Page 28 of His Wife

When Sally arrived at the office, she was five minutes late. She settled into her desk and began diving into work. It was only when a group meeting was held that Sally realized that what she needed to do was to place her focus on her job.

Sally listened to the other workers as they pitched their ideas. She tried to internalize their input and derive practical modes of action. In the end, she got Mr. Cobbs to consider her idea to diversify the company’s raw material supply and review the input and demand of outside customers. After the meeting, Mr. Cobbs called her into his office.

“You wanted to see me Mr. Cobbs?”

“Ah, yes,” he said, waving her inside. “Come in.” He waited for her to take a seat. “I was impressed with your performance today. You were really digging through the old noggin. I'll be looking to discuss your suggestions with the rest of the brass. But good work today.”

“Thank you, sir. I'm just trying to keep Fierce Fashions, well, fierce.” She watched as his head rolled back in laughter.

“Well, we'll all do our best. On another note, I got a call from Mr. Maxwell.”

“Oh?” Sally said, slightly puzzled as to why this was news worthy.

“Yes. He's thinking of calling you back to the U.K. I'm unsure of how urgent his intentions are, but he said he would put the idea to you first, so expect his call. But I must say, Sally, we'll all miss you very much if you are to depart from us so soon. We're like family here.”

“Y-Yes, we are. But don't worry, Mr. Cobbs. It appears the option is up to me and I really can't think of a reason to dash back home. I'll speak to Mr. Maxwell and get back to you.”

Mr. Cobbs nodded. Sally passed his secretary on the way out. When Sally left Mr. Cobb’s office, she sighed. The idea of returning home weighed on her mind. But she figured that surely a rough patch with Desmond was not sufficient reason to jump ship. She decided not to think about the issue right now. She’d had a good day at work, and that alone was satisfactory.

*

When Sally got home, she raided the refrigerator for her last cup of strawberry yogurt and the remainder of the Devon House ice cream she had left. Grabbing a spoon, she began slowly indulging herself. She then turned on the television and flicked through the channels for a bit. When Sally glimpsed a romantic movie that was showing; she felt unable to resist feasting her eyes on the two lovers groping and kissing each other. And her mind went to Desmond. She checked her phone, but, as she suspected, he hadn't replied to her calls or texts. Quite frankly, she was becoming rather fed up with the whole ordeal. Desperate to hear a friendly voice, she picked up her phone and dialed a number.

“Hello?” The familiarity of Jade’s voice brought a moment of nostalgia.

“Hi, Jade. How have you been?” She could hear her friend stuttering as she checked the caller ID to ensure she wasn't talking to a ghost.

“Why, hello there, Miss Caribbean Queen. I was beginning to think you lost my number or something. But never mind that; how are you doing?”

Sally smiled at her friend's enthusiasm, “I'm... doing fine. Been a bit busy with work and all...”

“What!” exclaimed Jade. “Work? Is that all you can think about? I thought for sure you'd be snuggling up with some sexy sugar muffin by now.”

Sally stifled a grin, acknowledging that Jade was still Jade, “Well actually, I did meet a guy...”

“And!” Jade prompted excitedly and in a prurient tone.

Sally poured her heart out. She divulged every dripping detail, revealing all the occasions in which Desmond had rocked her world, and how she had messed up. She told Jade of her attraction to Mike, and how confused she was. Jade listened attentively, glued to each word like the good friend she was.

“Ooohhh, Sweetie, I wish I could help you out. That's a tough pickle you’re in. He must be... pretty special. It's really not like you to lose composure over a man.”

“I know. It's just that, since he and I stopped talking, I've really been feeling... the itch. God, what I wouldn't do for a good sausage right now.”

Jade laughed, “Dear, you're not fully using your head. Men have evolved to the point where they are portable, can fit in your purse, and run on batteries; always there when you need them, if you know what I mean.”

“Yeah, I know. But quite frankly, I'm in the mood for the real thing.”

“You know, I always fancied you for a sexually conservative woman. I'm not judging though. Look, this is just one of those things you'll just have to work through your system; unleash yourself as you deem fit. After all, you only live once. No point depriving yourself of what you truly want. If this man makes you happy, play up.”

“So you're saying I shouldn't wait?”

“Quite so.” A pause ensued.

“Thanks, Jade. I think I'll pay Desmond a little visit.”

After a few witty comments and word play, the ladies hung up.

I can’t stand this any more. I have to know what’s going on. Sally resolved to find out.

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