Q:

Self-arranged trial contracting job (permatemp-like) unethical? 

I'm currently employed with a contractor (let's call it company 'X').  X and its culture are great.  However, the contracting jobs that they acquired lately aren't that interesting. 
That's why, when a recruiter approached me for an interesting company 'Y', I went and interviewed with them.  Also, I notified X of the interview process, keeping them informed along the way (X was very appreciative of this).  I got enthusiastic for the work at Y, but not that enthusiastic that I wanted to jump ship immediately.  Therefore I proposed to Y to hire me through X.
Y didn't want hire me permanently as a contractor, as they were looking to find a long-term employee and save money.  However, I did persuade Y to hire me as a permatemp for 6 months.  X agreed with this.  After a 'testdrive' of 6 months, I will have to decide whether I permanently go to Y or stay with X (and leave Y).  I told both companies that I'll weigh my options in 6 months, and then make a choice.  If X has a better contracting job for me at that time, I'll stay with X. (I'm not doing this to get a better salary.) 
Now, a friend of mine tells me I'm taking advantage of these companies, and that I'm not committing myself 100% to Y. Therefore, whoever gets me the best job in 6 months, 'wins' me.  Is this unethical?  Did I dig a hole for myself somehow? 

A:

If 'X' is getting uninteresting deals, it may be because 'X' is running out of ideas.   If 'X' agrees to let you work through them for 'Y' it may be because they're interesting in finding out what 'Y's market is.   'Y', on the other hand, might want more help from 'X', particularly if you work out.  If either or both of the two companies didn't like it they would have made it clear in no uncertain terms.  What ever you're doing is of benefit to both of them.