A couple who have been together for 17 years shared why they believe their unusual relationship does not count as cheating. After years of marriage, Maddie and Kyle said they wanted to bring more excitement into their relationship and began exploring non-monogamy together.

At first, they tried small changes and new experiences, but later they agreed to experiment with things like threesomes and swinging. Eventually, they entered what is called a “hotwife” arrangement, where the wife has relationships with other men, but only with her husband’s full knowledge and agreement.

Maddie explained that for her, cheating means secrecy, lies, and betrayal. Since everything in their relationship happens with open communication and clear consent, she says she does not see it as cheating at all. She believes honesty is the key difference.

The couple also spoke about the judgment they have faced from others. After neighbors discovered their private content online, gossip spread around their village, and Maddie said other parents at school began treating her differently.

Kyle feels the criticism is stronger toward Maddie because she is a woman. He said people seem to judge her more harshly, while he faces much less public shame, even though both of them made the decision together.