Chapter Three #3
“There…” I said, my smile widening to reveal the delicate lines around my eyes and mouth, “a proper dinner with proper company.”
Claire’s cheeks flushed again, and I could see the warmth spreading through her.
As we began to eat, the conversation naturally flowed to the textures and flavors of the gnocchi.
We then debated whether it paired well with the merlot or if a white wine would be more suitable.
The initial lighthearted discussion soon gave way to more personal revelations, with Claire opening up about her work and life.
“So,” I asked, taking a thoughtful bite of my food, “how did you come into your vocation?” I already knew the answer, but I needed to get her talking once more.
Tell me who you are, Claire Bailey.
Claire’s words flowed as she recounted her journey with a hint of both pride and vulnerability. “Well, while I was going to NYU, I worked at a bar downtown. Eastern Wines, my company, was our distributor. My current boss, Brian, was our rep.”
She picked up her glass of merlot and took a deep drink before continuing, her fingers caressing the glass as she spoke.
“One day, some guy I was serving said that I was great with wines and recommended I get into the business. Brian took me under his wing while I was at the bar, and then when COVID hit and the bar closed, he offered me a job.”
I studied her as she spoke, the soft glow of the candlelight dancing in her eyes. “And you’ve always lived in New York?” I asked, my tone casual but with an undercurrent of genuine curiosity.
Claire nodded, her gaze dropping momentarily. “Yes, well, Long Island. I’m originally from Long Island,” she clarified, a hint of apprehension in her voice, as if she were unsure whether I was familiar with the geography of the Greater New York area.
There was a touch of embarrassment in her demeanor as she continued, “What about you? What’s your story?”
I chuckled softly, my smile widening with a hint of charm. “Well, I am from here.”
Claire’s eyes narrowed in playful confusion. “Wait, you have an accent that I’m positive isn’t Italian.” She laughed, the sound carrying a light, melodic contrast in the sultry ambiance between us.
“Indeed,” I confirmed, allowing a knowing grin to spread across my face. “You’re quite perceptive.”
I took a sip of my merlot and leaned back in the stiff chair before continuing, “I went to boarding school in London, then Oxford. I traveled a bit, but my focus was always on the family business. I am an only child, so it was my duty to take over…” I paused deliberately, savoring the tension before adding, “Not too long ago.”
Claire’s eyes widened, her curiosity piqued as she spoke. “Wow, that sounds simpler than my story…but far more intriguing.” She leaned in slightly, resting her chin on her hand as she continued, “Tell me about the family business. Do you work with this winery?”
I cleared my throat, gently signaling for the passing waiter to clear the plates and refresh our glasses.
It was a perfect moment to divert her attention, to keep the air of mystery alive.
The waiter swiftly filled our glasses for the fourth time, the rich merlot adding to the already heady atmosphere.
While I was still unshakably sober, Claire was feeling it, that much was obvious.
Do not worry, Claire. I will get you tucked into bed safely. You may not be alone, but you will be safe.
“Wow!” Claire exclaimed, her voice tinged with amusement. “I can’t imagine what shape I’d be in if it weren’t for the gnocchi. I already feel quite nice.” She chuckled, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of warmth and relaxation.
I stood up, holding my wine glass with a nonchalant elegance, and extended my hand toward her. “I am going to give you a proper tour. It is the least I can do.” My smile was gentle, but it carried the weight of an unspoken promise.
Claire hesitated for a moment, her eyes traveling over my form from my tall stature to the perfectly creased jet-black slacks and shirt, all accentuated by a pristine black velvet blazer tailored to my build.
Her eyes returned to mine, with a mixture of awe and excitement reflected in them.
It was clear that the evening had taken an unexpected and thrilling turn for her.
What began as a business dinner had seamlessly transformed into a captivating encounter with a mysterious and charming stranger.
Oh, Claire. My dear Claire. This was not as difficult as I feared it would be.
As her senses further dulled by the effects of the wine, she reached out and grasped my hand with a firm grip as she stood.
Her balance faltered slightly, and I instinctively wrapped my other arm around her waist, my hand resting possessively on the small of her back.
The warmth of Claire’s body against mine was electric, and I could feel the slight tremor in her form as she tried to steady herself.
She blushed deeply, turning away and biting her lip, struggling to mask a blissful smile.
I looked down at her with a smirk that I could not quite suppress.
I pressed my lips to the shell of her ear.
“Do not forget your glass,” I murmured, my voice smooth and authoritative.
“We’re taking it with us.” I tightened my grip on her hand, guiding her toward the exit with a subtle, commanding confidence as she followed without argument.
Claire’s heart raced as she followed me, her excitement and nervousness palpable.
The heat of my hand around hers, the strength in my grip, and the intoxicating blend of our chemistry and the wine seemed to leave her lightheaded.
I could feel every sensation that radiated within her, despite her attempts to camouflage what boiled beneath her faux composure.
As we walked, I could feel her stealing glances at me, as if she was attempting to decipher the enigmatic allure that enveloped my demeanor. All she could discern was a magnetic charm that only drew her in further.
I intend on keeping it that way.