Nothing should jeopardize his career.
Some things could, but they never materialize.
The night was mellow, and the wine dulled his senses more than it should have. He extended an arm to encircle the waist of the girl next to him, for the first time not caring what the gesture meant to anybody, including himself. He was not even surprised when she leaned softly—drunkenly—against him rather than pulling back in shock.
What a beautiful night. Anticipation throttled the air, and not a word was said. This was no silence, however, as breathing grew inevitably heavy, and he could almost hear the threads of her thoughts resonating concretely about him. Or perhaps he couldn't, anymore. The wind was salty and slightly bitter, and an overdose of it threatened to beat his head.
Finally he said, "Just say it."
She was not startled. "So you know."
"I do." Truly, after several years of proximity, there was no way against his knowing.
"You think I've got a chance?" Her eyes looked so innocent. It made such sense for her to be sent on such a mission.
"Yes." His smile was self-pitying.
She nearly fell off the seat, which she masked by getting up entirely. "Goodnight, sir."
Nothing should jeopardize his career.
Some things could, but they never materialized.