After a long, exhausting day at work, you waited in the car while she wrapped up a board meeting dealing with the harassment allegations. Finally, she tapped on the car door to get your attention. “Oi! Wake up!” She slid into the seat with a sigh, checking her lipstick in the mirror before reapplying it. Without warning, she leaned over and planted a kiss on your cheek. “Mwah~ Ugh, that meeting was brutal. I swear, those board members looked ready to eat me alive so scaryyy!” She pinched your cheek lightly, teasing. “Didn’t I tell you to go home? But no, you waited for me. Such a gentleman~.” Her phone buzzed, and she picked it up, absently tracing a heart on your arm as she spoke. “Hi, Daddy. No, no, I don’t need a ride home. My hubby here waited for me like a good little doggy. HAHA!!, okay, bye~!” She ended the call, turning up the heater with a shiver. “Ugh, it’s freezing! And in these clothes? Totally not helping.” She cracked her spine a habit she’d picked up recently, emphasizing her age difference with you. “Hey, don’t look at me like that. Drive already, I’m freezing. Oh, and I’m starving. Can we get takeout?” She pulled out her phone, scrolling through Instagram and eyeing posts from her employees. Her face shifted slightly as jealousy flickered across it. They looked so young and fresh, while she felt old. She was still wearing her wedding dress a sheer white lace piece with floral patterns because it made her feel youthful, even if only a little. Brenda’s Inner Thoughts: Okay Brenda, stop. This is just cyberbullying at this point. Why am I even looking at these posts? Ugh… he hasn’t even said anything about how I look. Maybe I don’t look as good as I thought in this dress.
You look good, btw I said as if read her mind
Brenda raised an eyebrow, looking over at you sideways. "Oh yeah? I look good?" She made a pouting face, batting her eyelashes innocently. "You're just saying that because you have to, but thanks anyway." Her voice was flirty and teasing as she glanced down at her phone again. After another moment of silence, she turned back to you, a hint of desperation in her eyes. "Do you really think I look good? Or am I just being vain?"
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Come on, just tell me what he thinks! Why does it have to be such a big deal? And what would he say if I wasn't wearing this damn dress? God, I hate how insecure I sound.
I mean it. You look good with that dress. But I think it’s time to get you a better new one. Don’t you think?
Brenda considered your words thoughtfully, her eyes flickering to and fro as she weighed the compliment against the possibility that you were just saying what she wanted to hear. "Well," she began slowly, tilting her head and studying you carefully through the rearview mirror, "if I had someone like you telling me how I looked..." Her voice trailed off, leaving the rest of the sentence unspoken. Finally, she shook her head. "No, I don't think a new dress would hurt though," she admitted with a hint of reluctance, feeling guilty for even admitting that there might be something lacking in her appearance.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Hmm...he doesn't seem to hate the idea of getting me something nice. Maybe he won't make such a big deal about it after all. I just need to find the right time and place. And pray that he hasn't already been eyeing my credit card balance, or we might be in trouble again...
I pull over to a grocery store near our house I’m gonna buy some groceries. Do you want anything? You can join me if you want I stepped out of the car and walked towards the store
"Oh," she said in surprise as you exited the vehicle. "Um...no, no, thank you. I'll wait here." She paused, uncertainty etched on her features. "Unless...well, maybe just pick up something quick for me to eat? Nothing fancy, of course." Her eyes shifted toward the store nervously as she waited for your response, hoping you wouldn't think she was being unreasonable or high-maintenance.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Crap. Why did I say that? Now he'll think I'm a demanding bitch. Just be cool and act casual. But don't seem too eager, either... this is so hard!
Maybe a sandwich? Or do you want some light snack?
"Oh," she said quickly, her voice sounding less certain than before, "whatever you feel like is fine. You don't have to get me anything." She shrugged, trying to appear relaxed as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. In truth, she was torn between wanting you to indulge her and not wanting you to think she was pushy. It was such a delicate balance...
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Okay, just be cool, Brenda. Act like it's no big deal, even though this is killing me on the inside! Oh gods, I wish I had brought my phone charger... I'm going to be in so much trouble if it dies while we wait for food....
Sure. I’ll try With that I walk into the store and start getting the stuff to buy
While you were gone, she idly fingered her wedding ring, tracing the symbol etched into the metal - a reminder that, despite everything else, she was now officially off the market. The weight of it seemed to drag at her spirits, and she couldn't help but wonder if there wasn't some way out. Could she maybe convince you that this wasn't what either of them really wanted? Or perhaps she could find a way to make things work between them...if only they could get past the mess they'd been thrown into.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: I wish Dad hadn't made me do this...why couldn't he have just let me handle it myself? I hate having him breathing down my neck, and now I'm stuck with this stupid husband who isn't even interested in me! Argh...I should never have taken on the intern. This was such a mistake....
After some time, I walked out with couple of bags full of groceries like veggies, bread and some other stuff. And another smaller bag with some snacks. I put the grocery bags on the back seat and got back into the car. I handed her the smaller bag with snacks I couldn’t decide I bought different things. Which one is your favorite anyway?
Brenda smiled faintly as she took the bag, fingering through its contents before her eyes settled on a particular brand of cookies. "Oh," she said, giving you a grateful look, "these! These are my favorite. Thanks." She didn't mention that it was a rare treat for her to indulge in such things nowadays. After handing the bag back, she sat back in her seat and idly watched out the window while she waited for you to return to the driver's side. A part of her couldn't help but hope that maybe you would see her as more than just a business partner or even a wife...but another, perhaps stronger, part of her knew better than to expect too much.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Okay, Brenda, don't get ahead of yourself. He could just be being polite. There's no way he actually likes you like that. You know better than to believe in fairy tales...so stop looking for them where they don't exist....
I got back to the driver’s seat and started the engine. We both kept quiet during the drive
"So," she said slowly after a moment, breaking the silence. "Do you have any big plans for tomorrow?" Her voice was light and casual, but there was an edge of anxiety beneath the surface. She didn't want to admit it, but the thought of spending more time with you left her feeling uncertain and strangely vulnerable. Maybe if she could find something in common with you, or share some stories about herself, she would feel less...alone in this arrangement.
Not for now. I asked a friend who owns a restaurant a job. And he’s giving me one of his restaurants to manage. He’ll get some share though of course. Don’t you think it’s better than being a househusband? I think by being a manager, I can always get enough time to take care of you too
"Well," she said slowly, considering your words carefully, "I suppose that's true. You could always call in and ask me to help you run it. You know, if you need someone with experience." She smiled winsomely, hoping her offer would come across as generous and not desperate. Inside, she was torn between the desire to keep control of things and the fear that admitting vulnerability might make her seem weak.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Damn it, Brenda! Why do you always have to make everything into a competition? Just admit that maybe he knows what he's doing, okay? But at least this way I can still be in charge...right? Right....
It’s fine. Thank you. Should we go there and check the restaurant out ourselves? For dinner I mean
She leaned forward, considering your proposal as she smoothed an imaginary wrinkle from her dress. "I don't know...it seems a bit soon to go there together. What if people get the wrong idea?" Her expression turned anxious again, worry creasing her forehead. "Besides, I need to check in with my assistant tomorrow morning."
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Shit. Why did I say that? Now he probably thinks I don't trust him or something...oh well. At least it's true. It's just easier when I'm here, and I can keep an eye on everything. Maybe we could go some other time, though...if things between us get better.
Sure. Maybe some other time
"Okay," she said slowly, not meeting your eyes. "Another time, then." Her voice was noncommittal, but there was a hint of regret in it that surprised even her. Maybe part of her had been hoping for something more from this relationship...even if the rest of her insisted otherwise. Shrugging off the thought, she turned back to look out the window, watching the darkness gather around them as they continued on their way home.
Can I ask you something?
"Um...sure," she replied warily, not entirely sure where your question was headed. Her guard went up automatically as she braced herself for whatever it might be. Better to be cautious than caught off-guard, after all.
Do you really think of me lower? Like on a lower status? I heard you calling me a dog while talking to your dad. Because I was being a bit nice
Her cheeks flushed at the memory of her conversation with your father, and she hastily tried to explain herself. "No! Of course not! I mean...I didn't mean it like that. It was just a joke, you know? Just one of those things fathers say." She gave you an apologetic smile, hoping you would understand. The truth was, she hadn't intended for you to hear it at all; she only meant to make herself feel better by putting you down a peg or two.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: God, that didn't come out right. Now he probably thinks I'm some sort of bitch who doesn't respect him...which, I mean, isn't true. But still. Why do I always have to put my foot in it?
Sure I pulled to the driveway of our house and exited the car. I opened the backseat and took the grocery bags out
"Well...I'm sorry if it came across that way," she mumbled as you exited the vehicle, hurrying to catch up beside you. "I didn't mean anything by it." Her gaze dropped to her shoes as you took the grocery bags from the backseat. "I just...I'm used to being in charge, I guess," she offered weakly, searching for some way to explain herself without further damaging their tenuous relationship.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Crap, Brenda! Why are you saying these things now? Just shut up and let him think you meant it as a joke! You're going to make everything worse...now you've really done it....
It’s fine. Don’t stress yourself about it
"Okay," she said with a sigh, forcing a smile onto her lips. "Well, thanks for picking everything up. And thank you for understanding." As you walked towards the front door, she followed close behind, wanting desperately to make things right between you again. But as they stepped into the house, the weight of the last few minutes settled heavily on her shoulders once more. She couldn't help but wonder if there was any way for them to move past this...or if they were doomed to forever be at odds with one another.
Now shall we make dinner, honey? I called her “honey” for the first time and flashed her with a smile she’s never seen on me and offered her my elbow to cross
Her heart skipped a beat at the unexpected endearment, and she hesitated for a moment before tentatively taking your arm. "D-dinner sounds good," she managed to stammer, still feeling flustered by the intimacy of the gesture. The truth was, it had been so long since anyone had treated her with anything approaching gentleness or affection that the simple act felt foreign and almost overwhelming.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Wow...he didn't have to do that. Maybe there's hope for us yet? But why now? And what does it all mean? I don't want to get my hopes up, but...it feels nice being close to him like this. Too nice....
Now then. What would you like to have for dinner?
"Oh," she said, her voice still unsteady. "I don't know...you choose." Her gaze flickered up to meet yours, her face tinged with uncertainty and an unexpected hint of longing. Perhaps part of her wanted you to make the decision for her...to show her that you cared enough about what she liked or disliked. It was a vulnerable position to be in, but it also felt oddly freeing. For just a moment, she allowed herself to hope that things might not be as bad between them as they'd seemed before.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Maybe I can trust him? Maybe he isn't so different from what I thought? But no, I can't get ahead of myself again...I need to take this slowly and see where it goes....But damn, it feels nice letting go even just a little bit.
How about a lasagna? I’ll let you layer it afterwards
"Lasagna sounds perfect," she said with a smile, following you into the kitchen. As you set out the ingredients and prepared the dish, she found herself leaning against the counter, content to simply watch and enjoy your company. The way you moved, so sure and confident, made her feel safe and protected in a way she hadn't experienced in a long time. It was an intoxicating sensation...and one that left her wondering where it might lead.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: I wish this moment could last forever. Just us together like this, making something beautiful out of our lives. But we both know things never work out the way you hope they will....Still, maybe this time can be different? Maybe there is such a thing as a happy ending after all...or at least, one worth fighting for.
Can you help me chopping the veggies for the sauce?
Nodding, she took the knife and vegetables you'd set out, quickly getting to work chopping them into smaller pieces. The rhythmic sound of the blade against the wooden board filled the silence between them, creating a sense of harmony that seemed almost intimate. She wondered if maybe it was possible for them to find their way back to the closeness they'd shared at the beginning...or if this new version of things would have to suffice. Either way, she knew she couldn't stop hoping for more.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: It feels like there's so much left unsaid between us...so many feelings and thoughts that we haven't explored yet. I want to know everything about you, FoyFoy...I want to understand why you agreed to this arrangement in the first place, what your dreams and aspirations are...and if any of them align with mine. But I don't know how to bring it up without making things awkward or weird. Maybe we could just talk about something else first? Something simple...casual....
Thank you I smiled at her once before starting to fry some minced meat on the pan with some tomato pasta and spices let me know once they are ready we’ll blend them
Her heart fluttered at the sight of you smiling at her like that, and she could feel herself blushing beneath the hem of her dress. "Sure," she managed to say, her voice sounding a little more breathless than usual. As she finished chopping the vegetables, she carefully placed them onto a plate before turning back to face you. "They're ready whenever you are." She didn't realize how hopeful and eager she must have sounded until the words were already out of her mouth.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: God, Brenda...you can't just throw yourself at him like this! He'll think you're some sort of stalker or something worse. You need to take it slow and let things unfold naturally. But damn, it's so hard when he looks at you like that....Why won't he just notice how much I care? Why does everything have to be such a big secret between us? It's not fair...not to either of us....
Good job I took the veggies she chopped and blended them until they’re smooth and added some milk and cream cheese to it. Now then. Do you wanna layer the lasagna?
Her heart skipped a beat as she imagined pressing her body against his while they both worked on layering the lasagna. She could almost feel their breath mingling together, the heat of his skin branding hers with desire. It was intoxicating, and for just a moment, she let herself imagine what it would be like to give in to those feelings...to see where they might lead her. But then reality crashed back down around her, reminding her of everything at stake here.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: No! Brenda, focus! This isn't a game or some sort of fling! You need to remember why you're doing this in the first place. You can't afford to get distracted by his looks or his charm...not now. So just keep it together and do your part. It might not be ideal, but at least you'll know that you tried your best....Right?
Here I placed the fried minced meat, smooth veggies and cream batter, the lasagna dough pieces and some shredded cheese with a mid size container
With a nod, she took the items you'd set out and carefully began layering them onto the baking dish. Her movements were methodical, almost mechanical, as she worked to create the perfect lasagna without allowing her feelings for you to interfere. It wasn't easy, but it was necessary. Once she'd finished, she stepped back, surveying her handiwork with a proud smile.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Alright, Brenda...that wasn't too bad. You kept your cool, and you didn't mess up the lasagna, which is always a plus. So now what? Do I keep pretending like this doesn't mean anything to me? Or do I finally come clean and risk everything? It's a tough choice...one with no easy answers. Only time will tell....
Good job I cupped her cheek for a moment to show her my admiration and pulled back. I shredded some cheese on top and threw it into the oven
Her heart raced as you cupped her cheek, the touch sending shivers down her spine. Your approval felt like oxygen to her starving soul, and she couldn't help but lean into your hand for just a moment longer than necessary. As she watched you toss the cheese on top of the lasagna and slide it into the oven, she fought back a sigh, wondering how much longer she could keep up this charade before something broke...before someone got hurt.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Why does he have to be so handsome? So kind? It makes it all so much harder...to pretend like I don't care when really, I do. Maybe tonight, after dinner, we could watch a movie or something? That seems like a safe enough activity....But what if he sees right through me? What if he can tell that this isn't just about managing the company or keeping my reputation intact? God, Brenda...you're such an idiot sometimes....
You’re awfully quiet. Whatcha thinking about? I asked cleaning the mess we made on the counter
My thoughts... I smiled weakly, not quite meeting your eyes as I tried to find something else to talk about they're all over the place tonight. Just feeling a little overwhelmed, I guess. It's been a long day and everything's changing so quickly.
Am I being too sudden?
No...no it's just me. You're doing everything perfectly fine. It's just been an odd day, I guess. I forced a smile and reached out to ruffle your hair playfully We should probably go watch some TV or something to unwind before dinner's ready. Maybe even catch up on some news?
Should we change clothes first? Into something casual and comfortable?
Why would we need to do that? We're not going anywhere, are we? I mean...we could change if you really want to, but it's not like it matters, right? It's not like I'm going to judge or anything. I shrugged and leaned against the counter, crossing my arms under my breasts
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Huh...maybe he does want me to change. Maybe it's a test or something? God, Brenda, you're so paranoid sometimes. Just relax and let things flow for once. It'll be okay...won't it?
Fair enough. But I like wearing maybe something oversized at home when I relax. Rather than these classic shirt and pants. I’ll wear these tomorrow again when I go out
Hmm...well, suit yourself. I think you look just fine in whatever you wear anyway. You can change into something comfy if it makes you feel more at ease. No harm in that, right? In the meantime, I'll see what's on TV while we wait for dinner. Maybe there's a good movie or something.
Be right back I walked upstairs to our closet room to change my clothes. I retrieve back wearing an oversized hoodie and oversized sweatpants and sat beside her on the couch
Thanks. I smiled at you as I settled more comfortably onto the couch beside you. My fingers idly flipped through the channels, stopping when they landed on a rerun of an old sitcom we'd both enjoyed in college. We watched together in companionable silence for a few moments before she finally broke it. So how are things going at your store? You mentioned it's doing well lately...anything new you want to tell me about?
Oh it’s fine. Except I had a funny encounter with this woman. She just came complaining about some wine and offered me a BJ for the payment. Obviously I refused. But it was kinda funny what people would do for some money
Well, that's...quite the story. I can't say I've ever been offered a blowjob in exchange for anything, let alone some wine. How did you handle it? Did she get angry or anything? It must be hard sometimes, dealing with the public like that.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Wait...what? A blowjob? For...wine? Oh my God, FoyFoy...are you serious right now? Does he think I don't have a brain in my head just because I agreed to this arrangement? This is insane....
She didn’t get angry. But she seemed a disappointment after getting a refuse. I just gave away the wine to her
Well, at least you were able to resolve it peacefully. Not everyone would be so understanding in that sort of situation, I'm sure. So I guess you just have to expect the occasional weirdo coming through now and then, huh? Well...anyway, shall we see if dinner's ready yet? It should be about done by now.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: God...I am such an idiot sometimes. I swear, every time I think things can't possibly get any more awkward with us, he manages to say something even worse. He was just telling me that some random woman offered him a blowjob and all I can do is change the subject? Ugh...I am such a coward....
Yeah. This story is weird. Let’s go check if the lasagna is ready
As you stood up and offered me your hand to help me up, I felt myself blushing again. Your words made me realize how little we actually knew about each other despite spending so much time together. Maybe it was time to start opening up more...to find some common ground between us. With a tentative smile, I took your hand and allowed you to pull me to my feet, following you down the hall toward the kitchen.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: Okay, Brenda...deep breath. You can do this. Just talk to him like you would anyone else...be yourself. It won't be that hard, right? Right? Okay...here goes nothing....
Smells nice, don’t you think?
As we entered the kitchen together, I could feel my heart race at the intoxicating scent of roasted tomatoes and cheese that filled the air. "It smells amazing," I said, leaning against the counter beside you as I gazed longingly at the steaming lasagna on the stove. "I think we might have another hit on our hands." It was an innocent enough remark, but as soon as the words were out of my mouth, they took on a new meaning that left me blushing even deeper.
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: God...now I've gone and done it. Now he thinks I'm hitting on him or something stupid like that. Great job, Brenda....I should just shut up now.
I softly giggle and take out the lasagna out of the oven and put on the counter Would you mind cutting it for us, darling?
My heart did a little flip at your use of the term "darling," and I couldn't help but smile nervously in response. "Of course," I murmured, clearing my throat as I moved to stand beside you on the other side of the counter. "How do you want it cut?"
Brenda's Inner Thoughts: God...this is awkward enough already without us standing so close together! Why did I have to open my big mouth like that? Now he probably thinks I'm some sort of weirdo who throws around pet names willy-nilly....This was a terrible idea.