As the door opened and the servant with his stoic expression stepped aside to allow me entrance, another moved forward to take my coat and wrap. Only the best of service for the elite and well to do.
Escorted to the main hall I followed the stiff backed butler and moved into the first tier of the crowd, greeting and being greeted by those I had met briefly or perhaps only known by reputation or name.
I'm not usually one for social dinner parties, but the firm had insisted that I attend at least two a month through the holiday season. It was all part and parcel with my new promotion, or so I was told. Working for a third generation law firm, it was to be expected, but I loathed these gatherings, never sure what kind of image I was to portray. Tonight I had gone for elegant, and judging by the smiles of approval from some of the gentlemen, and the sneers from their ladies, my choices were on the mark. I had given my word that I would come and there I was, on time, and polished to a soft glow.
I had decided on the black crepe silk with the halter cut bodice. The collar was two inches high and covered in small burnished gold beads, making a lot of jewelry unnecessary, so I had settled on the small amber drop earrings that seemed to compliment the dress and catch the light as they moved. The body was tailored to hug every curve and slit to mid thigh in a daring attempt at sexy. I felt decadent in it, loving the feel of the silk against my skin. So much so that I wore very little underneath. The style of the dress left the shoulders and back bare, so there was really no way to wear a bra, and on a whim I had worn the black thong my sister gave me for my birthday. My only concern was that the delicious brush of silk across my bare ass and nipples would make my enjoyment of it far too apparent for conservative company. Who needed a man when you had unlimited champagne and the sweet caress of a silk evening gown, right?
Having spent an extra twenty minutes fighting my hair into a sleek french twist, the annoying little escapee's that spiraled golden along my temples and neck made me growl and huff in soft frustration as they fell over one eye. Checking my watch I noted I had at least another two hours to be polite, before I could slip back to my place and have that nice warm bath I promised myself. Mr. Driscol, one of the senior partners, came to my rescue and started the round of introductions, mercifully leaving me to fend for myself after a brief tour of the room.
I must admit, there was something about moving through the crowd, knowing how little I was wearing, that was exciting to me. It was as though I had some delicious secret and I wore a mischievous smile and almost dared those I spoke to, to guess what it was as I met their eye. After about half an hour of the usual mingling my attention wandered over the crowd. Hearing a rich and definitely male laugh over the din, I searched the faces for the most likely source. Making it a game of sorts to pass the time until dinner was served.
I felt a warmth move over my exposed back and I turned to meet the most intense, dark brown eyes. His gaze raked over my body in a leisurely assessment that sent my system on a slow burn. I felt my skin ripple as though his eyes caressed its surface and my heart fluttered beneath my breast. One moment. One long, very warm and pleasant moment, we were locked together in some silent connection. Then, he disappeared as though he never existed, blending into the crowd. I blinked and felt myself shudder. Frowning I searches the crowd but there was no sign of him. I could feel my nipples strain against the silk as though anticipating someones touch.
I had never had such a strong reaction to a man, especially when he hadn't even laid a hand on me. I heard my soft, nervous laughter, though it sounded hollow to my ears. Deciding I needed a drink I caught the arm of one of the roving waiters with a tray full of sparkling something in crystal flutes. Choosing one, I thanked him and moved toward the soft strains of music. Stepping through an archway into a smaller room with a bar and hired piano player, I fell into place near the curve of the baby grand, listening to the conversations around me.
Lifting the crystal to my lips I caught his gaze again. This time he sat across the room from me. Those dark, sultry eyes staring unblinking in my direction, while an older white haired gentleman talked to him intently. Bolstered by the wine in my hand I sipped the golden liquid and returned his bold stare.
Some men are just born to wear a tuxedo. Dark hair falling unfashionably long against broad shoulders this man fit that image with an odd sense of rebellion. For some reason that made me smile, as though we shared something in common. A secret that the others were just not privy to.
His grin was quick and infectious as I felt myself return it, lifting my brows as I sipped my drink. Realizing I was staring I turned my attention back to the conversation around me. Too late to run, I found Mrs. Driscol had joined me and was trying her best to introduce me to one of the younger, conveniently single, lawyers in the firm. Smiling politely I made small talk then excused myself stepping around the end of the piano thinking to find an excuse to introduce myself to the dark eyed man. I drowned my disappointment in the last of my drink as I saw he was no longer there.
Just as I set the empty glass down I felt another flute of champagne slide over my bare shoulder. Shivering I turned to take it from his fingers with a soft smile, trying to steady the tremor in my voice.
"Thanks, did I look thirsty?"
"Mmn more, determined to watch the carnival through a pleasant haze."
I felt my legs go liquid. The deep timber of his voice made my chest tighten and my mouth go dry. Sipping the wine slowly I decided this evening had far more potential than I first thought. At this rate I might even stay through the boring dinner. If there really was a God, he would seat me at least close enough to watch this man for the next several hours.
