“This sort of conversation can be a reset button for your marriage,” Teresa said when Libby finished blowing her nose. “When we own our mistakes, it empowers us to make changes. This is your time to strengthen and improve your relationship into the future. I know you found the communication workshop difficult, but both of you have just demonstrated open listening, empathy and gratitude.”

“Who knew,” Libby joked weakly.

“We realize you’ve got some extra challenges, because of the affair ch—because of Leo. Leo means the other woman will remain in your lives until he’s an adult. But, and this is very important, if you’re committed to each other and you’re prepared to put in the hard yards and work as a team, there’ll come a point when you’ll look back and realize you’re not only over the hump and on the other side, you’re both happier for it.” Teresa smiled warmly. “And remember, you’re not alone. Use your support network.”

“And have more sessions with you,” Nick said emphatically.

Teresa and Chris rose, signaling the end of the session. “We’ll see you at dinner.”

Still slightly dazed, Libby held Nick’s hand as they left the room. Deep in thought, they didn’t say much as they rode the elevator to their room. Once inside, Nick fell on the bed, rubbing his eyes. “I’m knackered.”

“Do you want a drink?”

“Nah. I think I’ll have a quick nap so I can cope with dinner. This talking about your feelings stuff wears a bloke out.”

She looked at his long form stretched on the bed, his drawn and exhausted face and the new strands of silver peppering his hair. It had been an emotionally challenging weekend, but then again, it had been an emotionally challenging couple of years. Yet they were at this workshop because Nick had insisted. He’d admitted his mistake to the group. He’d talked about how one poor decision made him feel less of a man and how much he regretted it every time he saw the impact of it on her and the girls.

The truth hit her and she took a sharp breath. Despite what she’d thrown at Nick over the last six months, he’d been working hard at living the best version of himself. While she’d been clinging to anger, allowing it to blind her, he’d been in the trenches, fighting for himself, for their marriage and for a happy family life for the girls.

Only an honorable man admitted his mistakes and worked that hard for redemption.Another lump of anger dissolved, exposing a bridge she wanted to cross. “Can I nap with you?”

He opened his arms to her and she lay down, rolling into him and resting her head on his chest.

He wrapped an arm around her and kissed her hair. “Tesoro mio. I’ve missed you so much.”