I stood in front of the mirror, smoothing out my dress, making sure everything was perfect. My husband, John, and I were hosting a dinner party tonight, and I wanted to make a good impression. Our friends would be arriving soon, and I could feel the excitement building up inside me.
As I glanced around our beautifully decorated living room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. We had built a perfect life together - a stunning home, successful careers, and a loving relationship. Or so it seemed.
I took a deep breath, pushing aside the nagging feeling that something was off. John and I had been married for ten years, and I knew him like the back of my hand. He was kind, charming, and loving. But lately, I had noticed a change in him. A distance, a coldness that I couldn't quite explain.
I shook my head, telling myself I was being paranoid. We were just busy, that's all. I put on a bright smile, ready to greet our guests and play the perfect hostess.
But as the night wore on, and the laughter and conversation flowed, I couldn't shake off the feeling that something was wrong. And when I saw John's eyes lingering on our beautiful guest, Emily, I felt a pang of unease that I couldn't ignore.