TITLE    : Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 05
STORYID  : ripples-in-a-cuckolds-pond-ch-05-1
SUMMARY  : Nicole explores being a Queen of Spades.
AUTHOR   : JayCuck@lit
DATE     : 2016-01-01
CATEGORY : interracial-erotic-stories
FLAGS    : h
TAGS     : |interracial|bull|dom|girlfriend|cuckold|cuck|


<em>I want to thank everyone who takes the time to read this series. I especially want to thank those of you who have emailed me and/or provided feedback. I really do appreciate it and I hope you enjoy this new direction.</em>



<em>This series doesn't have as much sex as previous stories. The plot is becoming more complex and it's harder to work credible sex scenes into the storyline.</em>



<em>Troll Alert (Trigger Warning -- if you're so sensitive you need it): If you don't like cuckold/hotwife stories you won't like this one. Save your energy, righteous indignation, and ugly comments for another story.</em>



"Hey," I said when she picked up. "Grab a coffee before we go into the office?"



"Sure. There's a Starbucks on Blanco and 1604, I'll meet you there."



"Thanks."



"You're welcome. I expected this call." She paused. "Did you have a good weekend?"



"I had an interesting weekend, that's for sure."



"Thought so. See you in a few."



"Bye."



The beauty of Starbucks, especially early in the morning, is that it's as anonymous as possible. The heavy stream of patrons makes it easy to discuss most anything, because no one stays long enough to pay attention to your conversation.



I arrived first and found real estate gold in a corner table. I surfed Literotica to see if Xleglover had posted a new chapter in the Mike and Jen saga. An addictive, guilty pleasure, I couldn't stop reading his work.



"Hey you," Cynthia said as she sat down.



"You," I said with a calm expression. "Have some explaining to do."



"Did Cassidy look good in her dress?"



"Amazing. Gorgeous. Now why did you invite her? Do you have any idea what you started?"



"Nick," she said as if I was a small child. "I care about you, about Nicole, and I don't want to see you separate."



"You really think that's possible?"



"Have you seen your wife around David?"



"Yes."



"There's your answer."



"I'm sorry, I don't accept that, Cynthia, and you had no right to involve Cassidy."



She put her coffee cup down and slid her hand over mine. "I apologize, if I've made your life more difficult, but I want you to think about your wife's reaction."



"It's not good. Nicole doesn't share well."



"No. She doesn't. Your wife likes to be the center of attention. She likes to flirt, dance, and have fun on her terms." She met my eyes. "Don't get mad, but Nikki takes people for granted, Nick. This can't be a surprise to you."



I didn't answer. Right then, I needed a gulp of scalding coffee and the pain it produced to focus my thoughts. Cynthia fell quiet, letting me process her response. Cynthia and Nicole had been close, intimate, and at one time, I thought she might steal my wife away from me. That hadn't happened obviously, and since she'd joined our firm, we'd become close. Closer, I think, than she was with my wife.



If Cynthia had an agenda...I couldn't see it.



"Even if I buy into your argument, I still can't see why you involved Cassidy. It's not fair to her."



"You're kidding..right?"



"No. I'm not kidding."



"She's been attracted to you since the first time you met."



"What-."



"She told me about your first meeting, and the next, and the next." She smiled at me. "About the party at Collin's house."



"Okay. Okay."



"Cassidy asked if I was going to the party, and if not, could she have my invitation, room reservation, and help with a dress. That's it." She took a sip of her coffee. "And you need to stop being so overprotective. You're always talking about how good she is, how smart and mature she is, and how well she handles customers."



"That's all true," I objected.



"Then quit acting like she's a babe in the woods. She knows what she wants and what she's getting into."



"Fuck. Why can't I just have a simple life?" I asked rhetorically ran my hand over my forehead. "A boring marriage in the suburbs, and golf on the weekend."



"That ship sailed, honey, if it even exists."



"Nicole was pissed, by the way. I'm sure she's going to come see you."



Cynthia held up her phone, a smile on her face, and I saw three texts from my wife and several calls. "We're going to have lunch."



I felt a quirky smile pull at my lips. "Love to be a fly on the wall for that meal."



"It should be interesting," she said. "But I'll tell her exactly what I told you. She needs to quit fucking around, and remember what she as, before she loses it."



"You really think she'd leave me? I mean, our marriage survived Collin, and...."



"Me?"



I shrugged. "Umm, yeah."



"Collin and I weren't looking to take your wife away from you. We were content with a part-time relationship with Nikki."



"I thought you might have wanted more."



"I love your wife," she said, and then shook her head. "But we discussed it, and agreed that her marriage came first."



"And you don't think David feels the same."



"No," she said firmly. "I think he wants Nicole all to himself...permanently."



"He says otherwise."



"Every fox promises to faithfully guard the henhouse."



I picked at my blueberry scone, cold now, and popped a bite in my mouth. I washed it down with hot coffee and tried to take stock of our conversation.



It hadn't gone as I expected.



"So let me see if I've got this straight," I said. "You want me to use Cassidy to make Nicole jealous, so she'll stay married to me. That's very high school."



"No," she said with a shake of her head. "I'd like you to enjoy a relationship with a beautiful young woman who thinks you're a great guy. While your wife, spends her time with a duplicitous attorney who wants her as his own. In the process, you'll be reminding the selfish little bitch you married just what she stands to lose; and making Cassidy exceptionally happy."



"Wow. That was kind of sexy."



She laughed. "You don't have the right accessories, baby."



"Yeah, yeah." Our eyes met for a moment. "Thanks."



"You're welcome. Good luck."



"Pretty sure I'll need it."



The office was quiet when I stepped into the office. Collin was out at a conference, and Cynthia mentioned she'd be in later. As a result, I was the only one in, and I loved it that way. The first few hours were always my most productive, and I desperately needed boring insurance to take my mind off my complicated personal life.



I unlocked my office, holding my coffee cup in my teeth, balancing my briefcase, and negotiating the lock. One of those moments, when I'm glad we didn't install security cameras inside the office.



Not exactly graceful.



Still, I managed to open my office door without spilling my coffee, and without dropping my briefcase.



Victory!



I nudged the door open, just as my teeth were losing their grip on the lip of my coffee cup. Fortunately, I narrowly avoided a crisis, and managed to grab the cup and make it inside my office.



Success!



My award winning performance didn't last long. As soon as I had my coffee gripped securely, I stepped inside my office. Another normal day until I caught sight of my desk.



"Hello, Nick. I have a desperate need....for insurance. Can you help me?"



Cassy sat on my desk.



Naked.



Like...completely naked.



Like...sans clothing...wearing only a smile.



I dropped my coffee.



A distant part of mind registered the huge stain on the carpet.



"Please," she leaned back and moved her legs apart. "I really need your help."



Rational thought abandoned me. I stood rooted in place, unable to make sense of the erotic tableau in front of me. This was beyond any wild teenage fantasies, beyond generic porn flicks, I'd landed on Planet Perfect.



"Awwww, you're bashful," she said.



Cassidy moved forward with liquid grace, a hungry, predators smile growing larger as she approached. Her hands traveled over my chest, and I heard my briefcase hit the floor.



"I hate these clothes. So bland. So conservative."



The buttons on my shirt didn't stand a chance. The beautiful blonde undressed me in the space of a few moments, with a captivating smile on her face the entire time. A few moments later, we shared the same outfit, and she pressed her lips against me.



My mind may have struggled to catch up, but my body had no issues with the situation. Hard enough to cut diamonds, my cock was diggin' this whole situation.



"Mmmmmm," she murmured, as her hand encircled my cock. "Someone's happy."



"Very happy."



My head and body finally started communicating. I picked her up, enjoying her surprised, happy squeal, and carried her back to my desk. She thrust her tongue inside my mouth, just as I set her down. I felt her heels grip the back of my thighs, and I slipped inside her with a groan.



Fucking on a desk looks sexy, but let me tell you...it's not easy.



She wrapped her arms around me, and used her legs to pull me closer. I buried myself inside her, reveling in the sensation. Cassidy, my girlfriend, felt amazing.



"I love the way you feel inside me," she whispered. Her teeth sunk into my ear, a painful, erotic bite. "Fuck me!"



Needing no further encouragement, I started hammering into her. Excitement, and lust surged through my body, and I stopped thinking about her pleasure. I couldn't remember feeling this alive.



Cassidy wanted me.



She kept her face next to mine, and her hot breath coated my ears each time she moaned and encouraged me. Each time I thrust inside, I was met with another plea from my girlfriend. Her hands slipped from my neck, and gripped my ass cheeks, her nails dug into my flesh.



Our sex turned primal.



I planted my hands on the desk for balance, and it gave me better leverage to push inside her. Our bodies joined in a timeless rhythm, and truthfully, I fucked her for all I was worth. Her eyes grew wide and her body shuddered, but I'd stopped caring if she orgasmed. Selfishly, I only cared about my pleasure.



The scent of wet flesh, sex and lust, filled the air. A heady, intoxicating perfume and we both inhaled deeply. Somewhere in the pounding and slapping of our bodies, I felt my orgasm approaching, a freight train of purely distilled pleasure. I groaned now with each thrust, and I sensed her eyes on me.



My breathing grew ragged. My eyes dropped, and I watched with voyeuristic pleasure as I saw my cock disappear inside her. Beautiful.



We fit perfectly.



"In my mouth," she gasped. "I want...you....finish in my mouth."



Those words sent me tumbling over the edge of an excruciatingly pleasurable abyss. She pushed me back, slid down my body, and took me inside her mouth. She swallowed me whole and her hands gripped my hips.



I didn't have the breath or the ability to warn her. My orgasm exploded forth, and she dug her fingernails into my flesh. My arms kept me upright, but just barely, as the sweet release of an amazing orgasm washed through me. My hips bucked forward, but Cassidy didn't pull away, she kept me in her mouth and moaned around my cock.



Light-headed now, I gasped for breath as shivers and shudders wracked my muscles. Spent, sated, and happy, I felt her tongue flick the tip of my cock and I laughed involuntarily.



"Tickles," I gasped. "Sensitive."



"I know," she teased back. "But I like the way you taste."



My legs trembled from our workout and I stepped back from my desk. She stood, her arms encircling my body, and kissed my neck and cheek. I hugged her back, and we stayed that way, just holding each other and recovering from great, mind-blowing sex.



"Here, sit down before you fall down."



Cassidy guided me to a chair and then sat sideways on my lap. Her beautiful blue eyes twinkled with humor.



"You okay?"



"Great," I replied. "Thanks for asking."



"You're welcome. I'm buying you a couch, by the way. You need one for this office anyway, and they're more comfortable than your desk."



"A couch?" I pulled her into a kiss, unable to wait any longer. Soft, sensuous, our kiss lasted for several seconds, and she had to break it. "Are we going to this more often?"



"If I have anything to say about it, yes."



"I'll order one today."



"No." She tweaked my nose. "I'll order it. You have horrible taste in clothes; I don't trust you to choose a nice couch."



"Is that right?"



"Yes," she replied with a smile.



"Order it then," I said. "I trust your judgment. Use your corporate card, and I'll approve the charge."



"Yes, boss."



Cassidy kissed me once more, before she stood and started getting dressed.



I watched.



Hey, I'm a guy.



She caught me staring at her, and cocked an eyebrow at me. I held up my hands, and started dressing as well.



"Anything huge going on today?" She asked.



"No." I shook my head. "I have some phone calls to make, and a few policies to review, but otherwise it'll be pretty slow today."



"Same here," she replied. "I'll stop by later."



"Hey," I said as she started for the door.



She turned. "Yeah?"



"I...uh....I enjoyed this morning," I stuttered. "I just wanted you to know."



"Me too."



She winked and blew me a kiss. I replied with a smile, sat down behind my computer. My email bin beckoned and I'd just stared on the first email, when I heard Cassidy's voice again.



"Nicole!"



* * *



"<em>Sometimes....you can just smell a horrendously shitty moment coming</em>."



That's a quote from a movie and it flashed through my brain when I heard my girlfriend utter my wife's name. If Nicole had been outside my office for more than a few minutes, she knew damn what transpired in my office. I'd been fucked.



And fucked good!



"How are you-."



"Save it, Cassidy."



Nicole's frigid voice cut her off, and she brushed by her and stalked into my office. Over her shoulder, my girlfriend mouthed 'sorry', and walked towards her cubicle. My attention turned to the angry Latin woman staring icicles at me. Why she was pissed, I don't know, but she was and I had to deal with it.



"Nikki," I said evenly. "What's up?"



Her eyes dropped to my crotch for a moment, before she met my eyes again. "Not you."



"I meant, what can I do for you?"



"I know what you meant!"



I came around from behind my desk, and closed the door to my office. That brief walk gave us both time to calm down. Nikki sat in a chair facing my desk, and instead of sitting behind my desk again, I sat next to my wife.



"What's going on, Nikki? Are the kids okay?"



"They're fine," she said with a wave. "I dropped them both off at school."



I checked my watch. "Kind of early, isn't it?"



She shrugged. "A little, but I wanted to come see you before you got busy. Then I found you fucking your employee...."



I didn't rise to her bait. "What did you want to talk about?"



"I'm going to get a tattoo, one of David's designs."



"What? That's kind of sudden isn't it?"



"Not anymore sudden than you fucking your employee in your office."



"Knock it off," I snapped. "None of this would have happened, if you and your boyfriend hadn't pushed for an open marriage."



"Whatever." She rolled her eyes, and shook her head. "You and her were probably fucking long before your golf game."



I gently laid my hand on her arm and squeezed gently. "No, honey. We weren't. Now, I don't expect you to believe me, but all I can do is be honest with you. Cassidy and I weren't intimate until this weekend."



"I guess it doesn't matter now." She took a deep breath. "I also wanted you to know that David offered me a job. His assistant, maybe a para-legal later on."



"Is that right?"



"Part-time," she added hurriedly. "He'll work around the kids schedule, but he needs the help and he's willing to train me."



"I'll bet."



"Screw you. The offer is genuine and I'm going to accept it."



I ran my hands over my face, and made a concerted effort to calm down. Anger wouldn't help us through this situation.



"Can we just stop," I said after a minute.



"Stop?"



"Yes...stop. Can we stop all of this, David, Cassidy, and the whole open marriage bit? Let's just go back to just you and me. You, our daughters, and me. We're losing each other. I can feel it, Nicole."



"You're overreacting and you already agreed anyway," she said with a shake of her head. "Lots of women have tattoos, and the girls don't need me as much anymore. I sit at home all day, and aside from the gym, I don't have anything to occupy my time."



"Then come to work here."



"And what? See Cassidy every day? Exchange girl-talk with your fuck buddy?"



"Can we compromise?"



"Maybe, what are you suggesting?"



"If you must have a tattoo, can you put it someplace that won't be easy to spot?" She cocked her head, and I could tell she was considering my request. "And wait on the job with David."



"Why?"



"It's a rushed decision," I replied with a shrug. "Take your time, think it through, and then see what else is out there."



She offered me a tight smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "I'll agree to your tattoo request," she hedged.



"And the job with David?"



"How about I agree to reconsider the job in thirty days," she offered. "I'll only accept on a trial basis, and you and I will discuss it after our trip to Vegas."



A crappy compromise, but I knew I wouldn't get anything more. My wife had limits, and I sensed her counteroffer was right at the edge of her limits. I wondered how much my morning-sex with Cassidy had with her decisions and decided it probably pushed her right over the edge.



<em>Tattoos can be removed. Job can be quit. We can weather this storm</em>.



"I love you, Nikki. Whatever else happens, that won't change."



She gave me a patient smile. "I love you too."



"Any plans for tonight?"



"You mean with David?"



"Yes."



She shook her head. "No. He wants to go out later this week, and we're going to a BBQ this weekend, but otherwise I'll be home." She paused for a moment. "With our daughters."



"Okay." I took a breath, and then leapt off a cliff. "I'd like to spend some time with Cassidy."



Her face tightened, and her eyes narrowed, but she didn't reply. She simply nodded for me to continue.



"I'll be home at normal time, and I'll make dinner, but afterwards, I'm going to spend the night with Cassidy."



I didn't ask and I didn't phrase it as a question. After the two bombs she just dropped, I wasn't seeking her approval. Tension slid in to her shoulders, and I could see an objection rising within her.



Then she pushed it away. A glimmer of a challenge reached her eyes.



"That's fine. You're usually gone before the girls get up anyway, so if they ask, I'll tell them you left for work."



"You sure?"



"Don't rub it in, Nick. Just go."



I held up my hands. "Okay."



"I'll see you at home."



"Normal time," I confirmed.



We stood at the same time, and stared at each other. Awkwardness filled the space between us, and neither of us was sure how to say goodbye. She opened her mouth, then closed it, and smoothed her dress.



Just as I stepped forward for a hug, her hand raised, offering a handshake. She recognized I was going to hug her, and she tried to recover by raising her arms. That didn't work, because I dropped my arms, and held out my hand.



Embarrassing.



Awkward.



Sad.



How the hell had we reached this point? A fucking handshake?



Disgusted, I retreated behind my desk. "Have a nice day."



"I agree with Cassidy, by the way."



"I'm sorry."



"You don't have good taste in furniture. You should let her pick your couch."



"Goodbye, Nicole."



I sensed rather than saw, my wife leave my office. Her last words were petty, and I'd lost patience for her bullshit. She closed the door behind her, and I pushed back from my desk.



"Fuck!"



At least I'd tried to end everything, return us and our marriage back to something that resembled normal.



Nicole wasn't interested. Fine.



If I was going to be forced to play this game, I might as well play it on my terms. Pining after my wife and begging for the scraps of her affection would only earn me contempt. More important, I knew I'd lose my self-respect and potentially the respect of my kids.

<hr pg="2" />No.



This was a contest of equals, Cassidy and I against Nicole and David. Cynthia was right; it was time for my wife to recognize what she had, and what she stood to lose.



"Cassidy," I said into the phone. "Want some company tonight?"



She hung up.



I stared at the phone in confusion.



What the hell?



My office door opened and closed in an instant, and then a beautiful blonde blur streaked towards me. My new girlfriend planted herself on my lap again, and locked her lips against mine. Heat and passion blossomed between us, as our lips and tongues got reacquainted.



It was a nice kiss!



"Yes. Yes. Yes."



* * *



One of the benefits of owning your own business is being able to leave early. Our administrative assistant reminded me a few things happening this week, and then waved as I left the office.



Apparently, my wife's ugly-ass tattoo was taking longer than anticipated and she asked me to pick up the girls. Aside from the reason, I never minded picking up Jasmine and April. I knew they hated riding the bus.



We'd been home for several hours, and finished dinner, when Nicole entered. A happy smile on her face, she put her purse down and hugged the girls. She ruffled my hair, thanked me for making dinner, and then disappeared into our bedroom.



"I'm going to start on my homework," April said.



Jasmine glanced at her mother's back, and then offered to do the dishes. I followed her into the kitchen, and together we got the dishes into the dishwasher.



"I love you", dad," she said and hugged me tightly.



"Love you too, kiddo."



"I'm going to grab a drink with friends later, so I'll be out late."



She rolled her eyes. "Tell Cassidy hi."



"Jas-."



"I have homework too," she interrupted. "I'll see you tomorrow."



Her expression mirrored her mothers, and I knew the conversation was over. I could press, but if you know anything about teenage girls, trying to get them to talk when they don't want to is the textbook definition of a losing battle.



Nicole was standing naked in front of the mirror picking at a small bandage centered right above her pussy. Based on its location, I knew she'd had to have taken her underwear off. No question. She'd spent several hours with her bare pussy displayed, probably with her legs spread, while a tattoo artist inked her body.



We'd never have a normal sex life again.



She glanced up as I entered the bathroom, and smiled at me. She turned and motioned at her waist.



"See, even with the bandage it's really small. It's actually below my panty line, so even a bikini will conceal it."



"hmmm."



"The artist was amazing. It's a twist on David's original design, and it's soooo beautiful. I think you'll like it." She glanced at up at me hopefully, and then continued. "I need to leave the bandage on for a few more hours."



"And your nipples?" I asked. "I don't remember us discussing nipple piercing."



"Oh," she said and blushed. "He did it for free. No charge."



"I know what free means, honey."



"Sorry," she said quickly and ran her hands through her hair. "I think they're cute don't you?"



The silver studs did look inviting and sexy, but I wasn't ready to admit that to my wife. Petty, maybe, but I wasn't sure I recognized her anymore, and I didn't want to give her any encouragement.



"Nice." I settled on that description. "They look nice."



Disappointment flashed in her eyes, followed quickly by irritation, but she pushed them down, and offered me a tight smile.



"I'm thinking I'll get my belly button pierced as well, but I want to wait."



"Probably a good idea."



"I was thinking maybe Jasmine and I could get it done together."



"Seriously?"



"C'mon, Nick. She's almost a senior in high school, and I'm sure all her friends have a piercing already."



"Honey, I'm not comfortable with our daughter getting her belly button pierced," I said and then clarified. "Or a tattoo."



"Fine," she snipped.



She tossed her hair over her shoulder, dismissing me, and then stepped into the closet. I decided to brush my teeth, and get ready to leave. Nicole stepped out of the closet wearing her grandma pajamas. From neck to ankles bulky, unsexy pajamas covered her body.



"What time are you leaving?"



I shrugged. "Half an hour, I'm thinking. Unless you need me to do something before I go."



Her hand slipped over my shoulder, and I almost jumped in surprise. I wiped my mouth, and faced her.



"I'm sorry," she said. "I haven't dealt with Cassidy very well, and it hasn't been fair of me." I nodded without responding. She took a deep breath, and squared her shoulders before continuing. "David has helped me understand that an open marriage means both sides are open. It's not fair of me to get angry about Cassidy while I'm seeing him."



"And getting tattoos...and piercings," I added meaningfully.



"You're right," she replied. "But even if things don't work out with David, it's a small tattoo and I can have it removed. The piercings will close if I stop wearing studs." She patted my chest. "They're not permanent, honey."



The way she said those last few sentences made me think she'd rehearsed them several times. Whether it was for my benefit, I wasn't sure, but it sounded like something David would say.



<em>"Don't worry," his voice echoed in my brain. "Tattoo's aren't permanent anymore."</em>



She must have taken my silence for agreement, because she kissed my cheek and whispered. "Let's have a date night tomorrow. We'll go out, have fun, and I'll fuck your brains out when we come home."



"Sounds great, baby."



It did sound good. Did I believe it would happen?



Not for an instant.



I might have believed her if I hadn't seen and heard her conversation with David. In my business, I deal routinely with people who wear several faces, they're easy to spot, and I walk way wanting a shower each time. I never expected to see it from my own wife. Tattoos and piercings were enough; I decided not to broach the subject of her new job.



We'd have plenty of time to discuss it.



"Awesome."



She pulled away, faced her sink, and started her before-bed ritual.



"I'll make reservations for dinner, you pick the after-dinner activity."



"Sounds like a plan, Mr. Man."



Another wink in the mirror reflection, and she started washing her hands. I stepped into the closet, retrieved my duffle bag, and then went into the bedroom. If the clothes I'd purchased had been delivered, I wouldn't need much. If they weren't at Cassidy's apartment, then I would just leave early and come back home to change.



"I'm leaving now," I said and poked my head into the bathroom.



She took a breath, forced a nod and a smile. "Okay."



"I have my cell, and I'll be in the office tomorrow, if you need to reach me."



"Thanks."



Our eyes met for a long moment, before she motioned for me to leave.



"Go."



* * *



An excitement I hadn't felt in years coursed through my body as I drove to Cassidy's. I'd heard about the energy and excitement of new relationships from friends, and relatives, but I'd been married for the best part of two decades. Our relationship with Collin, and then Cynthia, produced its own excitement, but it was more about the changes in my wife, than anything I experienced directly.



Cassidy. This relationship was all mine.



She met me at the door with an excited gleam in her eye. "Hey, gorgeous."



"Hey, back."



"Get in here, before I drag you inside myself."



She didn't wait for an answer. Her hand gripped my polo shirt, and she pulled me over the threshold. Of course, I received a kiss.



Kisses, actually. Plural.



She started with a peck on the lips, then a softer, lingering kiss, before we both dropped our barriers, and allowed our kiss to turn passionate.



"Stop!"



She pushed me back, gasping for breath, her face flushed, and I noticed her nipples pushing against her thin shirt.



"Not yet," she said after a deep breath. "Sex is too easy with you, and I want to spend some time together...with our clothes on."



"Okay," I replied with a smile. "That's cool."



"Good."



She eyed me to see if I was serious, and then stepped into her little kitchen. I heard her rustling in the refrigerator for a moment.



"You can put your things in the bedroom."



"Sounds good," I said, glad to have something to do.



As soon as I stepped inside the bedroom, I knew my things had arrived. Cassidy had left her closet door open, and I saw the suits, shirts, and other clothes I'd purchased already hanging in the closet. My duffle bag got dropped in the closet, and I checked out the bathroom. Sure enough, a new toothbrush, razors, and other products just out of the wrapper sat on the counter.



"Surprised?"



Her voice came over my shoulder, and she held out a glass of wine when I turned.



"I took a chance on some of the toiletries, but we can get you whatever you need to be comfortable here."



"Thank you."



"You're welcome," she said and clinked her glass against mine. "C'mon. I want to talk."



"Uh-oh. I'm in trouble, aren't I?"



She threw me a wink over her shoulder. "Just a little."



My new girlfriend had no issues taking control of a situation. I wanted to get laid later, so I went along with everything. Getting great sex later was one of the reasons I acquiesced; the other was that she was a little scary when she took control, and I didn't want to go home with my tail between my legs.



"Sit," she commanded.



I sat with a big smile. "Yes, ma'am."



Cassidy straddled my lap, moving sensually over my body, until she had me pinned to her couch.



"You're a good man."



"Thank you?"



"No," she said. "I mean it."



"Don't give me too much credit."



A credit card materialized in her hand, and her other hand found my chest. The smile that appeared on her face was one part happy, and one part mildly angry. I recognized that expression. She liked the effort, if not the result; shit, I <em>was</em> in trouble.



"This showed up in my mail."



"Uhhh."



"Why would a credit card appear like magic in my mail?"



"I thought...well, I just had an idea. When we were at Brooks Brothers-."



"What? I'm some damsel in distress? I need your money? I'm some sort of 'kept woman'?"



"No. Cassidy, it's not like that-."



"What's it like, Nick?"



My heart leapt at the way she emphasized my name. Whatever trouble I was in, I doubted it would last much longer. I took a breath and held my hands up, motioning for patience.



"Honey, I....," I searched for the right words, and failed spectacularly. "Okay! I wanted to take care of you. I wanted to spoil you," I admitted. "I'm sorry."



Her lips pressed against mine for several seconds, before she pulled back and ran her hand through my hair. "You're forgiven."



"Sooooo, you don't want the card?"



"I'll keep it," she said and tossed it onto the table. "I won't use it, but I'll keep it. It's the thought that counts, and I appreciate you caring about me."



"Ummm, okay."



She kissed me again, moving her hips seductively as our lips and tongue caressed each other. A distant part of my brain realized I enjoyed her kisses...really enjoyed her kisses!



"I don't need your money."



"Wait, I didn't mean it like that."



"I know," she said and patted my chest. "But that's one of the reasons we need to talk."



"Okay."



"When I say I don't need your money," she said and held my eyes. "I mean; I really don't need your money."



"I'm not sure I understand."



She pulled her body to the left, lifting her legs off me, and sitting next to me on the couch. I took a sip of my wine, and waited patiently until my new girlfriend peeled back another layer of the onion that represented her life.



"I told you my dad owns his own insurance agency, remember?"



"Of course."



"He's not the only owner," she said. "I own a percentage."



"That's great," I said and meant it.



She shrugged. "My mom and dad started the agency, and when my mom passed away, I inherited her share of the agency. I grew up helping him, and learning the business. When I went to college, I stopped working with him obviously, and concentrated on my studies." She paused and met my eyes. "I was at the tail end of my Master's Degree when I met you."



"I see."



Truthfully, I didn't see where she was going, but she paused long enough that I needed to say something. A small part of me fist-pumped, because I'd seen her talent right away and hired her. Petty? Sure, but talent acquisition is always a crapshoot, but this time I'd chosen right.



Yayy, Nick-."



"I sold my ownership back to my father, and gave the money to Collin to invest for me." She interrupted my internal celebration.



My eyebrows rose in surprise. "Really?"



"Yep."



"Collin doesn't normally take clients unless they have a sizeable amount to invest."



She stared at me. Her beautiful eyes held mine, and in that moment we bonded on a level I hadn't expected. I'd learned something about her, something we'd never shared before, and my level of respect dramatically increased.



"He never said anything."



"I asked him to keep it private."



"Cassidy." I cocked my head. "I'm a partner. Collin, Cynthia and I discuss our accounts in detail at least once per year. I'm pretty sure I'd remember if we discussed an employee account with your name on it."



A happy, sly smile grew on her face. "Sapphire Inc."



"No way," I replied.



"My account."



Sapphire wasn't our biggest account. It wasn't even close, but it was significant enough that Collin, Cynthia and I had discussed it several times. Aggressively invested, it had done well over the last several years.



"Wow."



She poked my nose. "I got the idea from Mike Andrews and the program he invented." A blush colored her cheeks. "I'm a fan."



"Well, I feel like a schmuck."



"Don't," she said quickly. "Please don't."



"Well-."



"That's why I wanted to talk to you," she said. "I'm not someone you need to take care of, Nick. I don't want that kind of relationship."



"Okay."



"The other night you said you hadn't rejected me," she said. "You said you respected me."



"I remember."



"Good. I want your respect, not protection. I'm not the girlfriend you hide from your wife and friends, honey." She pressed her lips against mine...hard. "I want to be the one on your arm," she said when our kiss broke. "The one you're proud to show off. The one you want to take home and wake up to the next morning."



"Ummm," I said.



The right words wouldn't come, but fortunately she saved me from embarrassing myself. Her fingertip pressed against my lips.



"Shhhh," she said. "You don't have to say anything, and you better not promise me anything. It's just important to me, that you know I'm not some weak girl who needs a protector. I have a daddy; I don't need another one."



"I never-."



"I believe you."



A heavy silence sprang up between us, and despite our smiles, neither of us could shake it. Cassidy sat back and sipped her wine, and I did the same. One of the wines we'd purchased on our day trip, I enjoyed it again and wondered where we went from here.



"I'm perfectly willing to get naked now," she said after a long, awkward pause. "If that's what you want?"



"Maybe later." I chuckled and shook my head. "I never know what to expect from you."



"Is that a good thing?"



"I think so," I replied with a nod. "It seems every time we're together, I learn something new, something impressive."



"My blonde hair and blue eyes throws people off. I'm supposed to be cute, bubbly and stupid, right?"



"Not to me. Not ever."



"That's one of the reasons I was attracted to you from the beginning. In the club, you noticed beautiful women, but you obviously weren't out hunting for a conquest."



"Never in my life," I observed wryly, and then felt my smile slide away. "Cassidy, what do you want? I mean from our relationship?"



Her expression grew soft, but serious, and she straddled my lap again. Her fingers slid through my hair, and she lowered her head until her lips brushed my neck. The intoxicating scent of her perfume filled my nose. I closed my eyes and reveled in the pleasure her lips created, and the solid, sexy feel of her body on mine.



Our connection deepened.



I felt it, she felt it, and both of us let it grow and strengthen.



I should've stopped. Gone home.



My mind said one thing, my body another, and I surrendered to Cassidy's spell. I'd lost control of my body, my feelings and my emotions.



"Happy," she breathed in my ear. An electric current shot through my body, and my cock hardened to fleshy steel. "I want to make you happy."



She slid down off my lap, down past my thighs, until she knelt in front of me. A smile slid across her lips, as her fingers found my pants.



The groan that left my mouth contained happiness, lust, and excitement. Her tongue flicked the tip of my cock several times, each touch created a shot of electric pleasure cascading through my body. When her mouth descended on my cock, I almost orgasmed, it felt that good.



My teeth clamped down on my tongue, and I managed to control my body and prevent an immediate orgasm.



That would have been embarrassing!



Our eyes met, and she maintained eye contact with me as her head bobbed on my cock. Her tongue snaked out, caressing my cock, and her eyes became filled with a naughty desire. Deep blue eyes, the color of the ocean under a clear sky, I lost myself in those eyes. Waves of pleasure crashed inside my body. She may be young, but her sexual skill stole my breath and smashed my self-control to bits.



My breathing grew hoarse, and even the pain of biting my tongue no longer held my orgasm at bay. I felt it approaching.



A runaway stallion.



"Close. Cassidy, I'm clos-."



Her lips locked over my cock just as I exploded. An indescribable pleasure burst through my body, and each jet of my cum found a home inside her mouth. My hips bucked, but she never lost her grip on my cock. Several seconds later, the spasm of an amazing orgasm left my body, and I sat still, breathing heavy and spent.



My girlfriend's tongue licked the last remaining fluid from my cock, and then she disappeared into the bathroom. I started to put myself together when her voice stopped me.



"Don't get dressed, get naked and come in here."



When I entered the restroom, she'd started a bath, and tooth paste outlined her lips as she finished brushing her teeth. She bent forward, cleaned off her mouth, and then stepped over and kissed me.



"I'm not done kissing you," she explained.



Beautiful blonde hair, soft touch, and a firm, athletic body, Cassidy's beauty and brains stunned me. I felt off-balance around her, like I'd been tossed into a beautiful surf, but couldn't find my balance. Her lips found mine again, and her tongue darted into my mouth.



"Mmmmm," she murmured after our lips parted. "I like kissing you."



"Likewise."



The bathtub was easily large enough for two. Cassidy insisted on washing my body first. She an unusual sponge-like thing to soap up my skin and I had to admit that it felt great. Her lips spent as much time on my skin as her hands, and we shared several long, passionate kisses. My muscles and body felt like butter after she finished.



"Your turn," I said and tried to take the sponge from her.



"Use this," she said and pushed another sponge-like thing into my hands. "And this."



I'd been married long enough to not question a woman's beauty routine. It was sacred to them. The hot water, steam, silky smooth body lotion all combined to make her skin and body feel perfect. Her skin was flawless, and I felt captivated by it. Every inch of her body felt firm, I couldn't help lingering on her ass and breasts. She noticed and she winked at me.



"It's okay. I'm glad you like my body."



"I do. It's amazing."



"My boobs," she said with a shake of her head. "I wish my boobs were a little bigger."

<hr pg="3" />"What? They're perfect."



"Good answer."



I nibbled on her nipples, just to show her how much I liked her tits, and she swatted my head after a few seconds. She pulled me back against her, and wrapped her legs around my waist.



"Got you," she teased and bit my ear. "I'm never letting go."



"You've caught an old man," I replied.



My tone had been joking, but the underlying message couldn't have been more clear.



<em>I'm too old for you.</em>



"Stop," she said. "I know how old you are and it doesn't bother me." She kissed my cheek. "You're going to have to find another reason to push me away, because age isn't going to cut it."



"Quit being so damn perfect."



"Too late."



Our conversation turned to lighter things, and we played in the tub like kids. We teased, joked, and talked until the water turned lukewarm. Our time together had brought us closer together. We both felt it and both of us acted like it hadn't happened. As we ran towels over our bodies, she pulled me close.



"Sleep naked with me tonight. Please."



"Okay," I said.



We climbed between her sheets, smiles on our faces, and she snuggled next to me. Her body felt as good out of the bathtub, as it had felt when I washed it. Her head rested on my chest.



"Hey," I said softly.



"What?"



"Can I do anything for you? Y'know, like you did for me."



Her head shook softly. "No. You've given me more than an orgasm, honey."



"Are you-."



"Quit talking, Nick. Quit over-analyzing. Just go to sleep."



"Yes, ma'am."



"There's hope for you yet," she murmured.



Before I drifted off, I took a second to appreciate this moment. It felt good. No, that's not correct.



It felt right.



Cassidy let me return the favor the next morning. Here's a fun fact. My new girlfriend wakes up horny.



Not a little horny. A lot horny!



She confessed to loving morning sex, just before she sank down on my cock, and rode me like a racehorse. Her muscular legs clamped down on my waist, and I was helpless...and I loved it. I lasted longer this time. Whether it was fear, or the fact that I'd had sex the night before, my stamina increased significantly. My girlfriend bucked and writhed above me until she'd orgasmed twice, and when her third orgasm arrived, I came with her.



Our sweat soaked bodies lay together, Cassidy on top of me, as we caught our breath. I wrapped my arms around her and felt our hearts beating together. Her sweaty body felt erotic, and exciting.



"I love sex with you," she said around a sigh.



"Back at ya."



She sat up. "I'm serious."



"Same here."



"We're good together, I know you feel it."



"I do," I admitted.



"Then don't fight it."



"Cassidy-."



"Shhhhh." Her hand covered my mouth. "Just enjoy what we have together. That's all I'm saying."



"Fine."



I didn't want to fight. The last twelve hours had been too special. Fighting now would ruin it, and we had plenty of time to discuss our relationship later. I also couldn't blame her for acknowledging what we both felt.



Cassidy was honest. It wasn't a character flaw.



<em>I don't deserve her.</em>



"Shower time," she said and patted my chest.



We washed each other's bodies, laughing and joking under the hot spray. Her bathtub was large; her shower was small....go figure. Still, we made it work.



She offered to make breakfast while I got dressed. A smile sprouted on my face when I stepped into her closet. She'd chosen some clothes for me and hung them so that I couldn't miss them.



"Nice," she said when I met her in the kitchen. "Those clothes suit you."



She pulled me into a kiss, and then handed me a cup of coffee. "There's juice in the fridge, you should have some. Coffee is fine, but you should have some juice as well. Breakfast is in the oven, staying warm. I'll be a few minutes, and then we can have breakfast together."



After she disappeared into the bathroom, I called Nicole.



"Morning."



"What do you need?"



No greeting. Not one iota of warmth, ice laced her voice.



"I wanted to check on the girls," I said and hated the defensiveness in my voice.



"They're fine."



"Okayyyy. Are you upset?"



"I've got things to do. Can we talk later?"



"Sure."



Translation?



<em>Yes, I'm upset. You have a girlfriend. You're happy. I'm pissed about it.</em>



I terminated the call and felt my own temper rise. I never wanted to open our marriage. Not with Collin. Not with David. I'd been cautiously supportive the entire fucking time. Even her relationship with Cynthia, I'd supported her during that as well.



The situation had reversed itself and Nicole was pissed, unable to deal with sharing her husband.



<em>What a fucking hypocrite.</em>



Fuck her. I knew what I'd get her for Christmas...a nice big fucking mirror. She had only herself to blame, but I doubt she'd realize it. We'd been married a long time, and I didn't want to think badly of my wife. Still, the rational, objective side of me pointed out that she'd become selfish, borderline narcissistic ever since her relationship with Collin. Focused on her own needs and desires, I wondered if she even considered her family any more. Jasmine obviously sensed her feelings, even if she didn't exactly know the situation.



I suspected David would love this situation. He'd exploit it, use it to drive a wedge between us. This was probably his plan from the beginning.



<em>What do I do about it?</em>



"Nick? What's wrong, honey?"



Cassidy stood in the doorway, looking professional and gorgeous at the same time. Her eyebrows were pursed together, a concerned expression on her face.



"Nicole."



"Ahhh," she said and stepped over to the oven. "Mind if I ask what the issue is with your wife?"



"You," I replied. "She doesn't like our relationship."



"That's rich."



"I know. I know."



"She's free to open her legs for any black guy that comes along, but you can't have your own relationship?"



"Easy," I said. "She's still my wife and I wouldn't want her to speak of you that way. So please be nice."



Her face tightened, but she nodded, and retrieved a pan from the oven. She flipped the pan over, moved it to a large plate and then started cutting it into sections. A minute later, she plopped two plates down.



"Happy breakfast."



"What is this?"



"Frittata," she said and pointed at my plate. "Granola and yogurt."



"Wow. Quite the cook."



"Almost as good as you," she said and kissed my cheek.



We ate in silence for a few minutes, before she popped the last bit of frittata in her mouth. Her hand covered mine.



"I'd like to be the better person," she said. "I could tell you that you should focus on your wife and your marriage."



"But."



"But I'm an honest person, and from my point of view, your wife takes you for granted, ignores your thoughts and opinions, and is totally focused on herself." She shrugged. "I'd like the chance to treat you differently."



"Tough situation," I replied. "Thank you for thinking so highly of me."



She nodded, and then dropped her eyes to her plate.



Bad answer, I know.



Cassidy wanted more than I could give right now, and I wasn't ready to give up on Nicole. I just didn't know how to express my thoughts, at least in a way that wouldn't end with Cassidy in tears.



"Let's ride in together," she said.



"I can't. I have to head home early today."



"We can come back here for lunch," she said with a heated smile. "You can pick up your car then or drop me off, so I can grab mine."



"Okay, sounds good.



We drove to work in my car, holding hands the entire way. The morning flew by, mostly because I had a large account that wasn't cooperating. Insurance isn't rocket science, but when it goes sideways, it can get pretty ugly. After a tense phone call with an underwriter, I needed a break.



"Nicole?"



Silence greeted me when she picked up her cell phone, so I had to say her name twice, before her voice came on the line.



"Nick!"



It sounded like she was gasping.



"Are you okay?"



"Fi-. Fine," she said. "Just ran up a flight of stairs."



"Ohhh. How's the job going?"



A soft groan echoed and it sounded like she covered her phone with her hand. Two or three seconds passed, before I heard her voice.



"Ohhh, it's great! I'm really, really enjoying it-."



"That's good. Are you free for dinner tonight?"



The sound of a slap followed my voice, and I realized why my wife was out of breath. Why it sounded like she covered the phone.



She was being fucked!



As if to confirm my suspicions, I heard her muffled voice. <em>"Stop! Need to talk to Nic-. Oh god, that feels good. Yes! I mean no! Yes, baby! Yes!"</em>



"Nick! Sorry. Trying to do two things at once," she replied through gritted teeth. "Can I call you back?"



I hung up without replying. There was a time when that situation would have turned me on, and a distant part of me still liked it, but now I just felt contempt. That was damned disrespectful, and I wouldn't have done that to her. I replaced the phone with a curse.



"Nick?"



I looked up to see Cassidy in my office doorway. "Yeah."



"Ready for lunch?"



"Sure."



We walked outside, Cassidy keeping a professional distance between us. She didn't hang on me, or hold my hand, or constantly text or IM me all day. Work was work, and our relationship existed outside of the office.



I loved that about her.



Her professionalism lasted exactly two steps inside her apartment. By the fourth step, we were both ripping our clothes off, and awkwardly stumbling towards her bedroom.



She fell back on her bed, and pulled me down on top of her. A second later, I slipped inside my girlfriend, and reveled in the sensation. She felt tight around me, and I thrust inside until I'd buried myself completely. Her sharp intake of breath, and long, lusty moan afterwards, let me know she enjoyed the sensation as well.



Our lovemaking became hot, heated, and primal, both of us raced towards our own orgasm, and it was a close race. Delicious pain shot through my body, as her fingernails dug into my flesh. First on my upper back, and then she etched a molten line of lust down my back until I she gripped my ass and pulled me deeper inside her. Pain and pleasure mixed, and I heard my own battle cry echo in the room as I came inside her. Her body shook and shuddered beneath me, and her eyes grew wide, when her own orgasm exploded inside her.



Fifteen minutes, maybe, and it was over, but we'd lived a lifetime in that short span of time. Sweat covered our bodies, and both of us gasped for air.



"Lay on me," she gasped.



I rested my bodyweight on her, and she hummed with pleasure. Her hands roamed over my back, just her fingertips this time, not her nails, and it felt great.



"I like it when you lay on me," she explained. "It makes me feel feminine."



"Is that right?"



"Yes." She kissed me, and then kissed me again. "I don't suppose you'd be willing to take the rest of the day off?" An evil, inviting smile slid over her lips. "I'll make it worth your while."



"I'd like to, but I can't."



"I understand."



"No. I mean I'd really like to spend the rest of the day with you. I mean it." I sighed and rolled off her. "I just can't. I have to work on," I named the account. "And it can't wait."



"That one again?"



"Yeah."



"You should let them find another agent," she said. "It's not worth it."



"Maybe," I replied. "I'm not ready to admit defeat."



"Let me know if you need help."



"I will."



She snuggled next to me, and we lay in silence for the next several minutes. I have to admit...it felt great. My eyes grew heavy, and after I had to shake myself awake for the third time, I pulled my body into a sitting position.



"Falling asleep," I said, and glanced to my side.



Cassidy was fast asleep.



My eyes traveled over her naked body. Perfect. Flawless skin, toned muscles, and beautiful face. Her thick blonde hair spilled over the comforter. My body reacted predictably, and I shook my head.



"Shower. Change. Work."



I repeated those words, focusing on what needed to come next, not what I wanted to come next. I couldn't go back to work smelling of sex, or worse, go home smelling like bodily fluids.



The hot shower felt good, and I dunked my head under the spray.



"Ahhh!"



I jumped when I felt cool hands cup my junk. Cassidy's giggle quickly followed, and she gave my cock a little jerk.



"I missed you."



"Sorry. I wanted to take a shower before we head back."



"I get it," she said and ran her hands over my back. "I agree. We can't go back to the office smelling like great, amazing sex."



"Nope."



"Here, let me."



She took the soap out of my hands and ran it over my body.



"You're spoiling me."



"Damn right."



Not to be outdone, I returned the favor. It wasn't a chore. Any chance I had to run my hands over her body was a gift.



"Okay," I said as I knotted my tie. "I'll be working on that account most of the afternoon. I'm planning on leaving early to pick up the girls, and then I think Nicole and I are going to have dinner. We need to talk."



"Gotcha. Girlfriend time is over."



"Sorry, but yeah. At least for tonight."



"I understand. Call me later, if you can."



"I will," I said.



She faced me, adjusted my tie a little, and gave me a peck on the lips. "Go. I have to touch up my make-up. I'll see you back at the office."



I nodded and offered a smile. I wanted to say more, but words wouldn't come, so I stepped outside. The drive back to the office was quick, Cassidy didn't live far, and when I checked my watch I realized we'd only been gone an hour. I didn't have a boss, I was the boss, but I still felt guilty if I took over an hour for lunch.



A strong work ethic sucks.



"Nicole!" My wife was waiting for me inside our lobby. "What are you doing here?"



"Waiting for you." Her eyes elevatored up and down my body. "Nice clothes."



"Ummm, thanks," I stuttered. "Let's go to my office."



She nodded and I stepped past her to lead the way. A strange cologne greeted my nose as we walked together. David's cologne. I'd taken time to wash the sex off my body, but my wife hadn't. I thought I caught the scent of sex, but truthfully, I didn't want to get that close to her.



She took a seat in front of my desk, and I closed the door. "What's up?"



"Our phone call this morning."



"What about it?"



"I'm sorry."



"Sorry? For taking my call when David had his cock inside you?" Acid dripped from each letter, but I couldn't resist. "Or for trying to play it off as climbing the stairs."



"Both." She narrowed her eyes at me. "Asshole."



"Yeah," I said with a nod. "I'm the asshole."



"It wasn't easy for me to come here."



"It wasn't easy for me to listen to that call," I shot back.



"I don't want to argue," she said. "Please, can we just talk?"



I held up my hands. "Yes. I'm sorry too."



"Good." She took a breath. "I'd like to have dinner tonight. Just us two."



"I'm glad. I was hoping we'd get a chance to be alone."



"Me too."



"I was planning on picking up the girls."



"Excellent. Thank you. David's office is downtown, and the drive is tough during rush hour."



"How's your job going, by the way," I asked, and then shrugged. "Aside from the fringe benefits."



"Good." She looked happy. "I don't know anything about the law, so I feel a bit out of place, but I'm only David's assistant for now."



"Do you like it?"



"Yeah," she said with a genuine smile. "It's interesting. The law, I mean. His firm is small, mostly corporate law, but he has a litigation department and we went to lunch with them today. They had some really cool stories."



"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself."



"It's fun." She sighed and ran her fingers through her hair. I could tell she enjoyed her first day. "He's offered to pay for paralegal training, and even offered to help me get into law school."



"Is that what you want?"



"Yeah," she said. "I think so. It's new and exciting, and the idea of going to law school is intriguing. I know I just started and everything, but I like the idea of having my own career, something beyond customer service. You know what I mean?"



"Yes." Our eyes met. "Nicole, we can afford law school. We don't need David's help."



She nodded. "I know. I told him that as well."



"And what did he say?"



"He understands."



Her expression and tone were...off. If I hadn't been married to her for so long, I might not have noticed, but I did and I pushed forward.



"Nikki," I said with a guarded voice. "What did David actually say?"



She sighed. "He said I'm a Queen of Spades now. If I need anything, he'll make sure I have it." She cleared her throat. "A black man should provide for me."



"And here I thought it was just a tattoo. Sounds more like a lifestyle."



"No," she said. "David's just a strong personality. He's used to getting his way, and providing for me gives him pleasure."



"Dominant."



"Yes."



"Just the way you like your men."



"Nick, stop. We can afford Law School. David can afford Law School. He's not giving me anything you can't, and if he wants to pay for it, why not let him."



"Ummmm, maybe because this lifestyle," I said and made quotations with my fingers. "Is tearing us apart. You can be my wife, or you can be David's queen of spades, I don't see how you can be both."



"I can," she snapped. "I'm your wife. I'm also David's Queen of Spades." A confident smile grew on her face. "I can manage two men."



I held up my hands, and shook my head. "Let's talk about it tonight. Please. We're not going to resolve anything now."



"Fine," she replied with a relieved expression.



She stood, smoothed her dress, and met my eyes. "Thank you."



"For what?"



"Everything. You didn't have to agree to the whole open marriage thing, and you're being more than reasonable about my tattoo's and new job." She took a breath. "I appreciate it, and I just wanted you to know."



"You're welcome."



I stood and walked over to the door, and held it open for her. She smiled at me and stepped closer for a hug, but I shook my head and held up a hand.



"Sorry. But you smell like David...and sex."



"Oh my god, really?"



I nodded. "Yeah."



"That used to excite you."



"Not anymore, Nikki."



"Ummm, okay," she said and blushed. "This just got awkward."



"I'll pick up the girls and see you tonight."



"Fine."



I closed the door. I didn't watch her walk away. I didn't stare at her for a long moment. Truthfully, I felt relieved when my door closed, and I wasn't how I felt about it. I shouldn't have been relieved, but that's the emotion that ran strongly through my body.



"Fuck!"



* * *



The restaurant was loud and crowded, not exactly the best location for a deep marital discussion. Nicole suggested it. Don't get me wrong, I liked the food and the bar was well stocked with bourbon and scotch. It wasn't a bad choice; it just wasn't ideal.



"Oh my god," she gushed after she took a sip of her margarita. "I missed this place. They're drinks are amazing," she finished by singing the last word.



"It's been a while," I added. "This used to be our hang-out. This place has seen a lot of happy hours."



"Remember that time," she began.



The next half hour saw us laughing and reminiscing over old times, past happy hours, friends and colleagues. We'd worked together for several years, before Collin entered our lives, and we'd been together through it all.



"Nicole?" A strange voice interrupted our laughter. "I thought that was you."



My wife turned and a wide, genuine smile appeared on her face. She stood.



"Hey you," she said as they stepped into a tight hug.



I sipped my bourbon and waited to be introduced. Our new friend was tall, fashionably dressed and black...of course. I estimated his age at mid-thirties, and based on the Tag Heuer watch on his wrist, he did well for himself.



"I'm sorry," he said as they separated. He held out his hand. "I'm DeMarco."

<hr pg="4" />"Nick," I stood and we shook hands. "Nice to meet you."



"Same here."



"Nick is a close friend of mine," Nicole added. "We used to work together."



"Gotcha," he replied.



I got the once-over from DeMarco. His expression was unreadable, but I got the sense that I'd been sized up. Why? I couldn't tell you.



"What are you doing here?" She asked.



"The game." He shrugged and motioned over his shoulder. "Couple of buddies and I always come here for Spurs home games."



"Uh huh," she replied with an amused expression. "I'm sure the cute women have nothing to do with it."



"Maybe," he replied with a smile that came with a pair of dimples. "Trying to find my own Nicole, I guess."



She patted his arm. "Stop it."



Attention and compliments, my wife loved them both. Everything about her seemed to change as I watched. Her body language became more open, relaxed, and her smile couldn't have been brighter. They teased each other like old friends.



"Hey, come on over and meet the guys."



She cocked her head. "The guys?"



"C'mon," he said and rolled his eyes. "I've got to introduce you. It's a rule."



"Well," she said and put her hands on her hip. "If it's a rule, then I guess I have to, don't I?"



He laughed and slipped his arm around her shoulders. "Yes. You do."



They started to walk away, whispering together, when DeMarco glanced over his shoulders. "Back in a second, Nick."



Nicole's new friend guided her over, his arm across her shoulders the entire time, and hungry smiles greeted them. The guys-DeMarco's friends- all stood when they reached the table. He introduced her, and to a man, their eyebrows rose and I swear they started drooling. DeMarco held up his hands, saying something for emphasis, and nods quickly followed. Each guy kind of deflated a little, and they exchanged a few sad shrugs.



Nothing left to do, I sipped my drink and took out my phone. Cassidy would love a phone call, but I didn't want to call my girlfriend when I was supposed to be with my wife. Yeah, I know...weird problem.



I glanced back towards Nicole and managed to see all of them laughing. DeMarco said something that had all the men raising their eyebrows, and Nicole nodded, looking a little embarrassed. A second passed before DeMarco held up his pinkie finger and wiggled it in the air, the men followed suit, and Nicole slugged him playfully on the arm. Her eyes glanced in my direction, before she quickly turned back.



Three guess who they were talking about? Right..you only need one guess.



I dialed Cassidy.



"Hey, handsome."



Her voice sounded like a cool breeze, a cold drink on a hot day, in short it sounded perfect.



"Hey back."



"What's going on? I didn't expect to hear from you tonight."



"Nicole," I replied. "She found a friend at the restaurant and he invited her over to meet his friends."



"She walked out on you? That bitch! Want me to come over?"



"No. She just stopped by their table, I'm sure she'll be back soon."



"You guys at Chacho's?"



"Best margaritas in San Antonio."



"The strongest maybe, I don't know about the best."



"I'm only a few minutes away," she offered. "I can be there in five minutes."



"No. I'm pretty sure Nicole would go ballistic."



"Oh, but she can leave you to chat with her new friends. Let me guess, they're all black?"



"Ummmm."



"That's what I thought."



Out of the corner of my eye, I saw DeMarco leading Nicole back to our table. I sighed quietly.



"Gotta go. I'll see you tomorrow."



"Tonight," she said quickly. "Ditch your wife and come spend the night with me."



"I can't."



She purred into the phone. "It was worth a shot."



"Talk to you later."



"Bye."



DeMarco apologized insincerely for stealing my wife (friend). I nodded and offered my own insincere smile back. They flirted back and forth for a minute, and then he finally let her go.



"I'll let you get back to your dinner," he said after a flood of flirting. "Stop by later. We'd love to have you join us."



"Awwww," she said. "Thanks. Stay out of trouble."



"Yes," he replied. He reached down, took her hand and brought it to his lips. "My queen."



"Stop," she shushed him.



He finally gave her hand back, and she pushed him away. "Go. Your friends are waiting."



"Nice to meet you, Nick."



We shook hands, and he walked back across the restaurant. I didn't have a good view, because they were in a different section, but it looked like he was with at least four to six other guys.



"My queen?" I asked as we both took our seats.



"He's a friend of David's," she said as her cheeks turned red. "He knows about.." She shrugged. "The tattoo."



"I take it he doesn't know you're married."



"He does," she said. "I just didn't want him to know you were my husband."



"Why?"



She leaned forward. "Because the less people who know you're my husband, the better. San Antonio is a small place, even smaller in our circles, and the more we can keep a low profile, the better."



"I guess I can understand that," I replied. I wasn't sure I believed her, but she did have a point. "What's he do?"



"Lawyer, of course. He used to work in the DA's office, but he's switched sides and now he's a defense attorney. Pretty successful one at that."



"Does he work in David's firm?"



"No. He's a close friend of David's. He's been a mentor to DeMarco for a long time. Helped him after he graduated from Law School."



"That's cool. Maybe David isn't such a bad guy."



"He's not," she said and nudged my knee with her leg. "Truly, he's not, honey. I realize you may not believe me, but he's kind and generous and he's gone out of his way to help others...even Collin."



"Okay. Fine. I accept that, but that doesn't sync up with the dominant guy person I see. The David I see is a controlling, domineering guy who isn't happy unless he gets his way one hundred percent of the time."



She nodded. "That's part of his personality, sure, but people aren't one-dimensional, honey. David can be a dominant guy and still be generous." Our eyes met, and she nodded at me. "Of all people, you should be able to understand how complex some people can be."



I let that pass. Her point was well taken, but I wasn't playing the role of Cuckold Husband anymore. That was history and tonight wasn't about the past.



"He wants you, Nikki. However, kind and generous he is, I know he wants you for himself. You're not a part-time Queen of Spades, David won't settle for half-way."



"I know."



She sat back and sipped her margarita. I wasn't sure if she was stalling for time or what, but I continued to press her.



"You know? That's all you have to say?"



"I know," she repeated. "And I've already told David that you're my husband, and I won't leave you."



"And his response?"



"Always the same, he says he understands."



"The fox always promises to faithfully guard the henhouse."



Yes, I stole that line from Cynthia, but it sure seemed appropriate. Nicole narrowed her eyes at me for a moment, before she took a sip of her drink. When she set the glass down, she took a breath.



Then her phone rang.



She started to reach into her purse, but I put a hand on her arm. "Really? I thought tonight was about us."



"Just a second," she snapped. "It's David."



She grabbed her phone, offered me an apologetic glance, and then stepped towards an exit. Fortunately, the exit wasn't near her group of fans in the other room, otherwise I doubted I'd get her back.



<em>Ditch your wife and come spend the night with me.</em>



Cassidy's words echoed in my head. At this rate, I wouldn't have to ditch Nicole, she'd be the one ditching me.



I glanced in her direction and saw her shaking her head and motioning with her hand. It was a reaction I knew well. She was arguing with David. She glanced at me, and then quickly looked away, shaking her head the entire time. She paced back and forth for several seconds, before she finally nodded and seemed to agree with him.



When she looked back, it wasn't at me. Her eyes were focused on DeMarco and his table of friends. Her eyes were scared, excited, and I knew whatever David was saying to her was turning her on.



I took a long sip of my drink, and then casually shifted in my chair. DeMarco was sitting with his friends, but his eyes were locked on Nicole. He knew something. The smile that lit his face was a dead giveaway that he already knew what David was telling my wife. His friends were watching the game, but DeMarco was focused like a laser beam on Nicole.



Hunter. Prey.



This wasn't Wild Kingdom, but based on the body language between DeMarco and Nicole, the lion was going to catch the gazelle.



Nicole ended her call, sighed visibly, and then squared her shoulders. She took a deep breath, and then walked back inside. She held a hand up to me, and then motioned with her head to DeMarco. Usain Bolt never moved as fast as this guy when he left his friends to walk over to Nicole. An arrogant smile pasted on his face.



Nicole slipped her arm inside his, and they walked outside together. I thought I noticed a few glances in my direction from other patrons, and then all of DeMarco's friends looked in my direction with sarcastic smiles on their faces. One of them raised his pinkie and wiggled it in the air.



Enough!



Once upon a time, I'd have taken this kind of treatment, even been excited by it. No longer. This wasn't a cuckold relationship. This was an abusive relationship, not physically abusive, but emotionally and my wife should have known better. I dug out my wallet, left more than enough money to cover the bill, and then dialed Cassidy.



"I'm coming over."



"Yes!"



"I don't know if I can spend the night, but I'm done with dinner."



"Don't care," she said quickly. "Get over here."



"On my way."



I almost left without telling Nicole. It would have served her right, but I knew it was petty. As badly as our night had gone, I didn't want to make it worse. I slipped my phone in my pocket, and headed towards Nicole and DeMarco.



Hindsight being twenty-twenty, I <em>should have</em> left without telling her.



I don't regret what happened next.

