Chapter 1His Game, My Rules

"My friend asked me how thrilling it was to cheat under my wife’s nose.

I paused, considering.

Thrilling wasn't quite the word.

It was more about avoiding the constant anxiety and the pretense of guilt that plagued others.

Then my friend asked, ""And if your wife found another man, would you be alright with that?""

Of course, I wouldn't be.

But I steadfastly believed my wife would never stray.

* * *

My friend's inquiry stemmed from a long-standing understanding between my wife, Lydia, and me: an open marriage.

Though, of course, Lydia wouldn’t do anything to disrespect me.

It was my idea, after all.

Lydia and I were high school sweethearts. We married right after graduation, and now, a decade later, we were still together. To be honest, I hadn't once been unfaithful to Lydia during that time. Even amidst business dinners, with women constantly vying for my attention, I remained committed to our vows.

Until the day Lena walked into my office for her interview.

She greeted me with a soft, gentle voice, and a long dormant part of my heart stirred.

Naturally, the rest of her interview process was expedited. I brought her onto my team as my personal assistant.

Initially, I intended to keep it from Lydia. My friends even encouraged me, saying, ""It's just a fleeting diversion; no harm done.""

But I never anticipated running into Lydia when I took Lena to a trendy new restaurant for lunch.

Lydia and her friend stared at me, their gazes shifting from my face to Lena’s hand linked through my arm.

Honestly, that day, I felt no panic or fear. Instead, a peculiar sense of relief washed over me.

""She’s the new assistant at the office,"" I explained, though a part of me was already wondering whose side I’d take if Lydia and Lena started to argue.

Lydia, however, didn't create a scene. Lena, seemingly sensing the situation, retreated behind me, her face pale. Lydia pressed her lips together, her voice trembling slightly, but she managed to preserve my dignity.

""We’ll discuss this when you get home tonight.""