John had been leading a double life for months, skillfully balancing the responsibilities of a devoted husband with the thrilling escapades of a secret affair. His wife, Helen, had grown suspicious of his late nights at the office and weekend business trips, but she could never quite put her finger on anything tangible. Nevertheless, John was determined to maintain the status quo, believing he could have the best of both worlds.
That evening, as they sat down for dinner, John felt a pang of guilt momentarily grip him, but he brushed it aside. He needed to escape to meet his mistress, and tonight was just like any other night in his meticulously crafted routine. As Helen excused herself to the bathroom, John skillfully slipped the sleeping pills into her wine, watching as they dissolved without a trace. By the time she returned, he was all smiles and charming conversation.
