When I went back to retrieve it, I overheard Bethany mock Meg, saying, “She is really pitiful! For what does she wish? As soon as I wink at Jake, I have a feeling he will come crawling towards me. I could give him a healthy child, at least.”

Determined to teach Bethany a lesson, I began to flirt with her, making her believe I was interested. I suggested we meet for coffee and pretended to be captivated by her. “You know, Bethany, I’ve been thinking about you a lot lately,” I said, watching her blush. Eventually, I invited her to a fancy dinner to “discuss our relationship.”

Dressed up and excited, Bethany didn’t expect what came next. “Bethany, do you recall what you said about Meg that evening at the restaurant? I heard everything.” Her face turned pale. “You made fun of my wife behind her back. Did you really think that I would be fooled by your smug, cunning act?” Furious, Bethany snapped, “You played me?” “Damn right, I did,” I replied. “Everyone will now be aware of who you really are. Meg won’t be in your life again. I will ensure it.” Humiliated and angry, Bethany stormed out.

Back home, Meg, who knew about the plan, asked how it went. “Better than I expected,” I said, hugging her. “She’s not going to bother us anymore.” Bethany’s reputation quickly crumbled as word spread about her deceit. Meg and I grew stronger from this experience, learning to protect and trust each other even more.