Vanessa's POV

I'd made a mistake marrying Richard.

Not because he was a bad man—he wasn't. He was successful, stable, generous with his money if not his time. He'd swept me off my feet with expensive dinners and weekend getaways, promised me security and comfort after my messy divorce had left me financially struggling.

At thirty-three, I'd been tired of dating losers and struggling to make rent. Richard had seemed like the solution—seventeen years older, established, ready to settle down with someone who'd appreciate the lifestyle he could provide.

I'd convinced myself that passion didn't matter. That I could live without mind-blowing sex if it meant financial security and stability....