As we stop at a stop sign, I look at Pam. She's staring at her fingers, nervously drumming them together.

"Of course."

She turns her head to look at me. I notice her eyes are glistening.

"I can trust you for anything, right?"

My hands tighten against the steering wheel. "Definitely. I'm here for you Pam."

As the car starts moving again, I notice Pam messing with her ring. That stupid ring. The ring that prevents me from enveloping her in my arms, from declaring that I love her so much and that I will always be by her side. The ring that prevents her from telling me whatever is bothering her so much. And I think it has something to do with the ring, too.

"Did you get Michael to change my Dundie?"

Not what I was expecting. "I might have had something to do with it."

"Why did you?"

"It's a stupid award, Pam. No originality." 

"But why...what inclined you to confront Michael?"

I pause, wondering if Pam is calling for help. 

"I..I know it bothers you. I just wanted you to have a good night, Pam."

Pam's frown cracks into a grin as she stares out of the window. 

We pull into her driveway and I immediately run the passenger door.

"You okay now, Beesly?" I ask as she steps out of the car.

Pam turns to me and instantly envelopes me in a hug.

"Thanks, Jim. You're the best."

I feel my lips burst into a grin. I can't help it. I relish the feeling of her small hands on my back and her face pressed up to my chest. Then, it's gone. 

I walk her to her door, the places her arms touched still buzzing.  

"Remember to drink lots of fluids. I don't want you sick with a hangover tomorrow." I remind her.

"Yes mom" she groans with a grin. "Bye Jim. See you Monday." 

"Bye, Pam." I reply as she enters her home and shuts the door.

 What a great year for the Dundies.