And deck him she did. But gently. Without hesitation or second guess, her fist went across his chin in a loving but still hard punch. Stupid him for making her worry.

The adrenaline felt wonderful to do that. All her frustration, all her worry, all her self doubt. She shouldn't get jealous if he flirts with other girls. She was guilty herself of often slipping into nature to do that sort of thing.

With shoulders slumped, Karen leaned up and gently kissed the red mark where she punched him, quietly apologizing. "There. Consider it all over now."