Solo Deployment Blues

So, I’m a military spouse and currently in a bit of a peculiar situation. My husband has been deployed for the last four months, routine stuff, nothing crazy. It’s not unusual for us to be apart due to his job, but it’s the first time I’ve been alone since we got married three years ago. We’re still committed, no issues there, but it’s hard when he’s gone because... well, let’s face it, you need more than just talking on the phone or video chats to maintain that spark, right? Before this deployment, I started dating a guy from my local community group, let’s call him Alex. It wasn’t anything serious; we’d met at church activities and had fun together. He was nice, understanding of my situation, and it helped ease the loneliness. Then came Valentine’s Day last week. My husband sent me a sweet card and flowers, which I appreciated. Later that night, Alex called to wish me a good evening. We talked for a while, more than just small talk, and I found myself wanting more than just platonic affection. It wasn’t anything physical; we’ve only ever hugged. But it made me feel... connected in a way my husband can’t right now because of distance and time zone differences. This is where things get complicated. Alex knows about the deployment, but he’s also aware that I’m married. We’re not exclusive or anything formal between us; we both just needed companionship for the night. Yet, there’s this lingering thing after our calls, this feeling of wanting to keep talking late into the night when it wouldn’t work with my husband. Here’s where I feel conflicted: is what I’m doing wrong? It feels dishonest somehow, but also like a way to stay sane during a tough time. Am I being unfair to both men in this equation by playing both sides? Or is this just how people cope when they’re away from their partners? So, here’s my confession and question: What would you do if you were me? Is there something unhealthy or dishonest going on here that I’m missing?