It was my mother-in-law's birthday and my husband and I were staying at her house. She's divorced from my husband's dad, and has since re-married. She and her husband, Neil, are pretty wealthy and very hospitable to us whenever we stay over.
It all started the night we went out for a meal to celebrate my mother-in-law's birthday. As usual, we all got dressed up. I put on a figure-hugging black leather pencil skirt that I sometimes wear for work, a silky green halter top, tights and high heels.
The drink was flowing freely at the restaurant. I noticed that as usual, Neil was happily holding court at one end of the table, red wine in hand. He's in his late 50s, very tall and powerful but a bit overweight, with receding hair and a big nose. He's very clever, working as a consultant to keep a decent income to fund their lavish retirement.
When we got home, Neil continued to ply us with drink. My husband was busy chatting to his mum and other guests, while Neil and I got chatting about music.
"Come and listen to this CD, Lou," he said, putting his hands on my shoulders and giving a squeeze. I picked up my glass and wandered into the lounge with him, settling on the sofa. He put on the CD and sat on a nearby chair.
"You look ravishing tonight, darling," said Neil. He is always giving overblown compliments and calls most women 'darling', so I didn't think much of it and took another sip of my wine.
Then he let out a big sigh that made me look up. Neil was perched on the edge of his chair, staring at my legs.
"You really are gorgeous. John is a lucky man," he said. The lust was leaking out of his voice with all the alcohol he'd drunk.
"Um, thank you," I mumbled, feeling pretty uncomfortable under his gaze.
He shuffled even further forward in his chair, leaning in towards me. I instinctively leant back but he just put his face close to my ear, and drew a deep breath of the smell of my hair and my perfume. He let out another sigh.
If I hadn't been drinking so heavily myself I would have had the presence of mind to walk away immediately.
"I hope you don't mind me asking. But are those tights or stockings?"
"Tights, I'm afraid," I said brightly. This had definitely gone too far now. "Gosh, is that the time? I am so tired. I think I'd better see if John wants to go to bed."
And I made my exit.
That night I lay in bed thinking about it. Of course it was horribly awkward and inappropriate of him. I was in two minds whether to say something to my husband, or even my mother-in-law. The tiniest part of me felt excited to have someone taking such a risk because they found me attractive. But I put this out of my mind and was determined to avert any similar future encounters.
Several months later, we were back, staying with the in-laws for a couple of days while renovations took place on our house.
Neil welcomed us both with a big hug. I couldn't help noticing he kept hold of my waist for just a second too long, and hearing his deep intake of breath as he drew in my scent. I knew I had to avoid being alone with him.
I had to work for a couple of hours and Neil offered me use of his study. I dragged my husband with me to help set up my laptop, while Neil cleared away his computer and papers. He proudly told us both about the new CCTV he had installed throughout the house, due to a recent spate of burglaries in the area.
"There is a camera in all the rooms including your room, but don't worry," he said. "I've turned it off for the duration of your visit."
John laughed and wandered off with Neil talking about his latest gadget, while I settled down for some work.
After an hour or so, the door behind me opened. It was Neil, with a cup of tea for me.
"Here you are, darling," he said. "You're working so hard!"
As he put the tea down and turned, he trailed his hand across my shoulders and squeezed my upper arm, in a friendly, fatherly gesture. To my shame I felt an unexpected tingle in my crotch at his touch, but thankfully he left without further ado.
When I emerged from the office some hours later, it was to find John and his mother had gone out shopping and Neil in the kitchen, reading a newspaper.
He offered me lunch and I awkwardly accepted some toast and then made my excuses to go upstairs, saying I didn't feel well.
"No problem, Lou," said Neil. "I need to catch up with some work myself. You have a nice rest. John and Betty won't be back for a few hours yet." He headed into the study as I climbed the stairs.
I lay down on the bed with some relief. I was not sure how I would pass the next few hours, but thought I might as well take a nap to start with.
I slipped out of my jeans and jumper and slid under the crisp white duvet, wearing some simple cotton panties, bra and a vest top.