One weekday morning, Nathan called asking if I would like to join him for lunch. One nice thing about teaching is I get the summer off. My husband, Tom, was out of town on a business trip; something Nathan would have known since they work in the same office.
I had been craving the opportunity to be alone with Nathan, but didn't know how to broach it with Tom. Just the suggestion of sneaking out on my husband caused my pulse to quicken, a feeling of excitement I was growing addicted to.
Deciding it would be easier to beg forgiveness than ask permission. I accepted and asked where he wanted me to meet him. Nathan suggested his apartment and gave me directions. I then made arrangements for my mother to look after the kids for a few hours.
I was back at home, changed, and had snacks out by the time my mother dropped off the kids. Since I had showered at Nathan's, with his help, I knew I could get away with cutting it close. Living a double live with a secret black lover was proving to be a lot of fun. As far as anyone else knew, I was a mother of two, faithful to my husband.
That night, after the kids were in bed, Tom called. This was part of the routine when he was away from home on business. He would talk about his travel and business adventures. I would describe the trivialities of life caring for the house and kids and school when it was in session. However, that evening was different.
After we had covered the routine happenings of the day, I felt it was time for a surprise. "Oh by the way, I had lunch with one of your coworkers today," I said as nonchalantly as possible. My statement was met with silence. "It was really fun," I added.
"Was it Nate?" Tom finally asked.
"Yes," I responded. "Nate called and invited me to his place for lunch."
"That bastard!" Tom exploded. "He waits until I'm out of town and moves in on my wife."
I continued teasingly, "I didn't know if he mentioned anything to you, and I didn't ask."
"Well what did you do?"
"I accepted. You know, he has a beautiful apartment, very nicely appointed." I paused, waiting for Tom's reaction.
"Well go on; tell me what happened. I know he has good taste," Tom shot back.