Sinfully Abrasive

He's stood at the entrance of the lounge.

A silent spectator, attention only on me.

When did he get here?

"Oh, Vladimir!" Rachael jovially acknowledges him. " we absolutely love your gifts! The children are so happy! Come here and unwrap our gifts to you!"

Everyone voices their agreement.

"Later," He utters in a clipped incisive tone. Without breaking eye contact with me, he saunters in. His cane clicked against the floor and his overcoat bristled.

I shift my eyes to my fingers, nervously fiddling with the hem of my cardigan. I wanted to get up and leave for my room immediately.

What I least expected next, was for his polished black boots to come to a halt inches away from me. Wide-eyed, I glance up at him to find he's austerely peering down at me.

Everyone has gotten quiet as they direct their focus on us. My face emblazons with a sudden blush.

"I need a word," He commands, a voice underlined by authority. "In private.."

I throw a glance around at everyone.

Is he talking to me?

"I'm