We had a nice visit on the phone, and I told her that I didn't know why she felt she couldn't talk to me last weekend. She told me, again, that she was frightened and afraid of what I might do. I asked her what she thought might happen.

"I deserve a good punch in the mouth, and I was afraid you would do just that."

"Baby, have I ever hit you or either one of the kids?"

"No..."

"Why would you think I would start now?"

"I cheated on you honey, and I have no excuse."

I took an audible breath. "Do you think we can get past this...