Andrew and I had just celebrated our first anniversary when my best friend Jessica invited us on a four-day camping trip. She knew we loved the outdoors, and Andrew was excited she was joining.

The first two days were perfect — hiking, campfires, sunsets. But on the second night, I woke up to find Andrew’s sleeping bag empty. I waited, thinking he’d stepped out, but he never returned. In the morning, he claimed he’d been there all night.

The third night, I woke again. This time, I knew I was fully awake. I slipped out of our tent and followed faint whispers to Jessica’s tent.

Two shadows. Two voices. One betrayal.

I lifted the rain fly and saw Andrew and Jessica — kissing.

My world crashed.

I screamed, waking the entire camp. “How long has this been going on?” I asked. Silence.

Mike, our hiking guide, demanded they pack up and leave immediately. The other hikers supported me as I stood shattered.

That night, one hiker, David, stayed close. He comforted me without questions. We stayed in touch after the trip.

Now, five years later, David is my husband. We’re expecting our first child.

Looking back, I realize life can throw you into darkness when you least expect it. But sometimes, that darkness clears the path to something better.

Andrew and Jessica taught me pain. But David taught me healing.

And as I hold his hand and feel our baby kick, I know — the trail was hard, but it led me home.