Denise Richards speaks to US Magazine

For the first time after enduring attacks in the press over her relationship with Richie Sambora, Denise Richards, 35, talks to Us about her split from Charlie Sheen and her hopes for the future.

“This is one of the hardest times in my life,” Richards exclusively tells Us. “I have done my best to try and keep this private. It’s unfortunate that the court document became public. My priority all along has been to focus on my children and their well-being.”

For her part, Richards remains circumspect. “The whole thing has been very hurtful, especially hurtful to have untruths be perpetuated.”

It hasn’t been easy for the single mother of two now that she no longer has best friend (and Sambora’s estranged wife) Heather Locklear to lean on. But sources tell Us that the friendship was over long before Richards took up with Sambora.

To find out what led to their falling out, how Heather is handling the news and to read about the millions of dollars Richards risked losing for the safety of her children, pick up the current issue of Us Weekly, on newsstands now.

In the meantime, Richards hasn’t given up on love. “Absolutely, I’m hoping to find love again,” she says. “I would love to. I hope I do get married again.”

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