Page 179 of The Wife Situation

For your screenplay writing. I can’t wait to read it, darling.

—Your Biggest Fan

I slide open the box, and my name is etched on the front—Lexi Calloway. The smile on my lips is undeniable.

“Thank you. I’ll let you read it first. I can’t wait to get started.” I rub my finger across my name. “I’m so lucky.”

The next one is smaller. I squish it, then peel off the note.

Because it’s the truth.

—Better than every Book Boyfriend

I tear open the paper and lift a black shirt with white text—Belongs to Easton Calloway.

Laughter escapes me. “If this didn’t give it away, I don’t know what will.” I point to my neck, where the faded marks of his lips and teeth are still visible.

The tabloidslovedit.

The very last one is a …sex toy.

I continue reading.

My very bad girl,

It’s a long-distance vibrator. Text me an eggplant emoji once it’s connected to the app and you’re wearing it.

—Your Lover, Near or Far

I stare at the camera and shake my head. “I’ll play. I look forward to it.”

I study the bright pink toy and read the instruction manual. “Clit pleasure. To bridge the intimacy gap.”

I go upstairs, and minutes later, I text him.

Lexi

??

ASSHOLE

??

Three hours later, I leave to meet Carlee at our little hole-in-the-wall a few blocks away. They still have the best salmon bagels in the city.

The vibrator randomly clicks on and off at varied speeds. Easton has brought me to the edge at least once an hour since I texted him earlier, and I don’t see that stoppinganytimesoon.

When I walk in, I smell freshly baked bread and spices.

Carlee glances at my shirt. “Do you have any idea how many people are going to make those?”

“I know.” I chuckle. “It wasn’t my idea.”

Her brow pops up. “Mmm. Really? He really does have a sense of humor.”

I snort. “You havenoidea.”

We order and sit at a dirty table by the window with our food in hand. Neither of us cares because the place is full, so we take what we can get. Chatter fills the area, and I see a man with a camera across the way.

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