But all I see is the way they cling to his massive morning wood like a second skin and how immune she seems to it.

We’ve been married less than a day and already insecurity is rearing its ugly head. I’m realizing just how much his life has changed during the years we were apart. This woman is clearly a huge part of it, and I don’t know her at all, much less trust her. It’s all making my head spin. I need a damn minute to recalibrate. “I’ll be right back.”

“Take your time,” she coos, clearly itching to have a private conversation with my husband.

Without another word, I dart off to the bathroom, where my overnight bag still sits on the granite counter, untouched.

I flatten an ear to the cool, penny tile wall, trying to make out the hushed conversation on the other side. But it’s no use. Rather than waste more time trying, I give up on the idea and rush through the world’s quickest shower.

With the smell of his manly soap and shampoo clinging to my hair and body, I don a fresh pair of panties, bra, and cut-off shorts with a flowy white top, chosen for obvious reasons.

I brush my teeth—twice—and run a comb through my hair, forgoing makeup altogether, eager to get out there so I don’t miss too much.

“How’s it going, guys?” I ask, breezing back into the room, refreshed and in a slightly better headspace.

“Great.” Lyle’s face lights up at the sight of me, and it’s a huge boost to my bruised ego. Eager for my return, he pats the mattress beside him where he’s still half-naked, having made no attempt to cover up.

With the sheet clutched to my chest, I scamper over to join him, not so casually draping it over his lap as I plop down next to him.

A knowing look crosses Anika’s snooty face—one that makes it clear she thinks I’ve gotten in way over my head with this marriage. She looks all too pleased to have an unobstructed view from which to watch me drown. I can’t wait to see her choke on that high and mighty attitude when we prove her wrong.

The man in the hot seat clears his throat, pulling the sheet all the way up to his neck and tucking it beneath his chin, earning himself a heavy dose of side eye and a grin that won’t be subdued.

I never could stay upset with him, not when he’s this freaking adorable.

“Much better,” I commend, choosing not to harp on his manager’s obvious lack of faith in our union. I can’t let her get inside my head. Lord knows I’ve got more than enough shit to worry about without adding an intrusive Karen to the mix. “What’d I miss?”