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,