“So why are you keeping Mark all to yourself?” Tess persisted.

I love Tess dearly, but sometimes she can be awfully nosy. “We’re talking about family matters,” I said, hoping she would go away.

“Are there wedding bells in the future?” Meaning between Mark and Sandra. I said, “I’ll tell you all about it later.” Tess looked miffed, but at least Wesley could take a hint. He guided her to another table.

“Where were we?” I asked, turning back to Mark. “Oh, yes, you were telling me about the time the white girl went to your office.”

Mark collected himself. “She came in just as my office hours were ending.”

“What was she wearing?”

“Uh…jeans. And a sweater, I think. And a jacket. It’s still winter.” He paused.

“Okay, go on. I won’t interrupt again.”

“She came in and closed the door. I told her my office hours were over. She said she just had a quick question. I said I kept my door open when I had visitors.”

“Especially female visitors.”

“One of the tenured professors told me to do that. But she ignored the hint and sat down.”

I remembered I wasn’t going to interrupt, so I kept quiet as Mark took a breath.

After a few seconds Mark continued. “She did ask a question, but nothing very earth-shaking. In fact, I don’t even remember what it was. Then she stood up and I thought she was going to leave. I was sitting in front of my computer, but I got up to see her out the door. She went to the door and turned around. I was a couple of steps from her. She came toward me and…” Mark faltered, then continued, “She kissed me hard-on the mouth.” Mark stopped, unable to continue.