Despite Vanessa, Pal Claims Nick Still Loves Jessica

Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey are inching ever so close to the finalization of their divorce. And recently Nick has been photographed everywhere with new gal Vanessa Minnillo.

Jessica is said to be crushed by the pictures and Life & Style is reporting that Jessica believes Nick may have been with Vanessa while they were still married. Not so – a pal of Nick’s tells the magazine.

“He loved (Jessica) throughout the marriage and still does,” the insider claims. “She’s the one that decided to get a divorce. It wasn’t Nick’s decision.”

The chatty friend continues to spill. “He lost the love of his life, says the pal. “That boy needs someone to make him smile.”

Vanessa and Nick have been spotted in three countries of late. First they were snapped by photographer in Mexico, next here in America and now north of the border in Canada, the report reads.

According to the mag – Vanessa showed up in Toronto at a Lachey show and the pair were canoodling at Toronto’s ‘Ultra Supper Club.’

So – what does Jessica think? The actress and singer is said to be ‘devastated’ according to a report in Star Magazine.