TITLE    : The One Less Traveled By Ch. 09
STORYID  : the-one-less-traveled-by-ch-09
SUMMARY  : Arguments, Fights, Successes and Re-Connecting
AUTHOR   : JayCuck@lit
DATE     : 2013-10-20
CATEGORY : interracial-erotic-stories
FLAGS    : 
TAGS     : |hotwife|cuckold|bull|interracial|


<i>I want to thank everyone who has read this series. I especially want to thank those of you who have emailed me or provided feedback. I really do appreciate it. 



This story includes real life situations and experiences and I hope you enjoy it. Fair warning! This story is an interracial cuckold story; that involves a loving hotwife, a dominant boyfriend and a husband who is becoming more and more comfortable being a cuckold husband. 



Please do not read any further, if you don't care for those subjects. </i>







My mind was a jumble of thoughts and emotions, as I stepped through the doorway and into the sound of little giggles and laughter coming from the kitchen. A smile started to grow on my face, as I shut the door quietly, slid my golf shoes off and tip-toed through the living room towards the kitchen. My body leaned slowly around the corner, so I could see what the devil was going on in the kitchen, without the girls knowing I was watching them. 



April was standing on the little stool she used when she wanted to watch me cook and Jasmine was whisking away at something inside a mixing bowl; with April occasionally sticking her finger in and tasting what they were concocting. Honestly, it had to be the cutest thing I'd seen in a while and I quietly walked across the floor, grabbed our digital camera and starting taking pictures. I must have taken at least 5 different pictures, before they realized I was there, and tried to hide their little project. April almost fell off her stool as giggles took over her body and Jasmine blushed furiously as she scooted the mixing bowl further behind her back, with a tremendously guilty look on her face. 



I could barely keep the laughter out of my voice. "All right. What are you making?" 



"Nothing." The girls strung the word out slowly so it actually came out as... "Nuuuuthhinnnngg!"



The answer came from both of them in unison, before they started laughing and giggling again, with April holding onto Jasmine so she didn't fall off her stool. I finally got the opportunity to give the girls my own eye-roll and walked into the kitchen. 



"Whatever. C'mon girls show it to me."



Jasmine slowly brought the bowl around from her behind her and held it out to me. Immediately I knew it was brownie mix and it looked like they had made two packages of brownie mix. It looked like we were going to have over two dozen brownies with dinner this evening. 



"Brownies huh? What's the occasion?"



April smiled up at me. "It's a surprise daddy." 



"Really?" I ruffled her hair. "A surprise for who sprout?"



The girls looked at each other, started giggling again and I definitely noticed Jasmine blush a completely new shade of red and suddenly focus on whisking the brownie mix. 



April looked up at me. "We're making them for Collin."



"Is that right?" 



"Yep. Mom said he's coming to dinner tonight, so we wanted to surprise him with Brownies."



OK, now I was confused. "When did your mom say that honey?"



Jasmine answered and kept whisking. "She called a few minutes before you got home and said Collin was coming over for dinner tonight." She looked up at me finally. "She said she wanted you to make Paella on the grill tonight for dinner."



"Is that right?" 



<i>What the fuck? </i>I thought to myself. She'd spent the last three days with him and most of today as well and now he was coming to dinner? I did like Collin and today was a lot of fun, but I needed some space from him and I wanted my wife back. Unfortunately it looked like Nicole was having so much fun with Collin, I started to doubt whether she wanted to come back or not. I shook my head and brought myself back to the present. Jasmine and April were both looking at me with a question on their face and I smiled at them."



"Well I better get started then." 



Paella was one of our favorite dishes and I made it on our little bbq grill, which gave it a nice smoky flavor and was as close to original paella as I could get. I knew the refrigerator held all the ingredients, because I went shopping for them earlier, and I started gathering everything and prepping the food. The girls were not real good in the kitchen, so I had them walk me through what they used in the Brownie mix, because I really didn't want them serving something toxic. Fortunately, they followed the directions perfectly and I helped them get the brownie mix into the pan and into the oven. 



As I prepped the food, I had a chance to think about the round of golf today, but more importantly Nicole's little show in the bar. Yes, it absolutely turned me on and I loved it, but it was also something I worried about, because it seemed out of character for Nicole. At least, it was out of character for the Nicole that I had known for almost two decades. 



How far would she go for Collin? 



How far would Collin expect her to go? 



Was Collin planning on sharing Nicole with other men? 



The thought of Nicole being with any other men, besides Collin, made me very uncomfortable because that was well beyond anything we had discussed, boundaries or no boundaries. I trusted Collin to look out for Nicole when she was with him and I didn't want him putting her in situations that she might regret later. Situations that we ALL might regret later. Now that I thought about it, the pictures Collin had taken were a similar concern, because the internet was full of pictures that were never intended to be seen publicly. 



I mentally inventoried everything that had happened over the last few days and my anger started to build, I couldn't help feeling a little resentful. Nicole spent three nights going out with Collin, then she missed breakfast with me and the girls and then she spent all day with Collin today and now he was coming over for dinner. Sure she had spent a few minutes with me and taken Jasmine shopping, but that felt like leftovers and that made my anger grow even further. I could handle less of Nicole's attention, but the girls shouldn't have to compete with Collin for her attention.



The extremely sharp knife cut easily through the hard, Spanish chorizo and I sliced it into small round slices, before moving on to cutting the onions. I finished prepping the food and slid everything back into the refrigerator, before heading out to get the BBQ grill ready. A beer magically appeared in my hand as I headed out the door and found the bag of charcoal briquettes. Once I got the coals started, I sat down to enjoy my beer in our back yard and replayed the last round of golf today. 



<i>So Nicole flashed her tits last night in the hotel bar and she took her panties off this afternoon, but not before giving all three of us a little show, </i>I thought. <i>Damn, who is this woman?</i>



The video flashed through my mind and my heart started beating faster and faster, as the memory played over and over again. It was soooo erotic to see Nicole that uninhibited and I knew I would love to see it again. My cock got uncomfortably hard and I tried to focus on something else, but I couldn't. I was completely hooked on watching Nicole and it seemed Collin knew exactly how I felt and encouraged Nicole to show off. The feelings and desires that this new relationship had created in me, were more than a little disconcerting. 



A husband shouldn't enjoy being teased this much by his wife and her lover. I shouldn't enjoy being denied the right to see my wife in her underwear or naked, but honestly, I did like it...no, that's not true, I loved it. Truthfully, I loved almost everything that had happened so far and while I was a little scared and worried about some activities; it wasn't enough for me to want to stop. Yes, I was angry with Nicole, but I loved her dearly and despite my anger, I felt the familiar urge to see her with Collin again. 



The ice cold beer bottle found my lips and I drained half the bottle in one pull, savoring the slightly bitter taste of the wheat beer as it slid down my throat. The afternoon was warm and I could smell the heavy sweet smell of the salvia's, lantanas and roses that surrounded our patio. The soft gurgling sound of water drifted up from our pool and I enjoyed the rippling surface of the pool water. I wanted to jump and go swimming, but the BBQ grill was ready, so I pulled myself upright and got the pizza stone setup on the cooking grate. 



I used the pizza stone as a base and then put the Paella pan on the pizza stone and it really worked great; because the pizza stone distributed the heat almost evenly across the bottom of the Paella pan. A true Paella pan had a pretty thin, metal bottom, so it conducted heat really well and if the heat was uneven, then the part of the paella would be undercooked, while the other was over-cooked. What can I say, I'm a food geek. 



Stepping quickly inside, I got the Paella pan on the grill, started to sweat the onions and chorizo and got myself another beer. The girls were alternating between watching TV and checking the brownies every two minutes. I estimated that it would take double the normal time to bake the brownies today, but it was completely worth it to watch the girls have fun with each other. Jasmine seemed very intent on getting the brownies just right, while April just enjoyed doing something with her older sister. Jasmine was 13, almost 14 years old and I guessed it was about the right age to start crushing on boys. I'd been spared that up until recently, but that was definitely changing. 



The girls were sitting watching TV, when the front door opened and they jumped up with a loud "Mom!" and they both rushed over to get a hug. Nicole walked into the living room and gave me a smile, I noticed that there wasn't any indication that she was tipsy, so she must have stopped drinking after I left. I got a kiss on the cheek, a big hug and a soft "I love you", before she headed off to the restroom to freshen up. 



The chicken was sliced and ready, when I headed outside to get it started and finish my beer. Nicole was decanting some wine, when I came back in and I got another ravishing smile as she put the decanter on the counter. 



I didn't return the smile. "Where's Collin?" 



"He's stopped to get something, but he should be here in a few minutes." 



She gave me a sexy little smile. It was her 'I'm keeping a secret smile' and I could only guess at what secret she was keeping. 



"Cool." 



My voice was light and even, but I was starting to simmer again under the surface. I nodded and replaced my beer bottle, with a glass of wine and I poured a glass of wine for Nicole and handed it over to her. 



"Thanks baby." She took a sip. "Great round of golf by the way. You really kicked some ass out there and John called Collin to say how much fun you were as well. He liked you a lot by the way." 



"Thank you." My response was deliberately curt. "It was really fun to get out and hit the ball around." I paused and lowered my voice. "The show at the bar was a surprise though." A meaningful look passed between us and Nicole blushed a little.



"I'm glad you liked it honey. It was fun."



"Do you do that often for Collin?"



She smiled at me, glanced over at the girls who were watching TV and shook her head. 



"Let's talk about it tonight."



"Damn right, we'll talk about it."



Nicole gave me a surprised look and I met her eyes directly and she quickly looked around the kitchen.



"Can I help with anything?"



"No. I've got it all under control."



"Cool. I'm going to change." She started to walk towards the bedroom and looked over her shoulder. "Collin should be here shortly. Will you let him in girls?"



"Sure mom."



I sipped my wine and watched Nicole disappear into our bedroom, I waited a few minutes before following her. My footsteps were almost silent as I quietly stepped past the doorway and made my way towards the bathroom. Nicole appeared, looking down as she stepped towards me, but she jumped back suddenly, with a cute little yelp, as she realized I was in front of her. 



"Ahh! Damn Nick, you scared the shit out of me. What the fuck?"



"I didn't mean to scare you. I just wanted to know if you were planning to stay here tonight or if I should explain to the girls that mom only lives with us part time now."



"Nick. Stop it. You're over-reacting."



"Whatever." It was a lame response, but it was all I could manage.



"Honey, please calm down. I know I've spent a lot of time with Collin the last few days, but I'm home now. Can we just have a nice dinner?" She patted my shoulder and stepped past me.



My eyes followed her, as she slowly cat-walked out of our bedroom. She had changed into a pair of shorts that showed a lot of leg, but fortunately covered her ass, just barely. She had a new top on that showed off her cleavage and clung tightly to her stomach. It was a casually sexy outfit, designed to catch a guy's eye and keep it on her. The sway of her hips, kept my eyes focused on her retreating form, until she disappeared into the living room. I couldn't help it, I still found her irresistible. 



My glass of wine was still on the counter and I swept it up and headed back outside to tend the food. Cooking had developed into my sanctuary, my part-time passion and I felt relaxed and happy any chance I got to cook. Unfortunately, today seemed to be the exception. The wine was great and I sipped it slowly while I added the rice and the chicken and chicken stock to the paella. The super-secret ingredient that made paella, unique was finally added and I watched with satisfaction as the entire dish took on a nice golden hue. 



Saffron was the super-secret ingredient to paella and it was often called 'red gold' because it was painstakingly hard to harvest. The spice Saffron was actually the stamen of a flower, grown in a lot of places, but grown famously in Spain. Saffron had a unique flavor and it turned paella a nice yellow/gold color when added to the dish. I think I already mentioned that I was a food-geek.



Collin stepped outside to join me, as I was tending the Paella and enjoying the smoky, smell of the grill and I nodded toward him. He was grinning from ear to ear and I was suddenly suspicious that I was about to be the victim of a practical joke. 



"Nick. You sand-baggin' son of bitch." He laughed loudly and clapped me on the back. "You kicked ass today on the course and I definitely want a rematch."



"Thanks Collin." I raised my wine glass. "I'm always willing to kick your ass some more around the links, just say when."



"It's on then!" He paused. "Did you like the course and clubhouse?"



Now that seemed like a stupid question. "Hell yes. It's a really nice place and I was thinking about getting a membership there."



"Yea it's really nice and a lot of business in done on the course and in the clubhouse." He grabbed a seat and looked up at me. "We should start playing regularly. What do you think?"



"Sure. I'd love to get more time out on the course."



"Dude, you were a hit with John. He kept talking about coming back down and getting together again." Collin raised his glass and took a sip. "He's going to be back in town this week actually, so maybe you can get together with him."



"That sounds good." 



I didn't plan on going out this week, but if John wanted to grab a quick beer after work, I was open to it. The paella was bubbling nicely and I left Collin to run and grab the seafood portion of the dish, which basically consisted of large scallops and shrimp. The girls had disappeared upstairs, but I yelled up and let them know dinner was going to be ready soon. When I stepped back outside, Nicole was standing next to Collin and drinking his beer. 



"Dude, your wife is drinking my beer."



I smiled, but before I could respond Nicole patted Collin on the shoulder and went back inside, giving me a smile and wink as she walked past me. 



"I'll get you another one Collin." Nicole said as she stepped inside. 



I added the final ingredients to the Paella and stirred it, before finally covering and glancing at the clock to guestimate when it would be ready. Nicole stepped out with another beer for Collin and sat across the table from him. My seat was empty, in between both of them and I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something coming tonight. 



Silence reigned over the table as I sipped my wine and glanced between Nicole and Collin. The looks they were giving each other spoke volumes and I was certain something was up. My mood was souring quickly and irritation was growing as well, but I kept a carefully neutral look on my face. Finally Nicole couldn't stand it anymore, she got up and went inside, squeezing Collin's shoulder on her way. 



Collin smiled at me. "Nick, when's the food going to be ready?"



"About 10 minutes Collin."



"Great. I'm going to head inside and wait with the girls."



"Cool. I'll be in when it's done."



Collin followed Nicole and walked inside and I got to be alone with my thoughts, which were all jumbled up as usual. I wasn't stupid, clearly Nicole and Collin were planning something, I just really hoped it was appropriate for the girls and didn't push any boundaries. Not tonight. I just wasn't in the mood to be a cuck husband tonight. 



A few minutes later and the Paella was ready, so I carefully carried it inside. One of the quirks about Paella is that it's meant to eaten right from the pan, so I plopped the pan on the table and called everyone over. The girls didn't hesitate and started spooning heaps on to their plates. 



"Nick. Dude you burnt it!" 



Collin said it like a joke, but when no one laughed he looked at me with a question on his face. 



"Collin, Paella is supposed to be burnt on the bottom. That part is actually considered the best part of the dish and it adds a nice crunchy crust. A lot of restaurants don't burn the bottom, so you may never have had it like that, but you should try it."



"Uh huh." I couldn't help but take a little pleasure in Collin's lack of knowledge. 



Dinner went well and Collin didn't have to move a muscle again, because the girls and Nicole still treated him like a king. I was positive the novelty would wear off pretty quickly, but it still got under my skin. The brownies were very good, but we barely made a dent in the pile of brownies. The girls handled the dishes and Collin, Nicole and I went outside to enjoy the evening. 



"Ok you two, fess up!" They weren't even seated yet, but I was sick of waiting and sick of the bullshit smiles. "I can tell by the looks you two are exchanging that something up, so out with it."



"Nick honey, Collin and I-."



"Nicole, knock it off." The tone of my voice and my obvious mood, didn't allow for platitudes, patronizing and other assorted bullshit. 



"I don't need a long explanation and I'm not in the mood to be handled." I made quotation motions with my hands around the word handled and I meant it. 



Nicole looked down at her feet, before looking over at Collin and finally taking a seat. 



"Sorry Nick." Collin sat down and took over the conversation from Nicole. "I don't think that's what Nicole was trying to do, but I can understand that's how it may seem." He paused, looked between us and seemed to make a decision. "Why don't you two sit here for a second and I'll be right back."



My attention was focused on the glass of bourbon in my hand and I didn't respond to Collin. Nicole just looked over at Collin, rolled her eyes and nodded to him. Nicole looked over at me as Collin walked into the house. 



"Nick is something wrong?" 



"Y'know what Nicole?" I leaned forward and fixed my eyes on her. "I played golf all day with your boyfriend, I watched my wife put on a show in a bar, I was told by a complete stranger that my wife put on another show last night, I've cooked dinner, helped the girls with their surprise brownies and too top it all off; I had to watch you and Collin stare at each other like teenagers all through dinner."

<hr pg="2" />My voice had risen and I felt my expression evolve into an outright glare as I finished. 



"I just don't have the patience for any more bullshit tonight, not from you and not from Collin."



Nicole's eyes turned down again and she stared at her hands, the pain in her face was obvious, but I was not in a mood to care. My bourbon never tasted better and I focused my attention on it, at least I could rely on the bourbon. 



"I'm sorry you feel that way Nick." Her voice was just above a whisper. 



"Fuck you Nicole. I don't need your pity."



Collin rejoined us at the table and set two packages down in front of me with a big smile. If he noticed the tension between Nicole and me, he wasn't giving any indication of it. He settled back into his chair and took a sip of wine. 



"What's this?" I gave him a neutral look.



Collin held up his hands. "Just open them Nick. Nicole and I both wanted to get you something for being so great this week."



The closest package was a rectangular box and I pulled the wrapping paper from it and smiled, I couldn't help myself. I was really invested in being in a bad mood, but this gift was broke through my mood easily.



"Seriously? How did you know my favorite cigar?"



Collin shrugged. "I asked your wife."



"Wow. Partagas Series S! An entire box of my favorite fucking cigars. Thank you Collin."



The next package was obviously liquor and I suspected it was a bottle of Scotch or Bourbon. The wrapping paper came off easily and I laughed out loud.



"Glen Livet! 25 year old Scotch. Damn! Thanks again Collin."



"You're welcome Nick. You've been great this week and especially today with John." He gave me a wink. "You handled the little show in the bar pretty well too." Nicole hid her face behind her hands. "Bottom line, you were great and I really appreciate it."



"I had fun today. Thanks for inviting me."



"No problem." He motioned towards the cigars and Scotch. "Besides, I fully expect you to share that Scotch with me and a cigar or three." 



"Damn straight I will."



"Cool." He took another sip of wine. "Nick, I also wanted to apologize for monopolizing Nicole's time lately, I know that you and I originally agreed on a few dates last week and it turned into almost 5 days away from you and the kids." He looked over at me. "That's really my fault Nick. I'm sorry."



"Thanks Collin. Yes it was definitely bothering me and I appreciate you mentioning it today." 



It was nice of Collin to acknowledge the 800 lb. pink gorilla in the room, but his apology definitely wasn't the end of the issue. He could fall on his sword all he wanted, but the last time I checked my wife was a freakin' adult and she could have come home at any time. 



"You're welcome." He finished his wine and leaned forward towards me. 



"There is one last item I wanted to give you Nick. I hope you'll accept it."



"What is it?" I didn't see any other packages. 



Collin reached behind him and pulled an envelope out of his back pocket and passed it over to me. Nicole looked at him with a question on her face, he shook his head and returned his attention to me. The envelope was made of a heavy cotton bond paper and sealed with wax, which surprised me and I looked back at Collin, who nodded gravely. 



The wax seal snapped loudly and I slowly pulled out the contents of the envelope and laid them on the table in front of me. My heart stopped as I read the material slowly, once, twice and finally a third time before I looked back up at Collin. 



"Holy Shit!" It was a poor response, but I was completely floored. 



Nicole's voice was a little alarmed. "What is it Nick?" 



Of course, I ignored her. 



"Collin." I paused and struggled to find the right words. "Collin, thank you, but I'm not sure I can accept this from you."



"Nick. I understand how you feel but I hope you decide to accept it."



"Honey." Nicole tried again. "What is it?"



I shook my head and looked over at her. 



"Nicole, it's a three year membership at the Golf and Country Club we were at today." 



Nicole's mouth dropped open and I just nodded. The value of this gift had to exceed $25k, maybe more and it came with other benefits that were worth more than money. Nicole and I just stared at each other and she finally came around to read the documents. 



"C'mon Nick. I saw you talking with the guest manager after our round of golf today and you just said you were thinking about getting a membership."



"Collin, she told me that there was a waiting list for membership." I paused. "A two year waiting list! Isn't there an approval process as well?"



Collin shrugged his shoulders and a look of modesty passed over his face, as he finished his wine. 



"Yea well. I dropped a few names and the club was happy to make an exception."



Nicole's hands were rubbing my shoulder and I looked up at her, searching her face for an indication of her thoughts. She gave me a slight, almost imperceptible nod and I knew she wanted to accept this gift. Hell, I wanted to accept it, but I'd been raised to only accept modest gifts from people and this certainly wasn't a modest gift. 



"Nick." I looked up at Collin. "I don't have many friends in San Antonio and I really hope you'll be one of them. I'm not trying to buy your friendship, I just don't want money to be an issue between us." He smiled at me. "Besides it sounds like work is going so well for you, that if this gift really bothers you, then you can pay me back. How's that?"



I stared down at the paper work for a little while longer, before making my decision. 



"Fine. I can accept that Collin. Thank you for the gifts."



"You're welcome. 



We shook hands and Nicole went over, gave him a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Everyone sat back down and we toasted each other and clinked our glasses together. 



"There's one other thing I need to let you know, before I head back to the hotel." 



I looked over at Collin and tried hard to maintain a neutral face. The way Nicole had been acting, I expected Collin to spend the night tonight. A quick glance at Nicole gave me the impression that she wasn't surprised that Collin was leaving and now I was wondering if I read the signs wrong tonight. 



"I'm going to be gone for the next two weeks." A smile lit up his face. "My son is starting his 4th year at Harvard and I want to see him again before school starts. He's also considering Law School and I wanted to speak with the Dean about him staying at Harvard for Law School. I also need to arrange for all my stuff in New York to be shipped down here, because I finally bought a house."



I couldn't think of anything to say, so I asked a question. "You finally bought a house huh?" 



"Yea. The neighborhood is really nice, guarded entrance and its well outside San Antonio, so it's perfect."



Collin exchanged a glance with Nicole and stood up. 



"I've got to get going Nick. Thank you for dinner."



I stood up with him and we shook hands. 



"Thanks for coming Collin and thank you for the gifts. It was really nice of you and I appreciate it."



He nodded and Nicole walked him to the door, while I put the Scotch away and deposited the cigars into my humidor. Nicole met me in the bedroom and shut the door. 



"Nick. Will you tell me what's wrong?" Her voice was soft. 



"Honestly Nicole, what's the point?" 



I grabbed a cigar and shut the humidor, walked past Nicole and out of the bedroom. Our little butler pantry held our alcohol and I refilled my glass of bourbon, before walking outside to enjoy the rest of the night. The Scotch could wait for a special occasion and tonight definitely wasn't special. 



Immediately I lit the cigar and started puffing, secretly I hoped the cigar smoke would keep Nicole away. Cigar smoke had always bothered her and with any luck, that it would act as a repellent again tonight. My head dropped back against the chair and I closed my eyes, enjoying the oaky taste of the bourbon and the bitterness of the cigar smoke. 



The sound of the patio door opening and shutting, reached through the night and smacked up against my ears. Inwardly, I cursed and took another deep puff on the cigar, before blowing it out in the general direction of the patio door. It wasn't a cross or garlic, but hopefully it would have the same effect.



"Nick. I can stand the cigar smoke and you and I need to talk, so give it up already."



I gave a heavy, irritated sigh and raised my head to look at Nicole.



"So talk Nicole."



"I don't understand why you're upset?" She raised sat down across from me and put her hands on the table. "We talked about me dating Collin last week and you seemed fine at the golf course today."



"Nicole there is a huge, ginormous difference between me being fine with something and me not creating a scene." I took another sip of bourbon. "Just because I don't make a big deal, throw a fit or create a scene; doesn't mean I'm fucking fine."



"Ok Nick. I get it." Her voice was hardening. "So what bothered you about today?"



A disgusted laugh escaped me and I looked over at Nicole. I wasn't trying to hide the disdain in my expression or the surprise I felt, because she actually asked that question. 



"Today! You think I'm just pissed about today?"



"Well-." I cut her off.



"Nicole how much time have you spent at home in the last 5 days?"



"Nick, you knew I was going out with Collin!"



I repeated the question, slower. "How much time, have you spent at home?"



"As much as I could Nick."



"Nicole, that is bullshit and you know it." I paused for just a second to take a breath. "You missed breakfast, came home and apologized, spent a few hours with Jasmine, before heading back to Collin."



"I discussed that with you beforehand Nick and Collin just apologized to you."



"Nicole, I don't give a fuck about Collin's apology and I'll happily return his gifts. As far as I'm concerned, it is not Collins responsibility to make sure you fucking come home!" My voice was rising and I sat back and took another drink, before continuing in a lower tone of voice. "I'm married to you, but that seems to mean less and less to you as time moves on." I blew cigar smoke in her general direction, just to be spiteful. 



"Our marriage means everything to me Nick." She looked down at her hands. 



"Nicole, you just spent the better part of 5 days with Collin. How the hell can you say your marriage means everything to you? The apology for the last 5 days should have come from you Nicole, not Collin."



"Fuck you Nick. Don't forget that you agreed to all of this, so you can't lay all the blame on me."



"Nicole I agreed to let you go out with Collin a few times and I barely saw you over the next 5 days." I gave a humorless laugh. "When I did see you, it was just in time for you to tell me I can't see you naked or in your underwear anymore." 



"Nick-." 



"Oh shit, I'm wrong!" Bitter, angry sarcasm laced my voice as I dug the knife in even further. "I did get to see you in your underwear, but it just happened to be in a public place and you were taking them off for a stranger!"



I laughed again, louder; disdain, anger, spite and bitterness combined in me, as I took another sip of bourbon and continued. Anger made me reckless, uncaring and I spewed it all out at Nicole. 



"But it gets better Nicole, can you believe that?" I mimicked John's voice. "I saw her tits last night at the dance club, where she danced with her top open for a while, before cupping her breasts and giving me a wink. That chick's a freak!"



I finished my bourbon and looked over at her. 



"It's so nice to have a stranger tell me my wife's a freak and I can't even see her in her underwear. That's ok though, because her boyfriend sends me pictures of her in her underwear." I raised my glass in a mock toast. "Don't worry though honey, I'm sure you'll only show up on a thousand different websites! How's the boyfriend thing working out so far Nicole?"



Anger, raw unfiltered anger rushed through my body and I got up, flipped my cigar into the metal trash can and headed back inside. I left Nicole outside and went up to the game room, which was empty and flopped onto the couch. The couch was old, but comfortable and it's where I fell asleep.











The couch became my bed for the next several nights and I made sure to get up extra early for work and get ready in the upstairs bathroom. While I was avoiding Nicole, I also needed to get into the office early, because this was the week we were finally giving our final presentation and proposal. My conversations with Nicole were direct and to the point, I needed her to take care of the girls this week, so I could focus on work. Our entire department was focused on the final presentation and I spent every possible minute working. Nicole came by a few times for lunch, but I anticipated that and spent my lunch hour in a conference room working, of course the conference door was locked. 



The day of the final presentation arrived and I was nervous, but confident and my team was razor sharp. Brian and I were in the lobby waiting for the clients to arrive and we'd arranged with senior management to have the meeting in our executive conference room. 



"Nick. Is everything ok?"



Brian's voice broke into my thoughts and I could her the concern in his voice. 



"Brian everything's great. I can't think of a single thing we've missed-."



"No Nick. I'm not talking about work."



I signed and felt my shoulders slump. There was no way I could explain to Brian what was going on in my personal life.



"Honestly Brian, not really, but we'll work through it." I shrugged my shoulders. "It won't affect work though, I can promise you that for sure."



"I believe you Nick. You've done really outstanding work on this account." He reached over and gave my shoulder a squeeze. "If you need to talk or just grab a beer, I'm available."



"Thanks Brian." I looked out at the entry way. "It looks like they're here."



"Yep. That's them. You ready?"



"Definitely."



Our security folks escorted them directly into the lobby and by-passed the reception desk completely. There were three individuals, but as they approached, I could only focus on one of them. 



"John?" I couldn't conceal the surprise in my voice. 



"Nick!" John laughed. "Holy cow man. I didn't realize you were working on this deal!" 



"Yea. I've been killing myself for the last several months."



"Is that right?" He shook my hand. "Well it didn't hurt your golf game, that's for sure."



Brian and the other two individuals were looking at us strangely and John took the lead. 



"Nick and I have a mutual friend, who just introduced us the other day when I was in town. Actually we went golfing and Nick here scored an eagle on the first hole." He laughed. "I'm damn glad I didn't bet any money!"



The mood completely changed as John introduced me and everyone visibly relaxed as we finished the introductions. It turned out that John's role was advisory more than anything else in the process. They brought along their Risk Manager who would be handling the majority of the questions and negotiations on their side. It was him that I would be sparring with today.



We made it to the conference room and helped ourselves to the coffee and pastries that were already waiting for us. My team came in and took seats at the far end of the table away from us. I explained that they were there in case we needed to get into any raw data or make any adjustments during the presentation. Everyone was finally ready, the small talk was over and Brian gave me the nod to begin. 



The presentation was a combination of PowerPoint slides, handouts, spreadsheets and Insurance coverage forms. If that doesn't sound boring enough to put you to sleep, you need to see a psychiatrist immediately. 



The Risk Manager and I sat across from each other and right from the start he assaulted me with questions. This wasn't a quiet, docile presentation where everyone dutifully took notes, tried their best to stay awake and asked a few questions at the end. Not today. Inside that conference room some serious Insurance Kung-Fu was taking place and it turned out that the Risk Manager and I were both equally matched. 



He questioned, I answered. 



He objected, I overcame it.



Our premiums were too high. We offered more coverage.



Our commissions were too low. We offered a bonus if they performed well.



We didn't offer enough support. We'd give them more if they needed it.



Our company was too small. They'd have access to the CEO and entire senior management team.



This was my kung-fu and I....was.....strong!!! (Yes, I swiped that line from a movie.)



When we took breaks, we were treated like boxers. We were both rushed back to our corners, given a little coffee, told we were doing great and to keep punching. The meeting was initially scheduled for four hours, but it continued through lunch and into the early afternoon. 



Finally the Risk Manager sat back, looked over at John and gave a slight nod. John asked to take a final break and we adjourned for a few minutes. Brian pulled me aside and pushed me into a spare office. 



"Nick. You were fucking amazing today! Holy shit, you didn't need to go back to your team once." He kept shaking my hand. "I think you almost made that Risk Manager cry. What a fuckin' asshole."



"What do you think?"



"Honestly, I don't know, but we'll find out in a few minutes."



We made it back to the conference room and I sat down, careful to keep a neutral expression on my face. It was possible that they'd want more time to review our proposal, but I suspected that we'd get an answer today. 



John led the other two guys back into room and someone made a joke about a quick meeting. It was a completely lame joke, but given the circumstances, we all laughed a little. 



"Well, I'd like to start by saying thank you for having us to day and for your proposal." 



Brian and I nodded, but I responded. "You're Welcome John. It was a pleasure having you and your team join us."



"That was an outstanding proposal Nick and I speak for all of us, when I say that we're impressed with your knowledge of our account and our needs."



The only thing I could do was nod and John continued. 



"Normally we go back and take a few days to consider everything, before coming to a decision; however we decided that wasn't necessary in this case. We're going to go with your proposal Nick."



"That's great John. Thank you for your business."



"You're welcome. Now we're going to need you and Brian to come over and introduce yourselves to some of our staff, in the next week or two. We'll get started with moving our products over to your company immediately."



"Sure thing John. We can come over anytime you're ready."



"Excellent."



Brian and I walked them back to the lobby and I gave John my card with my cell number on the back. He indicated he'd call me later and we'd get together outside of work. As soon as they were out of sight, Brian and I cut loose! We high-fived, hugged, fist-bumped, did happy-dances and generally acted like teen-agers. This was a huge win for the company and for Brian it was an awesome way to go out. It also looked like my career prospects were looking up as well. 



We made it back to the conference room and all hell broke loose. One of the senior managers had been waiting for the results and he had balloons, cake and gifts available for me and my staff. Brian and I were congratulated and several other senior managers stopped by to offer their congratulations as well. Professionally speaking, I was walking on air. 



Sheila, one of my team members handed me a piece of cake, gave me a tight hug and a quick kiss on the cheek. We'd known each other for several years and I had actually recruited her onto the team, but there hadn't ever been any attraction between us. The look in her eyes however, gave me the impression that her opinion of me had gone up a few notches. I thanked her again for all her hard work and gave her another hug. 

<hr pg="3" />It was right at that moment that Nicole walked into the room and saw us together. I broke the hug with Sheila and stepped over to Nicole. I couldn't help but notice that Nicole was staring daggers into Sheila's back as she moved over to talk with Brian. 



"Hi. I heard you won the account and I wanted to come by and say congratulations."



"Thank you."



"Do you want to go out to celebrate tonight? I can get a sitter for the girls or Jasmine can watch April."



"I don't think so Nicole. I will probably go out with John tonight."



"John?" She looked bewildered. "John from the golf course? Collins friend?"



"Yep. He was one of the people I gave the proposal to today." I paused. "Isn't that a huge coincidence?"



"Nick. I didn't know."



I wasn't sure I believed her, but now wasn't the time to discuss it. 



"Right. Well, I can't exactly take you along with me now can I?"



Nicole looked down at her shoes, before looking up at me again. 



"No. You're right."



She reached up and hugged me. 



"Congratulations Nick. I love you. I hope you know that."



"I love you too Nicole."



Honestly, it broke my heart to see her walk away and leave the conference room. All of my successes, my failures, my highpoints and low points in life, had been shared with Nicole. It felt supremely wrong that the biggest success of my career was something I couldn't celebrate with her. 







John called me later that day and we made plans to grab dinner and get some drinks afterward. John's hotel was close by and I picked him up and we headed to the restaurant. We talked and laughed all through dinner and he insisted on picking up the check. He said I deserved it after the grilling I received today and I had to agree. 



We bar-hopped to a few places, before ending up at the club near my house, which wasn't nearly as full this time. We got great seats at the bar and of course, the bartender was the same smoking-hot bartender that offered me her phone number. 



"Hey gorgeous." She smiled at me as I sat down and I promptly blushed. 



"Hi. It's been a while." I offered lamely as John looked between us. 



"Yes it has. What can I get you?"



John and I ordered and he gave a low whistle as she walked away. 



"Holy shit. Did she just call you gorgeous?" I nodded. 



"Nick. Tell me you're doing something about that!"



I laughed and sipped my bourbon and I decided right then, that it was my last drink of the evening. 



"Shit. No way John. She's out of my league and just trying to sell more drinks."



He shook his head. 



"Uhh. I don't think so Nick." His drink disappeared as he tossed it back and set it on the bar. "I'd explore it, if I were you."



"Maybe."



John and I talked a little longer, before we called it a night. The bartender called John a cab, because he insisted that I didn't have to drive him back to the hotel. I didn't argue too hard, because I was pretty tired. We said good bye and he told me he'd be in touch. 







I quietly slid inside our front door, locked the door behind me and headed upstairs to my new bed on the couch. As soon as I walked into the game room, I saw Nicole, she was sleeping on the couch under a thick blanket. A small night light dimly lit the room and I saw her hair was spilled out over the couch and little strands swept over her cheek as she slept. My hand gently caressed her cheek and moved the hair back behind her ear, smile crept over my face as I realized once again, that I was looking at my soul-mate. 



My lips brushed her cheek and I inhaled deeply, loving her scent and the feel of her skin. It didn't matter anymore, what happened with Collin, I needed to stop torturing myself, Nicole and my family. 



"Hey you." Nicole's sleepy voice entered my thoughts gently. 



"Hi. I didn't mean to wake you."



"It's ok." She smiled up at me, a warm sensual smile covering her face. "I slept up here because I missed you, so I'm glad you woke me up."



"Is that right? Well, I missed you too and I'm glad you slept up here tonight."



"I'm sorry Nick. I'm sorry for everything."



"I'm sorry too Nicole."



A smoldering, lustful look came over Nicole's face and the smile that came with it was positively evil. It was the absolute best kind of evil I'd ever seen and she whipped the blanket back to reveal her completely naked body.



"Nick. Will you get naked?"



Make-up sex has to be the best kind of sex and a few world records were set that night, in several categories. Well, they would have been, if there was an adult section in that book of world records. Nicole and I made love several times and each time seemed better, more intimate than the time before, with no mention of Collin. We reconnected on a basic, primal level and more than a few tears were shed by both of us, as we made up.



Morning greeted us and I estimated that I'd had about 45 minutes of actual sleep, as the alarm clock on my phone went off. Normally, I'd call in and spend the day with Nicole and girls, but I needed to be in the office today. I dragged my naked, very happy ass into the shower and Nicole got the coffee started, before joining me. 



We washed each other's bodies and Nicole smiled and took my cock into her mouth. I didn't think it was possible, but she coaxed another orgasm out of me, before the water turned cold and we got out of the shower. Since I was running late this morning and I wasn't planning on working late tonight, we decided to drive in together. 











"Nick. Dude, it's like 8:30, where the hell have you been?" Brian's voice echoed through my cubicle and I swiveled my chair around to glare at him. He had a stupid grin on his face and the sarcasm was dripping all down the front of him.



"You're killing me boss!" I smiled back at him. "Why are you bothering me Brian? Why are you breathing my oxygen?"



"In my office superstar, I need to talk to you."



We walked into his office and I grabbed a seat, while Brian walked over to the coat rack in his office. Man, I was tired and seriously hoping I could take half a day off. 



"Here, put these on." Brian draped a sports jacket and tie over my shoulder. 



"Uhh. Ok. What's up?"



"One reason is that we have to attend a meeting of senior managers this morning. It's a short notice meeting and, yes, you need to be there with me."



"And the other reason?"



He gave me a stupid, but knowing grin. 



"The other reason is that you need to cover up the hickies on your neck and the tie will help you with that...a little."



He busted up laughing and my face felt like it was on fire. Fortunately the jacket and tie were a pretty good match for what I was already wearing. Brian made another joke that I only wore 4 colors to work, black or grey slacks and a white or blue shirt, so it was easy to pick a jacket and tie. 



Brian led the way and I walked into a room full of applause, smiles, handshakes and pats on the back. The entire senior management team, along with the CEO, was in the room and I suddenly felt very out of place. I was ushered to a vacant seat at the head of the table and took a seat, while everyone else sat down as well. 



"Nick." The CEO started off the conversation. "We're very happy and very proud of you and your team. Brian has explained just how much of the work you did personally and also how you led the team. The account you just won is a huge win for this entire company and I wanted to thank you personally."



"Thank you sir. I certainly appreciate it and I do want to stress that I had a great team behind me and Brian provided a lot of guidance and support along the way." I paused. "It was definitely a team effort."



Brian and the CEO exchanged a look and a smile. 



"Brian said you'd be modest about winning this account and he was right."



I shrugged my shoulders, because I didn't know what to say and I was adamant that the credit for this win was going to be shared with my team. 



"I know that Brian told you he's moving on to a new position and he's recommended you, as his replacement." 



"Yes, he did mention that to me sir. He also indicated that you had several qualified candidates."



"We do Nick and we've interviewed them all." He smiled and nodded to someone across the table that I hadn't met before. "We've decided to offer you the position Nick. We can't think of anyone better qualified and your recent win, simply proves that we're right."



The new person slid an envelope in front of me. 



"The envelope in front of you is your new salary offer and inside the envelope is a bonus for the work you've done on this account." He paused. "I want you to take a few days off, you deserve it, and think about this offer. If you have any concerns or questions, you can speak to me directly."



I nodded at him.



"Come see me first thing on Monday morning, I know you get in early and so do I, so just come on over and we can finalize everything."



He extended his hand and I shook it, while the other managers stood and applauded. Brian escorted me out of the room and I walked back to his office in a daze. My team gave me a standing ovation and Sheila gave me a little wink, as Brian ushered me into his office. The sports jacket and tie came off and I dropped into the chair that had been my constant companion in his office. 



"Nick." I looked up at him. "Wrong chair." He motioned for me to sit in his chair and I smiled broadly and walked over and sat down carefully. 



"You look good behind that desk Nick."



"Y'know, it feels pretty good Brian." I sat there for a few more seconds, before getting up and changing places with Brian. 



"Nick. Get out of here and I don't want to see you until Monday."



I nodded and walked towards the door, relief flooded through my body and I couldn't wait to sink into my bed at home. 



"Nick?"



"Yea Brian." 



He smiled at me from behind the desk. "First rule of salary negotiations, never accept the first offer. Good luck on Monday."



A quick check of my desk and I grabbed my keys and walked down to Nicole's section, to let her know I was going home. I was pleasantly surprised that she took the rest of the day off with me and we both left, after only being at work for two hours. It felt awesome. 



We got home and the girls immediately asked if they could go over to a friend's house, which was fine with us. School was about to start and the girls were still at home during the summer. We had recently stopped having the sitter over and having Jasmine watch April was actually going really well. The girls were out the door in about 30 seconds and Nicole and I looked at each other and smiled. 



"Race ya!"



We both sprinted to the bedroom and slid beneath the sheets in record time, laughing and tickling each other. The laughing soon turned to heavy breathing, then gasps and finally moans. 



Nicole's naked body was below me and I paused to admire the view, her flawless pale skin was completely sensuous and the light scent of vanilla wafted up from her. I missed seeing her naked and I wanted to savor every second of it. She raised her hands above her head and arched her back, knowing that turned me on even more. I sexy smile slid over her face as she pulled me on top of her. 



"I need you Nick!"



My cock slid inside Nicole easily and I slowly pulled back out, reveling in the smooth, silky feel of her pussy grip my cock. Her hands found my ass and she pulled me back inside her, grinding her hips against my cock. My eyes were closed as I focused on keeping myself relaxed, so I could last as long as possible, when I felt her lips and tongue brush my neck. Nicole's hands left my ass and I felt a light scraping on my back and opened my eyes, as I felt Nicole draw her fingernails across my back. 



"God you feel good Nick." She was gasping now. "Please fuck me."



A steady rhythm was my goal and I pulled out and pushed back into Nicole, moving my hips in a circular motion, as I worked to stimulate her pussy. All this time watching Nicole with Collin and constantly thinking about sex with her, resulted in me trying harder to please her. My efforts were being rewarded as Nicole's moans grew louder and closer together, her hips started to lift upwards and meet my thrusts inside her. 



Steadily, but relentlessly, I was losing control and I felt my orgasm approaching. Harder, faster I pushed in and out of Nicole, hoping desperately that she was close to cumming. Finally I felt myself lose control and spurt inside Nicole, I pushed in as hard as I could and enjoyed the flood of pleasure that spread throughout my body. 



Nicole's eyes were closed tightly and I felt her move her hips frantically against me, as I emptied myself inside of her. She finally relaxed and lay back on the mattress, her breathing fast and hard and I felt her hands rub my back, as she held me close to her. A few minutes passed, before I got up and fetched Nicole a towel, lay it underneath her and flopped down beside her on the mattress. 



"You didn't orgasm did you?" I raised my head up on my hand and studied her face. 



"Sorry baby. I tried, but I just couldn't this time." Her hand found mine and she looked over at me. "I don't need to orgasm to enjoy sex with you Nick."



"I know, but it's just something I wanted to give you today."



"The day's not over baby. Let's try again tonight!"



"It's a deal." 



We stayed in bed for a while, just holding one another and reconnecting with each other. It was nice and necessary and we both felt closer to each other. I loved the undivided attention I received from Nicole and I was glad she hadn't mentioned Collin. I knew we'd have to discuss Collin soon, but for now I was content to enjoy my wife. 



A few hours later we got out of bed, texted the girls to come home and we went to lunch as a family. It was great and the girls wanted to stop by Barnes and Noble before we headed home. They disappeared into the book store and Nicole and I grabbed a seat at the Starbucks inside B&amp;N. 



"Nicole have you kept in contact with Collin?"



Her looked was guarded. "Yes Nick. We've spoken on the phone a several times and exchanged a few texts. Is that ok?"



"Yes, it's fine." I smiled at her. "I didn't expect you to drop Collin."



"Why do you ask?"



"I was just curious."



"Nick. You just closed the biggest deal of your career, you're getting a promotion and you also got a bonus." She smiled at me. "Why are you thinking about Collin?"



"Well, everything at work is so overwhelming that I haven't had a chance to process it all yet." I laughed. "I haven't even opened my bonus envelope."



"I'll open it for you!" Nicole jumped in quickly with a laugh. 



"Fine, you open it when we get home!" I laughed with her, but I quickly got serious. "I guess I'm wondering what the relationship with Collin is going to look like, when he gets back."



Nicole nodded and took a sip of her latte. 



"Do you want me to stop seeing Collin? I will, if that's what you want."



The moment of truth had arrived, because I knew Nicole was serious and she would break it off with Collin. Our marriage and family had been stressed and tested, by this new relationship and we'd survived so far. I knew we were playing with fire and that it wouldn't take much for things to spin out of control, but I also knew that we both enjoyed the relationship. Nicole definitely enjoyed Collin and I liked him as well and I totally enjoyed seeing Nicole with Collin. 



"Nicole, I don't want you to break it off with Collin, unless that's what you want to do. Is it?"



"I don't want to break it off with Collin either Nick, but I don't want to hurt you or the girls." She shrugged. "What do we do?"



"We talked about boundaries before, maybe we need some new ones."



"What did you have in mind?"



"Well, the biggest issue for me was the amount of time you spent recently with Collin." She started to respond, but I held up my hand. 



"Honey, I don't want to fight and I know I agreed to it, so please understand, I'm not attacking you."



"Ok."



"The issue for me is time with the kids and making sure that our family obligations come first, no matter what's going on with Collin." I looked over at her. "I can deal with less time with you, but the girls shouldn't have to and if we have something to do as a family; you need to be there."



"I agree completely. I still feel terrible about missing breakfast and I will definitely make sure I don't miss any family stuff." 



"Cool. I think if we just communicate better, we can avoid problems in the future."



"Sounds good." She smiled at me. "Nick, what do you like the most about this relationship with Collin?"



My coffee suddenly tasted very good and I took several sips before answering Nicole. My face grew hot and I shifted uneasily in my seat. I didn't know why this was so difficult for me, but it was and I took a long, deep breath. 



"Honey. Honestly, I like all of it. Everything we've done so far, I've found exciting, titillating and erotic." I paused, took another deep breath and looked around to make sure no one could overhear us. "Watching you and Collin have sex is the absolute best, but I also like seeing you on his arm, seeing you sit in his lap or just squeeze his shoulder."



I rubbed my temples and continued. 



"I like getting texts with pictures of you and seeing you dance with him at a club. I even like it when you tease me and then deny me things, like not seeing you naked or in your underwear. I can't explain why I like it, I just go. I guess I'm just a little crooked or bent in the head."



I rubbed my hands over my face a few times, before leaning forward and meeting Nicole's eyes once more. 



"Despite the fact that I like this relationship Nicole, I need to be clear about something, because it's been bothering me."



"What's that Nick?"



"I realize this whole relationship with Collin makes me the cuckold husband, but I'm not a wimp, not a pushover, not some weak-ass husband who can be taken for granted by his wife and her boyfriend. I sincerely hope you understand that about me."



Nicole nodded at me with a satisfied look on her face and took another sip of coffee. 



"I don't think of you as a wimp Nick and neither does Collin. Ok?" 



I was relieved to hear that from her and sat back in my chair. 



"Anyway, why did you ask Nicole?"



"Please don't get mad Nick." She looked over at me and I nodded again. "Collin and I thought that one of the reasons you got upset was that we weren't including you as much as we probably should."



"Really?"



"Yes. That was one of the reasons why he wanted you to come golfing with us, he wanted you to have some time to watch us together. He also said you'd love it, if I took my panties off in the bar."



She blushed slightly and looked over at me. 



"I see." I shook my head. "I disagree a little though, because I was more upset about the lack of time with the girls. The show you put on in the bar, was hugely exciting for me and I did love it, but that wasn't the reason I was upset."



"Gotcha. So you enjoyed the little show in the bar?"



"Yes, definitely. It was very exciting for me."



"Good. I liked it too."



"Nicole, did you flash John the night before? He said you danced with your top open for like 30 seconds."



She laughed out loud. "No Nick. Collin opened my shirt for a second, maybe two seconds and I closed it. I saw John watching and gave him a wink, but I didn't flash him or cup my breasts like he told you."



"Good. I'm glad. That makes me feel better."



"Nick. Collin doesn't want to share me with any other man." She smiled at me. "He doesn't mind if I show off a little, but that's it. He's already had to clarify that to a few guys we've met and he's been pretty protective of me."



"Whew. That's a relief, because I was starting to think that he did want to share you with other men."



"No. We talked about it and he said he may share me with another woman, but not another man. At least, he's not comfortable with it now."

<hr pg="4" />My eyes bulged when she mentioned being shared with another woman and I coughed a little. 



"Wait! He said he would share you with another woman?"



Nicole laughed. "I thought that would get your attention."



"But you're not bi-sexual."



"No you're right Nick, but I've always been curious about being with another woman." She said it simply, with absolute confidence and she could see that I was speechless, so she continued. "It's something I've always considered, but never had the nerve to talk to you about and since we're being honest with each other, I wanted to tell you."



"Uh. I appreciate that and well, wow Nicole. How did I miss that?"



"Did I just blow your mind?"



"Yes and something else almost blew as well." I smiled at her. "So you'd like to try being with a woman?"



It was Nicole's turn to blush. "Yes. I definitely prefer men obviously, but I've always found women attractive." 



I laughed a little. "Aha. Well, any chance I can watch that, if it happens?" 



"We'll see Nick. I'm not even sure if it will ever happen, but if it does, I'll definitely try and make sure you get a chance to watch."



"Aww. Thank you baby!"



We shared a laugh and Nicole gave me a naughty wink. The girls came back with their books and we got in line to pay. Nicole reached down, held my hand and leaned against me, she felt awesome and I enjoyed the feel of her body and smell of her perfume. I'd read somewhere that conflict can be a healthy thing in life, provided it was handled appropriately. I definitely felt that our most recent conflict seemed to break loose some honesty between us and I felt closer to Nicole than I had in a while. 











Brian insisted I take the rest of the week off, so I had a four day weekend and it was great. Nicole and I got to spend a lot of time with the girls and we got them ready for school; which meant we spent a lot of money on clothes. We also had a lot of conversations about what we liked, didn't like and expected of one another with regard to the relationship with Collin. The final result was that I felt a lot better about Nicole continuing to see Collin. 



Everything at work was great and I ended up negotiating a higher salary than what was originally offered to me. The CEO didn't seem to mind and Brian was set to leave in a few weeks, so I was effectively running the department. John invited me and my team over to meet his folks and go over some details and everything ran very smoothly. Since John and I were getting along so well, we usually handled all of the details together and that cut the Risk Manager out of the equation almost completely, which was very satisfying because the guy was a jerk. 



Collin and Nicole continued to talk frequently and I got a chance to catch up with Collin as well. We made plans to go golfing again, just the two of us, when he got back. Nicole and I ended up picking him up at the airport when he arrived and Nicole jumped into his arms when he finally exited the terminal. I ended up driving home alone, because Collin's car was already at the airport. It was a Friday night and Nicole was going to stay over with Collin at his hotel, but she promised to be back home before the girls got up, so I was ok with it. Collin offered to have me stay in the hotel with them, but I suspected they wanted some alone time, so drove home. 

