NICOLE
Sebastian and I stare at each other for a handful of beats.
I get over my surprise and stand up. I start to say something, but he interjects, "Katie didn't mention that you'd be here."
"She didn't tell me you'd be coming, either."
For some reason, he looks nervous and uncomfortable, and it's starting to affect me. He's my boss, so I should be the awkward one. In any case, I didn't think that the dynamic between us would leave space for so much awkwardness. We talk normally. We've never been uncomfortable around each other.
So, why now?
Because Katie isn't here, I offer to pour him some tea and he accepts. The cup of tea warms my hands. Occasionally, my eyes will meet his, and he's always the first to look away. I feel a twinge of worry inside of me, but I brush it aside.
"
