A ship had sunk off the southern coast last month. The Estonia. He’d have read more but could barely see straight for the discomfort each breath caused him. Niles had not invested in its cargo. The temptation had been strong, but he’d had a feeling… A few of his associates had thrown their money down. Poor fellows.
He ordered a second shot. A double this time.
Right now, she was dressing for him. Just a few short days ago, the thought would have been unimaginable.
She’d not contradicted his statement that what was happening between the two of them had nothing to do with business.
She’s been flirting with me.
The evening ahead stretched into what ought to promise an abundance of pleasure.
He’d spent the entire afternoon in her presence, and already anticipated her return. He suspected she felt the same. Surely, he was not mistaken.
The tension had been building between them all day. They would draw it out even further, over their meal.
And after.
He would take his time with her. Undressing her slowly, revealing her skin inch by inch. And then he would taste all of her before settling himself between her legs.
Damn. This could only lead to trouble.
He groaned, turned sideways, stretched out along the bench, and closed his eyes.
Breathing proved less painful in this position.
“Niles.”He opened his eyes to a concerned looking Eve staring down at him. “Why didn’t you say something? You’re in pain, aren’t you? I feel horrible, keeping you out and about all day.”
Had he really fallen asleep?
He refused to endure any more pity from her. Not with this one night left alone for the two of them. “I’m fine. Just resting my eyes.” Ignoring the stabbing sensations, he rose and bowed over her hand. “For which you’re a vision this evening.”
She eyed him suspiciously, but also blushed at his compliment. “You are certain?”
He laughed. Niles had endured far greater pain in his life. He’d been much younger, of course, and he couldn’t quite remember when exactly, but he must have experienced worse at some point.
He winged an elbow and led her to the most private table in the room, set near the fireplace, too small for more than two people.
She’d pinned her hair up, but not too severe. A few curling tendrils fell softly around her face.
And her gown, although simply made, enhanced her subtle beauty. She’d always looked beautiful to him. In the past, her gaze had been friendly enough, but she’d kept herself reserved.
Tonight, her eyes glowed with a sensual light. As though she too savored the promise of what lay ahead.
“I’m famished,” she announced as he held her chair.
“Getting thrashed at the game of chess tends to do that to a person.” He enjoyed teasing her. She hadn’t been teased nearly enough.
“Oh you!” She waved a napkin at him. “Distracting me at every turn.”
“Was I,” he contradicted. “Who provided the greatest distraction?”
The meal passed in a blur of flirtation and seductive glances. When he would think back on it later, he would have no memory as to what had been served.
He’d remember the lady and the wine. The latter of which he’d managed to slip a few swigs of whiskey in between.
He’d remember the anticipation building.
The sensations invoked as their inhibitions disappeared.
