Chapter 5

When the sun rose the next morning, Brent and Darlene were still wrapped in each other’s embrace, their arms and legs intertwined. Brent’s eyes fluttered open first, catching the golden rays streaming through the window. The warm sunlight spilled across the bed, bathing the new couple in its gentle glow.

He glanced down at Darlene’s head, resting peacefully on his chest. Her hair fanned out across his skin, and her arm lay draped over him. The rest of her body pressed warmly against his as she slept, her breaths slow and even.

Brent shifted slightly, moving his hand to rest on her shoulder. He still struggled to grasp the fact that a woman—a woman like her—was once again sharing his bed. He touched her gently, careful not to wake her, letting the moment express his affection.

Darlene sighed softly at his touch, and Brent froze, holding his breath. He didn’t want to disturb her, only to savor this quiet connection. Please don’t wake up. I just... he thought, fumbling for words even in his own mind.

She stirred, adjusting her position slightly before rolling over, pulling him with her. Brent shifted onto his side, his chest pressed against her back. His arm instinctively wrapped around her waist as she snuggled deeper into the blankets, holding his arm against her breast. She let out a contented sigh, her grip on him gentle but firm.

Brent kissed her shoulder lightly and held her closer.

WE, is this real? he asked silently.

Yes, Brent, the WE responded. What you are doing is good for her and good for you. Your WE do not want people to be alone. Forming bonds with others is beneficial for your mental and physical health—and for us as well.

Is that what Darlene and I are doing? Forming a bond?

Yes. This is real, Brent. She likes you and feels safe in your arms.

Are you making this happen? Or is this natural?

We are making slight adjustments—very slight—but nothing that could be considered manipulation. This is real. She genuinely likes you.

Brent’s mind spun as he considered the WE’s words. They were helping, but how much? Was this still his choice?

Yes, we are helping, the WE clarified, but not in a way that takes your choices away. This is mutual and genuine.

How does she feel about being exclusive? he asked hesitantly. I’ve never shared a woman with other men before. I don’t know how I’d feel about that. I guess I’m old-school.

You and Susan lived in a different time, Brent, the WE replied. Back then, exclusivity was the norm. In today’s world, forming a pair-bond with one person while sharing experiences with others is considered natural. It is healthy and accepted.