Okay, so that soothes some of the sting from last chapter. Kind of interesting to see Jim like that with Karen. Last chapter I got the feeling he wasn't really all that into Karen. Though he could just be friendly and was laughing at a good joke. He is a nice guy after all.

Pam's internal thoughts are about where I'd expect. Kind of doubting herself, especially with what she's gone through. I did kind of like it that she didn't get into a huge fight with Karen. She could have, but didn't. Though that could also be Pam's inclination to avoid conflict.

Looks like Jim got her message. Nice of him to try and make up the missed meeting. Especially with a kind of secret spot. I hope they explain everything behind the missed coffee date. They do still seem to be throwing off all kinds of sparks and that's nice to see.

A nice secret spot, good company, feels like a good place to have a heart to heart. Pam's insistence that Jim can do what he wants feel like the seeds for such a conversation have already been planted too.

Nice job with this update.

Author's Response: I’m glad I was able to soothe the wound a little! I think Jim has fallen into an easy routine with Karen, I kind of imagine how easily Pam can be persuaded by Roy in the show. She doesn’t love him, but he’s comfortable and Karen is comfortable for Jim I like her internal thoughts a lot, It’s very fun to write, and I’m excited to write this little heart to heart they’re going to...attempt :)

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This starts with a gutpunch for Pam, albeit a totally unintentional one - and one a more confident person might be able to detect isn't as bad as she's assuming it is. Poor girl - her insecurity is really running rampant right now and it's leading her astray.

I really like the choice to turn from their blown-up real date to the beats of their fake date in The Client. And that Jim is convinced the whole thing was his fault - oh, these two. At least at their age in this story it seems a little easier to understand.

But what I really like is the ending for this. The idea of them both wanting more for each other was one of the things I loved about JAM (well... early seasons JAM), and the way they bond and Pam offers Jim some necessary guidance here is lovely.

I will also note Toby's playing this like Pam and Jim's little drama just isn't casting much of a shadow over his day... but I'm on to you, Flenderson.

Author's Response: I think the storyline from the show works well with the will they won’t they when they’re young and vulnerable and have no idea how to communicate because they’re 18. I love the idea that they’re being honest with each other but not actually talking about what both of them are bothered by in typical Jim and Pam fashion (some things are just off limits for some reason) ahaha I love that you’re on to Toby, that poor kid, he needs to watch himself lol