Marina kicked off her heels as soon as she crossed the threshold of her modern, open-concept home, the sleek, minimalist furniture and bold, abstract art a comforting sight after the chaos of the city. She slammed the door shut behind her, the sound echoing through the empty house.
She headed straight for the kitchen, her movements a little unsteady as she deposited her keys and purse on the counter with a loud thud. She ran a hand through her tousled hair, feeling the sticky residue of sweat and other things she'd rather not think about.
Max entered the room, wearing an apron and holding a wooden spoon. He looked at Marina, taking in her flushed cheeks and disheveled appearance. "Well, well, well," he said, smirking. "Someone's been having a wild time."
Marina rolled her eyes, reaching up to wipe a streak of cum from her cheek. "Don't be gross," she said, tossing a dishrag at Max. "I was just out with the girls, having a few drinks."
Max raised an eyebrow. "A few drinks, huh? That's why you're stumbling around and reeking of sex?"
Marina scowled. "I am not reeking of sex, you pervert. And even if I was, it's none of your business."
Max chuckled, leaning against the counter. "Oh, come on. You can't expect me to believe that you came home looking like that after a innocent night out with the girls."
Marina crossed her arms, glaring at Max. "Fine. I'll tell you. I met a guy at the bar. He was charming, funny, and incredibly handsome. We hit it off right away."
Max's smile faded. "And then what?"
Marina grins, enjoying the fact that she's ruffling Max's feathers. "And then we went back to his place and had wild, passionate sex. He made me scream his name over and over again."
Max's eyes narrowed. "You're lying."
Marina shrugged. "Believe what you want. But I'm not the one who's been stuck in a sexless marriage for the past year."
Max's face darkened. "You're the one who's been too busy with your career to pay attention to me."
Marina sighed. "That's not fair, and you know it. I've tried to make time for you, but you're always too busy with your own stuff."
Max ran a hand through his hair. "I know. I'm sorry. I just...I don't know how to compete with your success."
Marina stepped closer to Max, placing a hand on his chest. "You don't have to compete with me. We're a team. And if you want to make this marriage work, you need to start treating me like an equal."
Max looked at Marina, his eyes softening. "You're right. I'm sorry. I'll try harder."
Marina smiled, standing on her tiptoes to kiss Max on the cheek. "I know you will. Now, let's order some takeout and have a quiet night in. I'm exhausted."
Max nodded, wrapping his arms around Marina's waist. "Sounds good to me. I'll order from that new Thai place you've been wanting to try."
Marina leaned into Max's embrace, feeling the warmth of his body against hers. She closed her eyes, savoring the moment of peace and intimacy. Maybe, just maybe, they could make this marriage work after all.
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