Yes you need to stay away from "b" its just asking for trouble. I know what you mean about your "ego" being stroked, but you are trying to save your marriage.. that's more important.
You are really doing great.. but I do see here that you are still catering to her a bit.. Just my opinion but I would cut that out totally. Im not saying be mean, but she needs to realize what kind of man she is really missing (a great one!!)
me: 37 H: 44 Married for 18 years this june S7 S3 porn issues, and much more... since 7/06
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.