Tori got up from her chair and returned to her desk. She answered the dozen-plus e-mails that had arrived the day before. They had lunch delivered and ate in the break room. Tori looked around and imagined how she would arrange it so it was comfortable for a baby. Maybe a new paint job, move a few things around, and create a comfortable space in the corner. She thought a nice folding screen would provide privacy but also add a little style to the room. She would also put something cheerful on the walls. Right now it was an outdated yellowed map of the state. She decided the lighting could be better instead of the old, ugly, buzzing fluorescent tubes. A couple of inexpensive floor lamps would create ample illumination. They could always turn on the ugly lights if necessary. Yes, a DIY remake of the break room wouldn’t take much and it would be a nice distraction. The idea elevated her mood. Once again she was feeling more in control. Little by little, but it was progress.

After lunch, she did some research for a case of land encroachment, and before she knew it, the day was over. She cleared off her desk and said good night to everyone. She checked her phone. Nothing from her husband all day. It had been over twenty-four hours. Maybe his phone battery had conked out while he was fishing. That thought made her wonder about dinner. Would he be bringing home a freshly caught fish? She decided to call his cell. It went straight to voicemail. She sent a text.

Hope you’re having a good day.

What do you want to do about dinner?

It took several minutes for him to respond.

Didn’t catch anything. Heading to Ringo’s.

Be home later.

That’s when Tori decided to take that strange woman’s suggestion and go to Ringo’s that evening.

When she got home, she changed her clothes and fixed a salad. Maybe she would grab a burger at Ringo’s. She was feeling the need for red meat. She wasn’t sure if she should let him know she was coming. Maybe showing up would be a nice surprise for him. Show him she was interested in what he did in his time off. It would also be a good opportunity to tell him she wanted to have a conversation with him. Maybe over the weekend.

Tori decided to wear a nice outfit and do her makeup as if she were going out somewhere special. She knew he would be puffed-up proud if she showed up looking her best. After all, she was a pretty woman, especially when she did her hair and dolled up her face a bit.