The sun hung low over the golf course, casting a golden glow on the manicured greens. Bill adjusted his visor, his focus entirely on his swing. His wife, Claire, sat on the bench nearby, her sundress fluttering in the breeze. She sighed, twirling her straw hat in her hands. It was the third time this week Bill had dragged her along to watch him play, only to ignore her completely.
Jim, Bill’s best friend and golf partner, noticed Claire’s boredom. He’d always admired her—her grace, her laugh, the way her eyes sparkled when she smiled. Today, she looked particularly stunning, and he couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt for Bill’s neglect.
“Mind if I take a break, Bill?” Jim called out, wiping his brow. “I need to grab some water.”
Bill waved him off without looking up. “Sure, sure. I’ll finish this hole.”
Jim approached Claire, his heart racing. “Hey, Claire. You look like you could use some company.”
She glanced up, her lips curving into a small smile. “You noticed.”
He sat beside her, their thighs brushing lightly. “Bill’s been a bit… distracted lately.”
Claire sighed, her gaze drifting to her husband, who was now lining up another shot. “Distracted is an understatement. I feel invisible.”
Jim hesitated, then placed a hand on hers. “You’re far from invisible, Claire. You’re the most beautiful woman here.”
Her breath hitched, and she turned to him, her eyes searching his. “Jim…”
He leaned in, his voice low. “I’ve always admired you. If Bill can’t see what he has, maybe someone else should.”
Claire’s cheeks flushed, but she didn’t pull away. “What are you saying?”
Jim’s thumb traced circles on her hand. “I’m saying I’d never ignore you. I’d make sure you felt appreciated, every single day.”
Her heart pounded as she glanced back at Bill, who was now chatting with another golfer. She felt a surge of frustration—and something else. Desire. “Jim, this is dangerous.”
“Sometimes danger is worth it,” he murmured, his lips inches from hers.
Claire hesitated for only a moment before closing the distance. Their kiss was soft at first, tentative, but it quickly deepened, fueled by years of unspoken longing. Jim’s hand slid to her waist, pulling her closer, while her fingers tangled in his hair.
When they finally broke apart, Claire’s lips were swollen, her eyes dark with need. “Bill…”
“He’s not paying attention,” Jim said, his voice rough. “Let me show you what you’ve been missing.”
Claire nodded, her heart racing. She followed Jim to the secluded grove of trees near the edge of the course, where the shadows offered privacy. There, beneath the whispering leaves, Jim worshipped her body with his hands and mouth, making her feel desired in a way Bill hadn’t in years.
Later, as they returned to the bench, Claire’s cheeks were flushed, her dress slightly rumpled. Bill was still oblivious, focused on his game. Jim caught her eye and winked, a silent promise of more to come.
Claire smiled, a mix of guilt and exhilaration swirling in her chest. For the first time in a long while, she felt alive—and she knew this was only the beginning.