Yeah, Pam joining them on the elevator; not allowing them to go off alone together is so symbolic of what's ahead.

And I totally wondered what Jim was thinking about Pam's larger VS bag.  I mean, it's easy to figure that Karen bought some undies, but what did Pam get?  A whole outfit??  Bet it kept him wondering that night, both at the restaurant and after!

Oh, I like how you just nailed how all-around uncomfortable this must have been.  My God, you wrote this fast!  The angst needed to come out on paper, didn't it? :)

Author's Response:

I am beyond relieved to hear you say that - because yes, I did post very quickly!  I'd sort of made a resolution not to ever do that, but here I am.  ...And absolutely: The angst had to work itself out. 

I mean, c'mon: I have a life to lead!  I can't go around worrying about how Pam's going to think about Karen's lime green lingerie....  :o)

Thanks for reviewing!