Alex opened the door, sweater slipping off her shoulder. “I’m Jake’s wife,” I said.
Her eyes widened. “His… wife?”
“Yes. The one paying the bills, selling her parents’ house for his farm.”
She scoffed, then let me in. “He told me you’re impossible. Said he’d marry me after leaving you. I sold my shares in my father’s company for him.”
We stared at each other — two women funding the same lie.
“What now?” she asked.
“We let him think he still has us both. Then we take back what’s ours.”
Three days later, Jake met Alex at a restaurant. I sat nearby in disguise. “Why do you need so much money?” she asked.
“It’s for us, baby. Lawyers cost a fortune. Martha wants to bleed me dry.”
Alex dropped her napkin — our signal. I stood, ripped off my wig. “Hi, honey. Looks like your big deal is almost closed.”
Jake’s face drained. “Martha? What the hell…”
Alex smirked. “Surprise. Your wife and girlfriend finally agree.”
Jake tried to laugh. “You were both ready to give me money. Who’s the fool?”
I leaned close. “No, Jake. I didn’t send you a cent. One call from Alex saved me. Next time, be more careful when you play two women.”
I tossed a single dollar on the table. “Enjoy dinner. That’s all you deserve.”
Alex grabbed her coat. “We’re getting pizza. Real food — cheap and honest.”
We walked out together, laughing. Two women who had given too much, finally taking something back.
