"Finally!" Kelli exclaimed standing up as the waiter brought Sasha to their table. "I was beginning to think you had stood us up!" She hugged her little sister.

"Sorry." Sasha apologized. "I couldn't decide what to wear and then I got caught in traffic while they cleared an accident on Sand Lake." She was dismayed to see she would be spending the entire evening sitting directly across from Eric. She took her seat quickly.

"Is that the way you greet your favorite brother Alexandra Elise?" Eric addressed her using her full name. He knew using her given name intimidated her, which was exactly why he did it. He stood up and walked over beside her chair. Sasha had no choice but to stand up and hug her brother. "Play nice or suffer the consequences." He whispered in her ear.

Sasha shivered. "Nice to see you too Eric." Her knees felt weak. She returned to her chair as quickly as possible. She picked up her menu and began to peruse it. Her heart was beating so rapidly she was sure Kelli could hear it from her seat beside her. Her chest felt as if someone were sitting on it. She had trouble drawing in air. She lowered one hand to her lap. She pressed her nails into her palm. The pain was instantaneous. She pressed harder. Her heart rate gradually slowed down. Her breathing, though still labored began to return to normal.

"Are you feeling OK Sasha?" Max inquired looking across the table at her from his seat next to Eric. "You look a little pale."

"I'm fine Max. Thanks for asking." She took a sip of her water. "I only ate a small lunch so I'm probably just hungry."

"In that case, let's get you some food!"

"Brian work you through lunch Sasha?" Eric asked sipping his water.

Sasha shook her head. "No. I just wasn't very hungry and since I knew I would be coming here tonight, I decided to eat light."

"That's good. Wouldn't want to have to call the authorities and report a labor violation." He replied staring at her.

"Why would you even think something like that?"

"Just an observation."

"Brian is a great boss!" Kelli rescued her. "He really watches out for Sasha."

"I'm sure he does." Eric replied snidely. "I'm sure he watches every move she makes."

"What looks good to you tonight Kel? I am not sure what I want to eat." Sasha stated turning to her sister as the waiter approached to take their orders. 'God please let this night go quickly.' She prayed.