Chapter 28

The sharp ringing of Caroline's phone pulled her back to reality. When she pushed Kirk away, she was panting. "It's … my phone. It must be Gwen." Then, she quickly answered the call. "Hey, Gwen."

"Phew … You picked up. I was worried to death. How did it go? Did that old bastard hurt you?"

Caroline did not dare to look at Kirk. "No. I already left."

"That's good. Wait a minute." Gwen suddenly sensed that something was amiss. "Babe, why are you breathing so heavily? Don't tell me that bastard's chasing after you? I'll come to you right now …"

"No, there's no need," said Caroline hastily. "I'm fine, I'm just relieved that it’s over. Anyway, the problem is solved. I … I'll talk to you tomorrow."

Caroline regretted it the moment she hung up the phone. The car was pin-drop silent. The atmosphere was still charged, but it was more awkward than before. She fumbled for words for a long time before saying, "So … Was that a spot check?"

Kirk turned the air-conditioning higher, but the heat