Neal Augenstein, wtop.com

WASHINGTON — Love can strike when you least expect it.

If it happens at work, dating adds several layers of drama that a lot of people find untenable.

“In the beginning part, figuring out how to tell people — that’s challenging,” said a woman who hasn’t had an office romance but “would jump at it” if the opportunity presented itself.

“I think they’re unavoidable. That’s where we spend most of our days — at work.”

One woman, even though her parents parents met in medical school and now share the same medical practice, is wary.

“If anything goes wrong, two people are in the same office. It’s just not pretty,” she said.

“There just a lot of drama, animosity, awkward silences, people taking sides.”

A man WTOP asked said he’s had the chance of dating a coworker, but realized it was a bad idea.

“It’s not good to mix business and pleasure in that way,” he said.

“On the days you’re fighting, let’s hope you’re not in the same department,” said a woman who is open to the idea of an office romance.

“That’s really the best opportunity to meet and get to know someone but I’m doomed, because I only work with women.”

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(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)