Waiting with Open Arms

*****

Meanwhile, Valerie and Clara were still making their way back to the office on foot.

Clara kept looking at Valerie, opening her mouth a few times as if to speak, but always stopping herself.

"What's up?" Valerie caught the look in her eyes, and seeing Clara hesitate again and again, she took the initiative to ask.

Clara leaned in close to Valerie's ear and whispered, "Honestly, the way Tobia