A deep breath, long pale fingers smoothing down jade green satin over the curve of a hip. Hand trembling slightly as she reached for the glass of champagne. She was aware that soft tendrils of red hair were already escaping from the pins, framing her face, coiling lightly against the nape of her neck. Other than that the social mask of smoky shadow highlighting green eyes, a lip bitten red gloss glistening on her pinned on smile was in place.
Pink tongue tip flicking over her full lower lip as she raised the glass, taking more than a sip before turning to her companion.
He hadn't even noticed her momentary distraction and had carried on talking. Delightful Jonny, so very predictable in his conversation: the stock market, sailing, contracts and his latest conquests. A smile, a nod, a murmured "yes", or " oh really" all he required from his listener. The perfect dinner partner when her mind was on other things.
These corporate affairs, always so dull, so necessary, so full of small talk and business. And later, when the alcohol had been flowing, flirtation. She'd been around the business long enough to know who to avoid when they were infused with alcohol. Jonny was safe.
Surupticiously scanning the room, a smiled greeting when she caught someone's eye. Another mouthful of champagne and she could feel the bubbles lightening her mood. Maybe this wouldn't be so difficult, maybe this tedious distraction was just what she needed for a few hours, before she slipped off quietly. Returning to an empty apartment that was so recently filled with laughter and now just echoed with memories.
Long lashes sweeping down as she momentarily closed her eyes, bit her lower lip hard, bruising the soft flesh. This was not the place to dwell on her anguish. Grasping Jonny's arm, her mask of professionalism back in place,
" So what do you think of the stock options?", her voice soft and low.
His opinions on this issue would probably take her through the main course of dinner at least. The words washing over her as they seated themselves at the table, quick smiles and nods of acknowledgement to their fellow diners.
The table for eight had almost it's full complement, only one seat was empty, the one to her left. Glancing briefly at the name card, feeling slightly surprised that she didn't recognise the name. Maybe she'd missed someone joining the company. With all that had been going on over the last few weeks, she knew that she hadn't been as focused on work as she usually would have been.
Glancing to acknowledge the arrival of the 'stranger' as he took his seat, her gaze caught by his. What must have been no more than a moment felt like longer. His dark copper coloured eyes so intense. She heard his voice as he greeted the occupants of the table, but not his words. That voice like a soft caress brushing over her skin. Reaching for her wine glass to dispel the mood, her fingers trembling, cheeks flushed.