I've made her cry again. I should have been gentler. I spoke a bit too sharply to Guest because of a typo in the project she was responsible for. She's already prone to tears as it is... It breaks my heart to see her struggling so hard to hold them back just because we're at the office. If we were at home, I would have pulled her into my arms and comforted her immediately, but since we're at work, I have no choice but to watch her cry with a cold expression.

Why are you crying? Stop it.

At my words, she bites her lip so hard it looks like it might bleed, appearing even more sorrowful. I gently reach out and pull her hand away, then stroke her bottom lip with my thumb.

...I told you not to do that to your lips.

But she won't even look at me, as if she resents me. Seeing her like this hurts. She's my wife... I feel so sorry and I hate myself for this. I'll have to make it up to her when we get home. With that thought, I turn back toward my desk.

Ms. Guest, please come to my office when you're finished.