Sandra was laughing at the laundry mishap of her friend, Janet’s foster son. They were at the Mexican restaurant, where they were dining.
“The things we do for children,” Janet said, “You and Mark should consider fostering. It’s fulfilling.”
Sandra sighed, she had doubts about bonding with a foster child. And she felt the pain, as they were not able to have children of their own with her husband, Mark.
“Isn’t that Mark over there?” Said Janet, out of nowhere.
“He might be here on business. I know he sometimes brings clients here for lunch.”
“There, Sandra, just past the huge chiminea,” Janet pointed.
As she was about to wave at her husband, Mark went to the booth behind them, didn’t noticed his wife.
“I’m sorry I kept you waiting, sweetheart,” Mark said to another woman, who was younger than Sandra. She was furious.
“I’m not sure that’s a business meeting, sweetie.” Janet said slowly.
“Despite twenty years of marriage, her husband was having an… affair?” Sandra thought, as her eyes got wet.
“But maybe I’m wrong,” Janet tried to comfort Sandra. “I mean, I’ve often had to flirt a little with prospective clients to get them to loosen up. Maybe Mark’s doing the same thing.”
“No, I think we both know what’s going on over there, Janet,” Sandra said, “I’m going to go over there, tell him what a jerk he is, and stick this fork right in his—”
“Woah!” Janet stopped Sandra. “You can’t just rush over there and assault him, Sandy. Yes, this looks incredibly shady, but there might still be a reasonable explanation.”
“Maybe you’re right,” Sandra said, as she slowed down.
There was a small palm tree between them. They were watching Mark and his female companion who were sitting on the next booth. Mark was sitting close to the woman, his arms were around her.
“There could be an innocent explanation,” Janet said. “Maybe it’s Amy, his boss’s daughter?”
“Maybe. But if he’s cheating…” Sandra’s heart skipped a beat.
“We’ll get evidence first,” Janet said. “And if he is, I’ve got great divorce lawyers.”
They called the waitress, and started to ask questions about Mark and his female companion. “They’ve been here often,” the waitress said.
“Are they always that cozy with each other?”
“I’m sorry, but is there a reason you’re so curious about that table?”
“No, it’s just that I’m sure I’ve seen that man buying clothing for a totally different woman,” Janet intevened. “My friend and I were just debating whether we should post a picture of him on our socials in case he’s cheating.”
“Sorry ladies, but management would have a fit if this restaurant was associated with something so scandalous. If I see either of you snapping photos of anything other than the food, I’ll have to alert my manager.”