The Contract: Should You Really Have One?

We get it—when you think of contracts, you probably picture a business deal, a house purchase, or maybe even a prenup. But what if I told you that in the world of side chick survival, a contract might just be your best friend?

Now before you roll your eyes, sis, hear me out. The side chick lifestyle isn’t just pillow talk and stolen weekends—it’s a high-stakes emotional hustle. And like any hustle, if you don’t set terms, you get played. That’s why The Contract matters.

So What Is the Contract?

It’s a written agreement—yes, written—that spells out exactly what this “arrangement” is. How long it lasts. What’s expected. What’s off limits. And most importantly, what you’re getting in return.

Sound wild? Maybe. But if dudes can ask for NDAs before Netflix and chill, why can’t a woman protect herself in the same way?

This isn’t about being cold or transactional. It’s about being smart. Because when emotions start creeping in (and they will), having a contract reminds both of you: this is what we agreed to. No more, no less.

What Goes In the Contract?

Here’s the short list:

• Term – Is this a 3-month thing? A 1-year vibe? Define it.
• Compensation – Whether it’s gifts, bills, trips, or Zelle—be clear. You’re not a volunteer.
• Boundaries – Can he sleep over? Are holidays off-limits? Can you date other people?
• Exit Plan – What happens when things go left? How do you walk away clean?

And yes, if you’re really about that life—get it notarized. Make it official. Because screenshots only get you so far when shit hits the fan.

But Isn’t That… Too Much?

Too much? Baby, what’s too much is giving someone your time, body, and energy and having nothing to show for it but unread texts and heartbreak. What’s too much is fighting with a main chick over a dude who was never honest to begin with.

A contract isn’t about control—it’s about clarity. And clarity is sexy. It keeps things from getting messy. It protects you from getting caught off guard. It makes him respect your time and your standards.

And let’s be honest: Men love to play dumb when it benefits them. The contract takes the mystery out of it. If he agrees, he signs. If he won’t? You already know the vibes—he was never planning to play fair anyway.

Protect Your Heart AND Your Bag

In Rules for the Other Side, Trouble lays out everything you need to know about keeping your peace while getting what you came for. The contract is just one tool, but it’s a powerful one.

Because here’s the truth: if he’s getting what he wants with no rules, no terms, and no limits… you’re not winning. He is.

So ask yourself: Would you rather be caught slipping or step into every situation like the boss you are?

The choice is yours. Just make sure you have it in writing.