I was “not the other woman.” Right.
How could that be? Of course I was the other woman. I was being paid $5k a month to play that role. I rolled my eyes slightly at the fluff. I didn’t need him to pay me lip service just so I’d stay in the picture.
Still, there was something so unique about the doctor. I took inventory of our relationship up until that point. Despite the unique circumstances, it was such a stark contrast to what I had experienced with my robotic ex husband. The doctor was passionate and caring, poetic and loving. He was incredibly accomplished, had his own Wikipedia page and his intellect surpassed that of any man I’d ever met. And it seemed that he saw me for more than just my looks. I had felt objectified by men almost my entire life, but the doctor saw me for who I was and for my personality. He believed in my intellect. So much so, that on our last date he brought me a rare copy of The Fall by Albert Camus. I actually felt smarter just being in his presence.
Still I couldn’t get my friend Fillip’s words out of my head. A married man. I could do better. I knew he was right.
Later that evening I found myself at The Core Club, an exclusive members only spot in Manhattan sitting across from a fascinating and accomplished woman. We had connected through my high school alumni association and agreed to meet for dinner. I listened to the story of her experiences of becoming a New York socialite and her journey to her current residence, a sprawling penthouse on Park Avenue. Five years ago, she has gone through a very messy public divorce that had been splashed across the tabloids.
After sharing her story, she swirled her martini glass and smiled at me.
“Tell me, Bianca, are you seeing anyone special?” She asked.
“Well, sort of.” I’d obviously not get into the specifics. “He’s very sweet. A doctor.”
“That’s nice. Just be careful. There are so many evil men in this city. They’ll say and do just about anything to get you in bed.”
“I think I have a good one,” I replied confidently and clinked my glass against hers. I glanced down at my phone and realized I didn’t have much service where we were seated. When the check came and we settled the tab, I snuck off the to ladies room to send the doc a quick message...