Many years ago, a noted relationship expert said there should be a sign in front of workplaces stating, "Caution: Men and Women Working Together." It was Shirley Glass' contention that a leading cause of infidelity was due to men and women spending so many hours together interacting at work.

However, timing is everything and recently there was some research published that offers a different perspective. Vault.com surveyed 575 employees and found that 23 percent said they did have a "work husband" or "work wife." These office spouses served to provide both mental and emotional support to each other. Additionally, office spouses tend to have inside jokes and bicker with one another like one would with his or her romantic partner.

Other studies have found that flirting in the workplace serves a positive purpose. People who flirt have a better feeling about themselves and they bring this energy to their work. It also makes them feel like they want to get up and go to work. And indirectly, with all this going well, these people will then be better partners back home.

My guess is that as you are reading this, you are not necessarily feeling relieved. Here are some general guidelines that were suggested in an article on CNN.com for your mate to consider to ensure the relationship with a work spouse is not crossing over a dangerous line:

1. Are you acting differently than you would if your romantic partner were present?

2. Are you usually flirtatious or is this a behavior that is developing only in response to the work spouse?

3. Do you find yourself thinking about the work spouse outside of work?

4. Are you making comparisons between the work spouse and your real mate?

You say your partner tells you what is going on at work and his stories include his "work wife." To me, that is the most important factor. He is not hiding anything from you.

Keep in mind that having an open, accepting relationship is one of the best ways to keep your relationship strong!

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