When Kyra discovers, by accident, that her boyfriend, Henry, has been cheating on her, she goes completely numb. Until he sends her an invoice for everything that he had ever spent on her. Fueled by her anger, Kyra fights back, exposing Henry for who he is and asking for her monetary rewards in return.
We’ve all heard of crazy boyfriend or ex-boyfriend stories—I mean, when I was in college, it was a common sleepover story.
I’ve heard of the boyfriend who wanted to taste everything his girlfriend ate—before she did. And an ex-boyfriend who demanded that his ex-girlfriend help him study for finals because it was her fault that he wasn’t able to concentrate.
But I didn’t expect my relationship to turn into one of those stories.
I had been dating Henry for two years. We had met in college at a party and after a night of drunken conversation over fries, we ended up dating.
Our relationship wasn’t perfect—in fact, over the course of it, we had broken up three times.
“Come on, Kyra,” Henry said. “We either get back together or we break up for good.”
It was the defining moment in our relationship because Henry was the one who wanted to call the shots. He wanted us to stay together, and I wanted us to call it a day.
Over the years, Henry and I had gotten into enough fights, motivating me to turn to therapy to help me cope with the stress of it.
“And yet,” my friend Brent said, “you still remain with him.”
It was just another ordinary Friday evening and Henry had come over to my place. We were going to eat pizza and watch series until we fell asleep.
A few hours into the evening, Henry had fallen asleep on the couch and I casually reached over to grab his phone to check the time.
But I was completely unprepared for everything that followed.
Just as I picked up Henry’s phone, his screen lit up with a text message from another girl.
Hey, babe! See you later or are we meeting tomorrow?
“Hey, who’s this?” I asked, nudging him awake and handing him the phone with a puzzled look.
Henry snatched the phone from my hand in a fury, his face clouding over.
“Kyra, why are you reading my messages?” he snapped, his tone defensive.
“I was just looking for the time,” I stammered. “My phone is on charge in the kitchen. I wasn’t snooping or anything.”
Henry stood up, took a swig of his now room-temperature beer, and paced around my living room.
“This is my private stuff, Kyra,” he accused. “You shouldn’t be looking at all.”
Before I could process what was happening, Henry began putting his shoes on, and then he made a final decision about our relationship.
“I think we’re done here. I can’t trust you anymore!”
And with that, he left my apartment.
Stunned, I watched him leave. We were over in the blink of an eye after two years.
I couldn’t understand if I felt relief or devastation. I would miss Henry, of course, but at the same time—I didn’t think that this was the worst thing.
Henry had been emotionally manipulating me for a long time, but I had felt a familiarity with him. And that had made it easier to stay with him.
It was the comfort of being with a familiar person, despite the heartache that came with them.
I could hear my mother’s words loud in my head.
“Kyra,” she would say, “You’re too smart to be playing a game like this. Let go of the dead weight. Henry has been nothing but dead weight since your first big fight.”
And she would be correct.
I decided to take a shower, I needed to lull my body into a sense of relaxation so that I could just let go and sleep.
And then it truly dawned on me—the reason for the breakup now was because I had caught Henry cheating on me. At first, I was too stunned. I was stunned by the fact that he had walked out on me.
But I finally managed to realize that he had actually been dating another woman. And had no idea how long it had been going on for.
The thought was too much for me to comprehend. I had so many questions running through my mind—how long had Henry been cheating on me? Who was the other person? What would have happened if I hadn’t found out?
The next few days were a complete blur—I felt a sense of relief knowing that I was untied to Henry. But at the same time, I felt hollow and a bit raw.
I found myself crying—not for Henry, but for myself. And through it all, I couldn’t understand why I was so upset.
While making a cup of tea, an email pinged on my laptop, signaling me to my desk.
It was from Henry.
Hoping for an apology, I opened it immediately—only to find a detailed bill listing every single expense that Henry claimed to have incurred on my behalf over the duration of our relationship.
Kyra, please make the payment soon. I need to move on, and you need to make things right with me. I cannot believe I wasted so much time and money on you.
I saw red—a hazy fury took over my sight. My head pounded, and my heart was ready to burst with the flood of feelings that were unleashed by Henry’s email.
“This is insane!” I screamed at the screen.
I shut off my laptop and made myself some soup. Henry and his delusional state of mind could wait. I wasn’t going to pay anything back. I was done with him.
As I cut up some garlic bread, I had an idea.
My friend, Brent, who hated Henry—was a lawyer and he loved a challenge.
“Hey, it’s me,” I said, calling him while I waited for the soup to get ready. “I’ve got a bit of a situation with Henry, and I think I need to hit back with something clever.”
Brent was intrigued. He chuckled and asked me to explain.
“Tell me everything, Kyra,” he said.
The next day, I met Brent at a coffee shop, where we planned on thinking up the next step where I could get back at Henry.
Brent ordered us coffee and pastries, while I pulled up the email from Henry.
As we laid out his claims against my emotional tolls—the late-night anxiety, the therapy costs—he burst out laughing.
“This is actually genius. Let’s draft up a counter-invoice.”
Our response was meticulously calculated, and I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of satisfaction sending it back to him.
This inspired me to start a blog about my journey of recovery and empowerment. To my surprise, the blog resonated with many, and soon, a publisher reached out with an interest in turning my experiences into a book.
On the other hand, Henry’s pursuit for repayment dwindled, especially once he realized the potential public fallout and legal ramifications.
“I cannot believe that you did that, Kyra,” Henry said. “People are messaging me constantly now. Why would you embarrass me like that? Why would you post the invoice I sent you? You owe me!”
I sat in front of the TV and let Henry vent on speaker.
I had absolutely no intention of explaining myself. My blog did expose him—and sure, I did post the invoice. But it was my way of healing through the entire ordeal.
But as always, Henry had to make it about himself. He commented on some of the blog posts, stating that I was yet to pay him for everything.
In reply, other readers let him have it—calling him out on his selfishness.
When Brent came over for dinner, he sat down and chuckled.
“Looks like Henry got the message,” Brent said. “He has dropped all demands. It seems like he just didn’t want to risk any further exposure.”
In the end, not only did I manage to counter his pettiness with strength, but I also carved out a new path for myself.
This wasn’t just about a breakup recovery—it was a rebirth.
What would you have done?
My Four Kids Objected at My Wedding – When I Found Out Why, My Heart Sank
Margaret has found love again ten years after her first husband’s passing. But it seems like her problems are far from over. When the officiant at her wedding asks if anyone objects, her four children stand up and say they do. Margaret’s heart sinks as she wonders what went wrong and why her once supportive children are now objecting. What happened?
The late afternoon sunlight streamed through the windows as I sat in my favorite armchair. “Oh, James, I miss you every day,” I murmured, my fingers tracing the edges of the old photograph.
A woman sitting and looking at photos | Source: Midjourney
The photo album lay open on my lap, filled with memories of a life that once was.
I looked at the picture of James, his smile so vivid, almost as if he was still here with me. Oh dear! We met in college, young and full of dreams.
Our first date was at a small café near campus, where we talked for hours about everything and nothing. He had this way of making me feel special as if I was the only person in the world who mattered.
A couple kissing | Source: Pexels
As I flipped through the pages, each photo brought back a flood of memories. There was our wedding day, a beautiful sunny afternoon in June.
I could still hear the laughter of our friends and family, see the joy in James’ eyes as we said our vows. We were so happy, so full of hope for the future.
An older woman smiling at her wedding | Source: Midjourney
We had our share of adventures, traveling to places we’d always dreamed of. There was the trip to Italy, where we got lost in the winding streets of Rome and ended up having the best pizza we’d ever tasted.
Or the time we went camping in the Rockies, and James insisted on making a campfire despite the pouring rain. We laughed so much that night, huddled together under a makeshift tent, feeling like nothing could ever go wrong.
A tent and mountains | Source: Pexels
But then life happened.
When I was 42, James fell ill, and despite our hopes and prayers, he passed away. The day I lost him was the hardest day of my life. The house felt empty, and my heart ached with a loneliness I couldn’t escape.
A sad woman at a funeral | Source: Pexels
For years, I believed that kind of love was a once-in-a-lifetime thing. I went through the motions, keeping busy with hobbies and spending time with friends, but something was always missing.
That’s when Michael came into my life. Two years ago.
An older couple embracing | Source: Pexels
Michael was different from James in many ways, but he brought a light back into my life. We met at a friend’s dinner party, and his kindness and sense of humor drew me in.
Slowly, he became an important part of my life. I felt that warmth of love again, something I thought was gone forever. So when he proposed six months ago, I immediately said yes.
Hands showing couple rings | Source: Pexels
I closed the photo album, holding it close to my chest.
“James, you’ll always be my first love,” I whispered, feeling a tear slip down my cheek. “But I think you’d be happy for me. I found someone who makes me smile again.”
An older woman hugging an album | Source: Midjourney
I looked around the cozy living room, the place that held so many memories. Today, my house buzzed with excitement as we prepared for Michael and my wedding.
My children were all here, making everything perfect.
“Mom, can you help me with this banner?” Jackson called from the living room.
Wedding arrangements | Source: Pexels
He was adjusting the decorations, making sure every detail was just right. Jackson always had an eye for these things.
“Of course, dear,” I said, walking over to give him a hand.
As I helped him, I glanced around the room and felt a wave of happiness wash over me. Harry was coordinating with the caterers on the phone.
Food at a wedding | Source: Pexels
“Make sure they know about the vegetarian options,” I reminded him. He nodded, giving me a thumbs-up.
Oliver was in the corner, arranging flowers with such care. “These lilies look beautiful, Oliver,” I said.
“Thanks, Mom. I just want everything to be perfect for you and Michael,” he replied, his eyes shining with love and excitement.
A man holding flowers | Source: Freepik
Benjamin, my youngest, was moving around, making sure everything was running smoothly. “Mom, I’ve checked the sound system. It’s all set for the music and speeches,” he said, giving me a quick hug.
“Thank you, Ben. You’re all doing such a great job,” I said, feeling a lump in my throat.
My children were truly a blessing.
Four men | Source: Freepik
Michael was in the living room, reviewing his vows. He looked up and smiled as I walked over.
“How are you holding up?” he asked, taking my hand.
“I’m doing great, thanks to all of you,” I said, squeezing his hand. “I’m so lucky to have such wonderful children and to have you in my life.”
A happy older couple at home | Source: Freepik
“We’re all here for you, Mom,” Jackson said, joining us. “We want your day to be perfect.”
“And it will be because of all your hard work,” I said, my heart swelling with pride and love.
As the day went on, the house was filled with laughter and chatter. It was chaotic but in the best possible way.
A happy family | Source: Pexels
As the sun set that evening, we gathered in the backyard for a small rehearsal dinner.
The space was adorned with twinkling lights and flowers.
Everything seemed breathtaking.
Chair and tables arranged in the backyard | Source: Pexels
“Mom, do you like everything?” Jackson asked, taking a seat beside me.
“I do, honey,” I replied with a smile.
Michael came over and wrapped his arm around me. “Are you ready for tomorrow, love?” he asked with a smile.
“I think so,” I replied, leaning into him. “It’s hard to believe it’s almost here.”
A happy couple | Source: Pexels
Oliver raised his glass. “A toast to Mom and Michael. May your love be as bright and lasting as these lights,” he said, and everyone clinked their glasses together.
“To Mom and Michael!” they all echoed, their faces full of joy and support.
Glasses clinking | Source: Pexels
I looked around at my children, feeling overwhelmed with gratitude. “Thank you all for being here and for everything you’ve done. I couldn’t have asked for a better family,” I said, my voice trembling with emotion.
“Mom, we wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Benjamin said, smiling warmly.
A smiling man at dinner table | Source: Pexels
Oliver nodded. “Yeah, we’re so glad to see you happy again.”
But despite the laughter and love surrounding me, a part of my heart ached for Emily, my estranged daughter.
I couldn’t help but wonder if she would ever forgive me. Her absence was a constant reminder of the pain that still lingered.
A sad woman | Source: Midjourney
“Emily would have loved this,” I said quietly, more to myself than anyone else.
Michael squeezed my hand. “She still might come around, Margaret. Give it time.”
“I hope so,” I replied, trying to push the sadness away.
Happy man capturing photos | Source: Pexels
The next day, my heart raced as I stood beside Michael, facing the officiant at our picturesque outdoor venue.
The flowers and twinkling lights created a magical atmosphere, but nothing could prepare me for what happened next.
A dinner table at a wedding | Source: Pexels
“If anyone objects to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace,” the officiant said. My four children stood together, their faces serious.
“We do!” they said in unison.
My heart sank. Everything had been so perfect until yesterday.
A shocked woman | Source: Midjourney
Before I could ask, Jackson spoke up. “You can’t get married, Mom, at least not without one person.”
The children moved aside, creating a path. And there she was. Emily. I couldn’t believe my eyes!
A pretty woman | Source: Unsplash
She walked towards us with tears streaming down her face.
My emotions swirled within me, almost overwhelming.
“Mom, I’m so sorry,” she said, her voice trembling.
A sad woman | Source: Midjourney
Tears welled up in my eyes as I rushed to embrace her.
“I’m sorry, Ma. I blamed you for Dad’s death, but over the years, I realized how unfair that was,” she added, pulling away. “He made a choice, and you honored his wishes. I was too hurt to see that.”
Back when James was suffering from his illness, he made me sign a document.
A man singing a document | Source: Pexels
It said that if his heart stopped, we wouldn’t resuscitate him. I honored his wishes, and it broke my heart.
Emily was devastated and said I killed him.
She disappeared from my life, and I feared I would never see her again.
An angry woman yelling | Source: Freepik
“I’ve missed you so much, honey,” I told her. “I’ve tried to reach out, to explain, but I understand why you couldn’t hear me then.”
Emily again wrapped me in a hug, both of us crying as we reconciled.
“I don’t want you to start this new chapter of your life without knowing that I support you. Michael seems wonderful, and I want to be a part of your life again. Thanks to my brothers who called me here,” she said.
Two women embracing | Source: Midjourney
Michael stepped forward, gently taking Emily’s hand. “Emily, I’ve heard so much about you. Your mother loves you deeply. This means everything to her.”
With tears in my eyes and my heart full, I turned back to the officiant. “Let’s continue,” I said.
Michael and I shared our vows, and when the officiant pronounced us husband and wife, we shared our first kiss as a married couple. The reception was even better.
People at a wedding reception | Source: Unsplash
My five children were together and happy.
Emily raised her glass for a toast and looked at Michael and me. “To new beginnings, to love, and to family. Here’s to Mom and Michael and to all of us being together again.”
The room echoed with cheers and clinking glasses. I looked around, my heart swelling with gratitude and completeness. My family was whole again, and I was stepping into a new chapter with everyone I loved by my side.
A happy newlywed couple | Source: Midjourney
Have you ever been in such a situation and experienced something heartwarming at a wedding?
A couple | Source: Unsplash
This work is inspired by real events and people, but it has been fictionalized for creative purposes. Names, characters, and details have been changed to protect privacy and enhance the narrative. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.
The author and publisher make no claims to the accuracy of events or the portrayal of characters and are not liable for any misinterpretation. This story is provided “as is,” and any opinions expressed are those of the characters and do not reflect the views of the author or publisher.
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