What would happen if you talked to him? Most men would back way off, and he would never say anything. And not only that, he would “get it”. Women tend to not give it up and/or it becomes an Issue. Don’t even tell her what’s going on.
Seriously. Call him and say, “Listen buddy, Wife and I are reconnecting and don’t need any outside distractions. Could you not return/lay off the texts/calls? Thanks. Keep this conversation between us.”
Wife would try to contact him and get miffed that he doesn’t return her calls or texts right away (if at all)! Meanwhile, you read and implement the Five Love Languages Book (Google it). Give her gifts, go out, rub her back, have long talks, help around the house. She will get pissed at him and enjoy your attention more.
If she ever figures it out say, “Yes, Friend talked to me and he wants to stay out of our marriage.” This gives the message that it was Friend’s idea to Leave and that he thought he was Treading on Sacred Ground. Hopefully this would embarrass her. (“What?! NO! He knew we were Just Friends!”) But hopefully it won’t come to that. She’ll just know that Friend isn’t around (perhaps enjoying his wife or a girlfriend!) and you are more attentive.
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