Both scenarios with Lexi sound intriguing. I cannot decide for sure which I would like better. The betrayal does sound more in line with Naomi's personality and that could likely be the more kinky choice also. I think you are correct in thinking that adding the side characters will indeed add a lot of depth to the plot.
As for real life, I know personally, how much that can get in the way of good game development, and even cut into your time to just play a game. Of course you should also take time for yourself, and not work too hard. Burnout is very real, and I would not want that to happen to you.