The next day at work, Kirsten kept herself busy by doing work in her office. Focusing on paperwork, publicity for the magazine, and business phone calls, Kirsten could keep her mind off of Carter. She wanted to put an end to his mistaken thoughts about their relationship; a relationship she wanted to keep professional. On the other hand, Kirsten worried that a confrontation might ruin the possibility of a friendship between them and make working together uncomfortable. Kirsten let out a rueful laugh at that thought. She was already uncomfortable at work, so perhaps that isn't such a big concern.
Wrapped up in her thoughts, Kirsten didn't notice Sandy entering her office.
"Hey, baby."
Kirsten jumped at his greeting. "Oh, hi Sandy," she said, bringing herself back to the moment. "I guess I got lost in my thoughts for a while there."
"I see that, didn't mean to startle you." Sandy took a seat on the small sofa in Kirsten's office and placed the sandwiches he'd brought for lunch on the coffee table. "Is everything okay?"
"Yes, it's fine. I was just doing some work and--"
"Thinking about Carter." Sandy finished the sentence for her as Kirsten took a seat beside him on the sofa. "You're still worried about talking to him." It wasn't a question. It didn't have to be. Sandy knew his wife well.
"Something like that," sighed Kirsten.
"Well, for what it's worth, I think you'll do great. You're smart, charming, and so adorable. You'll get through this just fine." Sandy gave her a kiss and handed her a sandwich.
"Thanks." Kirsten smiled at him.
OCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOCOC
After lunch as Sandy was preparing to leave, Kirsten remembered something.
"Sandy, my car was making a strange noise this morning. I think it's the brakes. Could you pick me up at the repair shop if I drop it off after work today?"
Sandy walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her waist. "How about I call and have someone come and get the car and I'll just pick you up here? That'll be easier."
"Sounds good." Kirsten reached up to kiss him.
"Mm, yes it does, " he smiled. "I might be a few minutes late."
"Okay, I love you." Kirsten reluctantly released Sandy so he could leave.
"I love you, too. See you soon."