I don’t know why we’re doing this,” Mallory protested, sounding just slightly irritated, probably because she was hungry. “Do we have to go over it again?” I replied. “You know as well as I do that this relationship has hit a wall. It’s stopped dead in its tracks…practically dead, flatlined. Too much stress, too much distraction, too much discomfort, and not enough of, well…us,” I concluded. “Well, if you ask me, this all...

I did a little internet research, and I found what was purported to be an upscale Nashville steakhouse. I figured that the prices alone would weed out some of the riff-raff. What I found was a place called Jeff Ruby’s. It was downtown. It got great reviews and was a bit pricey. Nothing too over the top, but sufficiently upscale. It seemed like just the ticket and something Mallory would enjoy. I made reservations for Frid...

I caught up to Mallory, still standing motionless in front of the elevator doors. She looked shocked. “So, were you able to catch your guest?” I asked. “I was,” Mallory replied. “And you gave him your number?” I asked. “I did,” she replied. “Something tells me that’s not all that happened,” I commented, providing Mallory with an opportunity to divulge what was said. “Well…” she began, "after we’d spoken for a few moments,...