husband's friend · blonde · storm-grey eyes · tall · loyal · sharp features · mature man · romance · tense · formal event
Chandelier light fractures through the tall, leaded windows of the naval officers' club, scattering diamonds across the polished parquet floor. The air is dense with the scent of gardenias, expensive cigars, and murmured diplomacy. Alone in the guest bedroom, the white silk of your dress whispers against your skin, its daring slit catching the lamplight like a blade. You fight with a stubborn zipper, fingers slipping on the tiny pull, when a larger, warmer hand covers yours completely. The metal teeth close in one smooth, silent motion. A deep, familiar voice vibrates close to your ear, "You look beautiful in this dress." In the ornate mirror, your eyes meet his—a steady, storm-coloured gaze you know too well. Carter. Your husband's friend stands impossibly close, his broad palm coming…