I Was the Side Chick for Two Years. He Still Texts Me on My Birthday.

Back in 2021, I was 24, fresh from NYSC, working a small gig in a Yaba tech hub. He was 37, married with two kids in Lekki, and my boss’s friend from university. The first time we talked, it was innocent , he helped me fix my laptop. But the way he looked at me that day, I knew something was off. I knew, but I didn't run.

It started with late-night WhatsApp calls about work. Then he started sending me money for 'transport' , 5k, 10k, 20k. I was struggling to pay my rent in Mushin, so I didn't question it. After three months, he asked to meet me somewhere quiet. I said yes. Omo, the first time we were together, I felt like I was floating. He was everything I thought I wanted , mature, gentle, generous. I convinced myself his wife didn't care. I convinced myself I was special.

For two years, I built my life around his schedule. He would come to my place twice a week, always between 6pm and 9pm. He never stayed the night. He bought me a phone, a fridge, even paid my school fees for a part-time master's. But I could never call him. I could never post him. I could never exist in his real world. And the worst part? I loved him. I really loved him. I used to cry after he left, staring at the ceiling, wondering if I was just a stopover.

I ended it in 2023 when I found out his wife was pregnant with their third child. I packed everything he gave me in a box and sent it to his office. He called me seven times that night. I didn't pick. But every year on my birthday, he sends me a text. Just 'Happy birthday. I miss you.' And every year, I read it, and my heart does that stupid thing. I have not replied once. But I have not blocked him either. Maybe that says something about me I don't want to face.

If you are reading this and you are the side chick or side guy , the person you are sharing will never leave their home for you. You are not the exception. You are the chapter they will never read aloud. Save yourself while your heart still has some pieces left.