Conspiracy

It was early the next morning when Claire got to work.

The events of the previous night were still fresh in her thoughts. In order to forget about Joshua and the painful conversation, she tried to concentrate on her work. 

People at work noticed how hard she worked because she answered emails and read reports so quickly that they were getting a lot done.

Julia, Claire's coworker, came up to her with a worried look while she was at the printer around noon. Julia had always liked to talk about other people, but she also really cared about other people.

"Claire, are you okay?" She asked in a low voice. "You seem a bit off today."

Claire tried to look calm by forcing a smile. Julie, I'm fine. I have a lot on my mind."

Julia nodded, but her eyes stayed watchful. "I heard some stories about Joshua. Is everything alright between you two?"