Mark sat at the base of the spiral staircase, basking in relief. He had made it through, and she suspected nothing. But how many times would he have to take the risk? It didn't stop her when he said Johnny was his best friend. She still wanted him when he refused to take his pants off. He insisted that they do it on the stairs, and yet she was insatiable. No matter how unsexy he tried to make it, she would not be denied. His seductress sat in odd silence one step above him. He summoned all of the acting skill he could muster and turned to her.
"God, why did you do this to me?" He sighed audibly. "Why?"
Lisa looked at him, but remained silent.
"Johnny's my best friend," he finished mournfully. He dared not watch her reaction.
"Didn't you enjoy it?" Lisa pleaded. Mark was incredulous, but stifled the feeling. He hadn't even taken his pants off!
"That's not the point," he dodged.
"I love you, Mark," Lisa said mechanically.
Mark braced himself for his gambit. "Look, you're very attractive, alright? You're beautiful." His pulse pounded in his ears. "We can't do this anymore. I can't hurt Johnny."
He watched her. The seconds dragged unbearably. Hope edged carefully into his chest.
"I know." She lifted her gaze to meet his. "He's your best friend."