Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck announced their separation way back in 2015.
But that wasn’t the end of their tale.
Far from it, in fact.
As has been well documented on The Hollywood Gossip, the actress and the actor spent about two years trying to salvage their romance.
They remained dedicated parents to their three kids, continuing to go on vacations as a quintet and even continuing to live together, according to various outlets.
Alas, in April of 2017, Garner came to the unfortunate realization that this marriage could not be saved.
The credit card spokeswoman filed for divorce.
So… the relationship is finally dead, right?
Done? Over? Kaput?
Not to fast, Us Weekly writes.
As you can see at the outset of this post, the tabloid features Ben and Jen on its latest cover, along with the tease that they are “spending nights together” and considering a “SECOND CHANCE” at love.
Below this headline, there’s the allegation that Affleck is “still in love” with his ex-wife and Garner has (hilariously) only dates “Ben look-a-likes.”
The magazine then poses the question: Will they reunite… or finally move on?
Speaking of Garner, who has come across as the most understanding and mature person on Earth throughout this turbulent time, a source tells the publication:
“She put her heart and soul into fixing the relationship and wanted so desperately to turn things around for the children’s sake as well as theirs.
“She forgave him for so much, and still he couldn’t change.”
That does seem to be the case, as Garner took issue over the years with Affleck’s constant partying and drinking.
But what if that wasn’t his fault?
What if Affleck has an addiction and is seeking help for it?
Since the April divorce filing, Ben has “begged her to come back several times, but she has no interest,” says this same insider in this same cover story.
There appeared to maybe be a chance for reconciliation several months ago, Us Weekly alleges; back when Affleck was at a low point.
“When Ben was in rehab, Jennifer was there every day, visiting,” says the source. “They did family counseling to work on their relationship.”
Alas, due to “a number of reasons,” Affleck and Garner never found their way back into bed together.
And then Ben started seeing Lindsey Shookus, someone he’s been dating for a surprisingly long period of time now.
“He loves and adores her,” says this insider. “This is a relationship he takes seriously.”
In other words, the above cover is pretty much a giant tease.
“Jen is ready to go with her feelings and give love another try,” says a friend, shooting down the idea that any “second chance” is on tap for the stars.
Overall, the tabloid report concludes that it’s “no exaggeration to say that Ben broke [Garner’s[ heart and left her in a terrible place emotionally.”
HOWEVER…
“It’s been almost three years since they called it quits. It’s time for her to move on.”
