Training to Love It 2

1. Embracing Openness Can Strengthen Relationships

You’ve got this bond that just seems to get stronger every time I see it.

Unconventional bonds. Tom and Erin's journey into wife-sharing, though initially driven by Tom's fantasy, evolves into a shared exploration that deepens their connection. Their willingness to confront societal norms and personal boundaries fosters a unique level of intimacy and understanding. This openness allows them to explore new facets of their sexuality and relationship, ultimately strengthening their bond.

Challenging norms. The couple's decision to explore wife-sharing challenges traditional notions of marriage and monogamy. They navigate the complexities of jealousy, desire, and trust, creating a relationship that is both unconventional and deeply personal. This journey requires them to be vulnerable and honest with each other, fostering a level of communication that strengthens their bond.

Shared exploration. The couple's journey is not solely driven by Tom's desires but becomes a shared exploration of their sexuality and relationship. Erin's active participation and willingness to experiment contribute to the strengthening of their bond. This shared exploration allows them to discover new facets of themselves and their relationship, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other.

2. Jealousy and Desire: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Sure, but also really turned on.

Complex emotions. Tom grapples with the conflicting emotions of jealousy and desire as he navigates the world of wife-sharing. The thought of Erin with another man evokes both anxiety and arousal, creating a complex emotional landscape that he must confront. This internal conflict forces him to examine his own insecurities and redefine his understanding of masculinity.

Arousal from jealousy. The book explores the idea that jealousy and desire can be intertwined, with the former fueling the latter. Tom finds himself increasingly aroused by the thought of Erin with other men, even as he struggles with feelings of insecurity and possessiveness. This complex interplay of emotions adds a layer of intensity to their relationship.

Confronting insecurities. Tom's journey requires him to confront his own insecurities and redefine his understanding of masculinity. He must learn to trust Erin and embrace the idea that her sexuality is not a threat to their relationship. This process of self-discovery allows him to grow as an individual and as a partner.

3. The Allure and Danger of Forbidden Fantasies

We were in a new phase now, and it scared and thrilled me that I didn’t know where it led.

Exploring the unknown. The couple's foray into wife-sharing is driven by a desire to explore forbidden fantasies and push the boundaries of their relationship. This exploration is both thrilling and terrifying, as they venture into uncharted territory with no clear roadmap. The allure of the unknown adds a layer of excitement and risk to their journey.

Potential pitfalls. The book acknowledges the potential dangers of exploring forbidden fantasies, including the risk of jealousy, insecurity, and emotional distress. Tom and Erin must navigate these challenges with care and communication to avoid damaging their relationship. The exploration of forbidden fantasies requires a strong foundation of trust and honesty.

Balancing act. The couple must strike a delicate balance between exploring their desires and protecting their relationship. They must be willing to set boundaries and communicate their needs to ensure that their exploration remains a positive and enriching experience. The exploration of forbidden fantasies requires a willingness to adapt and adjust as they navigate the complexities of their desires.

4. Communication is Key to Navigating Uncharted Waters

You know, I never intended to tell another soul, but…I’m glad she knows. It’s been good, having someone to talk to about it.

Open dialogue. Tom and Erin's ability to navigate the complexities of wife-sharing hinges on their open and honest communication. They must be willing to discuss their desires, fears, and boundaries to ensure that their exploration remains a positive experience. This open dialogue fosters a deeper level of trust and understanding between them.

Seeking external support. Erin's decision to confide in her friend Jo highlights the importance of seeking external support when navigating unconventional relationships. Jo provides a non-judgmental perspective and helps Erin process her emotions, offering a valuable sanity check. Seeking external support can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Addressing concerns. Tom and Erin must be willing to address each other's concerns and anxieties to maintain a healthy relationship. They must be able to openly discuss their fears and insecurities without judgment, creating a safe space for vulnerability. Addressing concerns proactively can prevent resentment and build trust.

5. Trust and Honesty Form the Bedrock of Unconventional Relationships

As long as I get to hear about it.

Foundation of trust. Tom and Erin's ability to explore wife-sharing hinges on their unwavering trust in each other. They must be confident that their partner has their best interests at heart and will not intentionally cause harm. This trust allows them to navigate the complexities of their unconventional relationship with confidence.

Honest communication. Honest communication is essential for maintaining trust in any relationship, but it is particularly crucial in unconventional ones. Tom and Erin must be willing to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and honestly, even when it is difficult. Honest communication fosters a deeper level of intimacy and understanding.

Mutual respect. Mutual respect is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship, regardless of its structure. Tom and Erin must respect each other's boundaries, needs, and desires, even when they differ from their own. Mutual respect ensures that both partners feel valued and appreciated.

6. Exploring New Facets of Sexuality Can Be Liberating

I’m a self-confessed exhibitionist, so having one guy watch me as I’m with another is right up my alley.

Sexual liberation. The book explores the idea that exploring new facets of sexuality can be liberating and empowering. Tom and Erin's journey allows them to break free from societal expectations and embrace their desires without shame or guilt. This exploration leads to a greater sense of self-discovery and fulfillment.

Breaking boundaries. The couple's decision to explore wife-sharing challenges traditional notions of sexuality and monogamy. They break free from societal expectations and embrace their desires without shame or guilt. This exploration allows them to discover new facets of their sexuality and relationship.

Empowerment through exploration. The couple's journey is not solely driven by Tom's desires but becomes a shared exploration of their sexuality and relationship. Erin's active participation and willingness to experiment contribute to her empowerment. This shared exploration allows them to discover new facets of themselves and their relationship, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other.

7. The Importance of Setting Boundaries and Safe Words

But baby, I want you to know that when I’m with him, I’m with him.

Establishing limits. Setting clear boundaries is essential for navigating unconventional relationships. Tom and Erin must define what they are comfortable with and what is off-limits to ensure that their exploration remains a positive experience. These boundaries provide a framework for their exploration and help prevent harm.

Safe words. The introduction of a safe word highlights the importance of having a mechanism for stopping an activity if it becomes uncomfortable or overwhelming. This safe word provides a sense of control and security, allowing both partners to feel safe and respected. Safe words empower individuals to assert their boundaries.

Respecting boundaries. Respecting each other's boundaries is crucial for maintaining trust and intimacy. Tom and Erin must be willing to honor each other's limits, even when it is difficult. Respecting boundaries ensures that both partners feel valued and appreciated.

8. Confronting Insecurities and Redefining Masculinity

You’re not going to come, are you? I thought you didn’t like Lucas?

Challenging norms. Tom's journey requires him to confront traditional notions of masculinity and redefine his understanding of what it means to be a man. He must learn to embrace vulnerability, express his emotions, and challenge societal expectations. This process of self-discovery allows him to grow as an individual and as a partner.

Redefining masculinity. The book challenges the idea that masculinity is defined by dominance, control, and possessiveness. Tom must learn to embrace a more nuanced and compassionate understanding of masculinity, one that values vulnerability, empathy, and emotional intelligence. Redefining masculinity allows for greater self-acceptance and personal growth.

Embracing vulnerability. Tom's journey requires him to embrace vulnerability and express his emotions openly and honestly. He must be willing to share his fears, insecurities, and desires with Erin, creating a safe space for vulnerability. Embracing vulnerability fosters a deeper level of intimacy and understanding.

9. The Erotic Power of Shared Experiences and Voyeurism

I loved knowing that you were watching. I could almost feel your eyes on me when he fucked me. That was so sexy.

Shared intimacy. The book explores the idea that shared experiences, even those that are unconventional, can create a unique level of intimacy and connection. Tom and Erin's decision to share their sexual experiences with each other, whether through direct participation or voyeurism, deepens their bond. This shared intimacy fosters a greater sense of trust and understanding.

Voyeuristic pleasure. Tom finds himself increasingly aroused by the act of watching Erin with other men. This voyeuristic pleasure allows him to experience a different kind of intimacy with his wife, one that is both thrilling and unsettling. Voyeurism can be a powerful source of arousal and connection.

Exploring boundaries. The couple's exploration of voyeurism allows them to push the boundaries of their sexuality and relationship. They must be willing to experiment and communicate their needs to ensure that their exploration remains a positive and enriching experience. Exploring boundaries can lead to greater self-discovery and sexual fulfillment.

10. The Evolving Nature of Love and Desire

It’s not as simple as a yes or a no. None of this is.

Dynamic relationships. The book highlights the evolving nature of love and desire, emphasizing that relationships are not static entities but rather dynamic processes that require constant communication and adaptation. Tom and Erin's journey demonstrates the importance of embracing change and being willing to redefine their relationship as their needs and desires evolve. Dynamic relationships require ongoing effort and communication.

Redefining love. The couple's exploration of wife-sharing challenges traditional notions of love and commitment. They must redefine their understanding of love to encompass the complexities of their unconventional relationship. Redefining love allows for greater flexibility and personal growth.

Embracing change. The couple's journey requires them to embrace change and be willing to adapt their relationship as their needs and desires evolve. They must be open to new experiences and willing to challenge their own assumptions about love and commitment. Embracing change allows for greater fulfillment and personal growth.

Last updated: March 28, 2025