Claire smiled and purred, “Good, there’re better things to do right now.” She arched her back, feeling her nipples rub against the weight of his chest and nuzzled his neck. The aroma of his aftershave combined with the stubble on his neck electrified desires she’d compartmentalized away.

There was no question, those desires weren’t gone. They spilled out with a vengeance.

*****

As the airliner taxied to the San Jose gate, Sophia summoned her brightest smile. It wasn’t too difficult. After nearly two weeks of separation, she was truly excited to see her husband. Without fail, they’d spoken every day. Unquestionably, that wasn’t the same as being together. She longed to feel his embrace and taste his lips.

Sophia consulted the screen of her iPhone and retrieved an email she’d received earlier in the day. It wasn’t from Derek, but from Danny, Derek’s new personal assistant. Sophia wondered if the term Personal Assistant was manufactured so men wouldn’t feel awkward being identified as secretaries. Danny not only handled Derek’s business at work, he’d assisted Derek with apartment hunting and learning the area.

The email said Derek would be waiting for her in Terminal B near baggage claim. She felt her anticipation rise as she stood to exit the plane.

With all of Sophia’s experience with international travel, San Jose’s small easy to maneuver airport made locating her desired destination simple. She did however, have trouble locating her husband.

A gentleman in a chauffer’s uniform stood near the baggage carousel. Subconsciously Sophia read his sign: Mrs. Derek Burke.

After three years of marriage she should recognize her name. However, momentarily it confused her. First, she expected Derek. And second, her name was Sophia Burke. Other than on guest books at weddings and funerals, she’s never referred to herself as Mrs. Derek Burke. The sensation of the shutters came back. The clamor of voices dissipated as she listened to the rusty hinges creak. What happened to Sophia Rossi Burke? She wondered.

Sophia sat in the back seat of a company limousine, while the chauffer drove her to Shedis-tics. In an effort to remain calm, she peered through the tinted windows at the unfamiliar terrain. Occasionally she’d see the mountains Derek promised. Admittedly, she enjoyed their blue hue.

Apparently, Derek had an unexpected web conference he couldn’t miss. He was very sorry. The apology came through loud and clear -- on a text message. He promised a better reunion, once they made their way to their new home.

The limousine pulled into a generous semi-circular drive with a large fountain surrounding the Shedis-tics sign. Tall palm trees intermingled with soft pines created a landscaped barrier to the road. The multi-leveled glass building was more spread out than office buildings on the East coast. The building was actually a complex of interconnected glass and mirrored structures.

The car stopped, the driver opened Sophia’s door, and she thanked him for the ride. “What about my luggage?” She wasn’t sure if she was supposed to take it into Derek’s office.

“Mrs. Burke, I believe I am to wait for you. We will leave it in the car until I hear otherwise.”

Sophia agreed, all the while questioning her own ability to make decisions. Why would the driver be waiting if she were leaving with Derek? Tentatively she entered the glass building.

The large impressive lobby glowed with natural light. The white walls, huge windows, plants, and fountains made her feel like she was still outside. Sophia made her way to the information desk.

Three women were behind the tall counter. Two wore blue blouses, Shedis-tics embroidered on the front. The other wore attire screaming executive; a black pencil skirt, white blouse, and tall black pumps. While the well-fitting clothes accentuated her feminine gender, they also confirmed she meant business.

Sophia approached a woman in blue. “Hello, perhaps you could help me? I’m looking for Derek Burke.”

Before the young lady could reply, the executive woman turned to Sophia. “Hello, you must be Mrs. Burke.”

It wasn’t a conscious decision for one woman to evaluate the other, but it happens all the time. Sophia took in her features. Immediately she noticed the woman’s petite frame, probably four or five inches shorter than herself, undoubtedly younger, with blonde hair, fixed into a low bun and a beautiful smile. The assessment took only a millisecond. Sophia extended her hand as she responded, “Yes, please call me Sophia.”

The young executive eagerly accepted and shook Sophia’s hand. Her strong voice was eager and energetic, “It’s nice to finally meet you. I’m Danielle, but please call me Danni. I’ll be glad to take you to Derek’s office. His web conference should be almost done.”

*****

Claire’s plan progressed smoother than she’d hoped. She hadn’t heard Tony’s voice since she answered his call, over three weeks earlier. As she dialed his number, she wondered what big meeting she may be interrupting. While married, after she had a cellphone, she was specifically instructed to only text during business hours. Actual calls were prohibited, except in the case of an emergency. After all, he’s a busy man. He didn’t want her interrupting some multimillion dollar deal. The memory of that instruction came rushing back as she listened to the rings on her end. Utilizing the telephone that he called, she knew her number and probably name, would appear when he checked the screen.

Surprisingly, he answered on the second ring. She heard a combination of amusement and surprise in his voice. “Hello, Claire. I hope you’re not calling to cancel our plans.”