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Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 02

By: JayCuck



Please Read!!

I've started a new series with Nick and Nicole. This series will feature, creampies, chastity belt usage, lesbian encounters, dom/sub situations and of course, lots of messy sex (the best kind).  

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 or provided feedback. I really do appreciate it and I hope you enjoy this new direction. 

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 your ugly comments for another story. 





Tension is a living, breathing thing, and don't let anyone tell you differently. It grows, twists, and writhes around people, impairing judgments and worsening situations. As David stepped into my office, the simmering tension between myself and Nicole boiled over, growing and spreading malevolently. 

"Nick." David's deep voice slid under the tension. "I apologize for not calling first, and I appreciate you seeing me."

"David."

He stopped in front of my desk, standing next to Nicole. While he spared her a glance, his attention focused on me. Mano y Mano. Our situation could only be solved between the two of us, and we both knew it. Our eyes had locked the minute he stepped into the room, and we both measured each other's resolve. 

A classic pissing contest? Yeah. I won't deny it. Men like to pretend we've evolved past the cave, but inside we're all knuckle-dragging brutes, and some situations can only be solved by conflict. To pretend otherwise is naïve in the extreme.

"There's been a misunderstanding."

"I'd say so, yes."

"Nick, I didn't realize you were unaware of the lunch meeting I had with Nicole and the phone call." He paused. "Assumptions. We all make them, and most times, they come back to bite us in the ass. I should have said something at dinner, and I apologize for not doing so."

"It's not your fault." Nicole's voice interrupted our staring contest, and she took a small step forward. "Nick. I should have told you about my meetings with David. It's my fault, not his, and you shouldn't blame him."

"We've covered that already. The end result is that you both kept something from me. Something important. I know it, you know it. You can't set a strong foundation on lies."

"I think you're overstating things."

"Bullshit." I snorted. "I'm not a lawyer, but I well aware of the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. I didn't get that from you two, so how can I trust either of you again?"

"Nick!" Nicole admonished, and anger flashed in her eyes. "Both of us have apologized. What do you want...a pound of flesh?"

I started to snap back at her, but David held up a hand, motioning for patience. 

"Please. If I may," he began. "I apologize Nick. I'll say it again. If we can get past this, then I will take responsibility to keeping you informed. You and I can have lunch once a week, or golf, or whatever. We won't keep anything from you."

"Agreed." Nicole said quietly. "This is just a bump in the road."

Nicole and David traded a small, quick smile, before their eyes landed on me. Silence joined Tension in the room, and made their presence felt, as I considered the situation. 

Did I believe David? Yeah, I have to say I did. I'm neither naïve nor inexperienced with negotiations, and that's what this situation was, a negotiation. David's bearing, his manner, and his expression all conveyed sincerity. If he was lying, I couldn't see it. 

Nicole. How do you critically evaluate the woman you love? I'm not entirely sure, but like David, her eyes held only honesty. She wanted to restart a relationship with David. I knew it. But did I think she'd lie to me, and risk our marriage to make it happen? No. I didn't. 

The final piece of this puzzle, also happened to be the most ironic. I wanted it. No, that's not entirely correct, and if I insist on honestly from others, I needed to provide it myself. I needed it. Call it a perversion, an addiction, a fetish, kinky, whatever you're adjective. Slipping into the role of cuckold husband felt natural, right, and I'd craved it since our relationship with Collin ended. 

"Nick?" David's voice brought me out of my head. "How do we make this right?"

"You're fired," I replied. "If we're going to move forward, you can't be our attorney." A deep cleansing breath cleared my head, and I noticed a smile grow quickly on Nicole's face. "I accept your apologies, but know that I'm going to hold both of you accountable for making sure there are no secrets between us."

"Accepted." David said crisply. "I planned on resigning as your attorney no matter how this ended, but I'm glad we're both on the same page. I can recommend another firm, or you're welcome to find your own."

"I'll find my own, thank you." 

I barely got the words out of my mouth, before Nicole crushed me in a tight hug. 

"I love you. I love you. I love you," she whispered over and over. 

My arms encircled her, and it felt damn good to hold her body against mine. Nothing in the world felt as good as my wife. Her hair, her body, her scent. All were intoxicating. 

"I love you too."

She beamed a gorgeous smile at me, before kissing my cheek and stepping back. A sly wink flashed at me, before she stepped over to David, and melted against him. The undeniable attraction between them was so strong, that I felt it from across my desk. A physical force. It turned me on, hit every cuckold button I had, and scared the crap out of me. 

Worry, in all its forms, is the diet of a cuckold. I'd felt it before, and thought I'd gotten used to it. Wrong. Nicole had been attracted to Collin, and vice versa, but their attraction had been controlled. Not sure how else to explain it, but Collin had an innate reserve that seemed to keep things from getting out of hand. I didn't sense that same reserve from David, and it was non-existent in Nicole. 

David and Nicole had no limits to their attraction. 

As she settled next to him, molding herself against his body, he kissed her. Light at first, it grew passionate, like gasoline being thrown on a fire. My cock instantly approved, and when they broke, David whispered into her ear for a moment. 

Nicole glanced back at me, her eye found my crotch, and a knowing smile grew on her face. She whispered back at him, and they both nodded and laughed softly. 

Uh-oh.

***

You might remember that I told you the beginning of our relationship with David was....interesting. Well it's just getting started. Normally, I'd continue, but Cassidy's hand had made it to my crotch, and my cock was happily announcing its presence to her fingers. It would have felt amazing, and been delightfully kinky, if my wife hadn't been in the room....staring at me from the head table. 

That's right. Enough history, we're back in the present. 

David had started his speech, and I hadn't heard a word of it. He must have cracked a joke, because the audience laughed, and applause broke Nicole's laser-beam stare. Her eyes returned to David, and she smiled and clapped as well. A low-grade lust seemed to float from her eyes to David.

"Finally," Cassidy breathed in my ear. "I thought she was going to stare at you all night." With no idea what to say, I shifted in my seat a bit, and gave her a weak smile. She kissed my cheek, and removed her hand, placing it on the table. "Someone's jealous." 

"Maybe," I allowed. "Although she's probably just surprised. I don't think Cynthia mentioned anything to her either."

"She didn't."

"Is that right?" I cocked my head at her. "Something you're not telling me?"

"No. Cynthia just mentioned that you'd both be surprised."

"I'm starting to get angry with Cynthia?"

"Why?" Cassidy challenged. "Because she wants you to be happy? Because she thinks we'd be great together? You'd be here alone tonight, if it hadn't been for Cynthia. Is that what you want?"

"No," I admitted, and meant it. "I'm glad you're here."

"Just wait." A sensual smile played over her face. "The nights just beginning."

Another round of applause, perfectly timed because I had no idea how to respond to Cassidy. I've never been a guy who's inspired reckless abandon in women, and I had no idea how to handle this situation. She gave me a sly wink and focused her attention on David. Her hands also behaved themselves, so I started to pay attention as well. 

The part of the speech I caught was great. Excellent delivery. David's speech dealt with the rapidly diminishing 4th amendment, and the technology that made traditional privacy all but impossible. He struck a nice balance between both sides, and kept the audience entertained with amusing anecdotes. When he ended I wished I hadn't been so distracted, because he'd done a great job, and I found the material interesting. The crowd came to its feet when he finished, and Cassidy and I joined them. Clapping with enthusiasm. 

"Race you to the bar!" Cassidy whispered. "It's going to fill up soon. Let's go."

My kind of woman. As everyone continued clapping, we made a covert extraction to the goody-room, and found the bar almost empty. One look at us and the bartender reached for the Scotch. 

I liked this guy!

Cassidy ordered bourbon this time, Pappy Van Winkle. Ouch! If she had a flaw, I had yet to find it, and she had first-rate taste in bourbon. Expensive bourbon. Since I'd splurged on aged Scotch, I couldn't fault her for doing the same with bourbon. Besides, I'd had enough stress for one night. We were at a party, after all, so I faced her and raised my glass. 

"Toast?"

"Absolutely."

I felt a reckless smile cross my face. "Here's to staying positive, and testing negative!"

"Stop it!" She nudged me with her hip. "If we're toasting, let's be serious."

"Fine." I paused. "To new beginnings."

"To new beginnings." She clinked her glass against mine, and held my eyes. "And happy endings."

"And happy endings." I repeated. 

Our eyes held, and heat grew between us. I wanted her. Yes, I'm a cuckold husband, but I'm neither dead, nor perfect, and the attraction I felt towards Cassidy surged in intensity. 

"Nick!"

David's voice shattered our moment, and we both jumped a little. 

I recovered first, and held out my hand. "David. Great speech, man."

"Thank you," he said. "I worked pretty hard on it."

"It was great," Cassidy added, shaking his hand. "I agree with you as well. Technological advances have made individual privacy extraordinarily difficult to achieve. It seems companies are hacked every day, and Edward Snowden's revelations have sowed distrust of our own government."

My mouth dropped open as she spoke, and David nodded and smiled back at her. I shook my head, and reminded myself to stop being surprised by Cassidy. 

"David," I said when she finished. "This is Cassidy. She works with me at Endeavor, and she's a rising star within our organization." The shook hands as I continued the introductions. "Cassidy, David is a close friend of mine, and Collin's." I paused. "And you already know Nicole."

"Ahh," he replied, and recognition passed over his eyes. "I've heard good things about you. I understand you just closed a big deal!"

"That's right." Her cheeks colored slightly, and she smiled proudly in response. "Although, Nick helped tremendously. Winning the account was a team effort."

"I'm sure."

I expected awkwardness to settle in, but it didn't appear. Nicole, David and Cassidy all acted as if the introductions and conversation were completely normal, and if anyone felt awkward, it was me, so I pushed it aside. 

"What did you think of the speech, Nicole?" Cassidy asked. 

"I thought it was excellent. David's funny," she replied. 

"And the material?" She pressed holding Nicole's eyes. "Do you have any opinion about the issues?"

"Yes." Nicole fixed her eyes on Cassidy, and cold water filled her voice. "The fourth amendment and the privacy it enshrines have been tested since the ink dried on the constitution. Technology has obviously changed in the two centuries since our country was founded, however the struggle to balance basic security with individual privacy remains the same." She paused. "I'm as concerned as anyone about eroding individual privacy, but the threats we face today are significant, and our government cannot sit idly by. Idealism is great, but it becomes cost prohibitive in practice."

David and I exchanged an uncertain glance, as the two women had squared off, and now faced each other. Nicole possessed a sharp mind, and she'd made the dean's list every semester in college. Beautiful yes, but beyond her beauty lay a razor-sharp mind, and I could almost hear both ladies fingernails being sharpened into claws. 

"Is that right?" Cassidy struck first. "So you're okay with giving up your rights, as long as you're kept secure?"

"No. You're oversimplifying." Nicole parried. "Rights are not lost all at once, they're lost in inches. My point is simply that the battle between individual rights, and governmental necessity is fought every day, and it's important for both sides to pick their battles." A tight smile slid over her face. "Tilting at windmills is pointless, and 'Chicken Littles' deserve to be dunked in flour and fried to a crispy golden brown."

"I see." Cassidy studied Nicole for a moment, before nodding, and flashing her a too-wide smile. "I agree, by the way, and I think perhaps you should have shared the podium with David."

"You're too kind." Nicole's tight expression transformed into a mirror of Cassidy's, and she glanced at me, and then back at Cassidy. "I'll be sharing something with David tonight, but it won't be a podium."

"What a coincidence," Cassidy replied without missing a beat. She slid her arm inside of mine, and snuggled against me. "We have something in common then." 

The two gorgeous women locked eyes, and I swear, the intensity of their gaze increased the room temperature by several degrees. Their sweet smiles merely a candy-coating for pure cyanide, and their fingernails had transformed into blades sharper and more deadly than swords. I'd rated their battle a draw, but what the fuck did I know? 

There are times when I'm intensely happy I'm a guy. When it comes to combat, guys settle things openly, and our junk is generally off limits. Women on the other hand....not so much. Sweet smiles, and light voices mask their combat which is every bit as bloody as men's. Nothing is off limits, and collateral damage is likely. 

David and I exchanged a final glance, and decided to step in. Referees, maybe, lion tamers might be a better description, and we took the same risks as Siegfried and Roy.

"Cassidy," David began. "Thank you for the compliment. I'm glad you've informed yourself on the subject." He paused thoughtfully. "Perhaps law school should be in your future."

"Yes," Nicole added quickly. "You're certainly young enough for more college."

"That's nice of you to say," she cooed. "Maybe we should both attend law school, Nicole." She paused meaningfully. "They offer discounts for older, excuse me, more mature students."

David and I rocked back on our heels slightly as Nicole and Cassidy continued their verbal combat. The ladies offered each other no quarter, and both brought enough weapons to cause serious damage. 

"Nicole," David's calm, deep voice broke the tension. "I need to speak with some associates. Would you accompany me?"

"Yes, of course." 

He smiled at her, and gave us a slight bow. "Please excuse us, and enjoy the rest of your evening."

"You as well," I supplied, and then asked. "You're going to attend the fireworks display right?"

"Correct," he replied with a nod. "In fact, I've reserved a spot for Nicole and myself." He turned to my wife. "Are you ready to head over?"

"Of course," she replied, and kissed him lightly. "Let's go."

"Take care, Nick." We shook hands, and David nodded at Cassidy. "Nice to meet you."

"You as well."

They turned and my wife, the woman I'd been married to for almost two decades didn't spare me a glance. I waited until they left the room, before taking a big gulp of my whiskey. Cassidy sipped hers, an amused expression on her face. 

"You okay?"

"Fine," I replied. "Just fine."

"C'mon. It was just some light sparring between women."

"Light sparring? It seemed like full contact."

"No," she laughed quietly. "If we'd insulted each other's dresses or shoes, then it would've been full contact."

"Was that a good idea?"

"Good? No." Shook her head. "Necessary? Absolutely."

"Why necessary?"

She met my eyes, and her amused expression disappeared. "Respect isn't given, Nick. It's earned."

"You wanted her respect?"

"Hmmm, sort of."

"I don't understand."

Her hand slipped behind my neck, and she pulled me into a passionate kiss. Our tongues flicked into each other's mouths, and she held he kiss for several seconds, before she let me go. 

"Your respect, Nick," she said breathlessly. "It's your respect I want."

"You have it," I gasped, trying to stop the room from spinning. "You've always had it."

"Maybe as an employee," she qualified. "That's not the respect I'm looking for."

"Ummm, okay-."

"Later." She cut me off with her gorgeous smile, and a kiss on the cheek. "Let's mingle."

"Yes, ma'am."

Yeah. I know. A weak, tepid response, but this night had body-slammed me several different times, and I'd lost all sense of my surroundings. A part of me felt excited, another part felt dread, and the final part wanted to cut loose, fuck the crap out Cassidy, and see where things landed. After Cassidy's kiss, that last part led by a wide margin. I took a deep breath, focused on my surroundings, and tried to bring some sanity to this evening. 

David had settled into his role as Nicole's boyfriend, and had handled it well so far. The guest of honor tonight, he'd been besieged with fans, and well-wishers. Nicole looked in her element, and I could tell she planned on wearing David out later. Equally obvious was the fact that I wouldn't be able to watch. 

Nicole seemed pissed when she walked away, but I couldn't tell at who, although Cassidy had earned a spot on her shit list. Deliberately. I knew we'd talk later, but whether later would be tomorrow, or tonight, I wasn't sure. She'd find me, I knew it, accepted it, and resigned myself to at least one tongue-lashing tonight. 

Speaking of Cassidy, she'd appeared tonight and made it a point to surprise me, and keep me guessing all night. Respect? I already respected her. I told her that earlier. We were attracted to each other that much was obvious, but I had no idea what the future held. 

Last, but definitely not least...Cynthia. I liked her, considered her a friend, but the bitch had some explaining to do. 

***

Nicole slid away from David, her body moving in an undulating, slow-motion seductive wave towards my office door. More of a glide than a walk, her hips swayed from side to side, and the click of the door lock engaging echoed loudly in my office. 

My mouth had dropped open, as it usually did when Nicole slipped into her sultry and sexy mode. She had an indefinable quality that captivated men and women. She rotated in place, a nice slow turn, and her Christian Louboutin heels slid over the carpet as if on glass. Still standing at the door, her hand rose to her shoulder, and she unclasped her blouse. Unaware of female fashions aside from how good they look, I didn't realize how easily her clothes could be removed. The blouse slipped to the floor, and she reached behind her, and unzipped her skirt. It joined her blouse on the floor, and Nicole stood wearing little more than a smile. 

A sheer bra left nothing to the imagination, and matching sheer panties did the same. Her daily visits to the gym were clearly visible as she stood almost naked, covered only in sheer black Agent Provocateur lingerie. Thigh-high stockings completed the magnificent sight, and a desert sprang to life in my mouth. Somewhere between the blouse and skirt, my cock had sprung to life. 


Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 02



My cock? What a joke! The chances of my cock seeing any action beyond my hand dropped to below zero. Action or no, Nicole looked stunning, and my cock had no shame in his game. He liked what he saw. 

Once again she glided, rather than walked forward. Her feet stepping directly in front of her body, causing her hips to sway, and her eyes fixed on David. I'd disappeared. When she reached him, her arms circled his shoulders, and settled around his neck. Their kiss surged way past passionate, and grew in intensity as each second ticked by. 

My head started to spin, and I had to steady myself on the desk. Tearing my eyes away from the erotic sight, I took two long deep breaths. My cuckold addiction wouldn't let me look away for long however, and I turned back in time to see her maneuver David into a chair. A triumphant, sexy smile had appeared on her face. Control. Nicole had it, and she knew it. David looked as stunned as I felt. 

Without a backward glance, she lowered herself until she knelt in front of him, between his legs, and I heard the metallic 'tink' of a belt coming undone. 

David's gasp broke the silence, and announced Nicole's lips on his cock. Her head twisted back and forth, and I knew from experience, her tongue had begun playing with the tip of his cock. She loved teasing, and she excelled at it. Nicole had a small fetish for oral sex, she loved it, and frequently she'd give it without asking for anything in return. 

Today. Now. David enjoyed her talents, and judging by the heat between them, he'd be on the receiving end for the foreseeable future. I envied him. No question. I felt more than jealousy however, excitement also flowed through me, because my pleasure, a cuckold's pleasure, grew from more than a simple sex act. A cuckold's satisfaction, pleasure and fulfillment came from a deeper well. 

As my wife's head dipped deeper, and deeper on David's cock, an emotional high grew within me. Excitement, jealousy, lust, and submission all combined to overpower my senses and block out the world around me. My focus had narrowed to the point where all I saw was Nicole kneeling in front of David, her perfect ass framed by an expensive thong, and her gorgeous hair undulating rhythmically as it cascaded across her shoulders. 

"Good girl." David's deep voice spiked into my trance. "Deeper. You can do it. C'mon, deepthroat my cock, babygirl."

His hands had been resting on the armrests, until Nicole moved them to the back of her head. Unbelievable maybe, but her intentions were clear, and all of us knew it. 

"Want some help?" David asked rhetorically, as his hands pressed down on her head. The groan that escaped him left no doubt that she'd taken all of him. "Fuck! That's it, baby. Take it all!"

Nicole's head had buried itself in his crotch, held down by his hand, she remained still long enough that I started to get worried. Scared. Finally, David's hand lifted from her head, and she surfaced for air. 

"I did it!"

"Yeah," he said with a hungry smile. "But you ain't done baby. C'mon, more to do."

I heard her take another breath, and then dive back down on his cock. Her efforts buoyed by her triumph, she poured herself onto his cock. David's head rocked back, and his eyes closed, as slurping sounds and groans filled the air. Once again, my body shuddered, and I had to focus on my breathing or risk passing out. The temptation to stroke my cock felt overpowering, but I didn't know how David would react, and I didn't want to risk breaking the erotic tableau in front of me. 

From my vantage point, I didn't have a good view of his size, but if Nicole struggled with his cock, I knew he was bigger and/or thicker than Collin. A fact I couldn't reconcile, because Collin's cock rivaled the best porn actors. Barely a minute later, a long, low groan burst forth from David, and Nicole's head stopped moving. Her hands caressed his thighs, as her throat swallowed convulsively.

"Fuck! Get it all, baby," he panted. "All of it."

Her head nodded, while her lips remained locked around his cock. A quick burst of laughter jarred me out of my reverie, and David's hands settled around her head. 

"Enough!" He laughed. "It's sensitive, dammit."

Nicole's laughter joined his a second later, and she rose to her feet. "I know it is, baby, but it tastes so good."

"You'll get to taste it a lot more from now on."

Now standing in front of his, the laughter left his eyes, and a predator's hunger took over. Starting at her ankles, his eyes elevatored up her body, stopping at all the most interesting places, before he stopped at her eyes. No longer a boyfriend, he looked at her as though viewing a prized possession. 

"Take your panties off," he ordered. "From now on, you don't wear panties in my presence. Understood?"

Yes, David," she replied huskily. 

The thong panties slid over her hips, and she bent over slowly as she lowered them down her legs. She stepped out of them, when they reached her ankles, and she straightened, holding them in her hands. 

"Give them to your husband, and then get dressed."

Steel filled his voice, and it didn't allow for any questions or disobedience. Nicole gave every indication that she loved his dominant, direct manner, and if anything, it made her more submissive, more seductive as though fulfilling his demands increased her arousal. 

Our eyes met, and I knew I'd reached the right conclusion. A starry-eyed lust, laced with happy submission, filled her eyes, and she smiled dreamily at me as she handed me her feather-light panties. Our eyes met, and in that moment, we knew each other's thoughts. 

We'd both wanted this, needed it in fact, and both of us intended to revel in it. 

Nicole turned from me without a word, and glided back to her clothes. I couldn't take my eyes off her, and seeing my wife, all but naked in my office, flipped a switch in my brain. Any thoughts of resisting this lifestyle, resisting David, fled without a backward glance. I stood alone, on the precipice of another cuckold relationship, and without hesitation I leapt into the unknown. 

Embracing whatever came next. 

"She's beautiful, isn't she?" David's voice, right next to my ear, washed into my brain. As my attention had been captured by Nicole, he'd walked over and now stood next to me. "She's beautiful, and she's mine, Nick. Look all you want, but remember your place."

His words strengthened as he spoke, and they wrenched my attention away from Nicole. I met his eyes, and saw resolve reflected back at me. 

"I respect you." His voice barely a whisper. "Your job, your marriage, and your family. You proved today just how important all of them are to you, and I know you're not a pushover."

My voice had caught in my throat, and my mouth remained dry, so speaking wasn't an option. I merely nodded, and held his gaze. 

"You are a cuckold however, and you need to accept your place, your role in this relationship. Your wife belongs to me now. Mine." A slow confident smile grew on his face. "I'm in charge, Nicole is next, and you follow both of our instructions. That's how it's going to be moving forward. Me, Nicole, and then you. Understood?"

I gulped, and offered a jerky nod. As difficult as his words were, I needed to hear them. Collin had been right, this type of relationship worked best with a chain of command. 

"Not good enough, cuck," he hissed. "You need to say it out loud. Accept it. Embrace it, and Nicole needs to hear it from you."

Nicole stood next to the door, fully dressed now, waiting for David and I to come to a resolution. David's voice had been too low for her to hear, so the next words I spoke would cement her understanding of our relationship. 

She smiled at us both. 

"If you want this, Cuck. Now's the time," his voice pierced my ear again. "It's important to Nicole for you to agree, without reservations, otherwise I doubt this will work."

I'd managed to work enough moisture into my mouth and throat that forming words now became possible. No easy feat. Another long, deep cleansing breath helped me center myself. I also acknowledged the truth in David's words. A cuckold relationship had to work for everyone, otherwise it would eventually wither and die. 

"David." I started with him, and deliberately chose formal words. Unsure as to why, they just seemed to fit the situation. "I accept your role as leader in this relationship. I'll abide by your direction, unless I view it as dangerous to my job, family or health." I paused and met my wife's eyes. They beamed with happiness. "I further accept that Nicole belongs to you, and that you've placed her in a position over me. I finally agree to the position as cuckold husband, and accept your leadership, and Nicole's, in our relationship."

Silence filled the room, absent tension this time, after the last word left my mouth. My statement, formal and delicious, hung openly in the silence, and all of us let those words cement themselves in our brain. We'd crossed a threshold, the first of many I suspected.

Happiness beamed from every part of Nicole as she rushed over, and embraced me, her arms tight around my body. The light scent of her perfume filled my nose with vanilla and lavender, and I buried my face in her hair. A sweet moment. 

"Thank you, Nick." 

David's voice sliced between as Nicole pulled back. His right hand stood out from his body, a sincere expression of gratitude, and respect, reflected on his face. Nicole stepped back, glancing between the two of us. A smile grew on my own face, and David matched it with his own. We shook hands, and he clapped me on the shoulder. 

A guy thing? Maybe. But we'd successfully worked through our first challenge. 

A bumpy start, but we'd all take it.

***

Cassidy and I threaded our way through the crowd towards one of the dessert stations located outside on the patios. Dinner had included coffee and cookies, but the hotel also offered an additional dessert complete with complimentary champagne. My date hadn't eaten much of her meal, and wanted to see what sweets were on the table. 

My head still spun from our unusual conversation, and a fantastic kiss, so dessert seemed a pretty safe and neutral territory. Guests had spilled out of the hotel and now started to fill the outside areas. Fire pits were burning, and the full moon glinted off the lake sitting next to the hotel. 

Romantic. Perfect.

A beautiful evening, and I had an even more beautiful woman on my arm. 

"Nick!"

A thick, heavily-accented voice reached me over the chatter of the crowd. The accent was German, and I recognized the voice even before I saw the man. Finally, I caught sight of him, descending a stairwell, and smiling widely. 

"Gunter! It's good to see you." We shook hands enthusiastically. "Are you in town for a game?"

"Nein." He replied with a shake of his head. "Collin mentioned you were coming, and gave me his ticket." He shrugged. "Since I leave tomorrow, I wanted to talk to you tonight."

"I see," I replied and glanced at Cassidy. "Gunter, this is Cassidy. She works with me at Endeavor."

"Nice to meet you." He shook her hand. 

"Likewise."

"Gunter is the owner of a professional soccer-."

"Football!"

"Sorry," I added quickly, and winked at him. "Football team."

He nodded his satisfaction, and muttered something in German. Cassidy immediately replied in the same language, surprising both of us with her fluency. Gunter laughed again, and responded, which set off a full-blown conversation in German, leaving yours truly to stare blankly at both of them. 

"Your German is excellent." He barked a short, self-deprecating laugh. "Better than my English."

"Thank you." She inclined her head. "My grandmother will be glad to hear it."

"I didn't know you spoke German," I said, once again surprised by the young, beautiful woman next to me. "You never said anything."

"You never asked," she quipped lightly. "Surprised?"

"Impressed," I snapped back lightly, and followed my response with a smile. "Again."

"You two talk." Her eyes twinkled with happiness, and she motioned at Gunter. "I'm going to check out the desserts."

Gunter and I watched her walk away, and he gave me a wry look out of the corner of his eye. "You are lucky man, Nick."

"Thank you," I replied, and then tore my eyes off Cassidy's retreating frame. "What did you want to discuss."

An excited expression appeared on his face. 

"Yes. To business." He motioned at my glass. "What are you drinking?"

"Scotch."

"I thought so, and where do you find good quality scotch in San Antonio?"

"Uhhhh," I replied, and considered his question. "Most liquor stores carry Scotch and Whisk-."

"No," he interrupted. "Not everyday whiskey. High quality, limited edition, and hard to find bottles."

"Gotcha." I shrugged. "We have a few specialty wine shops that stock some rare whiskeys."

"Right," he nodded. "A few bottles. That's it. Over-priced of course, because they have big number on the label, but you and I know age doesn't mean quality."

"Agreed." I narrowed my eyes at him. "Where are you going with this, Gunter?"

"Whiskey is very popular. Worldwide whiskey is preferred, not just the everyday stuff, but high-quality as well. The market is poorly served."

"Okay. And?"

"I seek partners for a business venture. Liquor destinations, not stores, but destinations." He squeezed my shoulder and lowered his voice. "Disney World for Whiskey Drinkers. We will make a killing. I'm sure of it."

"Hmmm," I replied thoughtfully. 

Disney World for whiskey drinkers? Okay. That was a bit much, but his idea sounded intriguing. I could envision it in my head, and at first glance it sounded good. Walk into any liquor store, and the employees will have a limited knowledge of spirits. Their selection limited to 'named brands', and easily sold bottles. In most cases, store employees simply memorized what the distributor told them. 

Product placement. Success would depend upon the placement of the stores. Locations where the surrounding area had disposable income would be critical. Marketing? It had to be on point, and effective in order to compel the right buyers. Gunter watched me carefully as I turned the idea over in my head. I liked it, and he could see it. 

"Tell me more." 

He smiled, bent nearer, and by the time he finished, I was almost ready to sign a check. Fortunately, he was still in the planning stages, so we had a little time. He'd located individual locations in San Antonio, Austin, and the Dallas and Houston suburbs. The initial commitment wasn't as high as I expected, and he explained that Collin had already committed, and recommended he speak with me. The three of us would be partners, sharing equally in the profits, and with the initial investment, we'd have enough capital for eighteen to twenty-four months of operations. Securing a line of credit wouldn't be difficult, and a liquor license would be a formality. 

"I leave tomorrow, but I will be back next week. Will you setup a meeting with Collin, and we go over details?"

"Absolutely," I replied. "Thank you for thinking of me."

"You're welcome." 

We shook hands, and Gunter left, explaining that he needed to leave for the airport. After wishing him well, I turned and looked for Cassidy. Nowhere to be found. Not at the dessert table, and I didn't see her in any of the groups. 

I had just started back inside, when I noticed three guys standing in the corner, laughing and talking with someone. One of them had two drinks in his hand, and he was doing all the talking. His two stooges kept glancing around the crowd, as if they were trying to see if anyone was watching. 

Odd. 

Dressed in tuxedos, sharp-looking, I nevertheless got the sense they were scum. Frat-boys, resting on family connections, and used to getting what they wanted. Each of them wore a hungry, arrogant, almost dirty expression. I wandered closer, not taking a direct route, but approaching obliquely so I could over hear their conversation before being noticed. 

"-totally cool. The manager of the hotel is friend of my family's. He'll close off the hot tub and pool area, so it'll just be us."

"No, thank you."

"Really?" His voice sounded casually disappointed, but not deterred. "You won't be the only female there, I promise. These guys have dates, but I'm all by my lonesome, and I hoped you'd come with us. You'll be totally safe, and it'll be fun. If you want, we can go to a club later."

His voice oozed charm, confidence and reassurance. The guy speaking was the tallest, dark brown hair, fit, and his body language approached that of an animal stalking its prey. He talked with his hands, and slipped forward as he spoke, as though it were perfectly natural. The other two were mirrors of him, but shorter, and dumber-looking. Followers. Hangers-on. The worst sort of person, who'd stand by and watch as really shitty things happened to someone else. 

Jumping to conclusions? You bet, but I knew a bad situation when I saw it. Two drinks? Who the fuck carries two drinks? 

"Guys, listen. I appreciate the offer, but no, I'm here with someone. Now if you'll excuse me-."

"It's cool," he interrupted her. "But at least have a drink with us, while we wait for our dates to come back from the restrooms. They travel in packs." All of them laughed. "Here, it's an appletini, and I had the bartender make it especially for you."

I'd gotten close enough to see it was Cassidy they were speaking to, and rage exploded inside of me. I'd been willing to step in before, but now I prepared to wade in with fists flying. It made me even angrier to see Cassidy accept the drink with a defeated smile. 

What the fuck was she thinking?

My glass of Scotch found its way to a nearby table, and I stepped closer, intending to stop Cassidy from drinking anything from the glass he'd just handed her. The expressions on the guys faced clearly indicated something wasn't right inside that glass, and I doubted these guys even had dates. 

"Thank you," she said meekly, accepting the glass. "Appletini, huh?"

"Yeah. The bartender's a friend of mine, and he makes great girlie drinks," he replied. His voice sounded oilier by the second. "I'm serious. He's won competitions and everything. You'll love it."

Cassidy raised her eyebrows, impressed, and brought the martini glass to her lips. The guys exchanged glances, and shit-eating, predatory smiles. The leader smiled in anticipation as well, and motioned for her to drink. She paused as the glass met her lips.

She winked at him, and then her hand shot forward.

Appletini flashed in the air until it covered the leader's face. Direct hit. The contents of her glass caught him squarely, and splashed his friends for good measure. Cassidy's eyes flashed with heat, and anger, and she threw the glass to the concrete where it shattered with a loud clatter. 

Heads turned, and voices died around us.

"You can take your spiked drink, and shove it up your ass! I said no, and I meant it. Now leave me the fuck alone."

"Bitch!" 

His voice smoldered with anger, he wiped his face, and then balled his hands into fists. Cassidy's anger matched his however, and I had no doubt she'd withstand whatever he did next. It didn't matter though, because I wasn't about to let him advance on her. 

"Back away from the lady." My voice felt like a cauldron, a foundry of iron, steel and intense head. Part of me hoped, he'd make an issue of it. "Now!"

His head snapped around, until he spied me. Bluff and bravado filled his eyes, and he wiped his face again, and slicked his hair back. He stepped in between me and Cassidy, blocking her from my sight, and his friends closed in behind him. 

"Relax, pal." He gave me derisive look. "Nothing to see here. My date's just upset, that's all."




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 02



"Walk way, kid," I advised. "And you can save what's left of your dignity. Keep this up, and it'll get ugly real fast." 

"You have any idea who I am? Who my dad is?"

"Spoiled rich kid? First name-last name, the third?" I threw out my own derisive smirk, and glanced around. "I don't see your dad here now, and if you don't leave the lady alone, it won't be your dad who catches a beating."

"Beating?" He forced a laugh. "By the time my dad's done with you, you'll be working here as a janitor. Now get the fuck out here, before I call security. I know the manager."

The time for words had ended. Whoever this kids dad was, he'd obviously bailed him out of enough trouble, he'd grown convinced his dad would always be there for him. That sort of protection had hindered him, given him a confidence born of reputation, not actions, and the dumbass didn't realize it. He also didn't realize that hard lessons couldn't always be avoided. I took a step to the side, and made eye contact with my date.

"Cassidy," I said loudly. "Walk towards me. The two toadies aren't brave enough to stop you."

She laughed loudly, and I saw her try to step around the nearest buddy, but he moved in front of her. She glared at him for a split-second, and then reared back, and decked him squarely on the jaw. He staggered several steps, before losing his footing, and falling awkwardly to the deck. She calmly stepped around the leader, and fell in behind me. 

"We're leaving. If I see you near her again tonight, I'm calling the cops."

He laughed and motioned behind me. "They're already here, dumbass."

I turned to see two security guards, and two police officers approaching. Security looked scared, and the cops looked bored, but all of them approached carefully. 

"Craig," the leader began quickly. "Officers. This gentleman has been bothering me and my friends. He's obviously a troublemaker. Would you get him out of here?"

I had no idea which one was Craig, but the chances of me going anywhere were nil. One of the security guys nodded however, and braced me. 

"Sir. If you'll follow me."

"No." I replied quietly, and made eye contact with the officers. Craig, the super-duper security guy would be a waste of time. "Officers, the gentleman over my shoulder detained this young lady, and tried to force a drink on her. I suspect it was spiked with something. I also believe if you search the men behind me, you'll find a controlled substance." I motioned to people standing nearby. "Please consult the people around us, they'll confirm that these gentleman instigated the problem, and are the real source of the trouble."

The officers stepped forward, and their eyes grew suspicious when the words 'controlled substance' left my mouth. The officer who spoke had a no-nonsense expression, and his voice rang with authority. 

"All of you," he motioned in a circle that included the three stooges. "We're going to step away from the crowd, and discuss the situation. Keep your hands out of your pockets, and step this way."

Cassidy and I led the way. The officer directed us to a conference room off the main hallway, and all of us gathered inside. Once the door closed, the security dickhead Craig started the music. 

"Officers, I know these three gentleman. They're from prominent families, and they've never caused an ounce of trouble. I find the accusations against them hard to believe."

"You lying, brown-nosing sonofabitch!" Cassidy snapped, before I could stop her. 

An amused expression passed over the officer's faces, and they studiously ignored Craig. The lead officer turned to his partner. "Would you get Chappy?"

"Sure thing," he nodded and left the room. 

"We're going to sort this out in a calm, deliberative manner." His eyes made contact with everyone, before he continued. "I will ask the questions, each of you will answer them. Understood?"

"Officer," the lead douchebag started. "If I could just make a call, I believe we could end this rather quickly."

"Shut up, kid. I'll get to you in a second." 

"Am I under arrest?" He puffed out his chest, and righteous indignation filled his voice. "I'm a lawyer, so you should consider your answer carefully."

"Counselor," the officer replied. "This is officially an investigative detention. As you probably know, you're not free to leave, but you don't have to show any identification." He motioned at Cassidy, before turning his full attention back to douchebag lawyer. "An accusation has been made that the lady was detained against her will, and there could be controlled substances on the premise."

"I'm not consenting to a search, officer. So don't bother asking."

"We have a canine unit on the premise, sir. Its standard procedure for a gathering like this, and my partner will be back shortly. In the meantime, I'm going to question the young lady. Sit quietly."

Canine Unit. 

Blood drained from the douchebag's face when those words were dropped. He glanced at his friends, and their expressions were equally as worried, and I could almost see beads of sweat popped out on their forehead. A canine unit could produce probable cause without a direct search, and the arrogant ass knew it.

"Officer, that won't be necessary-."

The door opened, and the partner stepped in leading a beautiful German Shepard. Another officer had joined him, and now the room held three officers, two security goons who looked increasingly nervous, three supremely uncomfortable douchebags, and myself and Cassidy. She leaned up against me, and held my hand. 

The dog started barking almost immediately after entering the room. Only he wasn't barking at the douchebags. Craig the security guy backed up against the wall, holding his hands up, and blubbering. 

"Stay there! Don't move!" One of the officers ordered. 

The other officer led the dog around the room, allowing it to sniff me first, then Cassidy, and then he moved it over to Larry, Curly and Moe. The dog went nuts. Cassidy and I couldn't help busting out with laughter, because all three stooges started talking at once. Fingers pointed, curses were exchanged, and then the steel bracelets came out. 

The next ten minutes saw Craig unburdened of a large bag of Marijuana, which wasn't legal in Texas. The three douchebags were also holding goodies, and when all was said and done, several small bags of ecstasy, cocaine, and more marijuana lay on the table. Cassidy and I gave our statements, and were allowed to rejoin the party. I'm not normally a petty guy, but I couldn't resist giving the head douchebag a little wink as I left the room. 

David and Nicole met us almost as soon as we left. When I explained what happened, David nodded, and left after whispering to Nicole. Nicole stayed and her eyes traveled over Cassidy, and then myself. She couldn't miss Cassidy holding my hand, and her body pressed against mine. She pursed her lips, but then took a deep breath.

"Nick, may I speak to you a moment?" Her eyes found Cassidy's. "Alone."

"Would you mind if we wait until David returns?" I phrased it as a question, but my tone made it clear I wasn't leaving asking permission. "I'm not comfortable leaving Cassidy alone." 

"Of course," she replied. "Are you okay, Cassidy?"

"Fine." She pressed closer to me. "Nick saved me."

"You didn't need saving," I objected. 

"No," Nicole emphasized. "Cassidy's right. Stop being modest."

"Fine," I relented, and tried to change the subject. "Let's not let this ruin our night. Did we miss the fireworks display?"

"No," Nicole replied, and checked her watch. "We have about five minutes."

"Great."

David rejoined us a moment later. "I apologize for leaving, but I know one of the men the police arrested tonight. His father needs to know what happened."

"Why?" My tone made it clear I didn't agree. "Daddy going to bail him out again?"

David's expression went flat, hard, and he met my eyes "Any parent would want to know if their child had been arrested, Nick. I think you'd understand that."

"Depends upon the circumstances, doesn't it?"

"His father is a close, personal, and long-time friend of mine," he replied. "I've known his son since he scooted around on his ass in diapers. Those are the circumstances. If you don't agree, fine, but I'm not asking for your approval, and it's none of your business."

Anger flashed through me, and we faced each other. 

"His son tried to drug Cassidy tonight." I made no attempt at tact or decorum. "He and his buddies also had enough drugs to get the entire crowd high tonight. It's obvious his dad has saved his ass before, and you're helping him do it again." I stepped forward. "What happens next time, David? What do you tell the next woman he drugs? That you golf with his dad? He's a good buddy? His son is just misunderstood? You going to represent him?"

"Fuck. You!" David stepped forward as well, and we were less than six inches apart. "I'm not going to apologize for making a phone call, or being a good friend."

"Nick." Cassidy took my hand again. 

Nicole did the same with David. "Honey."

As usual, the presence of females calmed our tempers, and we both took a breath, and stepped back. We exchanged a look and nodded a truce at one another.

Was the matter settled? No. 

Would it ever be? Probably not. 

David felt he'd been looking out for a friend, and his son, who he'd known since birth. He would never see it as enabling the young douchebag. For my part, I'd never understand his point of view. The spoiled brat needed a stint in jail. He needed to have the consequences of his decisions fall squarely on his shoulders, not daddy's, and when it came to mistreating women, I'm old-school. 

I don't tolerate it.

"Did you still want a word, Nicole?" 

"No." She met my eyes. "You and Cassidy have fun tonight, Nick. You've earned it."

Our eyes held for a moment longer, and a smile of acceptance appeared on her face. She ended our staring contest with a wink, before turning her attention to Cassidy. 

"Take good care of him tonight, Cassidy."

"I will," she beamed back at my wife. 

"I'm glad you're okay," she added, before slipping her arm inside David's. 

They walked away, looking every bit the happy couple. Cassidy waited until they'd turned a corner before she pulled me into another kiss. Every bit as nice as the first one, it lasted long enough to excite both of us. We struggled to regain our composure when it ended. Neither of us knew what to say, and we stood for a moment, exchanging awkward glances. 

"Hey, how about those Spurs?"

The inane, sarcastic question broke the awkwardness, and we both laughed. Cassidy kissed me again, light, quick and nice. 

"Let's go watch the fireworks," she suggested. 

"Sounds good."

***  

Nicole and David returned to other side of my desk, and stood holding hands. The tension that had filled the room earlier, had evaporated. All of us felt better about our situation, and the path forward. If nothing else, we'd clarified everyone's role. 

Believe me, it helped. 

"Nicole will be joining me for the rest of the day," he said. "I understand your oldest daughter has an event tonight, and Nicole will definitely be there. I'll drop her off, and you can take her home."

"Good."

He turned to Nicole. "Are you ready?"

"Definitely." 

"Why don't you leave first?" He suggested. "It might look odd, if we leave together. I'll meet you in the parking lot?"

"Sure." Nicole smiled at me once more, before she walked out of my office. 

"Thank you again," he said, after she left. "I appreciate your understanding and I meant what I said, I'll make sure you're informed of everything."

"Good. I appreciate it."

"To that end, I wanted you to know I will be fucking your wife for the rest of the day." 

I let that statement hang in the air. It excited me, sure, but I also had questions. 

"Y'know," I replied slowly. "For a guy who's new at this, you seem pretty sure of yourself."

"I'm a quick study, and I've been doing a lot of research." His expression sobered, and he leaned forward. "As much as I'm looking forward to diving into this relationship, I want you to know that I respect your family, your daughters, and I'll respect your family's space. I know I said that earlier, but it's important enough to say again."

"Thank you. I appreciate it."

He nodded. "I would like to meet your daughters though, and I hope you'll consider introducing them to me sooner rather than later. Everything I've read indicates that these types of relationships draw everyone close, and I think we can balance our intimate relationship and your daughters."

"I'll consider it, David. Let's see how things go."

"Good," he replied, and gave me another perfunctory smile, before walking towards the door. He turned back when he reached it. "Oh, one more thing."

"What's that?"

"Chastity. I'll expect you to wear your device full time, starting on Monday." He paused for a moment. "Enjoy your weekend."

David didn't wait for my response, and a second later he'd gone. 

Gone. 

With Nicole.

My wife. 

I walked over to my windows, and stared out at the rolling green hills. Oaks, elms, and cedar trees covered the landscape. Beautiful. How long I stood there, I don't know, my mind ran in an endless circle of excitement, worry, and lust. All of my emotions were overshadowed however, by an ominous sense of dread, as if I'd willingly boarded the Titanic knowing I'd be aboard when it slipped beneath the waves. A soft knock at my door finally brought me back to reality. 

"Nick?"

I turned. "Hey, Cynthia. How's it going?"

"Fine," she cocked her head at me. "Looks like you're thinking deep thoughts over there. Everything okay?"

"Nicole tell you about David?"

"Her current obsession? Yes. Why?"

"We started a new relationship with him." I hesitated, and then plunged in. "Like the one we had with Collin."

"Ahhh." She walked up next to me, and squeezed my shoulder. "Are you alright with it?"

"Yes."

"But?"

"No buts." I shook my head. "I know what I'm getting to...at least I think I know what I'm getting into anyway. I just wish I knew what the future held."

"I don't know David very well. What's he like?"

"Intense. Intelligent. Used to getting what he wants."

She offered me a smile. "Sounds like you."

"Maybe."

"And Nikki?" She asked. "How's my girl handling it?"

Our eyes met, and we both smiled. 

"She's loving it, isn't she? Throwing herself headlong into the deep end of the pool."

"Yep!"

"Figures," she chuckled. "That's part of the excitement though, right?"

"A big part, yes." I cleared my throat. "Like fire I guess. Keeps you warm, draws you in, but it you get too close..." 

"Third degree burns."

"Exactly."

"I can't say I understand this type of relationship, but I've personally benefitted from it, so I can't criticize either. Not that I would, I care too much about you and Nicole to ever criticize." She took a breath. "When you two were with Collin, and later with me, I got the sense you enjoyed it, but also felt left out. Am I right?"

"Yeah." I said after a few seconds. "It's unavoidable though, because Nicole and David deserve some time together. Can't exactly form a relationship without private time."

"Makes sense, but I meant to suggest that maybe you should have someone too."

I glanced over and found her studying me. Cynthia and I had been lightly intimate with each other before, but she preferred women, so I knew she wasn't hitting on me. Still, I had no idea where she was headed. 

"What are you saying?"

"Duh!" She slugged my shoulder. "Find someone for you. It doesn't have to be serious, but someone who can help you through the lonely times."

"I'm not sure," I hedged. "Nicole doesn't share well, and not many women want a guy whose cock is locked up."

"Maybe it's time she learned, and I'm sure you can negotiate some free time." When I glanced at her dubiously, she winked. "Besides, the chastity thing is kind of cute, and you still have other ways to satisfy a woman. Believe me, I know."

"Right," I said, drawing the word out, and I deliberately ignored the last part of her comment. "Nikki might become homicidal if I found a girlfriend, and besides, I think that would put us on the road to divorce, right? I mean, someone has to stay centered, protect the marriage, and the family."

"Nick." Her voice changed, and became harder. "If Nikki isn't protecting your marriage, she has no business being with David."

"You're right, but I trust Nikki to draw the right boundaries with David."

"You're such a guy."

"What's that mean?"

"For women." She took a breath. "It's not always about the things we gain, it's also about the things we may lose. Nikki's focused on what's new, what's she's gained, and I don't think she realizes what she may lose." She studied me for a long moment. "Like you."

"And you think my having a girlfriend will remind her?"

"Yes. Nikki needs some competition. It'd certainly stop her from taking you for granted." 

"I see. Seems kinda dangerous. I mean it could blow everything up."

"Maybe." She nudged me with her hip. "You're already playing with fire, Nick. At least this way, David and Nicole will feel some heat as well."

She had a point. Although finding someone as understanding as Cynthia seemed unlikely, and I wasn't about to start hitting bars. The only woman I'd known, and actually considered getting intimate with was Sheila, and she hadn't talked to me since I left my last company. 

No emails. No cards. No phone calls. 

I'd tried to connect with her on LinkedIn, but she hadn't accepted my invitation. I guess my leaving affected her more than I realized. Why it still bothered me, I can't explain, but it did. Ultimately, I didn't matter however, because contacting her just to setup a sexual relationship wasn't going to happen. Not fair to her. 

"I'll think about it." 

"You're a good man, Nick. Nicole should remember that, especially if she wants to go all the way with David."

"All the way?" I snorted. "Are we in high school now?"

She met my eyes, and her expression held no humor. 

"No. I mean having another baby. David's baby."

My mouth dropped open, and I stared blankly at her. 

"Ummm, what?"

***

Fireworks. Everyone loves fireworks, young, old, cynic, and trusting soul. There's something about bright explosions that just draw the human species. Cassidy and I were no exception. We found a nice spot, and watched as the colors lit up the sky right above us. Outstanding. The fireworks company earned a bonus that night. 

Cassidy started by slipping her arm inside mine, but as the display continued, and everyone's attention focused skyward, her hands started to roam. She ran her fingers through my hair, rubbed my back, and finished off with a little squeeze of my ass. I didn't mind or stop her. 

Hey! I'm a guy. 

We'd been watching for about fifteen minutes, when in between blasts when she pressed her lips against my ear. Her body followed, and soon her entire body had pressed itself against me. It felt amazing.

"Take me upstairs."

Decision time. Cassidy didn't intend to watch HBO when we got to the room, and I had Nicole's permission. Could I do it though? I hadn't been with a woman, I mean really been with another woman, since I'd married Nicole. My equipment worked just fine, and I'd earned a weekend outside my chastity belt, but I'd never crossed this threshold, not once in almost two decades. As our eyes met however, I knew deep inside, I wanted to be with her.

"Let's go."

We stepped away from the railing, my hand on Cassidy's lower back. No, not her ass, her lower back. As we walked inside I noticed the hotel had started serving champagne, several tables were laden with bottles of bubbly, and the staff was busy filling flutes. Cassidy caught my eye, and a sly grin appeared on her face. She grabbed two empty flutes, and I snatched a bottle of champagne, and we hurried to the elevator giggling like teenagers. 




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 02



Don't get me wrong. I planned to let the hotel know tomorrow, so they could charge me for it, but for tonight it made for some playful fun. We got lucky, and caught the elevator as it opened, and had it all to ourselves. As soon as the doors closed, Cassidy pushed me against the wall, and our lips met again. With no limits, no more worries, or onlookers, the kiss took on a life of its own. Everything about Cassidy felt good, and as our hands explored each other's bodies, both of us realized we could go as far as we wanted tonight. 

A fierce sense of freedom welled up inside me, and I got a sense for how Nicole must feel when she's alone with David, or how she felt when she spent time with Collin or Cynthia. She would spend tonight with David, and I'd accepted their relationship, but now the tables had turned, or at least balanced this evening, and now I had an opportunity to spend a night, or more, with Cassidy. 

Ding!

The elevator doors opened, but we didn't separate. Cassidy pulled back, and hit me with her vicious, beautiful smile. "I've wanted to do that all night."

"Me too."

"Really?"

"Yes."

"Good. Now follow me."

The elevator doors had just started to close when she stopped, and pulled me out of the elevator. She'd always been smart, and assertive, but I'd never seen her like this, and I wondered if I'd end up in the corner whining like a puppy when she finished with me. Whatever happened between us, it looked to be memorable. 

"Here we are."

She didn't give me a chance to respond, she juggled the flutes, her purse, and the card key, and had the door open in record time. A beautiful suite greeted our eyes, large, spacious, nicely decorated, and just big. The champagne flutes found a spot on a small table, along with her purse. She stepped out of her heels, and gave a huge sigh of relief. 

"Let me guess? Cute, uncomfortable, and perfect?"

"Exactly." She stepped forward, kissed me again, and then nodded behind me. "Restroom. Why don't you take the champagne out to the patio, and I'll join you there."

"Sounds good."

As you can probably imagine, the view from the balcony was like the rest of the hotel. Fantastic. Our patio looked away from the fireworks, but the lights from the explosions still lit up the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country. As I stared into the night, I could help second-guessing.

"What the hell are you doing, Nick?" 

A gorgeous woman in my hotel room, and my wife's approval....hell, I'd won the lottery. I knew I should just go with it. Enjoy it. But if you've read any of my previous work, you know that I'm cursed, or blessed, with the ability to second-guess just about any situation. 

Good or bad. 

A perfect trait for someone who'd made a career insurance, unfortunately it didn't lend itself well to situations like this one. I also didn't know any lottery winners, and this wasn't a game show. 

The fierce sense of freedom, started to get weighed down by reality. Whatever happened tonight wouldn't end here. It couldn't. We worked together. Cassidy knew Nicole, and she'd met my kids. I'd be kidding myself if I thought we'd have casual sex with no consequences. 

"Hey, handsome." 

Cassidy's voice and smile brought me out of my head, a place I felt happy to leave. 

"Hey, back." I motioned with the champagne bottle. "Are you ready?"

"Absolutely."

Pop!

Unlike TV, the champagne didn't flow out of the bottle. I'm better with liquor than actors are apparently, and I filled both flutes. 

"Are we toasting again?" I asked. 

"Yes."

"Okay. You choose the toast this time."

"Ooooh. The pressure of a good toast."

I laughed. "I think you can handle it."

"Fine." She narrowed her eyes, and pursed her lips. "Here goes."

We held up our glasses. 

"Here's to those who've seen us at our best, and seen us at our worst, and can't tell the difference."

"Good one."

"It's borrowed, but I think it fits."

"Agree."

We clinked glasses and sipped our champagne. Not bad. Not great, but not bad. I'm not much of a champagne guy anyway, so I'm probably not the best judge. We sat down on the bench seat, and she snuggled against me. An easy silence fell between us. The bonfire in the elevator had dissipated, and left a nice warm fire burning. One that didn't threaten to consume us, but rather left us enough mental capacity to enjoy the moment. 

"You're wavering, aren't you?"

I knew what she meant. "Maybe a little."

"It's okay with Nicole."

"I know." I sighed. "But I'm not thinking of Nicole."

"Oh?"

"I'm thinking about you. About tomorrow, and where we'd go from here."

"So I'm not a one-night stand?"

"No. Never. I could never see you that way, Cassidy."

She raised up and kissed me again. "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

Her fingers slid through my hair. "So where do you want us to go?"

"I'm not sure, but I can't be casual with you," I replied, and met her eyes. "I'm not good at casual."

"I see."

"What do you want? It's not all about me, y'know."

"This." She rested her head against my chest. "I want to be with you. I'll take the same type of relationship Nicole has with David." She pinched my leg. "But with you obviously."

"You want more though, don't you?"

"Yes. I won't deny it."

"I....I can't offer you more, Cassidy."

She removed her head from my chest, and sat up. Her eyes were steady, not hurt or angry, steady. Her negotiating face. "Where is Nicole?"

"Cassid-."

"Just answer the question."

"With David."

"And before David?"

"Cynthia." My voice grew tighter. "Then Collin."

"That's right," I replied steadily. "I explained our relationship already. We're unique."

"An open marriage isn't unique, Nick. But that's not what you have. Nicole sleeps around, and rubs your nose in it, and then calls it some sort of dom/sub thing. Her boyfriends do the same, and you convince yourself you like it."

"Easy, kiddo." I warned. "You covered a lot of ground there, and none of its true."

"Nick-."

"No." I held up my hand. "It's my turn."

She sat back and folded her hands over her chest. Getting naked would've been easier, but I suspected it would've made this conversation harder. 

"Nicole see's other men, and women, with my approval and consent. She has never seen anyone without my approval first. She's not, and never has, slept around. Please don't say that again."

"Fine."

"Cassidy, it's true." I leaned forward, and put my hand over hers. "I'm a willing, and active participant in everything. No one rubs my nose in anything. I can't believe you'd think I'd put up with that kind of situation."

"Then do it with me." She stated flatly.

"I'm sorry."

"Stop it, you heard me," she snapped. "Do it with me. If you like to watch, I'll be with other men for you, and I'll treat you better than she does. I won't disrespect you, and I will always put you, and your family first." She paused, put her hand on my chest, and kissed me again. "Give us a chance, Nick. I can fulfill your needs better than Nicole."

"Uhhh."

She didn't wait for me to get my mental act together. A naughty smile crossed her face, and she stood, reached behind her body, and unzipped her dress. The beautiful garment slipped from her shoulders, and pooled on the patio. Cassidy stood in front of me, completely naked aside from a smile, and she held her hand out. 

"Let me show you how good it can be between us."



****Note****

Thank you for reading. If you've enjoyed reading, please see my profile page for additional stories, and also my published works.

JC



Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 03



Please Read!! 

This series features, creampies, chastity belt usage, lesbian encounters, dom/sub situations and of course, lots of messy sex (the best kind). 

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. 

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. 

***** 

Cynthia's comment landed between us and exploded, silence filled my office, and we stared at each other for several seconds. My brain refused to connect the dots. 

Baby? David's baby! 

Nicole and I had discussed having another child, but my vasectomy couldn't be reversed, and I thought we'd dropped the subject. 

"Baby," Cynthia repeated. "Y'know, tricycle motors, rug rats." 

I held up a hand. "I get it. I understand the concept." 

"You sure? It's been a while." 

"Knock it off," I snapped. "Nicole's not having his baby. She's not having anyone's baby." 

"I'm sure you're right," she replied in a voice that implied the exact opposite. 

"Oh no," I waggled my finger at her. "You don't get off that easy. Out with it." 

She motioned at the chairs in front of my desk, and we settled into them. She brought her palms together, and gathered her thoughts. The fact that she had to take a moment to think about what she was going to say bothered me. 

"You're family is special to me," she began. "Not just Nikki, all of you." 

I nodded and motioned for her to continue. 

"Nikki mentioned that the two of you wanted another child, which I think would be awesome," she assured me. "And she was crushed when she received the news about your vasectomy." 

"Yeah, I know." 

"Crushed, Nick," she emphasized. "I'm not sure you understand how much another child meant to her." 

"I knew she was disappointed," I added lamely. "But she seemed to move past it, and she hasn't mentioned it in weeks, months." 

Cynthia rolled her eyes. "Of course she hasn't mentioned it. Aside from making you feel like shit, what's it going to accomplish. I'm sure she did forget about it for a while, but now David's in the picture." 

"I know she hasn't discussed getting pregnant with David. She wouldn't do that. I know she wouldn't." 

Cynthia leaned back in her chair and studied me. 

"No way. I don't believe it." 

My voice had grown increasingly hollow, and I wasn't sure who I was trying to convince, Cynthia or myself. I just couldn't believe my wife would consider getting pregnant with David, and worse, doing it without speaking to me first. 

Unless... 

Unless she didn't want to be married to me anymore. Nicole wouldn't stay in our marriage just for the kids, and I wouldn't want her to either. Money wasn't an issue. David and I were both wealthy. No, in fact, Nicole could have it all. A loving ex-husband, two great kids who were close to college, and she'd also have a new husband, David, a wealthy dominant black man, who just happened to have a huge cock, and could produce children. 

Fear. Fear like I'd never felt before surged through me, and I felt sweat pop out over my body. The more I considered the situation, the more I realized David represented a clear and present danger to our marriage. My mind raced with possibilities, and in the span of a few seconds, I reached several more conclusions, all of them just as bad as the first. It wasn't until I felt Cynthia's hand on mine, that I dragged myself back into my office. 

"Nick." 

"Yeah, I'm here." 

"Relax. It's not as bad as your obviously thinking it is." 

"Fuck me, Cynthia." I drew in a ragged breath. "I'm going to lose her, aren't I?" 

"I don't think so." She shook her head. "Nicole loves you." 

"But she wants another child." 

"Yes." 

"And she wants David to give her one." 

"She mentioned it." 

"When?" 

"A few weeks ago," she replied. "We had lunch." 

"Mentioned it?" 

"A passing comment." Cynthia nodded. "But I know your wife well enough to know she's thinking about it." She rubbed my hand, and offered me a smile. "I wanted you to know, because Nicole belongs with you. You two are perfect for each other, and there are lots of ways to bring a child into your lives." 

"What do I do?" 

"You're kidding, right?" 

"Uhhhh, throw me a bone here." 

"First, talk to your wife. Second, find a weekend where you two can get away," she said, and then winked. "And then throw in some competition for Nicole." 

"Competition. You make it sound easy." 

"I'm just saying that you're a good catch, and sometimes a woman needs to be reminded about the bird she has in her hand, rather than the one in the bush." 

"I suck with women," I reminded her. "I'm lucky I landed Nicole, I can't see myself finding any competition for her." 

"You knock it off," she threw my words back at me. "Your self-deprecating routine doesn't work with me, Mister. Women respond to you, but you're too blind to see it." 

I shook my head and slipped out of my chair. Another woman? I had a wife and two daughters...like I really needed more fucking estrogen in my life. Even if I summoned the courage to try it, there was a wrinkle. 

Nicole doesn't share well. Point of fact, she doesn't share at all. 

"Focus on the first two things I told you," she suggested. "Just be open the third one, if the opportunity presents itself." Her voice trailed off. 

"Talk to the wife, and get her away for a weekend." 

"Sans chastity belt." She smiled at me. "Fuck your wife, Nick." 

"Yes ma'am." 

She laughed. "And call me if you need help." 

"Not a chance," I snapped back. 

Cynthia stood and hugged me before walking towards the door. 

"Thank you," I called after her. 

"Don't thank me," she replied. "Just think about the third item." 

"I'll give it some thought." 

She disappeared and left me alone with my thoughts. Nicole and I needed some alone time, Cynthia was right. We needed to get away, and have a heart-to-heart talk. We both wanted another child, but I wasn't ready for David to participate. 

A cuckold relationship didn't automatically mean breeding the wife. I knew from my research that a lot of cuckold husbands and hotwives found the idea intriguing, and many couples had actually done it. 

My wife was apparently considering it. 

Truthfully, the idea turned me on. The pinnacle of cuckolding is for the boyfriend or bull to impregnate the wife. It sounded like Nicole would be an eager participant, and the thought of her belly growing with David's child revved my cuckold engine. As exciting as I found the idea, it was just that, an idea, a fantasy, and it wasn't something to be undertaken lightly. Fucking was one thing, chastity another, but procreation demands more than indulging a fantasy. 

Where did that leave me? 

Item number three. 

Competition for Nicole. 

How the hell? 

* * * 

Cassidy's hand felt warm as she pulled me to my feet. Her arms circled my neck, and she pulled me towards her. Our lips met, tentative at first, and then pressed tightly together as our passion grew. Her tongue flicked inside my mouth, and she pressed her naked body against mine. Her scent, light and delicious, filled my nose, and whatever resolve I had left evaporated. Warm, firm, flawless skin met my fingers, as I let them slide over her back. A soft moan pushed into my mouth, and her hands slid into my hair. I started to feel light-headed, but I didn't want that kiss to end. 

Our lips finally parted, and we were both breathing heavy. My heart thudded in my chest, and I took a second to take a deep breath. Cassidy said she could take care of me better than Nicole, and I started to think it wasn't an idle boast. 

"Finally." A smile, filled with happiness, lit up her face. "I've wanted to do that since the first night we met." 

"Stop it." 

"I'm serious," she said, and her fingers played with the buttons on my shirt. "It's cheezy, I know, but I felt a connection." She shrugged, and then glanced up at me. "You just feel right." 

"You're too-." 

"Shhhh." She put her fingers to my lips. "We can talk later." 

She stepped towards the sliding glass door, pulling me along, and checking over her shoulder to make sure I enjoyed the view. I did. Holy Shit...I enjoyed the view. A firm, naturally athletic body walked in front of me, and if there was a flaw, I couldn't find it. She let me get about two steps inside the room, before she started on my shirt, and let me tell you, the woman didn't waste a second. 

Our naked bodies met in the middle of the bed, and Cassidy assaulted me. She didn't use fists, but she definitely used her hands, and lips, and... She pushed me back, and proceeded to kiss, lick and caress every part of my body. Every time I tried to reciprocate, she pushed me back, shook her head, and resumed her attack on my body. 

Frantic. Passionate. Amazing. 

For a brief second, I thought of Nicole, but I pushed her out of my mind. Selfishly, I didn't want anything to ruin this night. 

When Cassidy's tongue ticked the tip of my cock, I almost lost control. She flashed me a heated smile, and then slid me into her mouth. Oh.My.God. She had crazy good skills. Her hands roamed over my body, as her mouth pleasured my cock, and sent wave after wave of pleasure through my body. My body tensed as my orgasm approached. 

"Wait," she whispered. "Not yet." 

She slid away from me, and spread her legs. "Come here." 

Like the rest of her body, her legs were flawless, and her bare pussy, glistened in the lamplight. It called out to me. My brain had stopped functioning, as I slid over the bed, and pressed my mouth against her sex. A loud moan pierced the silence, and I glanced up to see her pinching her nipples. 

"Yes," she breathed. "Yes, yes, don't stop." 

Needing no further encouragement, I focused on rocking her world. I may not have a tree trunk between my legs, but there is more to sex than a big cock. I know my pussy-licking skills are world class, and I vowed that Cassidy would never forget this night. 

Who's the man? Nick. Tonight, Nick is the fucking man! 

Cassidy's moans grew constant, and I loved it, a symphony of audio sex. Her legs trembled, and a light sheen of sweat covered her skin, but I didn't stop. Orgasms rolled through her, and I counted three, before she finally pulled my face away. The last orgasm had obviously been powerful, because her chest heaved as she lay back on the bed, and brushed her hair away from her face. 

"Holy Shit!" She gasped. "Give me a second." 

I chuckled. "Take your time." 

"I didn't expect that," she said. "Not at all. Wow! You've got a magic tongue." 

"Awww, you say the nicest things." 

She winked at me, and then slid off the bed. She slow walked to the bathroom, and returned with a hungry expression pasted on her face. 

"Was it something I said?" 

"No," she replied when she returned. "We just needed these." She held up several towels. "We're just getting started." 

"I like the way you think." 

"Good," she said and dropped the towels next to the bed. "Because the best sex, is messy sexy, and I'm in the mood for really messy sex." 

She straddled me, and gripped my cock. Our eyes met, she leaned forward, and slid me inside her. We moaned in unison. Her head fell back, and she started to bounce above me. Her fantastic body undulated smoothly above me, sculpted abs, high firm breasts, and felonious hips, all combined to deliver more pleasure than I believed possible. 

I watched my cock disappearing inside her, as she bounced up and down. She threw herself into sex, uninhibited, and with raw emotions, she held nothing back. A few seconds later, she fell forward, and our lips met again. She rode me through the kiss, her tongue pushing inside my mouth, as her pussy coaxed every bit of pleasure from my cock. Her moans filled our mouths, and I felt the oncoming train of my orgasm. 

I couldn't stop it. Hell, I didn't want to stop it. She sensed it as well, and broke our kiss. 

"Inside me," she gasped. "I want to feel you come inside me." 

An explosion of sharp, sweet pleasure flooded my body. Cassidy pushed herself down on me, pinning me to the mattress, as my orgasm flooded her pussy. She joined me in orgasmic bliss, as her eyes rolled back, and her body shook. More moans, full of satisfaction and pleasure, filled the room. Our mutual orgasms lasted for almost a minute, before they left us gasping. 

Completely spent, I lay still and tried to figure out how I got so lucky. Cassidy moved off me with a groan, and I felt a towel cover my midsection. She snuggled up next to me, and lay her head on my chest. 

Neither of us spoke. 

Lust had given way to intimacy, and at that moment, we both felt a connection form between us. More than lust, more than sex, those two emotions had been the seed and soil, but what grew out of them had deep roots, and joined us. Neither of us knew what the future held, but on a primal level, we sensed our futures had intertwined themselves somehow. 

Cassidy's lips woke me. We'd both drifted off, I remembered her breathing soft and slow on my chest. My eyes opened to find her staring at me, her own eyes glistening with tears, as she pressed her lips against mine. A kiss of desperation, it seemed, but I found myself kissing her back, and passion bloomed between us. My body reacted with enthusiasm, and she pulled me on top of her. 

"Yes," she breathed. 

Her fingernails scraped along my shoulders. Pain mixed with pleasure, and I pushed forcefully inside her. A moan, softer this time, filled the air between us. 

"Yes. Like this." 

Tears escaped from both of her eyes, and I hesitated. 

"Cassidy-." 

"No. Don't stop. Please. I need you...I need you like this. Please, Nick." 

An expression of extreme vulnerability filled her eyes, and she reached up and kissed me. Her hands gripped my ass at the same time, and she pulled me into her. Slowly, I thrust inside her. She broke our kiss, and her arms moved to my shoulders. 

"On top of me," she gasped. "Lay on top of me." 

I rested my full weight on her, and her arms circled my neck, pinning me against her. Her head jerked in a rough nod. 

"Yes. Yes. Now fuck me!" She bit my ear. "Use me!" 

The pain of her bite drove away my reservations. I slammed myself into her, enjoying the way her both writhed beneath me. I wasn't sure who was fucking who, but our lovemaking had turned animalistic, and she moaned and begged for more. Her head whipped from side to side, as I pounded into her, and my back felt on fire from her fingernails. 

When her teeth sunk into my shoulder, I lost it. My orgasm burst, and sweet release filled my body. Again, I held myself deep inside her, savagely enjoying each jet of my orgasm. Cassidy gasped for breath beneath me, and I sensed she'd orgasmed as well. 

Our lips met again. Her hands now caressed my neck and shoulders, as her passion cooled, and the intimacy returned. I broke the kiss early, and stared down at her. I could see wet streaks on either side of her face. 

"What? Why?" 

"Shhhh," she said and her hand covered my mouth. "Tears of joy, Nick." 

Her smile revealed the simple honesty of her statement, clearer than a dictionary full of words. My lips found her neck, and I ran my tongue up to her ear. 

"Lay on me, please," she asked, and hugged me to her. 

Silence enveloped us. Sweat and mingled juices pasted our bodies together, and I had to agree that she was right. Great sex is messy sex. 

Just as I felt fatigue slip over my body, she moved beneath me, and kissed my cheek. She tweaked my nose with her fingers, and flicked her head in the direction of the bathroom. 

"C'mon, stud." 

We managed to unstick ourselves, and she pulled me into the shower. The intimacy we'd felt before was nothing compared to what we shared under the hot spray. Soft kisses, light touches, and long, deep stares passed between us. She washed my body, and did a thorough job, and I returned the favor. Happy, satisfied smiles passed between us, and we stayed under the water until our skin pruned. She insisted on drying me, and of course, I insisted on the same thing, and we slipped beneath the sheets once again. 

Sleep claimed us both within minutes. 

Two things woke me the next morning. First, my body clock normally woke me up around five a.m. and today was no different. Even if that had failed though, the second thing would have woken me even if I'd died during the night. 

My eyes opened to find Cassidy's tongue hard at work on my morning wood. When she noticed me awake, she winked at me, and slid me inside her mouth. A low, happy moan flowed out of me, and I relaxed against the mattress and let her work her own magic. 

I'd like to say I lasted a long time, especially considering the night we'd just shared, but I didn't. Within minutes, I popped inside her mouth, and let waves of pleasure inundate me. No mess this time. Cassidy dropped a hand towel over my junk, before she slid up and kissed my cheek. 

"Good morning, sexy." 

"Hmmmm, good morning." A gigantic sigh blew out of my chest. "You didn't have to do that, you know." 

"I know," she said, and ran her hand over my chest. "I wanted to." 

Now that tomorrow had become today, I started to worry about what came next. She must have seen the direction of my thoughts, because she lay her head on my chest. My hand slid through her hair, and I tightened my grip on her body. 

"Last night," I began. 

"I know, Nick," she interrupted. "You don't have to say it." 

"Was amazing," I finished. "Every second of it." 

"But it's over, right." Her voice shook. "It was fun, baby, but..." 

"Cassidy." My voice sounded harsher than I intended. "Look at me." 

Her eyes met mine, and I could see her steeling herself. 

"I told you last night, I can't promise you an outcome," I reminded her, and tears started to well up in her eyes. "But I don't want things to end between us." 

Surprise washed over her face, and guarded optimism followed. "What do you mean?" 

"I mean you're not the only one who feels a connection between us." 

Muscles on her face twitched, and started to form into a smile, but she pushed it back, and sat up. "So what happens now?" 

"I need to speak with my wife," I replied. "Until that happens, I can't say what will happen next." 

"But you want to be with me," she repeated. 

"Yes." 

A radiant smile greeted my response, and she pulled me into a tight hug. I felt her shoulders tremble, and hugged her back. After she pulled back, she wiped her eyes, and slipped into the bathroom. A few moments later, she came back with tissues, and sat on the bed next to me. 

"I know you're not offering to leave your wife," she said. "I'm not that naïve." 

I nodded, and kept silent. It seemed the wisest course of action. 

"I'm just happy we'll get a chance to build on last night," she said, and dropped her eyes into her lap. "It was special." 

"To me as well," I replied. 

She dabbed at her eyes with the tissues, and then smiled at me. Something occurred to her, and she snapped her fingers. 

"Crap," she said. "You got a text." 

"A text?" 

"From Nicole," she clarified. 

"When?" 

"A few minutes ago." 

"Why didn't you wake me up?" I asked and slid off the bed. 

"I did," she replied, and gave me a sheepish look. 

"Ohh, right." 

I checked my phone, and saw the text was less than ten minutes old. 

Cool! 

Nicole: Coffee? 

My eyes found Cassidy, and she nodded. "Go. I'll be here when you get back, and maybe we can visit the pool." 




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 03



"Sounds good," I replied. 

Me: Sure. Meet you in five! 

A few seconds later. 

Nicole: Great! 

She'd been waiting for my response. A vision of my wife holding the phone flashed through my head, and I wasn't sure if I should feel guilty, happy, or vindicated. Either way, I needed to get moving. My clothes from last night littered the floor, and I started to put them on when Cassidy coughed. 

"Nick." 

"Yeah?" 

She pointed towards the door separating our rooms, and lifted her eyebrows. 

"Right," I replied. 

Our suites connected. Duh! I slipped into my suite, and found my overnight bag on the bed. A sigh of relief washed through me, because even though I'd tipped the valet, I still felt uncomfortable letting someone else handle my stuff. 

Four minutes passed, and I managed to get dressed and presentable in that time. When the elevator doors opened, I found Nicole standing nearby. 

Just Nicole. David was nowhere in sight. 

"Hi," I said. 

"Hey." 

"Where's this coffee place?" 

She pointed behind her, but didn't move. "That way." 

"Awesome." 

Nicole stood motionless, studying me with a curious expression. I refused to look or feel guilty, so I met her eyes. 

"What?" 

"You." 

"What, me?" 

"You're happy," she said. "No, scratch that, you're practically glowing." 

"Hey," I replied and pointed my finger at her. "Haven't I said those exact words to you?" 

Her lips smiled, but her eyes didn't. "I think you have." 

"Am I in trouble?" 

"Should you be?" 

"It's rude to answer a question, with a question." 

"No," she said after several seconds. "You're not in trouble." 

"Good to know. Are we getting coffee?" I gave her a tight smile. "The interrogation will go faster after I have some caffeine." 

"C'mon." 

We walked side by side, but separated, not as husband and wife. The distance between us resembled co-workers, or strangers, and I understood why. The hotel remained filled with people that had seen Nicole on David's arm all night. Her body language and expression were also cool, and I knew it wasn't just for appearances. 

My emotions felt jumbled, but one emotion eluded me completely. Guilt. Despite my best efforts, I just couldn't feel guilty about the last twenty-four hours. My wife could be angry all she wanted, but she'd started us down this path, and she couldn't blame me for walking it with her. 

"Pumpkin Spiced Latte," she ordered and paid for her own drink. 

"Venti Americano, with light room," I ordered behind her. 

As soon as she stepped away from the register, a man engaged her in conversation. I recognized him as the skinny one from last night. He seemed like the only adult in the group at the time, but now his eyes traveled over Nicole as if she were an amusement park ride. The smile on his face was smooth, focused, and oily. A predator who thought he'd found his prey alone and vulnerable. 

The barista finished my drink first, and I found a spot outside on the patio. Waiting for Nicole had become second nature, and I surfed the net on my phone. The coffee was excellent as usual, and it was a nice morning, combined with the holy-shit-amazing-sex from last night, and I felt damn good. 

My phone buzzed. 

Cassidy: Thinking of you. How's it going? 

Me: Enjoying a starbucks, waiting on Nicole. 

Cassidy: Princess not there yet? 

Me: She's talking with someone. 

Cassidy: Ahh, well bring me back a Venti Americano. Light room. Dash of half-n-half, and three Splenda's. Plz! I'll make it worth your while. 

Me: Is that your normal drink? 

Cassidy: Yep. Everyday. Why? 

Me: I'll explain later. And I'll bring you your coffee! See you soon. 

Cassidy: Hurry back. 

My eyes transferred from my phone back to Nicole. My position on the patio gave me a good view of her, without having to crane my neck. Another man had joined them, a black man, and they were all smiles. Nicole looked damn good. A tight top, halter-top style, and a matching long skirt with a generous split up the side. The cream-colored ensemble left her mid-section bare, and showed off her tan and amazing body. 

Will I ever get her back? All to myself? 

Uncomfortable questions, and I wasn't sure of the answer. Each time Nicole and I talked, she assured me this cuckold/hotwife ride would end, and we'd ride off into the sunset together. As she spoke with her two new friends, and her model-perfect smile flashed back and forth, I worried once again that I'd eventually lose her. Despite the night I'd just had with Cassidy, I didn't want my marriage to Nicole to end. 

I loved her. 

Yeah, but does she still love you? 

I'd finished half my coffee, and still no Nicole. Patience had given way to irritation, when David entered. He saw Nicole and his two friends talking, and within a few seconds, they were all laughing. Nicole slipped under his arm, and pressed herself against him, looking like she belonged there. Not once did I see her glance in my direction. 

Fuck it! 

I left the patio, and ordered Cassidy's drink. Nicole, David, and their little clique had moved their roadshow outside, and were now talking in the lobby. 

In addition to Cassidy's coffee, I added a couple of scones. My stomach had started grumbling, and I suspected Cassidy was hungry as well. The drink and food came at the same time, and I headed towards the elevators. 

No reaction from Nicole. No smile. No glance. Nothing. Zip, Zilch, Nada. 

Invisible cuckold husband...that's me. Or maybe not. 

"What's wrong?" 

Cassidy sensed my mood as soon as she opened the door. 

"Had a great conversation with my wife," I replied. 

"Really?" 

"Nope. Not a word." She took her coffee with a question on her face. "She met me at the elevators, and we exchanged a few words, but when we got to Starbucks she met some friends from last night." 

"So?" 

"So, she stayed to talk with them, leaving me on the patio alone, and then when David arrived, I knew she wouldn't make time to speak with me." I sighed. "So I ordered your coffee, and some food, and then left. By the way, you and I have exactly the same Starbucks order. What a coincidence." 

"I told you we had a connection." 

"Yeah, yeah." 

"What did she say when you left?" 

"Nothing," I replied tightly. "I doubt she realizes even now that I'm gone." I showed her my phone. "See, no texts." 

"Nick, I'm sorry." 

"Why are you sorry?" 

"I'm not," she clarified, and then added. "It's just that no one should be treated that way, especially by their spouse." 

"Forget it," I said and waved dismissively. "What are your plans for the day?" 

She smiled. "No plans. I'm all yours, if you want me." 

"Awesome. Let me make a call or two, and then we'll get out of this room." 

"I'll shower while you make your calls," she said over her shoulder. 

I watched as her clothes slipped off her body, and she gave me an inviting smile, before she disappeared into the steam. I burned that little video into my brain. 

My first phone call was to check on the girls. They were fine, having just gotten up. Jasmine asked if she could 'veg out' at home, and April wanted to see a movie that evening, but was otherwise they were okay with staying home. I let them know when I'd be home, and told them to call if they needed anything. I could almost envision Jasmine giving me the eye roll. 

The next phone call was for room service. I ordered a light breakfast, complete with mimosas. Scones weren't going to cut it. After Nicole's behavior this morning, a sense of freedom buoyed my spirits, and I couldn't seem to stop smiling. 

Room service arrived, just as Cassidy stepped out of the shower. I tipped the guy, and closed the door, just as she stepped out of the bathroom, completely naked. Well, not completely naked, she had a towel around her hair. 

"Whoa! That was close," I said. 

She winked at me, and sauntered over. "You ordered food." 

"Woman. I'm starving." 

"Eat then, my hungry man," she said and patted me on the chest. "Save me some bacon, I'll be done in a minute." 

She kissed my cheek, before scooping up her mimosa. 

"Let's eat on the patio," I suggested. 

"'Kay." 

Did I say light breakfast? Not so much. 

I'd ordered a waffle, because...well, because waffles are awesome. Scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit, and a parfait that sounded good. I'd seen Cassidy eat them at work, so I felt confident she'd like it. 

"Okay," she said as she sat with me. "Good call on breakfast." 

We scarfed and scarfed and scarfed, until the plates were clean, and happy, satisfied smiles lit our faces. The sun had risen, and brought along a beautiful morning. 

"So," I began. "Any idea what you want to do?" 

"You mean outside the bedroom, right?" 

"Yes," I said. "With clothes." 

"Okay. G-rated. Gotcha." She winked at me. "This may sound strange, but let's check out." 

"Check out?" 

"Yeah," she said with a nod. "We've seen the hotel. I'm not much for hanging around the pool, especially after last night." She shrugged. "Let's go somewhere." 

A thought occurred to me. "You like wine?" 

"Love wine." 

"I've got the perfect idea." 

* * * 

The television allowed me to check out. We packed up, and were descending in the elevator less than thirty minutes later. Cassidy tried to get me naked once more, but I exercised steely discipline, and insisted we leave. 

That's my story, and I'm sticking to it. 

As we exited the elevator, guess who we ran into? Yep, you guessed it. Nicole and David, coming down the hallway, and we couldn't avoid them. They were dressed for the pool, David in board shorts, and a polo. My wife wore a sheer cover-up, and an R-rated bikini underneath. I'd never seen it before, so I suspected David bought it for her. She completed her outfit with high heels. A little too close to stripper heels for me, but I had to admit they showed off her legs. 

If they'd been alone, we might have exchanged some words, but it seemed David carried an entourage around with him. The two men I'd seen earlier were still with them. They tried to keep their eyes away from Nicole, and they failed miserably. Par for the course. 

It didn't bother me. 

Really, it didn't. 

What bothered me, and seriously pissed me off, was the head douchebag from last night was in David's entourage. An ugly, superior smile on his face, and his eyes locked onto my wife's ass. Since he was bringing up the rear, I guess he felt safe enough to stare. A small part of me blamed Nicole, because the bikini was close to a thong, and way to revealing for a resort hotel with families. Still the douchebag should still be sitting in a small room, with a redneck called bubba who wanted to explore his sexuality. My fists clenched. 

"It's okay, Nick." Cassidy whispered in my ear, and pressed herself against me. "I doubt they'll even see us." 

"That prick is with them." 

"Yep, I saw him," she replied. "Smug bastard, isn't he?" 

"I've never met someone who needed an ass-kicking more than him." 

"He'll get it. Guys like him always do." 

The cool kids breezed right by us. I thought I saw a flicker of recognition from Nicole, but no one else spared us a glance. In fairness, the hallway was wide and the resort crowded. 

As we passed by, I also noticed something else...dark smudges on Nicole, but from my angle I couldn't tell if they were a part of the cover-up, or something else. I knew they weren't bruises, she wouldn't put up with that, and she wouldn't be on his arm if he'd abused her. No, I told myself they were some sort of design in the fabric. 

"Let's enjoy the day," Cassidy said, and kissed my cheek. 

"Good idea." 

The valet had my Mustang waiting. A 1969, Acapulco Blue, white interior, air conditioning, and an engine that pumped out several hundred horses. 

A beautiful car in front me, a gorgeous woman on my arm, and the whole day in front of us, life doesn't suck. 

A couple of twenties to the Valet for taking care of my baby, and I stowed our stuff in the trunk. Cassidy slid into passenger seat, a big smile pasted on her face. I revved the engine, and she laughed like a teenager, before tickled my thigh. 

"Punch it!" 

Immature. Unsafe. Fun. 

I left a little rubber on the resorts driveway. The valet gave me a thumbs-up in the rearview mirror, and just was I turned my attention back to the road, something flickered in my peripheral vision. 

Nicole. 

She stepped out of the hotel, and her head craned in several directions. My eyes found the road, before I could identify the expression on her face. I considered turning around, but one glance at Cassidy, and I shoved that idea out of the car. She had my cell number if an emergency came up. In the meantime, I planned to enjoy the day with the gorgeous woman in the passenger seat. 

Nicole could enjoy her day with David and the douchebag. 

* * * 

"So where are you taking me?" 

A mischievous smile split my lips. "It's a surprise." 

"How long will it take us to get there?" 

"Ummmm, a good forty-five minutes," I replied. "The route is scenic though, so it's a pretty drive." 

"Forty-five minutes?" 

"Give or take, but yeah, about that." 

"Good." She unclipped her seatbelt. "I have time for this." 

Her hands found the buttons on my shorts, and a second later, her head dipped down to my lap. A classic mustang, beautiful Texas Hill country, and a gorgeous blonde bobbing her head in my lap. 

Maybe it's time to throw away my cuckold horns. 

We started in Gruene, Texas. They had a farmers market going on, and we toured shops and kiosks. A winery just down the road offered wine-tastings, so we signed up, and I bought several bottles. Cassidy found a necklace she liked, and when we left the store, she was still thanking me. 

We left Gruene, and headed for Sisterdale. I tiny town, with a beautiful winery, and we joined a group for another wine tasting. We received several compliments about being such a 'cute couple', and Cassidy beamed at each one, and pressed herself against me. Of course, I bought more wine, and then on to Luckenbach, Texas. 

It's interesting to me how many Texans have never visited Luckenbach. Add Cassidy to that list. Despite growing up in the hill country, she'd never made the trip. The place was crowded, which is unusual for Luckenbach. As I pulled in to a parking spot, an older man waved at me. 

"You here for the car show?" 

"Nope," I replied. "Just out for a drive." 

"Still time to enter," he said, and his eyes drooled over my baby. I mean the Mustang. "You'll probably win something." 

"No thanks. We'll take a look though." 

"Tickets are over there," he waved in the direction the crowd was heading. 

"Thanks." 

"Why don't you enter?" Cassidy asked after we purchased tickets. 

I shrugged. "Because, it would spoil our day." 

She squeezed my arm, and kissed my cheek. "Good answer." 

We spent the next hour walking among the cars. Cassidy patiently indulged my passion for antique and classic cars, an amused smile on her face as I pontificated on the small details of each model. She even listened attentively, as I waxed poetically about the difference between the late 60's monsters, and whimpy mid-70's mice that Detroit turned out. 

After her second yawn, I got us back on the road. Everyone has their limits. We ate lunch in Fredericksburg, walked along the main street and visited the shops. Cassidy had her turn to point out all the 'cute' items, and I smiled as she picked through the stuff on sale. Afterwards, we visited several wineries along highway 290, and I bought enough wine for a year. We exchanged smiles, meaningful glances, and we held hands almost constantly. 

What did it mean? 

I'm not sure, and I don't think she knew either. 

We headed back to Cassidy's apartment, and she grew quiet along the ride. A sense of resignation settled over her. 

"What's on your mind?" 

"Today." 

"What about it?" 

"How perfect it was," she said. "I'm sad that it's ending." 

"Yeah, me too." 

"Nick." She turned in her seat. "If things don't go well with Nicole, don't put your marriage in jeopardy." 

"What's that mean?" 

"As much as I want to be with you, I don't want to be the reason you and Nicole separate. You're a good man, a good father, and Nicole deserves the opportunity to hang onto you." 

"Nicole and I are a long ways from separating," I replied. "The last thirty-six hours hasn't gone the way I expected, but I don't regret a second of it." I squeezed her hand. "Not a second." 

"Me either." 

She unclipped her seatbelt, but this time, she leaned on my shoulder, and we drove in silence until we reached her apartment. Cassidy opened the door, while I started packing stuff up to her apartment. We haggled over the wine, and she wanted to keep as much as possible. When I cocked my head at her, she gave me a conspiratorial smile. 

"I'm keeping it to entice you to visit me," she said when I dropped off the last case. 

"You don't need-." 

Her lips against mine cut off my sentence. A hint of desperation laced the passionate kiss, and she wrapped her arms around me tightly. This wasn't a prelude to sex, it was the last emotional gasp of an amazing day, and Cassidy's way of ending our time together. Despite everything we'd discussed, she thought our time had ended, and I had to acknowledge that she might be right. 

"Go," she said, and patted my chest. "Or I'm going to drag you into the bedroom, and never let you go." 

"I'll call you." 

I hated the words as soon as they left my mouth. So trite. So empty. Her brave smile and jerky nod made me feel even worse. The door sounded ominous when it closed, almost as if I'd stepped off another cliff. 

* * * 

My sense of happiness lasted until I pulled into the driveway and saw Nicole's car. She wasn't due back yet. A long sigh left my lungs, and I mentally prepared for what lay inside my home. With no idea what to expect, I headed inside. 

"Daaaaad!" 

Jasmine and April were watching TV, and both of them got up and wrapped me in a hug. 

So far, So good! 

"We missed you." 

"Missed you too." I hugged them, one under each arm. "You guys picked a movie yet?" 

"Nope." 

"No." 

"We were waiting for you, honey." 

A new voice joined us, and all us turned to see Nicole step out of the bedroom. Wearing simple shorts, and a polo, she'd pulled her hair back in a simple ponytail, and still managed to look gorgeous. A tentative smile played across her lips, as our eyes met. 

"You two pick," I said and squeezed the girls again." 

"Awesome!" April said and named a movie. 

Her older sister rolled her eyes. "No, I want to see something else." 

"Tell ya what," I said. "Everyone can see their own movie. April's old enough to see a movie by herself, if she wants." 

"Can our friends come?" 

"Of course," Nicole added. "Why don't you call them?" 

Lickety-split, the girls headed upstairs to call their friends. 

"If you want to have dinner with your friends first, that's fine, you're friends are welcome," I shouted after them. 

"'kay, dad. Thanks," a faint voice replied. 

Nicole slipped her arms around me, and pressed her head against my chest. The difference in her body and Cassidy's body registered for a moment, but I shut the comparison down. It wasn't appropriate, or fair, too either one of them. 

"I missed you." 

My lips brushed her hair. "Missed you too. I didn't expect to see you home." 

She shrugged against me, but didn't reply, and we stayed in each other's arms, reconnecting after an unusual separation. So far, things were going much better than I expected. 




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 03



My wife finally let go of me, and pulled me out to the patio. I worried she'd want sex, and after the last night with Cassidy, I didn't think I had it in me. I'm only human, and I left my twenties a long time ago. 

Patio was good. Patio was neutral ground. I knew I could handle myself on the patio. 

"We need to talk," she said. 

I sat down, and motioned for her to continue. 

"I know you've wanted to talk about our relationship with David for a while," she began. "I'm sorry, I didn't make time sooner." 

"That's okay." I let her off the hook. "We've been busy." 

"The event at the resort." 

"What about it?" 

"Why was Cassidy there? Did you invite her?" 

"No," I replied. "I was as surprised as you that she showed up." 

"I don't under-." 

"Cynthia invited her," I replied. 

"Ahhh," she replied. "I see." 

"Do you?" 

"What do you mean?" 

I let that question hang in the air, marinating, until I was ready to sear the living shit out of it. Several seconds passed, before I shifted the conversation back to where it belonged. 

"Why are you here?" 

"What? This is our home." 

"No, I mean, why did you come home early? You said you were staying the weekend with David. Now you're here?" I paused. "Why?" 

"Oh," she replied and dropped her head. "Well, things with David are...complex, right now. I needed time and distance to think." 

I sighed. "I thought we came out here to talk." 

"We did." 

"Out with it then, why are things complex?" 

She leaned forward, and she did that thing where her hair conceals her face. Seconds ticked by, and I considered leaving her on the patio. I wanted a shower, and a beer, but I knew if I left, it would only make things worse. 

"David was upset after the police were called at the resort. He doesn't blame you," she clarified quickly. "But a police report has been filed now, and one of those young men is planning to campaign for political office soon." 

"Which one?" 

"The one who offered Cassidy a drink." She shook her head. "I mean all he did was offer her a drink, and then she throws it in his face and punches his friend." 

My fists clenched in my lap, and my temper started to evaporate. Snapping at my wife would feel great, but I knew that road wouldn't lead anywhere positive. 

"Sooooo," I began. "It's Cassidy's fault. Is that your opinion, or David's?" 

"C'mon, Nick. Every woman should be handle getting hit on." 

"Nicole." I sat forward, and held her eyes. "I was there. I saw the expression on his face, and the faces of his friends. That drink had something in it." 

"Honey-." 

I held up a hand. "Even if the drink was fine, she asked them to leave her alone. She asked them to get out of her way, so she could leave. Finally, she let them know she was with someone." I took a breath. "Those predators had every opportunity to leave her alone, and they didn't. In fact, one of them tried to prevent her from leaving, and that's when she punched him." 

"They tell a different story." 

"Of that, I have no doubt." I gave her an icy smile. "What's their excuse for the drugs?" 

Her eyes dropped. "Not good." 

"Yeah, I can totally see how that entire situation was Cassidy's fault." 

"Already taking up for her, aren't you?" 

"Somebody should," I shot back. "If she hadn't punched that guy, I would have, Nicole. And I don't give a shit about their family connections or political careers. None of that justifies the way they were acting towards her." 

Her eyes narrowed. "Well, I can see you've already made up your mind." 

"Damn right," I replied. "Why was that douchebag with your group the next morning?" 

"I'm not sure," she said with a shake of her head. "I think his father and David spoke with the police." 

"Must be nice." The sarcasm in my voice didn't help, but I couldn't help myself. "That can't be the only reason things with David are complex." 

"It's not," she replied. "He wants more." 

"Like what?" 

"Travel, more weekends together," she said. "He wants me to move more of my stuff in with him, and spend the night during the week." 

"I see. Doesn't leave us much of a marriage." 

"I know, Nick. That's why I told him no." She shrugged. "He didn't take it well." 

"What did he say?" 

"That we weren't serious about this relationship." 

"Really?" 

"He's more dominant than Collin," she replied. "He wants more of my time, and he wants more control over our relationship." 

"And what do you think?" 

"Part of me wants him to take control. You know I like that in a man, and I enjoy his company. I'd love to spend more time with him, and going away for a weekend sounds like a lot of fun." 

"But?" 

"But I'm having a hard time seeing where David and I end, and you and I begin. I'm worried our marriage will get squeezed out, a little at time, until there's nothing left." She paused, met my eyes, and then looked away. "Especially, if I give into him." 

"What?" I asked. 

"He doesn't play fair," she whispered. 

"Did he hurt you?" 

"NO! Of course not." 

"Then, what's he doing that isn't playing fair." 

Tears welled up in her eyes, and she took a deep, shaky breath before responding. "He wants me to have his child, Nick. He knows I want another baby, and he's offering to give me one." She paused. "Give us one." 

"I wondered if you were going to tell me, or just show up pregnant and claim it was an accident." 

"I would never!" 

"Save it," I replied with a dismissive wave. "David's been suggesting this for a while, hasn't he?" 

"Yes." 

More of a sigh, than an actual answer, and her hair slid forward again, concealing her face. Our conversation sucked, but at least we were finally being honest with each other. 

"Is that why you left early?" 

"That was most of it," she replied. "David kept asking me to stop taking my birth control pills, and then he grew angry when I wouldn't. He said you'd love for me to get pregnant. It made things awkward between us." She took a breath. "And then I didn't handle Cassidy well. I'm sorry about Starbucks, Nick. 

"Yeah, that was...unexpected." 

"You're right. I behaved badly, but I was angry, and you were obviously happy, and that made me feel even worse." 

"I see." 

"I tried to apologize before you left, but I missed you." 

"Apology accepted." 

"So between the cops, David's insistence on knocking me up, and Cassidy, our weekend at the Resort was a bust." She laughed. "We didn't even have sex." 

"That's too bad," I joked. 

"You can't say the same though, can you?" Her voice shook slightly. "You and Cassidy..." 

I knew what she meant. "Yes." 

Her lips pursed together, and a bitter expression washed across her face, before she pushed it away, and offered me an insincere smile. "I'm happy for you." 

"Liar." 

"Okay." A wry grin appeared. "I'm not happy for you. I'm jealous, and angry, and worried. She's so beautiful, smart, and clearly taken with you. Her body is amazing, and she hasn't had kids yet, so nothing droops on her." 

I couldn't help laughing. The situation was surreal. 

"I'm glad you think my feelings are so funny." 

"It's not that, Nikki." 

"Then what?" 

"The shoe is officially on the other foot, honey. The feelings you just described have been my constant companions since we started this ride." 

"I thought you enjoyed it." 

"I do, but I still worry. I still get angry, and jealous, and humiliated that you find pleasure with other men." 

"Why didn't you say anything?" 

"Shit woman, I did. I have. Plenty of times." I shrugged. "You just didn't hear me." 

"I'm sorry. I guess I didn't realize..." 

"It's fine," I replied. "I signed up for it." 

"So you and Cassidy," she started. "Where's that going?" 

"I don't know," I replied. "Truthfully, we didn't make any promises to one another, and we didn't make plans for the future." 

"She wants you." 

"She knows I'm married." 

Nicole snorted. "Since when did that stop a woman." 

"Does that mean you're going to leave me for David? He wants you! He wants to take you away for weekends, travel, and impregnate you. Can you honestly say he doesn't want you all to himself?" 

"No, but that's different." 

I chuckled. "I don't see how." 

"It just is. I can't explain it, but it just is." 

"I think the difference is that I'm better at sharing than you are." 

"Maybe." 

"Why don't you meet with Cassidy? Just the two of you. Have lunch, get your nails done, or go to a Spa. I'll pay for it, and I think it'll make you feel better." 

"You really like her, don't you?" 

"Yeah," I admitted. "I do." 

"I'll think about it." 

"Thank you," I replied. "Now I'd like to grab a shower before we go. Are we done for now?" 

"Yes. Thanks for listening." 

"Thanks for being honest." 

She smiled at me. "You're welcome." 

We walked back inside, and Nicole went to check on the girls. I grabbed a beer, and headed for the shower. The beer tasted great, and the shower hit the spot. I was dressing in the closet when my wife entered. I guess she didn't realize I was still getting dressed, because she stopped and then tried to retreat, but not before I saw it. Saw them. 

Tattoos. Big ones. 

We'd agreed that since she was seeing David, we'd minimize the amount of time we'd spend together in our underwear, unless I was wearing a chastity belt. Similar to our agreement with Collin, I could only see Nicole naked or in her underwear if I my cock was locked away. We lived together, so accidents happened...like today. 

Nicole stepped into the closet wearing sheer thong panties, and a matching bra. Neither one came close to covering up the large black tattoo that now occupied a big part of her hip, another one sat behind her shoulder, and a nice tramp stamp over her ass completed the ensemble. My mouth dropped open, and I slowly connected the dots...or tattoos. 

The smudges I'd seen, they weren't part of the fabric! 

"What the fuck!" 

"It's nothing," she said quickly. 

"Nothing?" I pointed at her hip. "You have a huge black, spade tattoo on your hip, and it's nothing? Are fucking kidding me? What are the others?" 

"They're not tattoos!" She shot back. "David drew it them on with a sharpie. He minored in art in college, and he was just playing around. They'll wear off." 

"He wants you to get a tattoo though, doesn't he?" 

"Yes." She held her hands up. "I wasn't sure where to put it, so he drew me some designs. It's my decision though, so don't get angry. I'm just thinking about it." 

"Tattoo's mean something, Nicole." 

She nodded. "Yeah, I know. Like I said, it's complicated." 

"Enlighten me." 

"All of them are a variation on the same theme." She showed them to me, one at a time, and each one had a black spade at the center. "He said it's called a Queen of Spades tattoo," she said. "Women who prefer black men get them. It's a way of advertising her preferences." 

"Is that right?" I was vaguely familiar with the topic, but I wanted her to keep talking. This type of tattoo tended to have multiple meanings. "Are you a queen of spades now?" 

"Sort of," she said and her cheeks colored. "I do like sex with Black men. That's pretty obvious, right?" 

"All black men?" 

"Knock it off, of course not." 

"Damn, Nikki," I said with a shake of my head. "You're worried about Cassidy, when all this shit is happening with David?" 

"You're overreacting. A tattoo is not a big deal. Most people won't know the meaning, and I can put it where no one can see it." 

"Only someone who sees you in your underwear or in a bikini." 

"Exactly. And right now, only two people will ever see it." 

The way she stopped talking, and the embarrassed expression that washed over her face were dead giveaways. Once again, she wasn't telling me everything. I crossed my arms over my chest and glared at her. Silence became my weapon. She held out for a few seconds, but I saw her resolve weaken. 

"Right now?" 

She looked away. 

"Right now?" I repeated. 

"You won't understand." She sighed and shook her head, and then met my eyes. "He wants to share me." 

"Share you?" 

"Yes. Share me." 

"With who?" 

She shook her head, and started to leave the closet. My hand snapped out and gripped her arm. Not hard enough to leave a bruise, but plenty strong enough to keep her from leaving. 

"With who, Nicole!" 

"Friends," she whispered. "Clients. Maybe, he didn't give me a specific list." 

"Let me guess," I snapped. "His black friends and his black clients. Right? That's the reason for the tattoo." 

"It's one of the reasons," she admitted. "He wants me to acknowledge being 'black-owned', and he wants you to acknowledge it as well. There's a cuckold tattoo, and he wants you to get one. He said it's consistent with his role as our dominant." 

"When were you going to tell me?" 

"Nick, I'm not even sure it's something I want," she insisted. "He drew these before I left, and asked me to consider it. That's all." 

"Just consider it," I repeated flatly. 

"Yes. We don't have to do it. It's our choice. If you and I agree, he knows a tattoo artist who specializes in this type of work. The words "Black Owned" would be added to both our tattoos." She squeezed my hand. "He showed me some designs, and they're really pretty. I think you'd like the cuckold one." 

"Well, as long as they're pretty." 

"Fuck you!" 

"Y'know what, Nikki," I snapped back. "I'm not interested, not in a tattoo, and I'm also not in having David as our dominant." 

"Damn it, Nick. Just think about it," she retorted. "It's not that different than what we're already doing. For all practical purposes, David is our dominant, and we both like it." 

"Bullshit." She shook her head, and started to leave. "That's it? That's the sum total of our discussion?" 

"You're not willing to listen, so what's the point," she said, and dropped her eyes to my junk. A smile played along her lips, when she met my eyes again. "Besides, you're not wearing your cage, and until you put it on, I'm not going to talk to you about this anymore. You know you're not supposed to see me like this anyway." 

"Is that right?" 

"Yes." 

"Nicole, a chastity belt just became unnecessary, because I'm not interested in anything between your legs. Run around naked if you want, trust me, you've got nothing I want." 

"Really?" 

"Damn straight." 

"It's not like I'd feel you anyway." 

My temper had long since disappeared, and so had hers. We'd stopped arguing, and now focused on causing each other as much pain as possible. 

"Get the tattoo," I hissed. "Fucking get all of them. Let David pimp you out to his friends and clients. Just leave the girls and me before you start earning a living on your back." 

I saw the slap coming, and did nothing to avoid it. Her palm impacted my cheek, and I felt every workout she'd done in the last six months. My wife was petite, not weak, and a hot, stinging fire enveloped the entire left side of my face, and I rocked back on my heels. 

The pain felt like a cold splash of water. It extinguished my anger, and washed away my fear. Sure, I could have avoided the slap. I could have ducked, or caught her wrist, but I didn't, because I'd earned a slap and worse. 

Nicole's hands covered her face, and her shoulders shook. I wrapped my arms around her, and she cried into my chest. We'd said some mean and hateful things to each other, and I just hoped we'd be able to get past it. 

"I'm sorry," I whispered and kissed her head. "I'm so sorry, Nikki." 

She nodded and wriggled closer to me. 

"How," she asked a few minutes later. "How did we get here?" 

"We played with fire," I replied. 

"Yeah," she said and wiped her eyes. "I'm sorry too, Nick." 

"How's my cheek look?" 

"Let me get you some ice." 

She put on some shorts, covered her hand-drawn tattoo, and left for the ice. I took a seat on the bed, and thought of Cassidy. I'd only been home a few hours, and I'd already been slapped. 

Fuck! 

Nicole returned and held the ice pack against my cheek. It felt great. We stared at each other for a few minutes, before I motioned towards her hip. 

"So, you going to make those tattoos permanent or what?" 

"Will you leave me, if I do?" 

"Honestly, I'm not sure," I said. "I'm not comfortable with David's plans." 

"Requests." 

"Whatever. I don't want to see you used in that way, I can't be a part of that, I'm sorry." I sighed. "I love you too much to see you passed around like a plaything." 

She didn't respond, and she wouldn't meet my eyes. 

"Is that what you want?" I pressed. "Be honest, please." 

"I don't know." She shrugged and motioned with her hands. "Sometimes. It's exciting, and sexy, and erotic. David brings out a submissive side of me that I love, but have a hard time controlling. The idea of being desired, and used by sexy black men, it turns me on. Surrendering to David's will," she said, and then shivered. "It's...appealing." 

"Wow." 

"Shocked?" 

"Yeah, a bit, I guess," I said. "I mean I obviously know you like black men, and David really trips your trigger, but I never thought you'd consider going this far." 

"I won't, if it means I'll lose you." 

"You're sure." 

A second's hesitation, and then she replied. "Yes." 

"But..." 

"But I'd like to leave the conversation open, continue discussing it, and see if it's something you'll consider." She stepped close to me, and slid her hand over my chest. "I'm sure we can find a way for you to participate, if you want. And I'd be safe, I promise you." 

I searched for an answer, but before I discovered one, our daughters informed us they were ready to go. Nicole kissed my cheek, and we left for the movies. 

Dinner was great, and the girls disappeared into their respective theatres with their friends. Nicole and I opted for a romantic comedy, and just as the trailers for upcoming movies started, my phone buzzed in my pocket. Nicole gave me a sidelong glance, and I winced, before leaving the theatre. 

David: Nick. Play some golf tomorrow. 

Me: Sure. 

David: Excellent. I'll get us a tee time, and send you the details. 

Me. Fine. Thanks. 

David: Lots to discuss, right. 

Me. You have no idea. 

David: Oh, I do. Believe me. See you tomorrow. 

I started to turn my phone off when it buzzed again. Enough, David! 

The text wasn't from David. Cassidy's name appeared on the display. I opened the message and almost dropped phone. She'd sent me a small video file. 

Of herself. 

Naked. 

On her bed...with a bottle of wine. 

"I miss you!" 

Her voice pierced my brain, as her naked body writhed over the sheets. My eyes had locked on the video, and I played it repeatedly, until a small band of teenagers walked by. Beads of sweat had popped out over my forehead, and my heart thudded in my chest. I wanted to see her again, not as her boss, and not as her coworker. I wanted to taste her lips, feel her body, and slip inside her. 

Several deep breaths, and I wiped my head, before I stepped back into the theatre. Thank goodness the movie had started! 

As I sat down, and sipped my overpriced soda, I took stock of our lives. 

David wanted to control us. 

Nicole wanted David to pimp her out to his friends and clients. 

Cassidy, my girlfriend?, wanted me...well, wanted me for everything. 

Me? I wanted the train to stay on the damn tracks, but that looked increasingly unlikely. 

As for the whole baby/pregnancy thing...I haven't forgotten about it. 

I'll just add it to the list!



Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 04



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. 

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. 

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. 

***** 

Nicole held my hand throughout the movie. A small thing maybe, but it felt significant, and I hoped it was a sign we were reconnecting. Images flashed on the screen, coupled with explosions and a bunch of dialogue, but as we left the theatre, I couldn't remember a single thing. 

"Ice Cream?" 

Nicole suggested it and the group of girls that surrounded us all nodded eagerly. We piled into the SUV, which thankfully held everyone, and Jasmine and her friend claimed the back. Whispers and giggles wafted up from the back seat. 

Boys. 

I'm not sure if I felt more nervous about the developing situation with David, or my daughter dating. Both felt fraught with danger. 

Nicole's hand squeezed mine. "Penny for your thoughts." 

I sighed and motioned my head to the back seat. 

"Ahh," she replied. "It's okay. Jas doesn't have a boyfriend." 

"It's only a matter of time." 

"True." 

"I'm not ready." 

"No father ever is, honey," she whispered and put her arm on mine. 

"Maybe." My voice trailed off. 

"What's really on your mind?" 

"David," I whispered. 

My eyes were on the road, but I thought I saw tension slide through her body. Her hand came off mine, and she twisted in her seat until she faced forward. 

A second later, she crossed her arms over her chest. "What about him?" 

"Probably not the time or place, we can talk later." 

"Fine." 

I cursed and berated myself inwardly, because that single word meant boatloads of trouble. 

Fine. 

My wife had a temper, and I'd endured many a shouting fest, but nothing scared me so much as when she combined the word 'fine' with silence. 

The girls ordered iced-sugar, covered with toppings of sugar, and finally colorful little sprinkles of more sugar. I settled for coffee. No surprise, after the girls finished their expensive, but colorful cones of sugar, they asked if their friends could spend the night. 

Teenagers. 

Loads of sugar. 

Sleepover. 

Ever outnumbered, I acquiesced, and earned a pair of hugs that almost made up for the coming night. The girls disappeared upstairs, and I headed for our liquor cabinet. A glass of bourbon, cigar, and my own patio, a little slice of heaven in the suburbs. 

My ass settled into the chair, and I started to light my cigar. Cameroon wrapper, little spicy, and when I combined it with a glass of Balcones Single Barrel bourbon, it provided a level of relaxation I couldn't find elsewhere. 

With any luck, the smoke would repel my spouse. 

"Honey. Want some company?" 

So much for luck! 

"I'm smoking." 

"I can see that." 

I paused ever so slightly. "I'd love some company." 

"Liar," she shot back. "I'm coming out anyway." 

"Fine." 

I didn't wield that little weapon as well as Nicole, but I thought I'd try. She settled into the chair upwind of my cigar, a glass of wine in her hand. A long sigh blew out of her mouth, before she took a generous sip of her wine, and stared at me steadily over the rim of her glass. 

"David," she said calmly. 

"Yes, David." 

"What does he have to do with Jasmine dating?" 

Her question hung in the air, matched perfectly with the cigar smoke I'd just exhaled. I took a sip of bourbon, prolonging the moment, as I pondered my response. 

She'd hate it. 

"Jasmine just turned sixteen. She's going to be a junior, and between her school work, sports, and planning for college," I trailed off. 

"What's your point?" 

I met her eyes. "Maybe we should spend more time with our kids, Nicole. That's my point." 

"This isn't about Jasmine. Is it?" 

"They're related, Nikki." 

"I don't see how?" 

"Seriously?" I asked rhetorically. "Every minute you spend with David, is a minute you're not spending with Jasmine, April, or myself." I shook my head. "Y'know, that family you claim to care about." 

"You're just jealous," she said, shaking her own head and sipping her wine. "David intimidates you, and you're scared the direction he'd like to take us. It's okay to be afraid, but honey, you shouldn't use the kids as an excuse." 

A deep, cleansing breath cleared my mind and soothed my rapidly diminishing patience. 

What we have here is a failure to communicate! 

"I'm not afraid." I sat up, and laid my bourbon and cigar on the table. Our eyes met, and I held my wife's gaze. "David's plans make me uncomfortable, but I'm willing to discuss them. I'm worried that our." I paused and motioned between us. "Extracurricular activities will get in the way of being parents." 

"Give it a rest," she said and rolled her eyes. "I'm the stay-at-home parent. I get the girls ready for school." She pointed at her chest. "I'm the one who picks them up from school, meets with their teachers, takes them to their games, and checks their grades." 

"Nikki-." 

"I'm the one Jasmine confides in about boys," she interrupted. "If anyone should be concerned about being a parent, it's you!" 

"You don't work," I snapped. "And that's okay, but I have to, and that's the agreement we made when you quit. If you're concerned about how much I work, then get a fucking job, and I'll cut back." 

"Look!" She held up her hands. "I'm just saying our girls have attentive parents. That's it. I'm not insinuating you're a bad dad." 

"Damn right." 

"My point is we've been indulging this lifestyle for the last few years and our kids haven't suffered. Not one little bit. If anything, we've grown closer since I stopped working, and you opened the business with Collin." She took another sip of her wine and studied me over the rim of her glass. "We have room for David. I just wish you'd stop looking for reasons to exclude him from our lives." 

"Nikki," I sighed. 

"If you're worried about the amount of time you spend with the girls, don't get involved with Cassidy." 

She slid that knife between my ribs with surgical precision. How this argument came back to me, I wasn't sure, but I couldn't think of a comeback. Bitterness flooded my mouth, and I washed it away with bourbon. 

Fuck! 

Silence settled over the table, and an expression of composed victory grew on my wife's face. I could argue some more, deflect her points, and use our kids as a shield, but I knew we'd end up in the same place. She had an unassailable advantage in being a stay-at-home mom, an arrangement we'd both wanted, and I didn't want to change. 

"I love you." She stood, kissed my cheek, and ran her fingers through my hair. "I'd love to be intimate with you tonight. Why don't you call David, get his approval for sex, and I'll rock your world." 

"I don't think so," I replied. 

"Then wear your CB and we can snuggle." She bit my ear. "I'll sleep naked." 

"I'll think about it," I deferred. 

Time passed. I puffed on my cigar and sipped my bourbon. I wanted to sleep with my wife. Hell, I wanted to fuck my wife, but calling David felt too much like surrender. I felt the same about the chastity belt. Maybe if I hadn't spent time with Cassidy, I would have felt differently. 

I don't know. 

Cassidy. A smile grew on my face as her name wafted through my brain. Smart, funny, classy, all of the things I found attractive in a woman. Gorgeous and sexy were obvious, that's what everyone saw. She'd shown me there was more to her than a pretty face. She possessed an intelligent mind, a strong will, and a beautiful heart. 

No. I wasn't calling David. I wasn't wearing a chastity belt. 

I started to think I'd worn the Cuckold Husband title long enough. It wasn't one I'd sought anyway. My phone buzzed. I checked and cursed under my breath. Playing golf with David tomorrow wasn't how I wanted to spend my day. 

I went inside, filled my glass with ice, and brought the bottle of bourbon out to the patio. 

Time to get my drunk on! 

* * * 

My mustang slid into the parking spot next to David's Jaguar, and I willed my eyes to be less blood shot. The pounding in my head had lessened enough that I could function, but it still felt like marching band playing off-key between my ears. David was waiting for me inside, a smile on his face, and a twinkle in his eyes. 

"Glad you could make it," he said lightly. 

"Traffic." 

"Right." He motioned with his head. "C'mon. We're all set." 

After we got our clubs squared away, he slid behind the driver's seat and took off. A momentary wave of nausea tilted my body, but I sucked in enough air to keep from puking. 

"How about I hit first?" 

"Sure," I replied, and leaned on my club. 

Don't fall over! Don't fall over! Focus! 

David hit a respectable drive. His ball sailed a little over 200 yards, and came to rest on the right side of the fairway. On a par five first hole, it was a good shot to start the day. 

I stuck my tee and ball into the turf, and stepped back to line up my drive. It was at that point I realized I wasn't holding my driver. 

Yep. I was that hungover. 

I'd grabbed my five wood out of my bag. Unwilling to suffer the embarrassment of trudging back for the right club, I decided to roll with it. 

"Interesting choice of club," he observed. 

My smile held more confidence than I felt. "I'm surgical with this one." 

"Uh huh." 

My trusty five wood in hand, I stepped up and swung. 

Slice! Squarely in the rough. 

The reason it's called golf, is that "SHIT" was already taken. 

"Surgical huh?" 

"Got something in my eye," I lied. 

"Yeah, that can be a bitch." 

We drove down to the last place we'd seen my ball, and fortunately it wasn't too bad. Swing two was better. I got out of the rough, and back onto the fairway. A long pitch shot to the green, and maybe I'd salvage par. 

"So," David said as we approached the green. "Nicole told me you saw my artwork." 

"Not sure how I feel about tattoos." 

"It's just an idea." 

We pulled our putters out of our bags, and walked up to the green. 

"Big step though." I shrugged and lined up my shot. "Fuck!" 

My putt fell well short of the hole. He nodded for me to continue, and I finished the whole with a bogie. David lined up his putt, and drained it. First hole down and I was two strokes behind. My head hurt, I felt nauseous, but I was damn sure not going to lose. I slid back into the cart and he drove to the next hole. 

"Have you ever heard the phrase 'Topping from the Bottom'?" 

"No," I replied and shook my head. 

"It has a lot of meanings, but essentially it describes a situation where a submissive tries to control the situation, control the dominant, through their behavior." He stopped at the next hole. "Think of it as a passive-aggressive way of trying to maintain control of a situation." 

"I thought submissives were supposed to communicate. Isn't that their responsibility? Too let the dominant know their limits." 

"Oh, absolutely," he said. "The challenge comes into play when the submissive still tries to maintain control, even though the dominant is well within the agreed upon limits. If the submissive never releases control, they're not really a submissive, and they're just wasting everyone's time." 

"I see." 

We grabbed our clubs, and I pulled my driver out this time. My hangover still held sway over my body, but anger and my competitive spirit were fighting back. 

"Is that what you think I'm doing? Topping from the bottom?" 

"Yes." 

I smacked a beautiful drive, great distance, center of the fairway, and nicely setup for my next shot. 

I'm back! 

He let out a low whistle. "Nice shot!" 

"Thanks." 

His drive was good, but only good, and I felt confident I'd win this hole. We climbed back into the cart. 

"In my opinion, I'm living well within the limits we discussed. I'm respectful of your family. You and I speak regularly. Nicole is happy." He paused and glanced at me. "You set the terms and Nicole and I are abiding by them." 

"But?" 

"But you seem to want to control everything. How often we see each other. How much time we spend together. Where we go, etc. It's frustrating for me, it's hard on your wife, and I have to believe it's tough on you as well." 

"I told you when we started; I'm not a wimp or a pushover. I won't just agree to everything." 

"I think you're missing the point," he said. 

"Enlighten me." 

"Cuckold husbands are servants, not masters. It's not their place to agree or disagree. Their role is to support the relationship between the dominant and their wife. Once all of us agree we're going to start this relationship, it's the responsibility of the cuckold husband to facilitate it." 

"What about communication?" 

"Aren't we communicating? Haven't we been communicating?" 

"Yeah, but-." 

"That won't stop and if you have a concern, you can always bring it to me. The communication that happens between you and me though, is separate from how you behave as a cuckold husband." His eyes met mine. "Are you serious about this lifestyle or not?" 

"I thought I was," I replied weakly. "Now I'm not sure." 

"Yeah," he said with a nod. "That's what I thought. You can't do this half-way, buddy. You can't be a little bit pregnant, either you are or you're not." 

I'm way too hungover for this conversation. 

"Let's finish the hole," I suggested. 

"Sure." 

We traded places on this hole, with me scoring a birdie, and David 2 putting for a bogie. The start of the third hole greeted us with even scores. 

"What going on with Cassidy?" David had a small smile as he pulled out his driver. "She seems like a handful." 

"Hard to say," I hedged. 

"She seems pretty serious about you." 

"Hang on a second." 

I swung and nailed another beautiful drive down the fairway. Fresh air, a little competition, and I was starting to feel a lot better. 

"Nice drive." 

"Thanks," I replied and then stepped back. "The thing with Cassidy is...complicated." 

"Yeah," he said with a chuckle. "Nicole isn't easy to figure either." 

I gave him a half-hearted nod. His drive was good, solid, right down the middle, and only a few feet behind mine. Easily his best drive so far. 

"Good one." 

"Thanks. Probably won't hit another like that all day." 

"Uh huh." My bullshit meter registered a small earthquake. 

"Nicole has mixed feelings about Cassidy," he said quietly. "Just thought you should know." 

"I figured as much," I said and waited a second before I added. "I have mixed feelings about Nicole getting tattoo's." 

He snorted. "I figured as much." 

We drove in silence. Our next shots were good, mine a little better, but now by much and we go back into the golf cart. 

"What do you want?" David asked the question as the cart came to a stop at the green. "You're obviously not sure about being a cuckold. You don't know where your relationship is going with Cassidy. You won't let Nicole and I have the kind of relationship we both want." He paused and took a breath. "Do you even know what it is that you want?" 

"I know I love my wife. I know I'm not comfortable with her, or me, becoming black owned." I used my fingers to put quotation marks around the last two words. 

"Is that really your decision? It's Nicole's body we're discussing; shouldn't she get the final say?" 

"It is her body, and yes, it's her decision, but you asked me." 

"True, but you still haven't answered my question." He paused. "What do you want?" 

"I don't know," I snapped. "You want more from us than Collin, and I don't know how to handle it. Cassidy wants...well like I said, she's complicated. I want to preserve my marriage, and keep everyone happy, but that doesn't look possible." 

I hesitated, searching for the right words, before I finally gave up. 

"I don't know," I repeated with a shrug. "I just don't know." 

"Mind if I offer a suggestion?" 

"What?" My tone was harsh, but he didn't rise to it. 

"Open marriage." 

"What?" 

"Open your marriage," he said gently. "Forget the cuckold husband stuff. Allow Nicole and I to have our relationship. You and Cassidy find out what's going on between you. You and Nicole will stay married obviously, but you'll just allow each other the freedom to have separate relationships." 

"I don't know," I began. 

Truthfully, his suggestion sounded good. It sounded perfect. It was easy, slick and it would work immediately. 

Too easy. 

There are no silver bullets in life. Worthwhile solutions rarely come packaged with a bow, and David's suggestion sounded entirely too easy. 

Here son, drink this potion. It'll cure whatever ails you. 

"Let's finish this hole," he suggested. 

We finished the third hole tied up. David sunk a putt that was much harder than the last hole, and once again, I wondered if he was sandbagging me. 

"My suggestion makes sense, Nick, and you know it." 

"Maybe." 

"Maybe?" 

"C'mon, David, I was born at night, but it wasn't last night. Your suggestion is perfect for pulling Nicole and I apart." I turned in my seat and faced him. "I can see it now. First, it's one night during the week, then it's two, then it's a weekend, and soon Nicole is spending more time with you than she does with me." 

"If you were worried about losing Nicole, you shouldn't have started this relationship in the first place," he replied steadily. 

"Nicole-." 

"Wanted it," he finished. "I know. I knew that from the beginning. But you like the lifestyle too, and it can still work, we just need to make a few adjustments. An open marriage between you and Nicole makes perfect sense." 

"I don't think she'd go for it," I hesitated. 

"She will. We've already discussed it." 

"Why didn't she say anything?" 

"I told her you and I needed to discuss it." He smiled. "Mano y mano. Communication, remember?" 

"Fuck," I said with a shake of my head. "Why do I feel manipulated?" 

"You're not," he said firmly. "It's just that myself, Nicole, and even Cassidy can't do anything until you make some decisions." 

A part of me wanted to be angry. 

Another part wanted to be relieved. 

I wasn't sure how to feel. 

David's suggestion seemed both a solution and a self-serving attempt to steal Nicole. At the same time however, I wanted the freedom to see Cassidy, and I suspected she'd jump at his suggestion. Ending the cuckold husband gig sounded great as well. It was exciting, but I'd started to wonder if it hadn't run it's course. 

Agreeing felt like surrender. It felt wrong. 

"I'll think about it," I promised. "I want to talk to Nicole about it some more as well." 

"Fair enough," he said, and then motioned at the tee box. "Feeling up for a little wager?" 

Our eyes met and I felt a sly smile slide over my lips. 

"How much do you want to lose?" 

"Not money," he said with a dismissive wave. "I never bet money." 

"Oh yeah? Why?" 

"It's not as valuable as most people think." 

"Okay," I said slowly. "What are the stakes?" 

"Time." 

"What?" I asked around a laugh. 

"Thirty days," he clarified. "Thirty days of an open marriage. Then all of us, you, me, Nicole and Cassidy will meet to talk it over." A carnivorous smile grew on his face. "I'm thinking we spend a weekend in Vegas." 

"So," I paused and considered the stakes. "If you win, I agree to open my marriage for thirty days." 




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 04



"Completely open," he clarified. "Nicole and I are free to make our decisions about what we do, when we do it, and where we do it. We'll check in with you obviously, and we won't make any plans that conflict with your children's lives, but aside from those conditions, you agree to a fully embrace an open marriage for thirty days." 

"And if I win?" 

"I'll step out of your lives for thirty days. No contact. No dates. No calls or emails. You and Nicole will have time to reconnect and decide if you want to pursue this lifestyle any further. It'll give you both time to discuss Cassidy as well." 

Time. That was the wager. 

We drove to the next hole in silence. His hand fell on my arm as I started to climb out of the golf cart. 

"And a bottle of whiskey," he said. "Anything you can find in San Antonio." 

I eyed him for a long moment. "You really want me to take this bet, don't you?" 

"Maybe." 

"Fine," I accepted and held out my hand. "It's a bet." 

A wide smile broke out of his face and he shook my hand firmly. "It's a bet," he repeated. 

"Thanks for the whiskey," I added. 

"Thanks for the time," he shot back. 

I know what you're thinking. I'd been drawn into this bet. Goaded and baited into accepting it. David's upside was better than mine. Thirty days was too much time to practice an open marriage, and with Nicole already on board, I'd lose her to David. 

All of those objections were true. All had merit. 

I dismissed them. 

First, I didn't think I'd lose. Sure, I suspected he'd been sandbagging me on his play, but that didn't make him a better golfer than me. Second, I had faith in my marriage and my wife. Finally, thirty days was more than enough time for me to convince Nicole to quit this lifestyle...even if it meant giving up Cassidy. 

Losing wasn't an option. 

David's next drive split the fairway and his ball came to rest over two hundred and fifty yards away. A par five hole, he'd positioned himself extremely well. A guilty, pleased smile grew on his face as he stepped back and he shrugged indifferently. 

"Nice drive," I added. My voice as dry as the desert. 

"Not my best, but I'll take it." 

My drive launched off the face of my club. It sailed straight and true over the manicured emerald ocean. A perfect drive! I stood motionless, enjoying the moment, as my ball bounced down the fairway. 

Just 'cause you're good, doesn't mean the other guy isn't better. 

My ball came to rest a few feet farther than David's. I threw a confident wink at him as I stepped towards the cart. His smile now appeared forced and fragile. 

A sense of tense competition settled over us. 

We both felt it. We both accepted it. 

No swords or shields, but combat nonetheless. 

Golf clubs had replaced matched pistols. A putting green had replaced ten paces. Times had changed, but men had not, and we squared off on the modern day battlefield. 

Only one would emerge a victor. 

A touch dramatic maybe, but you gotta do what you gotta do to get psyched up. 

Guys...back me up here. 

David and I had spent the first couple of holes dividing our time between golf and conversation. After we agreed on a wager, conversation died a quick death. We passed a few mild compliments back and forth, but otherwise we both focused on beating the other. 

What sucked the most? 

We were evenly matched. 

I'll spare you the play by play, and sum it up. We stayed tied until the last hole. Stroke for stroke, our white bullets were never more than a few yards from each other. 

That held true through our drives on the eighteenth hole. We split the fairway on a short par four. A challenging hole, sand traps dotted both sides of the fairway, and ringed the green. A water hazard sat alongside the approach, and even though the wind was calm, any drift in your shot would result in your ball going swimming. 

Finishing this hole with par was a success. 

I pulled my five wood out. Despite my first shot, it was my most forgiving wood in my bag. I picked a spot just left of the sand traps and well away from the water to place my second shot. 

Confidence, even arrogance, welled up inside as my shot landed exactly where I'd planned. A great approach shot, and I'd birdie the hole. An eagle was a possibility, but I wasn't ready to be that aggressive. 

I dropped my club in my bag and waited by the cart. Cautious to stay quiet and out of his sightline, I didn't want to hand him any excuses when we discussed his loss in the clubhouse. 

My eyes landed on his clubs. Calloway. Brand new clubs. His driver and woods were customizable with little weighted screws. His three wood was missing, so I figured that was what he was swinging. 

I'd seen him tinkering with them as we played, but I dismissed that feature as a gimmick. My own clubs were Taylor Made's and while they were a few years old, I loved them. 

David swung, grunted with the effort, and unloaded on his ball. Power shot. This hole didn't tolerate power shots well, because they tended to be wild, and this hole punished the hell out of wild shots. 

My mouth dropped open. 

His shot sailed past the sand traps, past my conservative shot, and rolled to a beautiful spot on the fairway. He'd even avoided the water! 

Fuck! 

A huge exhale pushed out of his body, and I saw him visibly relax. He'd bet heavy and won. 

I shook my head. "You fucking suck!" 

He chuckled and pumped his fist in a classic Tiger Woods fist pump. "Yeah, baby!" 

"Still a lotta golf to play," I said half-heartedly. 

"Let's go then." 

We drove up to my ball, and I hit a great second shot that ended with my ball on the green, a short put between victory and me. 

We drove to David's hole and he pulled out and iron. I pushed back an urge to cough loudly, fart, or do anything to break his concentration. I didn't want to win, or lose, that way. 

His shot looked great. It left the club on a high trajectory, and with no wind, I knew it would land close to the green. 

I was right. 

His ball landed a few yards short of the green. 

I was also wrong. 

Disbelief and horror flooded my body as his ball released and rolled forward. A good shot off his club, it revealed itself as a great shot when it rolled onto the green. 

My nightmare continued. 

The ball continued rolling. 

And stopped...right on the edge of hole. 

My head dropped until my chin impacted my chest. 

I heard him drop his club in his bag. I lifted my head and held out my hand. 

"Great shot." 

"Thanks." 

I slipped behind the wheel and drove to my ball. David checked his phone while I lined up my shot. My third swing, I needed to sink this put in order to stay even. My heart thudded in my chest, and I swallowed several times. 

You've been here before, I reminded myself. Slightly uphill, green tilts to the right, nice and easy. 

My club connected and my little white hope rolled towards the hole...towards a tie with David. 

Tension slid into my body. 

Closer. 

The ball slid towards the hole, tracking perfectly. My heart stopped. 

I quit breathing. 

David sat forward in the golf cart, his body as tense as mine. 

Six inches. Four inches. 

David's whoop announced the ball's position. 

A final nail in my golf-coffin. 

The ball stopped barely half an inch from sinking. 

Fair and square, I'd lost. 

I'd lost! 

I leaned on my putter and stared at the little round bastard. Always friendly before, it had picked the wrong-fucking-time to betray me. 

A hand landed on my shoulder and I turned to see David's unsmiling face. No gloating, no arrogance, just a guy who knew how bad it felt to lose a fair contest. 

"Tough break," he said. "Do I need to knock mine in? 

"No," I said. "Great game." 

He offered his hand and I shook it. David completed the hole in three shots, and I needed four. 

He won. 

"Still okay with our wager?" 

I took a breath. "Yes. Fair wager, fairly won." 

"Ready to head back? I'll buy the first round." 

"Definitely. I need a stiff drink." 

He chuckled. "Speaking of a stiff drink, what whiskey was I going to buy you, if you'd won?" 

I laughed and shook my head. Winning felt so far away now. 

"There's a fifty year old Yamazaki that I've had my eye on. It runs about twelve grand." 

"Ouch!" 

"Yeah, that's why I haven't bought it." 

"Well, let's see if the bar has it in stock," he joked. 

We settled into the golf cart with David behind the wheel. 

"Fuck, I hate to lose." 

"You and me both," he replied. 

"Thirty days?" I asked. 

"Yes. We end the last few days in Vegas." 

"Right." 

The attendants took care of our clubs, and we headed towards the bar. David hadn't stopped smiling the entire trip back to the clubhouse. I couldn't fault him for it, but I didn't like it either. 

He won. I lost. 

It didn't make us friends. 

I didn't see Nicole until she'd wrapped David in a tight hug. She jumped and locked her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. He chuckled and held her tightly. 

"Congratulations, baby," she exclaimed. 

"Thanks." 

"My hero," she said, right before she pressed her lips against his. 

I continued trudging towards the bar, unwilling to stay and watch my wife mouth-fuck her boyfriend. I'd been invisible to her anyway, so what was the point of sticking around? 

The bartender nodded at me. "What can I get you?" 

"Eagle rare on the rocks," I replied and ran a hand over my face. Nicole and David were all smiles and walking my way holding hands. I glanced the bartender. "Make it a double, please." 

"Hi, Nick." 

"Nicole." 

"I heard about your match," she continued, oblivious to my mood. "Tough loss." 

"Yeah. The girls-." 

"Are fine," she replied dismissively, and then caught the bartender's eyes. "I'd like a margarita, on the rocks, no salt." 

"Old Fashioned for me," David added. 

We smiled at each other, unsure what to say next, until the Bartender delivered our drinks. Mine had been the easiest to make, so it slid across the bar first. I didn't bother waiting, I took a generous swallow, and looked out the window. 

"Where do you want to stay in Vegas?" 

Nicole was asking David, not me, but I listened politely. I debated downing this glass of whiskey and starting another one, but decided I wanted to drive myself home. I'd no doubt Nicole would love me to show more weakness in front of David, and I wasn't in the mood to give her the satisfaction...or David. 

"We'll be staying at the Cosmopolitan," he replied. 

The way he said it made it obvious that he meant himself and Nicole. It was going to be a long thirty days. At least for me, I had the suspicion it would pass quickly for my wife. 

Speaking of my wife, she'd obviously chosen her outfit to please her boyfriend. The tank top she wore showed generous amounts of cleavage, and her bra had to be sheer, because her nipples were plainly visible. 

If she even wore a bra. Anything was possible. 

Her painted-on shorts hugged her ass nicely. Jealousy reared it's head, because she'd never dressed like that for me. 

Ever. 

When she turned to get her drink, I saw the tattoo David had drawn on her shoulder. The spade symbol prominently displayed for anyone within seeing distance. 

Our eyes met. She knew what I'd seen, and her smile clearly conveyed that she didn't care about my opinion. If anything, she proudly displayed that drawing. 

Queen of Spades. An all-too-visible symbol of her sexual preference for black men. I wondered if she'd actually commit to making it a permanent tattoo. Based on her behavior so far, it looked like she couldn't wait. 

It turned me on. 

I'd like to lie and say it made me angry. Sure, I was angry, but truthfully, it turned me on as well. David brought something out of my wife, a sexual awakening of sorts, and her future tattoo was a symbol of that awakening. Whether she meant it or not, that drawing also marked me as a cuckold husband. 

"I've never heard of that hotel. Is it nice?" 

He nodded and gave her a reassuring smile. "Damn right. It's fairly new and very luxurious. It's next door to the Bellagio and centrally placed on the strip." 

"Sounds nice." 

"Wait'll you see our suite." 

"Hmmmm, you treat me so well, baby." 

"Always," he murmured, right before he kissed her...again. 

I'd seen enough. They were just pouring salt into my wound. I downed the last of my whiskey and put my glass on the bar. 

"Well," I began and pushed away from the bar. "It was a good round, but I have to be going-." 

"Nick!" 

Cassidy's voice reached me before I could finish, and all of us turned in her direction. My eyes flickered towards Nicole and she gave me wink. 

"I called her." 

"You did? Did you and her have a chance to talk?" 

"Not really. When David." She bumped him with her hip. "Told me the outcome, I suspected you'd be depressed. I thought Cassidy might cheer you up." 

"Ahhh. Open marriage." 

She nodded. "Open marriage. Maybe it won't be so bad." 

"We'll see," I replied and smiled at Cassidy as she walked up. 

"There you are," she said and kissed my cheek. 

My arm slid around her waist and she leaned against me. "Here I am." 

"Thank you, Nikki," she said and offered her hand to my wife. "I appreciate the call." 

"You're welcome. Good luck with this one." She motioned at me. 

"I'll cheer him up," she said confidently. 

"Will you be joining us in Las Vegas?" David asked and pulled Nicole closer to him. 

"Ummm," she said and glanced at me. 

"Yes," I replied for her. "She'll be joining us, but we may stay at another hotel." 

"Fantastic," David replied. 

"That's great," Nicole said as well. 

"It'll be fun," Cassidy said and squeezed my hand. "Are you ready?" 

"Yes." 

I shook hands with David and smiled at my wife. Her smile was cool and dispassionate; the kind of smile offered to a stranger. 

"I'll see you later," Nicole said as I walked away. 

"Sounds good." 

* * * 

"Take me to my apartment and make love to me," Cassidy whispered as soon as we exited the building. "I need you." 

The vestiges of a hangover still clung to me. I was also feeling the whiskey I'd just chugged. My wife treated me like a stranger. I'd lost a round of golf that could cost me my marriage, and now a gorgeous young woman wanted to fuck my brains out. 

I felt dizzy. 

My new girlfriend pressed her lips against my ear. "Please." 

We took my car. 

I'd just pulled onto the highway, when she took off her shirt. An inviting smile slid across her lips, and she unclipped her bra. Her shorts were next, followed by her thong panties, and then she kicked off her sandals. 

"Uhhh." 

"Sorry. I don't want to waste a minute." 

She reached over, plucked my hand off the steering wheel, and then thrust it between her legs. My fingers met her wet slippery flesh and I massaged her clit. She moaned and shivered in her seat. 

"I missed you," she breathed. "Missed you so much." 

My attention flickered back and forth from her gorgeous naked body to the highway. We passed a semi-truck and a couple of loud honks followed us. I wasn't sure if he was honking at my car, or the naked body in the passenger seat. I increased my speed. The last thing we needed was a convoy of truckers following us. 

Fortunately, she didn't live far. We pulled into her apartment complex less than ten minutes after leaving the golf course. She winked at me, and then held up her keys. 

"Race ya!" 

"Cassidy, wha-." 

Stark naked and obviously horny, she darted out of my car. Laughter exploded out of me as I watched my new girlfriend sprint up to her apartment and disappear inside. I took a minute to gather her clothes, before following her. 

"Get in here!" 

She pulled me inside, pushed her clothes out of my hands, and started on my belt. We stumbled and laughed our way into her bedroom, leaving a trail of clothes in our wake. 

Lost in the moment, unaware of anything beyond our own needs, I felt my back hit the mattress. She mounted me and I slipped inside with little resistance. So wet and ready, her body shuddered with orgasmic waves almost immediately. Her head snapped back, and she moaned with abandon. 

The heat between us felt scalding. 

Cassidy bounced and swiveled her hips, the scent of sex filled the air and another orgasm ripped through her. Unlike my wife, I fit tightly inside her, and I bit my tongue in a vain effort to prolong our sex. I sat up and nibbled on her nipples, enjoying the light scent of her body lotion and the softness of her flesh. 

Her fingers gripped my hair, and she pulled my head back. She pressed her lips against mine and thrust her tongue inside my mouth. Her frantic passion was infectious and I felt myself rushing towards an orgasm. She sensed it as well, and increased her pace. 

"Fuck!" I gasped. 

A sweet, delicious eruption spewed forth. My own moan was lost to Cassidy's kiss, as she fell forward and pressed her lips and body against mine. Her body trembled against me and I suspected she came once more, orgasming with me. 

A light sheen of sweat covered our bodies. We lay together, enjoying the afterglow of amazing sex, and the intimacy of the moment. Both of us had been too excited for the sex to last beyond a few minutes, but I felt certain more sex lurked in our future. 

"Missed you," she whispered. 

"Missed you too." 

A second later, she disappeared into the restroom, leaving me to recover. My eyes lingered on her ceiling as I tried to make sense of my situation. 

I failed miserably. 

The buzzing of my phone brought me out of my head, and I fished through my shorts. A missed call from Jasmine. 

"Hey, honey," I said when she answered. "What's up?" 

"Dad, can I go to the mall with Emily?" 

"Ummm, sure. Just the two of you?" 

"Yep, but we need a ride. I called mom, but she didn't answer." 

"Okay kiddo," I checked my watch. "I should be home in about fifteen minutes." 

"Cool. Thanks, dad. You're the best." 

"See you soon." 

I ended the call and saw Cassidy smiling at me. "Jasmine wants to go to the mall." 

"You're a great father," she said. 

"Jury's still out, I think, but I'm doing my best." 

"I see that," she said and kissed me. "It's okay, go take care of your girls." 

I nodded and started to get dressed. Cassidy slipped on her underwear and a tank top that showed off her stomach. I stopped and stared. 

Wow. Just...wow. I wasn't ready to leave her. 

"Why don't you come with me?" 

"What?" 

"Come with me?" 

"I don't understand," she said. 

"I'll drop you off at your car, and you can meet me at the mall. Jasmine wants to spend time with her friends, so I'm going to be all by myself." I paused. "I'll buy you a coffee and we can spend some time together." 

A happy smile grew on her face as I spoke. When I finished she kissed me again. "I'd love too." 

"Great." 

Cassidy had met my girls a few times, so I wouldn't be surprising my daughter if she saw us together. They got along pretty well too. Jasmine had recently turned sixteen, and Cassidy was only a decade older, so they seemed to click. 

I watched my girlfriend dress with mixed emotions. I didn't want her to get dressed. She looked too good naked. I definitely wanted to spend more time with her though, and a relaxing afternoon at the mall sounded fun. 

"I'm ready," she declared after changing. 

I smiled at her. "Let's go." 

* * * 

"Say cheese," I said. 

"Dad, please. This is embarrassing." 

I snapped the picture of two teenage girls gritting their teeth. "Perfect." 

"Can we go now?" 

"You have money?" 

Jasmine rolled her eyes. "Yes." 

"Normal rules apply, Jas." 

"'Kay, bye." 

I watched my oldest daughter and her friend walk away. Jasmine was growing up too fast. It was depressing. April was out with her grandparents for the day. Nicole had arranged it, so I headed towards Barnes and Noble. 




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 04



Cassidy had already arrived. "Hey." 

"Hey, yourself." 

She hugged me. "Can I kiss you?" 

"Yep." 

It was a nice kiss. 

"Where's April." 

"Uhhh, the plan was to start at Nordstrom's and then hit every single store in the mall." I smiled victoriously. "She has to show me anything she buys." 

"Ahhh. So no Victoria's Secret." 

"Nope!" 

She laughed, shook her head, and then took a sip of her coffee. I motioned at her cup. 

"I'll be right back." 

"Bring us back something to share," she said quickly. "I'm hungry." 

The Starbucks was inside a Barnes and Noble, and for a Sunday afternoon, it was quiet. I returned with my coffee and two slices of Banana Nut Loaf, which is a favorite of mine. 

"So," she said as I sat down. "What do you want to talk about?" 

"How about we start with golf?" 

"Okay, golf." She cocked her head at me. "You lost." 

"Not quite," I replied and then hurried to clarify. "I did lose the game, but I also lost a bet." 

"Ooooooh, the plot thickens. What did you bet?" 

"Time. I wagered thirty days with David." 

"Quit being dramatic," she said and pulled away a piece of banana nut loaf. "Just tell me what's changed." 

"Fine," I said as the banana bread disappeared inside her mouth. I resisted the urge to lean across the table and kiss her. It wasn't easy. 

"David and I bet over the next thirty days. He won obviously, so Nicole and I are going to have an open marriage for the next month." 

A slow smile grew on her face, and I decided to continue. 

"Which means you and I can see each other whenever our schedules synch up." I paused. "If you still want to see me." 

"I don't," she deadpanned. "I'm completely sick of your old ass." 

"Yeah, I could tell by the way you attacked me." 

"I want to see you." Her hands reached across the table and slid around mine. She squeezed them gently and met my eyes. "As often as possible." 

"I'm glad," I replied. "I feel the same." 

An excited, but awkward silence fell between us. Excitement beamed from her eyes, and I felt it as well, but I knew this wasn't going to be easy. So much remained unsaid. 

"You're worried aren't you?" 

I nodded. "Of course." 

"Let me guess," she winked at me. "You're worried about your kids. You're worried about your marriage, your job, and my job." She tilted her head back and forth, as she listed each item. "Your suspicious of David and Cynthia, and you're scared I'll get hurt, but most of all," she paused and squeezed my hand again. "You're worried you'll fall in love with me." 

"Am I that transparent?" 

"Yes." 

"I guess I'll have to work on becoming more mysterious." 

She snorted. "Good luck with that. You over-think everything, Nick." 

"Maybe." 

"Listen," she emphasized and waited until I met her eyes. "I'm a big girl. You're married, you love your wife, and you have great kids. I know what I'm getting into, so quit worrying about me." 

"And Nicole? David?" 

She shook her head. "I can't help you there, and you can't control the actions of others." 

"How'd you get so smart?" 

"I'm an old soul," she shot back. 

"Alright, alright, I know when I'm beaten," I sat back and took a sip of coffee. 

"Get used to it, mister." 

We shared a laugh. It felt great, nice, easy, and my tension dissipated. I glanced around, and then leaned forward. She matched me and our faces were only inches apart. 

"So you wanna do this? See each other?" 

"I've already said yes." 

"I'm not sure I can promise you-." 

"Shut up," she interrupted. "I'm not asking for promises, and I won't make any demands. Let's just see where it goes." 

"Fine." 

"Can I call you, sweetie?" 

"No." 

"Baby? Honey? Stud?" 

"Stud," I said and rolled my eyes. "Stud is good." 

Her response was to press her lips against mine. Our kiss was nice, soft, and full of promise. I made a mental note to find out what perfume, or lotion, or whatever she wore, because it smelled amazing. 

"I have some questions," she said as we parted. 

"Fire away." 

"Our relationship," she motioned between us. "It's just us?" 

"Ummm, yes. Why? Did you want something else?" 

"No," she said quickly. "That's perfect. I just wasn't sure if you wanted too..." She trailed off. 

"Too?" 

Her voice dropped to barely above a whisper. "To watch me with someone else?" 

My mouth dropped open, and my heart kicked into overdrive. She put her hand on my arm. "It's okay, Nick. I don't mind, I just want to make sure I know what you want." 

Fuck! Shit just got awkward. 

"No," I whispered and met her eyes. "No. I don't want to share you. I don't want to do that...not with you. Truthfully, I'm not sure I want to do it anymore with anyone." 

"Good," she breathed with obvious relief. "I don't want to be with another man. I'd do it for you, but I'd rather spend my time with you. Just us." 

"I'm glad," I replied. 

"Another woman, on the other hand," she continued with a wink. "I'm open to that, but not right away. I want you all too myself." 

"Uhhhh, let's put that idea on a shelf for another time." 

"Fair enough." 

"Wow," I said and shook my head. "We're covering some ground." 

"I know, right." 

"Any more questions?" 

"Will you spend the night with me?" 

"Tonight?" 

She shrugged. "Tonight, tomorrow, whenever you can. I want to wake up next to you." 

I smiled. "Probably not tonight, but I'll speak with Nicole. We'll need to coordinate our schedules." 

"Great. I'll make room for you." 

"Don't put yourself out," I objected. 

"Nonsense," she replied and then stood. "Come on. I have an idea." 

"Idea?" 

* * * 

"Cassidy," I said and drew her name out. "You don't have to do this. I don't need more clothes." 

She kissed my cheek. "Stop it. Let me spoil you a little." 

"Fine, but this place is expensive. Let me handle the bill." 

She cocked her head at me, a little smile playing over her lips. "We'll split the cost." 

"Accepted." 

"Good. Now work with me here. Your taste in clothes isn't bad..." 

"Hey!" 

"Nick, I swear, if you wear another light blue or white shirt to the office, I'm going to scream. There are other colors in the universe." 

"I'm aware of that-." 

"And do you own a tie that isn't a solid color? 

Off-guard and off-balance, I shook my head and answered honestly. "Probably not." 

"You will when we're done," she said with a smile. "And I'll keep these at my apartment." 

"Probably easier that way," I agreed. 

"And none of Nicole's hooker perfume on them." 

"Easy." 

"C'mon, it's expensive and cheap at the same time." 

"Cassidy, enough." 

She held up her hands. "Moving on." 

Jeff, the sales guy at Brooks Brothers, smiled at our back and forth. I shrugged and motioned for him to follow Cassidy, who had started circling a table displaying a wide variety of shirts. My phone buzzed just as the two of them started conspiring against me. I heard something about cashmere and saxon wool, before I answered my phone. 

"Nick," my wife's voice reached me before I said hello. "Where's Jasmine?" 

"She's at the mall with Emily." 

"Oh. Where are you?" 

"At the mall," I said. "The girls wanted to go off by themselves, so I decided to do some window shopping. I'm at Brooks Brothers now." 

"Ahhh, okay." 

"You sounded worried. Is everything okay?" 

"Yeah," she said and sounded distracted. "I just saw the missed calls from Jasmine, and she didn't answer when I called home. I got wo-." I heard a sharp intake of breath. "Worried. Sorry." 

"You alright?" 

"Yeah." She exhaled. "Fine." 

"Uh huh." 

I missed a call from Jasmine as well, so I didn't blame my wife, but anger swelled within me, when I realized she was probably already fucking David. She couldn't even spare time for a simple conversation about her daughter. 

What the fuck? 

"Why did you miss her calls? You and David too busy to hear your daughter calling?" 

My voice held biting sarcasm and I knew she heard it. A low moan was her only answer, followed by another, and then a low "stop it." 

"David and I were fucking, Nick. You happy?" 

"Peachy," I replied. 

"Yeah well, we're about to start again." Acid dripped from each syllable. "I'll send you some pictures." 

"Don't bother. Been there, seen that. Not interested in the rerun." 

"Bye." 

The urge to curse, loudly and colorfully, almost split my brain, but I pushed it down and slid my phone into my pocket. Cassidy stood nearby holding several shirts, and her expression left no doubt, she'd heard my conversation with Nicole. 

"Change of plans," I said. 

"Ohhh?" 

"Pick out anything you like." 

Her eyes brightened. "Anything?" 

"Anything," I repeated. "And once we're done here, I'm taking you shopping. Sky's the limit." 

"You are so sexy right now." 

I chuckled and shook my head, sexy wasn't a description I was used to, but I sure did like it. She moved back to speak to Jeff, and started pointing at new items. Jeff's eyes grew brighter as she talked and pointed, and I suspected I'd get a Christmas card from him this year. 

An idea flashed through my brain as I watched the two of them, and I made another call. Turns out, credit card companies are more than happy to add someone to your account. They even promised to overnight a credit card to Cassidy's address. 

"Dad?" 

I narrowly avoided whiplash when my head spun around in the direction of my daughter's voice. They were standing in the doorway, and I motioned them over. 

"What are you doing? I thought you'd gone home." 

"Relax, kiddo. I'm not spying on you. I ran into Cassidy at Starbucks. When I mentioned that I was going to Brooks Brothers, she insisted on coming along." Cassidy broke away from Jeff and walked over. I waited until she was within earshot to continue. "Apparently my wardrobe is dated?" 

I nodded at my girlfriend. "Is that the word you used?" 

"No. Old," she clarified. "Old is the word I chose." 

"Oh my god," Jasmine said in her excited teenager voice. "I totally agree." 

"Is that right?" 

"See," Cassidy punched me in the shoulder. "Your daughter agrees with me." 

The two women shared a smile. I glanced between them, enjoying how they seemed to bond over men's clothing. 

"Fine." I surrendered and cocked my head at my daughter. "Jasmine, would you and Emily, like to help Cassidy pick out some clothes for me?" 

"Are you serious?" 

"Completely." 

The two teenagers giggled with delight. At least, I think it was delight. Anyway, they nodded their heads eagerly and Cassidy waved them over. Jeff took a step back, held up his hands, and let the women take the lead. He motioned at the register, and I knew he was bowing out of the competition. He'd help them when they were done. 

Cassidy and Jasmine did most of the shopping, with Emily adding her own comments. They started talking rapid-fire fashion, using terms that sounded like a foreign language. Jeff came over to take some measurements, muttering under his breath that the girls sent him over, and then gave them to the girls. 

Shirts and ties were easy. I just agreed with my personal shoppers, and only objected to a few suggestions. 

Pink. I can only do pink in small amounts. That opinion earned me a few glares, but they honored my request. Cassidy whispered for me to pick out some t-shirts and underwear, when she pushed a shirt and tie against my chest. 

Apparently, some skin tones don't do well with certain colors? Who knew? I did as instructed though, and gave them to Jeff to add to the pile at the register. A few other customers, read men, gave me sympathetic smiles, and I noticed that all the male customers took a moment to give Cassidy second and third looks. 

Jasmine called Jeff over and motioned at the slacks and jackets. I was impressed and proud of her confidence. Cassidy glanced my way and I could see she was impressed as well. Jeff turned into a bobble head doll, and nodded at everything my daughter said, before he turned and motioned another sales person over. 

He needed help...not a good sign. 

They started pulling items off tables and racks. 

My daughter came over, grabbed my hand, and pulled me over to the dressing rooms. 

"C'mon. We need you to try some stuff on." 

"Yes, ma'am." 

Thirty, long and tortuous, minutes later the girls announced their mission accomplished. Jeff had everything ready at the register, of course, and he was more than ready to help me with my purchase. 

"You girls hungry?" 

"Starving," they replied in unison and then giggled. 

"Me too. Why don't the three of you head over to the pizza place and get us a table? I'll take care of the clothes, and meet you there." 

"Ohhh, I don't have to go," Cassidy started her objections. 

"No," Jasmine interjected. "You have to come. Please." 

"Are you sure?" 

"Totally." 

"Okay. Thank you." 

My personal shoppers left and I discovered that my credit card still worked. Jeff offered to have the clothes delivered, for an extra fee, and I gave him Cassidy's address and phone. 

My phone buzzed as I left the store. 

Nicole: I'm sorry. 

Me: It's okay. This open marriage thing ain't going to be easy. 

Nicole: No. It's not. Where are you? 

Me: Mall with Jasmine and Emily. We're about to have pizza. 

Nicole: Cool. I'll join you. 

Me: Fine. Cassidy is with us. 

Nicole: Ohhhh. 

Me: You're welcome to join us. 

Nicole: I'll see you at home. 

I slipped my phone in my pocket. Did I feel guilty? Not one fucking bit. I never asked for an open marriage. Hell, I never wanted her to date Collin. I did it so she'd be happy. If she was pissed, the blame fell squarely on her shoulders. 

Jasmine was sitting alone when I entered. I motioned at the lady behind the podium and she waved me past. 

"Hey, Jas. What happened to Emily and Cassidy?" 

"Restroom," she said and took a sip of her soda. 

"Ahhh, gotcha. Did you order?" 

"Yep." 

"Thanks for your help today. I like what you picked out." 

"You're welcome." 

A waiter came by and took my drink order. 

"I like Cassidy," Jasmine said abruptly. "She's nice." 

"I'm glad. I like her too." 

"No dad," she said and met my eyes. "I mean I like Cassidy." 

"You lost me." 

My daughter took a breath and leaned forward. "I mean, if Cassidy is more than your employee, I still like her. She's nice." Jasmin shrugged. "And I like the way you smile when you're around her. Mom doesn't make you smile like that anymore." 

"Honey." 

"It's okay, dad. We don't have to talk about it here, but I just wanted you to know." 

"Thank you," I replied. "When did you become so smart?" 

A happy smile appeared on her face. "I've always been smart." 

"That's definitely true." 

"Emily's parents recently divorced," she said and her smile disappeared. "It was ugly and hard on Emily. I guess I learned a lot from listening to her." 

"You're a good friend, Jas." 

She dropped her head, but I could tell she appreciated the compliment. "I try." 

My soda arrived, and I sipped it while I searched for something to say. Nicole and I had raised a perceptive young woman, and she didn't miss a thing. I hadn't realized my behavior had changed enough for her to notice. 

"I'll pick you," she said abruptly. 

"Pick me?" 

"If you and mom separate, divorce, whatever," she said. "I'll pick you. I'll stay with you, dad. And I'll help you with April." 

"Whoa." I reached out and took her hand. "Slow down. Your mom and I aren't anywhere near divorce." 

"Yeah." A knowing, resigned expression passed over her face, before she averted her eyes. "That's what Emily's parents said, and now they can't stand each other." 

"Jasmine, look at me." I waited until our eyes met. "That will not be our future. Whatever our future holds, I can promise you that I will never treat your mother badly. I won't put you, or April, in the middle either." 

"Promise, dad?" 

Jasmine was afraid. Her words held the vulnerability of a young woman. A young woman who needed something in her life that was solid. Whether Emily's parents' divorce scared her, or the extracurricular activities between Nicole, and me. It didn't matter. My daughter felt scared, and I promised myself that I'd be there for her. 

"Yes, Jasmine. I promise." 

She sat across the table, and she'd long since stopped showing me affection in public, but right then, she came around the table and hugged me. Her arms gripped me tightly, and I hugged her back. 

"I love you, Jasmine," I whispered. "I'll always be there for you, no matter what." 

She nodded, tightened her grip on me once more, and then broke our hug. Her smile was brittle, but it was also happy. I smiled back and offered her a wink. That seemed to do the trick, because she sat back down. 

Cassidy and Emily returned from the bathroom a few moments later, just before our pizza arrived. Apparently, a line had formed for the women's bathroom. I decided to remain silent. There are a few privileges to being male, and no lines at the restroom was one of them. 

Pizza was great. This restaurant was trendy, and soon it was packed. We ordered dessert, and talked and laughed until we'd all eaten too much. Jasmine and Cassidy hit it off. They'd always gotten along, but something had changed, and now they were seriously bonding; not sisterly exactly, but something in that neighborhood. 

* * * 

"Call me later," Cassidy said in my ear as we hugged goodbye. 

"Sure thing." 

Jasmine hugged her as well, and Emily waved to her. I dropped Emily off at her mother's, and then headed home. 

"You're a good dad." 

"What makes you say that?" 

My daughter shrugged. "My friends and I were talking at school. Several of my friend's parents have divorced, and they don't have good things to say about any of it. Their parents change into different people, and well," she paused. "It's just different and not in a good way." 

"Sorry to hear that," I added. "Divorce isn't easy on anyone, honey." 

"Is that where you and mom are headed?" 

"No," I said. "I don't see your mom and I divorcing." 

"The two of you aren't as happy as you used to be though, I can tell." 

"Our relationship has changed, sure," I conceded the point. "All marriages change, it doesn't mean your mom and I don't still love each other." 

"I know," she said with a nod. "But you should see yourself with Cassidy. She makes you happy." 

"So does your mother, Jasmine." 

"Did Collin make her happy?" 

I didn't bother trying to maintain our charade. Jasmine had obviously seen through it. More than anything, I felt disappointed. My daughter shouldn't have to handle stuff like this; it wasn't fair to her. 

"Yes. For a time, he made your mom very happy." 

"He's not her boyfriend anymore, is he?" 

"No." 

"Who is?" 

"That's something you should ask your mom, honey." I glanced in her direction. "You and she should have that discussion." 

"I'm sure he's black." 

"What?" 

"C'mon, dad. I saw the way she looked at Collin. I've seen her eyes linger on black guys in public." She shifted in her seat and looked out the window. "She's just like some of the girls in my class." 

"You don't like black guys?" 

I couldn't believe I was having this discussion with my daughter. It felt supremely awkward. At the same time however, she was talking openly with me and I didn't want to shut that off. 

"They're fine, I guess," she said. "A little arrogant, but some of them are cute. Emily likes black guys." 

"Huh." 

I had no idea what else to say. 

"Would you be okay if I dated a black guy?" 

I chuckled. "Honey, you should never ask a father if he'd be okay with his daughter dating. Black, brown, white, purple, no father likes the thought of his daughter going out with a boy...excuse me, young man." 




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 04



She didn't respond. I knew it wasn't the answer she'd expected. I sighed quietly, and reminded myself that this conversation wasn't about me. 

"Jasmine," I said and waited until she turned her head. "I'd be fine if you dated a black bo- sorry, young man. Truthfully, I don't care about race or ethnicity; so much as I care about how they treat you. Never let a man mistreat you, honey." 

"I won't." 

"So, is this your way of letting me know you've got a boyfriend?" 

"No boyfriend, dad. You can relax." 

"But you've been asked." 

"Yes." 

I sighed. "You can date, honey. It's okay with me." 

"Are you sure?" 

"Yes. You'll have to be patient with me, and I want to meet anyone you date, but I'll be fine." I shook my head. "I'll apologize in advance for being overprotective. It's not easy being a dad and there ain't a rule book." 

"Thanks, dad." She leaned over and kissed my cheek. "You're doing great." 

"Awwww, stop it...some more." 

We drove the rest of the way in silence. I tried to deal with the crazy day I'd had, and my daughter set records for speed-texting. It didn't take a rocket scientist to know that I'd probably be meeting a 'nice young man' in the near future. 

Ugh! 

Mys SUV stood in the driveway when we arrived. Nicole and I had been poor when we started our lives together. At that time, her parents seemed like they had all the money in the world. Two decades had passed since we'd married, and now it had become increasingly apparent that they struggled to make ends meet. I'd offered to help, but my father-in-law wouldn't hear of it. 

I understood. I'd refuse help as well. 

Still, I suspected Nicole found a way to help, through her mother of course, and the system worked for everyone. They'd had the same SUV for over a decade, and as I passed it, I swore I'd buy them another one and deal with the fallout. Her dad would be pissed, but a nice V-8 and leather interior would probably calm him down. Hell, I'd have flames painted on it, if he'd just accept it with a 'thank you.' 

When we entered, Nicole and her parents were conversing in the living room. April came over, hugged me, and started to tell me about her day. Too big to carry now, I wrapped my arm around her and she continued talking as we joined the group. 

"Hi, baby." 

"Hey." 

I shook hands with her father, and her mother insisted on giving me a hug. The same greeting we'd exchanged every time we met. I didn't mind. There was something comforting in tradition, and I liked and respected mys. We conversed in English and Spanish, flipping back and forth the way we always did. My Spanish had improved over the years, and my mother-in-law never failed to compliment me. We talked for another thirty minutes before they needed to leave. Nicole's mom didn't want to miss bingo. 

"How many miles on this tank?" 

Nicole's father had just slid behind the wheel, and he patted the steering wheel with a satisfied expression. 

"Almost two hundred and fifty thousand." 

"Wow," I said. "Ready for a new one yet?" 

"Yes," my mommy said quickly. 

"No," her father contradicted. 

"Well, drive safely," I said and shook his hand. 

Nicole was in the bathroom, getting ready for bed, when I entered. She had a pre-bedtime ritual that I knew better than to interrupt, so I changed clothes, brushed my teeth, and retreated to the patio. Of course, I poured a glass of whiskey before I ventured outside, but I left the cigars in the humidor. The seasons were turning in San Antonio, and the evening had a nice cool bite. 

"Hey you," I said when Cassidy answered the phone. 

"Hey back, I was wondering if you'd call." 

"I told you I would." 

"I know, but I wasn't sure what kind of atmosphere you'd have tonight." 

"So far, so good." 

"I'm glad, but I'm mad at you." 

"What? Why?" 

"You paid for everything. We agreed to split the cost." 

"I guess you'll just have to owe me." 

"Hmmmmmm." She purred over the phone, and my heart raced in response. "I'll work off my debt however you want." 

I laughed. "Since we're talking about the clothes, I asked for them to be delivered to your apartment. I hope that's okay." 

"Fine. That's where I wanted them anyway." 

"Good. They'll call and arrange delivery." 

"So when are you spending the night?" 

"I don't know," I replied. "I still have to speak with Nicole, but maybe as soon as tomorrow." 

"Really? That's awesome." 

"It's not too late to change your mind," I pointed out. 

"Stop it," she chided me, and then changed the subject. "I had fun today. Jasmine's great." 

"Yeah, she's pretty awesome," I agreed. "We had a good talk on the way home. I think she may have a boyfriend soon." 

"Oooooh, how does dad feel about that?" 

"Worried." 

"Jasmine will be fine. You've raised a great kid, you should trust her." 

"I do. I still worry though; it's in the parent's job description." 

"Does Nicole know?" 

"No," I said. "At least I don't think so." 

"Jasmine told you first? Wow, normally girls go to mom." 

"Not in this case." 

"Everything okay? I mean with Jasmine and Nicole?" 

"I'm not sure." 

I wanted to discuss it further; however, it felt like a betrayal. This is a conversation Nicole and I should have together, and sharing to much with Cassidy wouldn't sit well with my wife. Cassidy seemed to sense my feelings. 

"It's okay, honey. We can talk about it another time." 

She called me honey. It felt great. It sounded great. I wanted to hear her call me that more often. 

"Sounds good. Listen, I'm going to call it a night. See you at work tomorrow?" 

"Of course. Bright and early." 

"Great. Have a nice night." 

"Sleep over," she added slyly. "Then I'll have a great night. So will you." 

"Soon." 

"Bye." 

I terminated the call with a smile on my face. Starting an open marriage wasn't my idea, but so far it had been great. Cassidy loved it, and I suspected Nicole did as well. Surprisingly, I hadn't thought much about David, or my loss on the golf course. 

Weird. 

Our master bedroom had it's own exit to the backyard, and a tiny patio. I never used it, because it was too far from the kitchen, but I wandered in that direction now. Hopefully, Nicole and I could talk about the next thirty days. Just as I reached the patio, I heard her voice. 

"-Spent the day with his new girlfriend." 

Silence. 

"I don't know. The mall I guess, but I'm sure he fucked her. You know, it's possible he lost on purpose, David." 

Silence. 

"I care," she spat. "That bitch is just itching to take my husband. This open marriage deal was supposed to be for you and me, not for Nick and his little slut." 

My eyes bulged at her description. Anger filled my body as well, and I swore under my breath. My wife has a temper, that's well covered territory, but I'd never considered how strong her feelings were towards Cassidy. I craned my head until I found a small space between our curtains that allowed me a view of my wife. 

"Yes. Of course, I loved spending time with you. You're amazing. I lose control with you and I love it." 

She laughed into the phone as she listened. 

"No. I'm not having sex with Nick tonight. After the way you filled me today, it's unlikely I'd feel him anyway." 

She paced forward, nodding as she walked. 

"I know. I know. A toothpick in a toilet roll, you're right. Only you can satisfy me." She shook her head and ran her fingers through her hair. "I can't do that, baby. He's my husband, and he's not doing the cuckold thing anymore. He's going to want to have sex with his wife." 

A deep sigh left her chest and she sat on our bed. She moved the phone from one ear to the other. "Yes, baby. You know I do, but we just started. Be patient. Let's see how things go, and we'll play it by ear. We want the same things." 

She nodded into the phone for several seconds. 

"I'll speak to Nick about it. Yes, I told you already. I like the idea and I'd love to spend more time with you." 

More listening, more nodding, and more smiles. 

"What am I wearing? Pajama's, like we discussed." She giggled. "No. I won't. I promise. Okay. See you soon." 

My eyes traveled over her body, and sure enough, she wore pajamas that covered her entire body. Long pajama pants, and long-sleeved top, buttoned up to her neck. I wasn't looking for sex tonight, and based on what I'd just overheard, sex with Nicole didn't look likely anytime soon. 

Fine! 

Anger and frustration welled up inside me. I replayed their conversation, and I had a hard time believing my wife had said those things. It didn't sound like her. 

I moved back and peeked inside the room, just in time to see my wife leaving. I suspected she was coming to find me, and I didn't want her to know I'd heard everything. I scrambled back to the patio, and managed to take a seat before my bitch-wife opened the door. 

"Nick?" 

"Out here." 

"Want some company?" 

The sweetness in her voice stood in stark contrast to the bile I'd heard less than a minute earlier. 

"Sure." 

She smiled and sat next to me, her grandma-pajamas screaming and mocking me. 

Like the soup-nazi from Seinfeld...No Sex For You! 

"I'm sorry you lost today," she began. "I was shocked at David's text. That's why I called Cassidy." 

"David played well." 

She stared at me for a long moment. "Are we okay?" 

"I don't know, Nicole," I replied. "I agreed to this thirty day open marriage trial, and I'll hold up my end, but I don't know if we're okay or not." 

"It's only thirty days," she said. "We've been married for twenty years; surely the next thirty days won't end our marriage." 

I shrugged. Nothing I could say would dampen her enthusiasm. 

"How was your day with Cassidy?" 

I met her eyes. "I spent more time with Jasmine than Cassidy. You know, Jasmine, our daughter." 

Anger flashed in her eyes, but I saw her push it down, take a deep breath and calm herself. "I don't want to fight. Thank you for taking care of Jas. How is she?" 

"Good. We talked about her dating, and I told her it was fine. I'd handle it, and I'd be cordial to whoever she brought home." I shook my head. "I think she was worried." 

"Does she have a boyfriend?" 

"She says she doesn't, but I suspect she'll introduce us to one soon." 

"Ahhh," she said and smiled. "She's growing up." 

"Yeah." 

Silence enveloped both of us. My wife's demeanor was cautious on the surface, but I knew underneath she was excited and happy about the next thirty days. What bothered me the most however, was the two faces she'd donned in such a short time. 

Truth, it seemed, had become the first casualty of our open marriage. 

It didn't bode well for the future. 

Anyone reading this is probably thinking I should confront her. Have it out. Lay my cards on the table, force her to account for her conversation, and be honest with me. 

A frontal assault for the truth. 

I chose another path. It's nearly impossible to force someone to be honest. They either are...or they're not. Knowing my wife, I knew pushing for the truth now would make it harder to uncover in the future. 

I'd heard her conversation. 

David had his own plans. 

Nicole was fine with them. 

Where did that leave me?



Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 05



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.

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.

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.

"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!"

* * *

"Sometimes....you can just smell a horrendously shitty moment coming."

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.

Tattoos can be removed. Job can be quit. We can weather this storm.

"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.




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 05



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.

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

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 was 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."




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 05



"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.

I'm too old for you.

"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.

I don't deserve her.

"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?

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

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.

What a fucking hypocrite.

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.

What do I do about it?

"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. "Stop! Need to talk to Nic-. Oh god, that feels good. Yes! I mean no! Yes, baby! Yes!"

"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."




Ripples in a Cuckolds Pond Ch. 05



"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.

Ditch your wife and come spend the night with me.

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 should have left without telling her.

I don't regret what happened next.