Chapter 13: Partners, Part 4

James

I aim, and I think succeed, in ending the meal with her well-fed, but not overly so and just the slightest bit tipsy; enough to lower her shields without being falling-down silly.

As we enter the apartment, I take her coat, then take her hand. Holding her eyes, I lead her through to the bedroom.

I tried to make it beautiful for her and paid the hotel staff to have it ready for us when we returned. And as we step in, I'm glad that I did so. This is hardly the classic dream of a young girl's first romance, but perhaps I can give her a convincing substitute...

Candlelight washes its golden glimmer over her face, the light like embers in her fiery hair. Flickering shadows cast depths into the space that would not normally be expected in a hotel bedroom.

Now... seduce her.

How did you feel, all those years ago, when she guided you through your first time?

Charlotte stands before me, her expression a little... adrift... Holding her by the waist with one hand, I stroke her