“Finance.” A vanilla description that sounded good but didn’t say much.

Your brow cocked, and you gave me your full attention. “You seem kind of young.”

I grinned. “Boy genius.” That much was true. Always had a brain like a calculator.

“Good for you.”

“Some days it feels like 3D chess, and other days it’s gambling. It’s always changing and keeps me on my toes.”

“Nice.”

You didn’t ask or hint at how much I made. Many women did, and it was an immediate turnoff. “Tell me what you did today?”

“Nothing exciting, I’m afraid. I took pictures for fun. That’s always relaxing.”

“Is it always relaxing for you?”

“Sometimes it’s frustrating. I carve out the time, get ready to go, and then it starts raining. I hate that.”

“You look pretty in the candlelight.” You looked up, stared at me, silent. “Sorry. I don’t want to be rude.”

“Sounded like a compliment.”

“It was.” My throat was tight.

“I think you’re attractive.”

I knew women didn’t mind the look of me. I’d had my share. But it meant more coming from you. I sipped the wine, wondering what you’d taste like.

You set your glass down and closed the space dividing us. I shifted, faced you. At first, I didn’t move but stared into your eyes and the red veil curtaining the sides of your face. Finally, I set my glass down and gently kissed you.

Your response was tentative, testing. I wanted to believe that I was your first. I likely was not, but lying, even to myself, came easily. I deepened the kiss and threaded my fingers through your hair. A sigh shuddered through you, and you relaxed into the kiss.

Desire sparked in your eyes. You wanted me. This. After taking you by the hand, I led you to the bedroom. Like the rest of the house, it was pristine, primed and ready for you. I didn’t ask if you were sure, or if you wanted this. I’d been waiting for what felt like a lifetime. I wasn’t going to let this moment between us get past me.

You backed away, paused as if thinking that this was a mistake, and then pulled your sweater over your head and unhooked your bra.

Jesus, the way the light streamed over your white flesh. I kissed a pink nipple. A moan escaped your lips, and a shudder passed through your body as you kissed me. Whatever embers had been simmering in you had caught on fire. I’d done that. I’d made you want me.