"I… I don't know what you are talking about, Ben."
"Come on, now, Katie. We are all adults here, there is no need to be so reserved. I consider you my friend, and I truly believe that is best to have such things out in the open so we can deal with them without destroying our friendship. Or are you saying that it is all in my mind?"
"I… indeed, it is all in your mind, Ben. I never had such thoughts about you!"
I stand up from the armchair and seat myself on the sofa next to her. I look her in the eyes and reply softly.
"Really, Katie? Is this really only in my mind? Then look me in the eyes and tell me that you were not excited last time and that it is not the real reason you kicked me out."
With great effort, Katie raises her gaze and looks at me. I can see that she is slightly trembling.
"I… I was not…"
I move closer and bend forward slowly, my head nearing hers until my mouth is next to her ear, then I whisper to her.