Dating columnist Jana Hocking has outlined a theory about extramarital affairs, drawing parallels from numerous confessions and the recent news surrounding AFL star Lachie Neale's new relationship. Hocking's observations suggest that in many cases, the "other woman" believes the affair will lead to a new relationship, only for the married man to either return to his wife or move on to a different partner entirely.
Neale, who previously played for the Lions, is reportedly now dating advertising professional Emma Field, following speculation about an affair with his wife Jules' best friend, Tess Crosley. While Neale has not publicly confirmed the affair with Crosley, he has acknowledged letting his family down after his marriage ended. Reports and photos have emerged of Neale and Field together, with Field having been seen cheering him on at games.
Hocking notes that Crosley, who reportedly ended her own marriage to Ben, did not end up with Neale. She posits that Neale appears to be moving forward with Field without the complications of the prior situation. Hocking suggests that mistresses often believe they are in contention to become the new partner, but may instead become a "stepping stone" to someone else.
One former mistress recounted to Hocking how her married lover began blaming her for the financial and familial consequences of his divorce, ultimately leading to the end of their affair. This, Hocking explains, highlights a common dynamic: while the mistress associates the affair with excitement and a new future, the married man begins to associate it with legal costs and potential losses.
Hocking offers a caution to individuals entering relationships with partners whose previous relationships ended due to infidelity. She suggests that while it does not guarantee a repeat, it provides insight into potential behavior when faced with temptation. Her years of experience as a dating columnist, she writes, have led her to question the long-term viability and emotional cost of relationships that require constant vigilance.