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© 2006, Sherrill
Quinn Reviews For DRESSING THE EMPRESS by Ann Cory "This is a brilliant retelling of the old fable The Emperors New Clothes. The author paints a rich picture of vanity and self indulgence slowly peeled away with each subsequent ‘gown’ her dressmaker creates. As in the famous tale, this captures the same moral and does it in a lush setting with a unique twist at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed this new slant on an old classic, adding a rather attractive and sensual element as the story passes. I highly recommend readers add this to their must read list." Charissa 4 cups 4 Angels
from Fallen Angel Reviews! Sample Chapter For DRESSING THE EMPRESS by Ann Cory “Make sure my petticoats are all tucked in neatly.” “Yes, my Lady.” “And mind the sash in the back. Twice this week I’ve noticed a crooked bow, almost to the point of drooping. We cannot have my backside be the laughingstock of the palace, can we?” “No, my Lady.” Riona tapped her foot impatiently along the marble flooring, her dainty shoe making clicking sounds. Her chambermaid rose and smiled. “There, my Lady, you are finished.” In the room of mirrors, Riona eyed her gown critically. Careful hands and a keen eye had attended to each stitch from her seamstresses. Yards of powder blue fabric encased her body, with lace around the hems and bodice. The waist was smooth and the sleeves dangled slightly beyond her elbow with ribbons for an added feminine touch. She turned from one direction to the next, looking for the slightest flaw. “Does the back poof out the way I like?” Cassie swiftly fixed the dress. “The gown fits you impeccably, my Lady. You shall have all eyes on you.” Riona turned, her green eyes flicked over the maid in a swift manner. She ignored the obvious smudges around the young woman’s bleak face and summoned up a smirk. “Of course all eyes will be on me. Who else would they look at?” She raised her hands to her fiery red hair and swept it atop her head, checking each angle of her face in the mirror. “Now let’s see what we can do about my hair.” “Yes, my Lady.” With long,
even strokes, the maid slid the brush through her hair. “I agree, my Lady. Who is this gentleman you speak of? A possible suitor?” Riona rapped her on the hand. “Bite your tongue, Cassie. Too often you forget your place here.” “Apologies, my Lady.” The maid bowed her head and continued styling her hair. “His name is Gustav Denairre, a Frenchman. If anyone knows fashion, it would be him. The women he creates and designs dresses for are the most exotic women in all the land. I must have him.” “Only the most skilled should design your gowns, my Lady.” Riona smoothed an imaginary wrinkle and folded her hands, letting out a long, deep sigh. “It would be devastating to have him come all this way, only to find he’s nothing more than a name. There are many charlatans out there today, and I will not tolerate incompetence. Let us hope this man is true to his reputation. I wish for him to start right away by creating seven unique gowns for me; one for each day of the week. If I like his designs, he will become my personal designer.” “I am sure it is his life’s dream, my Lady.” She laid the brush down and smiled. “All done, my Lady. I trust you are pleased. May I say you are beautiful, as usual?” The empress looked in the mirror, tilting her head in all directions to inspect the hairdo. “Well done, Cassie. I love this style. It accentuates my eyes.” “Thank you, my Lady. Is there anything else you require?” Riona shook her head and shooed away the chambermaid with her hands. She continued scrutinizing her reflection, eyes darting and hunting for a stitch out of place. Ever since she was a small girl, she’d been infatuated with her mirror image. Not only did the mirror offer entry into another realm, it also allowed her to believe she was the most beautiful woman in the world. As she grew up, the image she’d invented became reality and she wouldn’t allow anyone else to try and best her appearance. The only thing that mattered to her was how she looked, and she took great pains to look her best. Many rooms in the palace were devoted to her clothing, makeup, jewelry, and other accessories. She refused to wear the same garment twice. When she hired the village women to make her dresses, she in turn, gave them ample food and made sure they were well taken care of. Though some claimed she treated them like slaves, she knew better. It was a matter of keeping their priorities straight, and sometimes, it took threats and punishment to help them along. As the empress, she was in charge. Respect was something she expected. Riona continued making her rounds around the room, stopping in front of each mirror, as if seeing her reflection for the first time. It was a daunting task to maintain her beauty, but it awarded her a mountain of male admirers…and lovers. Women often fawned over her and complimented her, but she could see the jealousy in their faces. Fuel for the fire, she made it a point to rub their noses in it whenever possible, without a thought to the hurt she caused. Besides, friends served little purpose, but lovers were essential. Several hours later, she made her way downstairs. Danzig, her loyal courtier, waited at the bottom of the stairs, smiling at her, admiring her beauty. Many a night he’d attended to her every need, in more ways than one. “Monsieur Denairre is expected any moment, my Lady. The coach was seen coming around a corner mere moments ago.” Her eyes widened and she ruffled his jacket collar. “Wonderful news. Danzig, I’ve decided to throw a ball in our guest’s honor two nights from now. Please see to it all arrangements are taken care of, and only the best food and wine served.” “As you wish, my Empress.” Danzig bowed and clapped his hands together, catching the attention of several nearby servants and maids. Riona stood at the large windows, admiring the landscape. Lush plants and flowers were in full bloom, with the scents of honeysuckle and roses hovering in the air. Impatiently, she waited for Gustav’s arrival. Her wildest dreams would come true with him at her side, wrapping her in gowns that would make her the envy of every woman of importance. The coach pulled up and she watched him climb down from the carriage with ease. Stunning shades of gold and ivory made up his attire, giving him the appearance of royalty rather than a creator of fine clothing. His chiseled features took her off-guard and her legs buckled at the sight of his deep-set eyes. Rays of the sun added shiny glints to his sleek black hair with a single unruly strand hanging over his left brow. He entered the castle hall and stopped before her, his chocolate brown eyes examining her dress. Heat bore into her flesh wherever his gaze trailed and her cheeks burned crimson. “Based on the garment you’re currently wearing, madam, you made the right decision calling me.” Riona took his words to be a compliment, and gave her most gracious smile. She held out her hand and waited for his lips to brush a kiss of greeting along her unblemished skin. Instead, he gave her hand a rough shake and looked around the grounds, his chin jutting out in a stiff manner. With clenched teeth, she silently fumed at the insult. “Impressive. Although I’ve seen grander castles in my many travels around the world. Still, it is an honor to be here and I thank you for allowing me to visit.” She waved her hand in the air and shook her head. “Think nothing of it. So you are the famous Gustav. I’ve heard nothing but praise about your work. In my correspondence with other ladies, they’ve raved how you create unique masterpieces. You are certainly the talk of the ladies of fashion, and courts around the world. I had to experience your creations firsthand. I consider myself very knowledgeable when it comes to fashion and strive to be a trendsetter. That being said, I cannot wait to see what you have in store for me.” “You are too kind. I am just a poor dressmaker who happened to catch the eye of some beautiful women. My designs will speak for themselves. It gives me great pleasure when I take the finest fabrics and mold them to a woman’s body. I believe the woman makes the dress, and not the other way around, but we all differ in our opinions. You have the body of an angel and I’ll have no difficulty designing clothes for such a divine creature.” The color deepened along her cheeks and the exposed mounds of her breasts. She was certain he was well versed in how to charm the clothes off any woman. “It must be inspiring to live in France.” His smug look was like a bee sting in her side. “Yes. The most beautiful women I’ve ever encountered live there.” Biting her cheeks, she retaliated. “I hope to persuade you French women aren’t the only beautiful women.” “That remains to be seen.” Gustav shrugged. Riona sucked in her breath at the insult. If he were trying to bait her, she wouldn’t give in. “I’d like to show you where you’ll be staying.” She turned, her eyes narrowing into slits. Arrogant man. As the empress, she could have him locked in chains for his insolence. As a vain woman, however, she didn’t want to lose this opportunity to be the envy of all who knew her. In her mind, however, each click of her heels rang out a silent curse word for her guest’s rudeness. “If you’ll follow me upstairs, I’ll show you to your room, as well as where you’ll be designing and making the dresses. Normally, I’d have my staff show you around but I’ve decided to make an exception.” “I’m sure my chamber will be more than suitable. However, there are things I require in order to do my job well. Surely you won’t deny me the proper tools and materials.” “Of course not. Did you bring any materials with you?” “Yes, the finest silks and satins money can buy. I promise you, any creation upon your body will be the same as stepping into heaven.” His words excited her almost as much as his handsome features. “What else do you require, Mr. Denairre?” “Numerous sketchpads, mirrors, assorted pens and pencils, threads, needles, and a variety of other sewing utensils for starters.” “I assure you, as my guest, you shall be well provided for.” She’d give him whatever he wanted all right, but there would be a price. “There will be a ball thrown in your honor, two nights from today. I want everyone to know that the famous Gustav is in my home. I hope you will find our humble abode to your liking. Now, I’d like seven gowns made, and an extra special gown for the ball. Is that too much to ask for?” “Seven?” Gustav paused and rubbed his forehead. “I hadn’t expected to create so many. I’m only staying a short while.” “I’ll need at least seven. Any less than that and it simply won’t do. One for each day of the week. Of course, if you aren’t capable…” “I will make every effort to comply with your wishes. First, let’s see what kind of room I have to work in,” he interrupted quickly. Riona applauded herself for challenging his skill. Like most men, he didn’t like to be made a fool of in his field of expertise. She showed him to his guestroom and pulled open the lavish drapery to let the light filter in. A large four-poster bed sat against one side of the room surrounded by ornate furniture, sculptures, tapestries, and a writing desk. “It’s one of our largest guestrooms and the most masculine.” She watched him walk over to the bed and press down on the mattress. “This is very nice, I shall sleep comfortably.” “I’m glad you approve. Now if you’ll come with me, three rooms down is your workspace.” In a dramatic gesture, she spread her arms wide as she walked in. The room was bathed in sunlight and came with a picturesque view of the gardens. In anticipation of his arrival she’d arranged to have a plush, new Aubusson rug laid down. The wall was repainted in green and gold to match the rug, and she furnished it with large oak tables. One whole side of the room had easels for him to design his creations, a large intricately designed loom, and all the tools he could possibly need. Needless to say, she was proud of herself. Gustav walked around, his finger tapping against his chin. “Hmm.” Her eyelid twitched at his pompous display. It was clear he would find fault with anything she did. “All wrong. It’s not me. I can’t work in a room like this.” “What?” Riona stormed over and stood in front of him, hands across her chest. “This room has everything! There is a stunning view of the gardens, the French doors open right up to the terrace where you’ll find chairs and a pool, and the colors I’ve chosen spark creativity and inspiration. What else do you need?” He shrugged his shoulders. “I’m
not sure exactly. I’d pictured something else entirely.” “Does Danzig have the authority to give me what I need?” Riona was taken aback by his gall. Disrespectful man. “I beg your pardon? I’m not a maid; my people are here to please me.” She didn’t add as are you. “I’m sorry if I’ve offended you, but I don’t believe in catering to people’s feelings. We as humans need to learn strength and self-esteem. Perhaps you prefer to hide behind the truth of things?” Before she could say another word, he quickly crossed the room, shaking his head at her choice of interior design. “Furthermore, if you’d like me to create fabulous gowns so you can be the talk of England, I’m going to need a different look to my workroom. Inspiration is key. I do not make dresses for just anyone, and I cannot work in just any room. Surely you can empathize. I’d like the carpet changed to colorful rugs, I like to hear my shoes tap against polished wood flooring. The portraits are in dire need of changing to something, in fact, anything other than gloomy people’s faces. And I’ll require curtains for the times when I don’t wish to see the sun or gardens. Light at the wrong time could impair my judgment of the right color combinations.” Riona bit her lip and did her best mock of a smile possible. He was an insufferable brute of a man, but she’d have to keep her comments to herself. Would he really be worth keeping around if he angered her in such a way? “I’ll see to the changes immediately. About the fabrics, shall I have my servants bring them up to you?” He made a snorting sound and rocked back and forth on his heels laughing. “No need. I’m more than capable of bringing up my own things. You see, in France I was blessed with arms and legs of my own, and I don’t require using someone else’s.” “It’s what the servants are here for. Without me, there would be many more homeless, poor villagers than there are now. I provide jobs for those who need them. Danzig will be up shortly to assist you. If you don’t require anything else of me, I’ll leave you to your work.” “Pardon me, but I hadn’t planned on working today, thank you. It has been a long ride and I must rest. Do the rumors of your being a slave driver actually hold some merit? I certainly hope not. I shall walk along the gardens and rest until dinner. I trust that meets with the empress’ approval?” Out of frustration, she turned and stomped out, making sure to walk extra loud along the hallway until she reached her room. Cassie was changing the flowers in a vase when Riona flopped down on the bed, flailing her arms against the pillows. “What is wrong, my Lady?” “That horrible brute Gustav!” “He has only just arrived, my Lady. Has he done something to displease you so soon?” “From the moment he opened his mouth, he has done nothing but cause me displeasure. He’s a haughty, egotistical, pretentious oaf, and I don’t like him at all. If it weren’t for his highly regarded talent, I’d demand he leave at once.” She pounded at the bed with her fists, wanting nothing more than to scream at the top of her lungs. “All I know is, he’d better be as good as the reputation that precedes him. If I notice a single flaw on any garment he makes, he’s gone for good. Considering I’m paying him handsomely and giving him my best rooms, he should mind his manners. The least he could do is show some common courtesy. What does he take me for, a vagabond?” Cassie stood, silent, letting her mistress vent. She sighed sharply, not really sure how to explain. The man was impudent and made her blood boil. “He mocks my land, how I run things, and most of all—me. Clearly he disapproves of my taste in décor and I think he finds me unattractive.” “How is such a thing possible? Men fall at your feet, my Lady.” “Yes, yes. I know these things, though I don’t mind hearing them. One minute he says something nice and the next he’s finding fault with me. I’m confused. He doesn’t act like any man I’ve ever encountered.” “Maybe he’s just tired, my Lady. I can’t understand why anyone would treat you in such a callous manner.” “You may be right, perhaps I’m judging him too harshly for a first time appearance. I’m sure his travels have tired him. He did say he would lie down and take a nap. I had hoped we’d start off on a better footing, but there’s still time to make amends. Cassie, tell Danzig that Monsieur Gustav requires changes to his workroom. I wish them to be done immediately.” “He is displeased?” “Apparently, it’s not good enough. Now leave me. The horrid man has left me exhausted.” She pulled herself up off the bed and straightened her gown. Riona went into her room of mirrors to find solace. She had hoped to wear one of his creations in the morning, but would suffer with one of the many gowns she’d had delivered from Spain. The colors were bolder than she liked against her pale skin, but one dress had an intricate embroidered design and complimented her red hair perfectly. She practiced her facial expressions, going from anger to excitement, seeing what produced wrinkles and what brought out her youthfulness. “I had heard rumors you had a room of mirrors, but I didn’t believe it. Until now.” Gustav sauntered in, shaking his head from side to side. Riona jumped. She’d hoped for some moments of peace before dealing with him again. Nausea replaced her anger. “I’m not ashamed of my looks. Where you come from, many ladies boast about how lovely they are, but I know how truly lovely I am. My mother saw to it that I had a strong sense of self-confidence, and I don’t try and hide it.” “Seems to me you’re hiding something, rather than exposing yourself.” Her mouth dropped open and she glared. “I thought you were going to take a nap.” “As a matter of fact, I still plan to, but I’d like to take your measurements. There are times when my creations come from my dreams.” She nodded her head and looked away. “Very well. I’ll return to measure you in a moment.” There was a change when he left, in both her and the room. If she wasn’t fuming mad at him, she was flustered. In all her life, no man had ever dared to challenge her, but Gustav was different. Either it was how he was brought up, or his fame had turned him into a monster. Why women fawned over him she couldn’t understand. He was easy on the eyes when he kept his mouth shut. As she watched him leave, her eyes followed the outline of his body, trying to imagine him without clothing. The thought was more than arousing, evidenced by the silky film between her thighs. Her curiosity with what he could create was almost too much, and now she was expected to wait. One thing was certain. He would have to change his ways and adopt an improved method of conduct if she would allow him to stay on. Captive or by will, she would be the last woman he’d create clothes for. When he returned, she made it a point to be cooperative and set a better example. “I’ll need you to undress to your undergarments for proper fitting.” She opened her mouth to protest, but thought better of it. “Fine. Would you help me with the buttons in the back?” “I’m more than happy to help.” Turning, she fought back the frustration of their earlier conversation and closed her eyes. “Your red hair is eye-catching. I should like to see you wear it down someday.” Shivers traveled along her back as he undid each button. Fingertips wisped along her flesh, like butterfly wings. She struggled against the tickles they produced. The loosened material slid down and she stepped out of her dress and petticoats. In her corset and pantaloons, she stood still and waited. “You take very good care of yourself,” he commented while wrapping a numbered ribbon around her waist tightly. Instinctively, she sucked in her breath, making herself as thin as possible. “I believe the body is a temple and should be treated as one.” Her words came in breathless gasps as his hands brushed against her flesh. “Yours is very much worth daily prayer, I’d say.” Her skin blazed with heat. She bit her lip as he knelt down, wrapping the measuring ribbon around each leg. His pinky finger slipped up along her thigh, sending shivers to the deepest recesses of her body. Gustav stood and measured her petite waist, his eyes intent on her. Riona felt a faint hardness pressing against her upper thigh. She dared not look down for fear of overreacting. “I need you to lift your arms up.” She raised her arms and pressed her palms together, looking anywhere but at him. His arms wrapped around her body for a moment, and his fingers lightly brushed against her hardening nipples as he brought the ends of the ribbon together. She almost swooned as she caught the fragrance of musk and licorice. He took his time gathering the ribbon around her chest, tightening it and then giving it some slack. “Do you always wear a corset?” “Of course. No self-respecting woman would dare go without one,” she cried, outraged by his ignorance. For someone so attuned to a woman’s need for clothing, he asked stupid questions. “Actually, you’ll find in France, many of the women have broken away from such rigorous wear and have accepted a more freeing state of dress. You would know that if you were up-to-date on your haute couture.” She blinked several times, stung by his insult. She struggled to find a way to cover her ignorance.” “French women are beautiful, of course, but I wish to be a fashion unto myself. I do not wish to look like everyone else. I think a corset is sexy and I like the way my clothes fit when I wear one. I shall continue to wear mine, thank you.” “As you wish. I am told that the freedom of movement is worth the extra inch around the waist. I’m done for now and off to take that nap. I shall see you at dinner. Enjoy your mirrored companions.” If she didn’t think his backside was so fine, she’d run over and give it a swift sturdy kick. France this and France that. It was insulting and getting on her nerves. He spoke as if people who lived elsewhere were nothing but animals or degenerates. She’d show him that around these parts, there was only one woman with beauty that shone brighter than the sun ever could. Men crawled at her feet, kissing the very ground she walked on, and Gustav Denairre wasn’t going to tear her down. Cassie passed by and stared from the doorway, a look of surprise across her face. “Yes, what is it?” Riona hadn’t meant for her words to sound harsh, but her anger was getting the better of her. Color coated the maid’s face and she looked down at the floor. “I’m sorry for disturbing you, my Lady. Are you in need of help to redress you?” “What are you talking about? I…” She looked down and suddenly remembered she stood half naked for everyone to see. “Gustav was measuring me for the gowns. Come in here for a moment. And close the door.” The chambermaid scurried in, her features distraught and alarmed. “Have I done something to displease you, my Lady?” “Tsk, tsk, of course not. You’re the only one I trust with this task. Tomorrow afternoon, I’d like you to take Mr. Denairre some fruit and cheese, and check on his progress on my gowns. I’ll want a full report on the dress he’s making. I want to know the color, style and texture.” “Yes, my Lady.” “Ask him questions and sound interested. Men like to talk about work they’re proud of. I want to know what you think of the garments, how they’re coming along, and if you think they will do me justice.” “Yes, my Lady, tomorrow afternoon, I will do so.” “Wonderful. You should get back to helping with dinner. Make sure only our best plates and wines are on the table. We wouldn’t want Gustav to complain about our wine, seeing as how France boasts the finest anywhere.” “As you wish.” She curtsied and fled from the room, looking over her shoulder only once. Riona bent over to pick up her dress when Danzig gave a long, low whistle from the doorway. “My Lady, I believe I came at a good time.” She smirked and quickly straightened herself. His ways of bestowing pleasure on her had become a welcome pastime. Strangers and lowly servants weren’t worth her time, and the suitors who came regularly always wanted something more in return, which she had no interest in giving. Danzig simply enjoyed satisfying her, not to mention, he was well equipped with a talented tongue. Next to Cassie, he was the only one she trusted. He ran a hand along his dark hair and removed a pair of wiry glasses. Behind her, he nestled close to her body. Slipping a hand across her breast, he worked his fingers underneath the corset and teased the nipple into a hardened bud. Riona rested her head back against his chest and felt the temperature in the room change. His tongue ran along the sensitive side of her neck, exciting her in a fervid rage. “You smell heavenly,” he whispered appreciatively. “Feel free to sniff wherever you like, darling.” Danzig moved to face her and knelt, his fingers running along the waistband of her pantaloons. “Let me see what trouble I can get myself into.” A rush of warmth rested between her thighs as he caressed her hips, pulling the fabric down. Her eyelids fluttered and started to close when movement caught her attention. Body tensed, she gasped. Had Gustav been standing in the doorway watching? The thought excited and terrified her at the same time. Quickly, she ignored her saturated sex and changed her demeanor, pulling Danzig up. “Does my Lady wish to be pleasured in the privacy of her bedchambers instead?” He rubbed at his trousers, unable to hide his stiff erection. “My apologies, but I’m going to have to pass on your enticing invitation for the moment. Perhaps we can explore my needs later tonight. Dinner shall be soon and I don’t want a rushed orgasm.” “Very well, later it shall be. I look forward to it.” As he left, his stoic expression spoke volumes. Her dissatisfied sigh echoed around the room as the desire for sex diminished. Had her eyes been playing tricks? If it had been Gustav standing there, how much had he seen? Danzig wasn’t one for closing doors, but she was going to have to be much more discreet with her guest around. Still, she wasn’t sure why it bothered her. A small voice inside her head reminded her that she wouldn’t mind the lips of Gustav brushing against her silken slit. Staring into the mirrors, she wondered how he saw her. Did he desire her? When he made his gowns, did he let his mind wander, imagining how the garment would fit against her curves? Had he felt anything when he was measuring her? A smile crept across her face. Clatter from the hallway brought her out of her reverie. Dinner would be soon and she was still standing half-naked. Riona decided to wear a different dress for dinner, and chose one of the colorful gowns from Spain. She wanted Gustav to see how everyone admired her, and perhaps pique his interest at the same time. The bold green and copper dress fit her figure in all the right places, if not a little snug in the waist, and cradled her breasts in a pleasing way. She wore her hair down and brushed it until the silken strands hung straight and elegant around her shoulders. She would teach the insufferable man not to doubt her charms. In fact, it might be amusing to see if, by the time he had her gowns finished, if she could have him panting after her like a dog. Maybe then she would push the boorish man away, and teach him a lesson in humility. But then again, new lovers were always interesting. * * * * When she entered the dining room, all the men stood and applauded. She noticed Gustav was the last to stand and the first to sit back down again. Unwilling to let him ruin her appetite, she accentuated her steps with some sultry hip movements followed by leaning forward, exposing the fullness of her ample breasts. Compliments were thrust upon her as she took her place at the head of the table; as always, she soaked them all in. With a nod, she graciously acknowledged her courtiers, acquaintances, and lastly, her guest. Danzig made his own entrance by bringing out a cart of wine. He selected three bottles and displayed them for her approval. Placing a napkin on her lap, she waited as he opened them. “If I may, Empress, you look even more ravishing than ever.” She smiled slightly and held out her glass. Riona was slowly becoming aware of how tight her corset was. It was becoming hard to breathe. “Excuse me.” Gustav clinked a fork against his glass and cleared his throat. “Will the whole evening be about staring at the empress, or will we be allowed to feast our eyes on the food as well?” His comment hung in the air until the first trays were brought out. Fruits and croissants were quickly eaten before more silver trays were set atop the table. Once the lids were removed, a delicious aroma settled in around the room. Roast beef smothered in port sauce, assorted vegetables, fresh baked breads, and mounds of potatoes were set along the table to the appreciation of many. Fifteen pairs of eyes hungrily admired the food while Riona glared at one person in particular. She downed her wine in quick gulps and held her glass out, knowing full well Danzig would rush over to fill it. He bent over and whispered in her ear, “My Lady, I suggest some restraint. You haven’t eaten since early morn.” How dare he tell her what to do? As punishment, his request to pleasure her later would be denied. Grimly, she turned to him and frowned. “Nonsense, I can hold my own.” In a matter of seconds, her glass was empty again. Uncomfortably, she shifted in her chair, trying to sit in a manner where her stomach didn’t feel like it was stuck in her throat. She hadn’t gained weight, but the dress fit much tighter than she was used to. By the third glass of wine, she hadn’t touched a bite of her food, afraid the seams would burst in her dress. Instead, she found entertainment and arousal in watching the way Gustav ate. With his knife and fork, he did a seductive dance, bringing the food to his mouth and chewing startlingly slow, as if savoring every precious bite. When he swallowed, his dimples deepened and his tongue traced his bottom lip, gathering any remaining juice. In a trance, she stared, wishing to taste him. She wondered how closely related his eating habits and his skills in the bedroom intertwined. Halfway through her fourth glass of wine, Riona saw two Mr. Denairres and would gladly welcome them both into her bedchamber. Fantasies drifted in and out of her mind as she sank back into the chair. Holding her head up was becoming increasingly difficult and she broke out into laughter. Faces turned her way, but she didn’t care. Lowering herself further in her chair, she watched the room spin in a windmill of colors, until everything turned black. |