Page 7 of Office Mistakes

“Why?”

“I’m married to a man who works full time. I work full time. We have a three-year-old daughter. My sex life is practically nonexistent at this point. I must live vicariously through you, so spill.”

Audra snorted out a laugh; she couldn’t help it. “He’s very energetic. And limber.”

“Oh la la,” Beryl replied admiringly. “Tell me more. But first, tell me how this came to pass.”

Over bites of spaghetti in a spicy clam sauce, Audra began her explanation, ending with the admission that she’d left Charlie's apartment with tears in her eyes.

“You know that Charlie had no idea how that comment would affect you, right?” Beryl asked quietly.

Audra wound pasta around her fork, unwound it, then wound it again. “I know. I know I was stupid to react like that, and I know it was a mistake to sleep with Charlie.”

“Why? Anyone with eyes can see you’re attracted to each other. Why not explore it and see where it goes?”

Audra huffed out an exasperated breath. “Because we work together. Because we’re both up for the same promotion. It’s just a bad idea.”

Beryl shook her head. “There’s no rule at the firm that states coworkers can’t have personal relationships in the office. You’re just holding on to the past.”

“I’m over Malcolm.”

“Over him, yes. But you’re not over what he did to you.”

“Can we please change the subject?”

“All right.” Letting it go for the moment, Beryl sipped her water. “Are you spending tomorrow with your family?”

Audra nodded. “Mom’s a little miffed that my brother decided to spend Christmas Eve with his wife’s family.”

“Ouch.”

“She’ll get over it, especially when the baby is born.”

“True. And you’ll be over at our house on Christmas Day?”

“You know it. I hope Amelia likes everything I bought her.”

Beryl laughed. “She will. You spoil her shamelessly.”

“What else are aunts for?”

“Dessert?” Beryl queried as the waiter hovered.

“No, just coffee. An Irish coffee,” she amended. “I’ve got some last minute wrapping to do, and I want to put in a little work on the Ayers case.”

Beryl seconded the order and grinned. “It’s a wild, exciting life you live, Audra Davis.”

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