A married man and a married woman have been just friends for several years through work. It's mostly a long-distance friendship by e-mail but they have met before, as friends.

They communicate about current events, work issues and politics, with a bit of subtle flirting here and there. Most of the time, she emails first and then he responds and the communications take off. It's not clear if their spouses are aware of their friendship..

Over the past year, he has emailed her a bit more frequently; while on personal vacation (with his family) and during a personal emergency situation (to let her know how he's doing.). He's also shared more about his personal interests, such as in music.

How would you characterize this relationship?

- Just a workplace friendship
- A so-called emotional affair (if you're not familiar with that term, it can be found on the Internet. lol).

Thx.