Chapter 2

"Hi, I'm Mike and this is my wife Cindy."

They were both just as Jennifer had pictured them. Cindy's short wavy black hair and large brown eyes were complements to classic high cheek bones and a perfect chocolate brown complexion. An inch or so taller than Jennifer, she was possessed of a model's figure, slim but full breasted with long slender, shapely legs and hips. Her eyes seemed to sparkle when she smiled, indicating a sincere warmth and sharp intellect.

Mike was shaped a lot like Ron, a little over six feet, an athletic build which, if anything, was a bit more muscular than Ron's. He was handsome, Jennifer thought. Ron had been right about that and his easy natural smile put her at ease almost immediately.

"Mike, Cindy, this is Jennifer. My wife couldn't make it tonight so I brought my mistress instead."

They all laughed as Jennifer feigned anger and poked Ron in the arm.

The evening was thoroughly enjoyable for them all. Mike and Cindy were indeed warm, easy going and intelligent. They ate a delicious meal which Cindy had prepared from scratch, but which Mike kept claiming was actually carry-out.

They talked the evening away, learning about each other and discussing everything from international politics to which picture should get this year's academy award.

Jennifer could not remember enjoying herself more.

Glasses of wine in hand, the men went into the living room while Cindy showed Jennifer the house. They wound up in Cindy's craft room where she not only had many beautiful examples of African art on display, but also where she painted and worked in ceramics as well.

They were examining a vase of unusual design when Cindy glanced at Jennifer.

"Jennifer, I may be stepping out of bounds here, but you and Ron seem so nice, I..."

"What?" asked Jennifer, noticing the other woman's hesitancy.

"Well, you mentioned your invitation to the Tremper's for dinner next week."

"Yes."

A look of consternation passed across the face of the attractive young black woman.

"... Just... be careful!"

"Careful?" asked Jennifer. "Of what?"

"There is... tremendous pressure associated with working for Tremper Industries."

"Oh, I'm sure Ron can handle the pressure."

"I'm not talking about Ron. It's you I'm worried about."

"Me? Whatever do you mean?"

They heard the men coming through the hall.

"Just be careful! Watch yourself! OK?"

"OK, sure," said Jennifer, puzzled even more, as Ron and Mike joined them.