A Confuse cheater Episode 1

Raymond pov 

My name is Raymond James. I live in Ikoyi, Lagos one of those quiet, expensive streets where the gates are tall, the houses are beautiful, and secrets hide very well. I am 37 years old, a successful businessman, respected by friends, admired by colleagues, and envied by many. On the outside, my life looked like a perfect picture carefully framed by success. On the inside… that picture was already cracking.

I am married to Omotalani, my wife of nine years. She is beautiful in a calm, gentle way the kind of woman whose smile can soften anger and whose voice feels like home after a long day. We have two children together, a boy and a girl, the kind that run to the gate shouting “Daddy!” whenever they hear my car horn. For a long time, I truly believed I had everything a man could ever ask for: a loving wife, healthy children, money, respect, and peace.

My family was perfect.

My life was perfect.

At least, that was what I told myself.

Everything began to change the day I met Chioma.

I met her two years ago at a business lounge in Victoria Island. I had gone there for a casual meeting, not looking for anything serious just a drink, small talk, and a quiet escape from the pressure of work. Then she walked in. Chioma didn’t announce her presence; she didn’t need to. Her confidence spoke before her lips did. She was beautiful in a loud, bold way sharp eyes, soft skin, laughter that pulled attention without apology.

We talked. Just talked. Or so I told myself.

At first, it felt harmless. I didn’t give her my real name immediately. I didn’t mention my wife. I didn’t mention my children. I told myself I was protecting my privacy. That lie was the first brick in the wall of destruction I was building around my own life.

Our conversations became frequent. One drink turned into many. One meeting turned into late nights and long calls. Chioma was curious about my life, my dreams, my struggles. She listened to me in a way that made me feel seen again not as a husband, not as a father, not as a provider, but as a man.

And I fell.

Slowly at first. Then completely.

Chioma never knew I was married. I made sure of that. I told her I was busy with work whenever my wife called. I silenced my phone during dinner with Chioma and smiled at her messages like I was smiling at danger itself. I convinced myself that as long as she didn’t know, I wasn’t hurting her.

What a foolish lie....  Continue reading Episode 2