.Karma.
01-01-2016, 01:46 AM
-[Copost between ~N~ and .Karma.]-
Mornings. Karma hated mornings. Something about the way the sun shined down all bright and cheery, when obviously it was a miserable time in the day. Morning would be fine, if they started around noon, in her book. Fumbling around with her coffee, she looked out the window. The mailbox was so far away, so very far. But, it was her routine to get the mail in the mornings and she wouldn’t break that. So, carrying her coffee, her hair a nest on top of her head, and no shoes on, she made the long treck to the mailbox. “Bill, bill, junk...b…” A beautiful letter caught her eye. It was more beautiful than any other mail she had received before.
Grabbing it up quickly, she hurried her way back into the house, putting everything else in her hand onto the table, but still holding the gorgeous letter in her hands. “N” a smile spread across her face. He hadn’t forgot about her!
The letter was enclosed in an envelope that is thick with quality materials — not one that was simply put together from scraps of paper obviously. On the front is a blood-colored wax seal with a single letter: “N”. The usual ornate flourishes accompany the letter around the stamp of the seal.
While anyone else unfamiliar with the realm of RPA might be at a loss for the identity of the sender, to you, it is quite clear.
Breaking it open, Karma finds the composition within written upon stock that is equally elegant and of artisanal craftsmanship. Written in a practiced hand, trained by grueling years of strict, unforgiving oversight common in noble upbringings, the ink flows across the page with a grace that nearly conceals these harsh lessons, and conveys its message with impeccable style:
My Dearest Karma,
It is with royal affection
that I cordially invite you
to a private dance together
under the starlit skies of St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France (http://www.beyond.fr/picsvill2/stjeancf0021.jpg),
among the botanical delights, lily ponds,
dancing fountains, and marble statues
with the sea breeze whispering over our shoulders
of the Gardens (http://www.villa-ephrussi.com/sites/ver/files/styles/home_img_fond/public/home_0.jpg?itok=YdGNt1ra) of the Villa (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0248/3737/files/1024px-Gardens_of_the_Villa_Ephrussi_de_Rothschild_-_DSC04733.JPG?9584) Éphrussi de Rothschild. (http://www.gardenvisit.com/uploads/image/image/121/12192/villa_ephrussi_garden_original.jpg)
I shall expect your appearance at sunset,
upon the Eve of the New Year
whereupon we shall spend the night in each other's arms
dancing our way to midnight
and beyond.
Your Paramour for this Evening,
~N~
As she read it through, the smile on her face only brightened. Who would have thought, such a smile and in the morning, too! The sun shining bright, no longer seemed like a cruel joke, but a reflection of her mood. A dance! Wait… a beautifully romantic dance to bring in the new year, and she still had to get ready. There were so many things she needed to do! One would thing nearly a whole day would be enough, but she felt so short on time! A nervous flutter of excitement made it’s way through her body as she quickly chugged down her coffee. Karma needed to look better than RPA had ever seen her! She would be graceful and charming, no doubt it would no where near match her partners, but she was going to try!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The grounds chosen for this New Year’s dance were no less spacious and grandiose than the illimitable reputation of the one who had invited her here. There were more than a few people who whispered in corners that there were but few denizens who qualified as eloquent royalty, and N was certainly one of them. The being—who most often assumed the form of a man, though the few scholars of the realm were not entirely certain that he was necessarily even human—cast a long and severe shadow in the eyes of the general populace, and to dance with him was considered less than desirable, usually ending in suffering and humiliation at best.
Yet, there was no doubt that he carried himself with a regal air that some took for arrogance, and so there was reason to wonder at just what kind of dance Karma had been invited to, since he was not always so ominous and threatening, and there had been that remarkable showing at the Masquerade of 2015. Still, it was generally believed that while N was without doubt a noble creature (however monstrous and terrifying to some), he did not generally exude an aura of warmth and affection.
The atmosphere of this place would be a surprise then to all who beheld it, considering the one who had invited her here. Glowing wisps provided just enough ethereal fire to keep the skin breaking out in goosebumps, while being modest enough in their illumination to appear as no more than faerie fire, so that one could still look to the clear sky above, across which one or two isolated clouds passed lazily, and see a host of stars that had turned out for this occasion. The moon was smartly dressed in a slim crescent, keeping her possessive shine to her corner of the sky while offering her lunar blessing to the dancers below.
Beyond and below the fete, set upon a high cliffside manor as it was, the waves washed gently into shore, glittering like a dark blanket with diamonds strewn across them. The sea breeze lilted upon the festivities of these palatial grounds, set in St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France, and whispered into the ears of attendees its eternal, rhythmic music.
The gardens themselves were legendary in their expansiveness, including long walkways of fine white stone, adorned on each side by expertly manicured green grass, cut to perfect in designs that betrayed more than a little artistic talent on the part of the groundskeepers. Trees of several varieties, including palms and pines lined the walkways, providing a wild touch to the perfectly manicured lawns, which was punctuated by busts and statues of one deity, hero, or another along with splashes of red and white brought to life by the roses planted neatly around them. There were even hedges cut into symbolic patterns to be found in squares that bordered the intersections of the walkways, and within some of these or beside others, were illuminated dancing fountains that seem to sway to the music that floated upon the air as the sun sank into the sea.
All of the walkways led to an ostentatious pink mansion, the house of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild itself. With at least three floors, and two sets of balconies, adorned with high arching windows and great double doors, it was a palace fit for a French princess, and a lovely home to spend all of one’s days running about in mirthful bliss and joy. The mansion itself presided with a jovial visage over the ceremonies before and below it, and if there was ever any doubt as the tepid night descended upon the province about the frivolity of this occasion, the pink walls with their brassiers and torchiers certainly put those concerns to rest.
This was indeed a happy occasion; a festive celebration meant to ring in the New Year with a smile, and it drew all the finest people. Musical accompaniment was provided by a man who looked and possess a talented voice that compared beyond conceit to the late Frank Sinatra, together with a talented band of instruments that seemed to move and play all of their own accord, as if moved by some mysterious enchantment. Each of the guests were dressed in their finery; the ladies in gowns and dresses, the men in tuxes and suits, comprising a myriad menagerie of colorful fashions, such as might suit such a paradise on earth as this. Butlers and waitresses bore aloft silver platters with glasses of wine and flutes of champagne for the guests to drink as they arrived and mingled, some of them conversing while others engaged in their own little private dances.
Such as N had invited her to engage in with him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Had she thought of everything? Karma’s mind was racing as she looked over her nails, freshly manicured with french tips. Flipping out a mirror to tuck in one of her big banana curls where she had went and got her hair done quite elegantly. Long curls cascading down her exposed shoulders. She put the mirror away just to flip it out again a few moments later. Karma took another drink of the champagne that this glorious limousine had provided. N had simply thought of everything.
When they pulled up to the glorious gardens, her breath caught in her throat. Never in her life had she seen something so spectacular. When a man opened her door, holding out his hand, she took it and stepped out, her whole being still hardly being able to take in the beauty of the location that N had chosen for them. Swallowing hard and taking a deep breath, she nodded her thank you with a smile to the man who had helped her out, and proceeded towards where she presumed the festivities would take place.
Stepping into the gardens, she was even more in awe-if that was possible- at the beauty in front of her. Beautiful music played in the background and everything was just... Perfect. Honestly, she should have expected nothing less from the intimidating man that had invited her here. Where was he? She wasn’t sure what he would be wearing or where she was supposed to be.
So for a moment she just stood at the entrance, her eyes searching, but too nervous to really step more inside. Everyone was beautiful, Karma was immediately self conscious. Her dark red gown was long, but on the left side was a slit that went up to her knee, giving her room to walk and revealing red heels that made her stand at least two inches taller than her normal height. Her shoes were simple, as she hadn’t wanted to distract from her long gown. In the right light, you could see her dress sparkle and shine, subtle enough to be elegant, but not enough to seem too extravagant or distracting. The dress hugged her curves just right, all the way up her body to where it attached around her neck. The V shaped neck of the dress was most definitely alluring, considering the size of her bust (which seemed to be popular around RPA), but not enough to be too revealing or trashy. There was simple string of pearls hanging from her neck, and hidden by her cascading curls, were pearl earrings to match.
Taking a few steps forward, she stopped again, her heart beating fast. Nervously tucking yet another dark brown curl back, that was not actually out of place,she smiled. It’s okay, Karma, breathe. He invited you because he wanted you here. He chose you. She gave herself a pep talk as she straightened herself up, brushed down her dress one last time and walked further into the garden, searching for her partner.
When he caught sight of her, standing at the top of a small set of steps leading down from the path she had walked upon to reach the center terrace where he was waiting, N was mesmerized and stood amazed. If flowers could be jealous, he was certain they would be at the elegant rose that had appeared before them, sparkling as though with fresh dew in the wan light of the moon and stars. She gracefully, tentatively stepped down, one step after another, her eyes wide and beautiful, searching the grounds, the party-goers for him, no doubt. He smiled. Her eyes hidden beneath long lashes, but he glimpsed a soft brown through them, peeking out as they moved over the gardens, taking in the breathless scenery she found herself in.
N began to take his first steps towards her, indirectly, like a lion circling slowly as it kept its eyes fixed upon its prey. It was his natural predisposition of course—he was was a hunter. Not of the type that men become when they stalk game, but of the wilderness itself, moving with fearful symmetry, powerful muscles carrying him effortlessly among the statues and greenery with a smooth, flawless gait. He was in no hurry; Karma would see him soon enough. But he wanted to savor her first, wide-eyed, dressed in elegance and sensuality. Admittedly, he found her alluring, and the dark red gown she had chosen complimented her figure in every way, accentuating her feminine curves and bust in way that left his lips in need another sip of the champagne he had picked effortlessly from a silver platter that had passed him by moments ago.
For his part, Karma’s paramour this evening would materialize before her in a clean, midnight black jacket, tailored to perfection to frame and define his powerful shoulders, her V-shaped back and torso, and follow his lines right down to his black dress pants, which descended his tall, six-foot form to his shining wingtips, complete with a touch of silver on their toes; just enough to compliment their shining polish, reflecting sleek finery approvingly to the eyes of any woman who would look upon them. His shirt was white royal linen, concealed behind a crimson vest lined with a light silver chain in one pocket that seemed to glimmer with starlight. His vest matched her dress perfectly in color, as though he knew precisely what she was going to wear. The vest and collared shirt hugged his strong chest like a second skin, and all of this masculine elegance might have led one to assume that if they traveled ever upward, they would find a bowtie embracing his flawless, pale neck…
… but it was not so. For if there was one thing that seemed to hold for N, changeable as he was, it was that he could abide nothing about his throat except the arms and hands of woman. And so his collar remained outlandishly unbuttoned and open to the midnight air, its ends flaring out with debonair rebelliousness, inviting the one who would dance with him a closer look at the intimate features of his collarbone and flawless throat.
And so it was that he came up behind her, and whispered in her ear with a low, husky voice that carried the promise of a smile upon his lips, “You look absolutely stunning tonight.” When she turned, she would come face to face with a timeless gaze from a thousand years ago, looking upon her through irises of stormy gray and shades of blue, swirled with vines of green and occasional streaks of something that, in a luminous moment, might even resemble a summer storm. His features were definably strong, cut along a powerful jaw, a straight nose, and lips that were just full enough to beg savoring. Behind them, glimmering sharp white teeth fit for a tiger revealed themselves to her warm brown eyes, but he was a man, a lord, in every sense of the word. His long hair flowed back from his high forehead in brown locks, streaked at times with silver and copper, and perhaps even an occasional strand of gold, but they curled like cats down upon his shoulders, relaxing from their straight roots.
Taking her hand in his, she immediately felt softness and warmth envelop her skin, as he raised it to his lips and kissed the top, his eyes lowering for but a moment before returning to gaze into hers. “Would you like a drink before we dance?” he offered with a noble smile.
Karma had been searching, taking one step at a time slowly, her brown eyes looking one way and then the next when she heard a voice in her ear. How had she not heard him come up behind her? It actually quite suited the mystery that tended to surround N. A bright smile illuminated her face as she turned around, looking upon her beau for the evening.
A crimson color spread slowly across her cheeks at his words, and she looked down for a moment, only to move her brown globes up to meet his eyes when he kissed her hand. His eyes were easy to get lost in, with all of the colors, she found it hard to break her gaze. When she finally did, a darker red spread across her cheeks. Oh yes, he had spoken to her! She had been so struck by the vision of him, she had forgotten she had a voice. Every item that he had dawned, fit him perfectly, the vest even matching her dress. Karma had expected a bowtie, but found her eyes stopping at an open collar, causing a small smirk to cross her lips. Finally she found her voice. “And you look devilishly handsome, as expected.”
Standing on her toes, she put her hand out to touch his hair that hung down perfectly, but pulled it back realizing that touching of hair and face may not be welcome so quickly. Giving him a quick kiss on the cheek. “I would love a drink actually, thank you!” The smiled that graced his perfect face, put her at ease, and Karma linked her arm in the crook of N’s elbow, smiling at him. Still finding it hard to focus on anything but him. “I’m not going to lie, I did expect a tie.” She laughed softly, the pink shade on her cheeks fading slightly as she became more comfortable.
Karma had a lively vitality to her, and it enlivened his own spirits, as he watched her attention move from his eyes, to his kiss, to his eyes again, his spoken words nearly forgotten like a passing memory until his offer awakened them again within her. He watched her with his pleased expression as she reached out to touch his hair, his lips spreading into a wider smile when she pulled away. Her shyness did not curb her enthusiasm however, as she delightfully accepted his offer, slipping her arm through his, and her mood lightened even as her cheeks flushed (much to his approval) with excitement as she commented on her expectations of the traditional accoutrement that gentlemen were almost always expected to wear.
N allowed himself a throaty chuckle, leading her own like a lion over the stones of the walkways, the power of his form conveyed through her as she held on to his arm. “Indeed, the only thing I want around my neck tonight is your arms,” he smiled at her from the side. “Do you prefer wine or champagne, darling?”
Oh, he was determined to keep her cheeks red, and it was working. The shy smile never leaving her lips and his words causing her eyes to shine with her own mischievousness. “It best be wine, if you expect my arms around you that easily.” Her own words made the blush spread and another soft laugh escaping her lips.
“Wine it shall be then!” he answered with a smile. “A white seems to match this occasion more with its golden color; like the color of wine, and I suppose silver and gold always come to mind when I think of the celebration and passage of the New Year…” Without hesitation, he raised two fingers of his left hand at a waiter in the distance who glided over momentarily with two glasses of Chardonnay, from a harvest dating back twenty years, crisp and sweet with notes of lush fruit, bright acidity, and impeccably balanced oak. It wasn’t the most expensive wine in the world, but then sometimes, the best wines are those you find between the racks and boxes.
Taking the first glass by the stem, he turned and offered it to his sensuous partner with a smile, waiting for her to take the glass with watchful eyes, before reaching back and taking his own, his eyes fixed upon her, entranced by her appearance tonight.
“To us, to the new year ahead, and to a long and lovely dance with you this evening, dear Karma, and to dances to come!” He raised his glass to hers by the moonlight, waiting for her to complete the toast.
Karma actually loved how he took charge of the situation. Choosing a wonderful Chardonnay and waving to the waiter. Her shy nature truly appreciate his more dominating one and made him even more masculine and alluring to her. Eyes sparkling with anticipation, she took the glass that was offered to her, in her small dainty and freshly manicured hand. Swirling the wine a bit in the glass, Karmas brown eyes moved to gaze into his again as he made his toast. “To the dance and wonderful new friendships.” She smiled and put the edge of her glass to his gently.
The ringing “clink” that sang out as a soft, tinkling note in the evening sounded the moment perfectly, and N nodded approvingly with a smile, adding, “To us,” as he put the glass to his lips and savored the golden, delicious elixir of grapes, fruit, and alcohol. It was as if he was imbibing the celestial light of the stars, and when he finished, the glass was empty. He hadn’t rushed the experience, but as with his hand, which slid warmly now over Karma’s lower back, he hadn’t wanted to let go or stop either. N waited for her to finish her wine before making his next request:
“Shall we dance?”
Karma put her own glass to her lips gently, to not cause too much of her gloss to come off onto the glass. At first she had considered to be more lady-like and not take the whole glass in one drink, but the taste was so perfect, she couldn’t help but finish the glass. Bringing the glass from her lips, she handed it to a waiter nearby so that her hands were free.
N’s hand on her bare back cause a shiver to go up her spine. Its touch was soft enough to not be forceful, but present enough to be strong, masculine, and almost commanding. She loved it. With his request, she couldn’t help but do exactly what she had hesitated with before. Putting her hand on his hair and stroking down his cheek ever so lightly.
“There is nothing I would like more.”
She was like warm, living silk to his touch, and responded to his touch with desire, as she dared to caress his hair and face with her fingertips now, causing him to close his eyes for a moment and focus only upon her touch, the whole world disappearing in that instant to the sliding, soft tips of her fingers and grazing of her nails.
Slowly he reopened his eyes, alive now with desire and passion, he slid his hand from her back to her hand, taking it gently, yet purposefully in his as he led Karma to the center plaza, vacant, as if reserved just for them, with flickering candles adorning its perimeter, a space not more than twenty meters across in diameter—enough room for two souls to come together in a private dance, yet still move freely through the steps. Stepping through the opening of the candles, N turned, and led Karma into his arms, changing hands as he slid his right over her back, his left hand interlacing with her fingers, pressing her close enough to feel her soft warm body against his, as the musical accompaniment and its Sinatra began their next song, timed and chosen just for them (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9ZGKALMMuc), as the other guests stopped what they were doing and watched these two dancers take their first steps.
Looking into Karma’s deep brown eyes, N communicated in unspoken words, with his strong hand firmly, yet warmly upon her back, keeping her close as he took his first step forward, leading her to step back, and then step forward again, before turning, keeping a sensual, yet powerful tempo between them. His cheeks acquired a color of their own, as his eyes remained fixed on Karma’s, communicating breathlessly to her that nothing else in this world could compare to her beauty right now, in this moment; that nothing else mattered apart from the closeness and heat that grew between them, as they stepped together, in perfect, rhythmic sync with each other.
He could he feel her soft breaths grace his lips, her breasts rising and falling in time with their steps, and her heartbeat pounding through her chest, beating out its own feverish rhythm, to his own stirring delight and pleasure. N enjoyed her passion, her excitement, her closeness and heat thrilling him. He would make sure her glow outshined all the stars and guests this night before this dance was done.
Taking N’s hand in her own, gently caressing it with her thumb, she gladly took his lead to the plaza. “Wow.” The word truly could not contain how wonderful the view was around them. When everyone stopped, her cheeked couldn’t help but get warm again. But… when his eyes met hers, his hand touching her back, they were alone in that moment. Nothing else mattered except for the warmth of his hand on her back, his fingers intertwining with hers. Hers so small in comparison.
Surely he could feel her heart fluttering in her chest, but her figure just seemed to fit perfectly in his embrace. When the music started, he lead her perfectly. In that moment, she was his. Every ounce of her being, her movements, and every flutter of her heart belonged to this strong, intimidating, yet sensual and sweet man in front of her.
As his cheeks turned a color a small smirk graced her lips. Seems he could be made to blush as well, but she made no mention of it. Not that she wouldn’t in the future. His breath against her skin caused her own to become a bit unsteady, but in a moment of courage she moved even closer to him in their flawless movement. Laying the side of her head on his cheek. Karma’s hot breath now running down his neck, and her body pushed up against his as she continued to follow his lead impeccably. He made dancing seem easy, in control of every move they made as if it was as easy as walking and she was lost in this trance with him.
Karma was a natural, he thought with a smile. He could feel her racing pulse with no small measure of delight but she never hesitated, never frightened herself into wooden, distant movements that would have chilled the air between them. No, she closed the distance, and as she pressed herself to his broad, powerful chest, he slid his arm tighter around her waist, drawing her into his embrace even as her soft cheek brushed against his, the fragrance of her hair delighting him with its scents.
But it was her hot breath upon his neck that made his fingers clench ever so noticeably, firmly upon her skin and dress, and his blood flowed like rum through his veins now, as he enjoyed the sensuous, passionate closeness that they now shared, melting into each other intimately, their breaths moving in time as their bodies and feet. He led her to the very edge of the circle, and then back across, turning the lovely woman in his arms as easily as the sun and stars moved across the sky, so that if they were paying attention to the figures watching them, holding glasses with smiles and whispers of how enrapturing they were together, they might even feel dizzy.
N had only Karma in his world however, within a circle of lights and candles, upon white stones to the music of Sinatra and the sea, and the pounding of heart and his making their own intimate music between them, their pulses quickening, as they turned together again, legs pressed against each other, bodies so close that only by breathing together could they possibly draw breath at all. Karma could feel his heat, his desire, his need for her as N kept her close, moving with her, leading her through these deep, intimate, passionate steps that spoke of his appreciation for her, his pleasure for the way she moved, and for her sensuous closeness, the caress of her breath and the touch of her hands. He spoke without words to her and his deep attraction to her as a woman, for all of the femininity and sexuality she exuded, and when his breath whispered through her curls and caressed her skin, it was hot with molten desire. Again, holding her closely with powerful arms, he turned her again in his embrace, leading them back to the center of their dance.
As his hand slid more around her waist, a slight but noticeable shiver made it’s way up her spine. Every movement N made overflowed with intensity and sensuality and she had been enraptured by it. His touch, his strength, his movement, his breath, his heartbeat had become her world, as if they had become one. It felt as if her whole being was not her own at this moment of their lives. Even as her face turned to graze her lips ever so softly against his warm cheek, the movement felt slow and breathtaking. Like time and normal physics had no hold on the two of them. Karma had no idea where she was being led to on the dance floor, it mattered not to her. Nothing mattered except their two hearts beating as one, and their breath in perfect consonance with one another.
Feeling Karma’s lips upon his cheek, N exhaled and moved his to her ear, nestled among the curls of her sweet scented hair, his breath embracing and enveloping the sensitive skin there, as his balmy words slipped into her blood when he spoke: “You are positively ravishing tonight,” he began, with a possessive squeeze. “And I should love the opportunity to savor… every… single… inch of you in the hours to come…” Then his teeth, those sharp, white, glimmering teeth, bit down with enough pressure to send a tremor of pleasure straight down through her body before he released her. It was a carnal act, concealed by her vibrant curls and the shadows of the evening that played among the flickering lights, like a lion, taking the ear of a lioness possessively as he takes her passionately in the jungle, making her his. She was marked, beyond question, and his bite was a promise of things to come that did not belong where others could wickedly enjoy them with their eyes and desires, their dark fantasies and lingering jealousy.
His lips then brushed lower, dangerously, slowly lower, without breaking his tempo or steps with Karma, leading her on through a dance that had become far more intense than she had likely anticipated, or that was exactly what N had hoped. Keeping her off balance, aching to the very limits of restraint, thrilled him, even as his own veins burned with a barely contained lust that longed to know what champagne would taste like upon her skin, mixed with the scent of her passion.
Those shadows at the perimeter and their hopes and dreams, wishes and desires no longer mattered anymore, they both knew. There was only the pressing closeness between them, the oneness that sang through their bodies, as they moved like liquid desire across the stones that blazed to life with each of their steps, glowing with the heat of their ardor. Wine may have warmed their blood, but only passion set it afire, and if it was possible to see their heat, it would be as a rhythmic flame, dancing at the center of the garden, high into the night.
“Do you think the angels are watching?” his sultry, wicked words kissed her skin again. “Shall we make them watch a little longer?” His smiled glimmered with predatory pleasure as he moved against her with each dominant step, moved with her with each possessive turn, and beckoned to her with each rhythmic beat of his heart.
Karma had opened her lips to respond to his passionate words about savoring her, her words caught in her throat as she felt teeth on her ear, causing an unwilling response down her spine, her body arching into his without her telling it to do so. Her hand gripping him just a bit tighter and her breath quickening against his flawless skin. Their passion and lust was apparent, but the onlookers around could not even begin to imagine how that passion felt as she felt his dominance and hot breath on her ear in that moment. When he spoke again, she could have sworn she felt her knees buckle slightly as the husky voice filled her ear once again. Karma’s whole body giving an obvious response to just his voice, not to mention his touches and his breath.
“I’m... not sure we would want the angels watching what I have on my mind…” Her own voice was husky with desire, her words said almost completely against his skin, only for his ears to hear.
His grin spread wider upon hearing her words, and as the music came to a close in the distance, N brushed his lips along her cheek until he was right before her, their heads together, eyes fixed upon each other and nothing else in the world, noses barely touching, and lips aching for but the bare distance between them. Karma could see N’s desire for her burning intensely in the bright glow of his eyes, and with words that would have seared the wings right off those angels, he answered her closed enough for her to feel his words upon her own lips as he spoke them:
“Then let us leave them to their drinks and go somewhere the angels will fear to tread, should they interrupt us.” Then he sealed his proposal with a long, deep, sensuous kiss upon her lips, stealing her breath completely from her body with a squeeze of inflamed pleasure, which she could feel like a blazing inferno from his. He savored her with his tongue, as though she was like that glass of wine, exquisitely enjoyed with indulgent, erotic pleasure.
A smirk crossed Karma’s soft lips at his words, seeing the passion in his eyes. There were chills across her skin from the night air, but she paid them no mind. Suddenly her lips felt his upon them. Fireworks exploded in her mind, her hands immediately moving to his face to pull him closer, her tongue dancing with his as their bodies had just done. As if they were one. Nearly gripping onto his hair, she held him in a passionate embrace. Both hands running along the sides of his soft skin on his cheeks. And just like that, it was gone. His lips that breathed heat and passion into her body had departed hers, and left her absolutely breathless, her head swimming in desire.
Taking in her full reaction with such complete satisfaction that his head swam and his body sparked with electricity, N stepped back, reintroducing for the first time since they came together the air, which—while tepid to others—felt positively brisk against her skin. Had the night truly been colder, N imagined little curling wisps of steam would be rising from both of their bodies, with the clouds of warmth from their lips to match. He never let go of Karma, keeping her hand in his as he leaned down and kissed it once more, as though the raging flood of desire did not beat through their veins even in this very moment.
The pretense of decorum could only last so long, however, as glittering frost in the warm rays of the vernal sun. “Shall we?” he said with knowing smile
Karma was still trying to become grounded from such an earth shattering experience that it took her a moment to answer. Smiling up, a hint of mischievousness in her smile and a lustful glint in her eyes. “Yes, please,” was the only response that would come to her in her state. Allowing him to lead with his masculine grace and dominant air, following in perfect step beside him.
Leading Karma on with the same masculine grace that moved through his powerful, leonine frame, they departed the gardens to the sound of applause and the clinking of glasses, as the onlookers expressed their approval with laughter, whispers, and approving nods. It was not long after they disappeared from the palatial grounds that blazing fireworks erupted into the night sky, signaling with bursts of colorful, loud passion the coming of the new year.
Mornings. Karma hated mornings. Something about the way the sun shined down all bright and cheery, when obviously it was a miserable time in the day. Morning would be fine, if they started around noon, in her book. Fumbling around with her coffee, she looked out the window. The mailbox was so far away, so very far. But, it was her routine to get the mail in the mornings and she wouldn’t break that. So, carrying her coffee, her hair a nest on top of her head, and no shoes on, she made the long treck to the mailbox. “Bill, bill, junk...b…” A beautiful letter caught her eye. It was more beautiful than any other mail she had received before.
Grabbing it up quickly, she hurried her way back into the house, putting everything else in her hand onto the table, but still holding the gorgeous letter in her hands. “N” a smile spread across her face. He hadn’t forgot about her!
The letter was enclosed in an envelope that is thick with quality materials — not one that was simply put together from scraps of paper obviously. On the front is a blood-colored wax seal with a single letter: “N”. The usual ornate flourishes accompany the letter around the stamp of the seal.
While anyone else unfamiliar with the realm of RPA might be at a loss for the identity of the sender, to you, it is quite clear.
Breaking it open, Karma finds the composition within written upon stock that is equally elegant and of artisanal craftsmanship. Written in a practiced hand, trained by grueling years of strict, unforgiving oversight common in noble upbringings, the ink flows across the page with a grace that nearly conceals these harsh lessons, and conveys its message with impeccable style:
My Dearest Karma,
It is with royal affection
that I cordially invite you
to a private dance together
under the starlit skies of St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France (http://www.beyond.fr/picsvill2/stjeancf0021.jpg),
among the botanical delights, lily ponds,
dancing fountains, and marble statues
with the sea breeze whispering over our shoulders
of the Gardens (http://www.villa-ephrussi.com/sites/ver/files/styles/home_img_fond/public/home_0.jpg?itok=YdGNt1ra) of the Villa (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0248/3737/files/1024px-Gardens_of_the_Villa_Ephrussi_de_Rothschild_-_DSC04733.JPG?9584) Éphrussi de Rothschild. (http://www.gardenvisit.com/uploads/image/image/121/12192/villa_ephrussi_garden_original.jpg)
I shall expect your appearance at sunset,
upon the Eve of the New Year
whereupon we shall spend the night in each other's arms
dancing our way to midnight
and beyond.
Your Paramour for this Evening,
~N~
As she read it through, the smile on her face only brightened. Who would have thought, such a smile and in the morning, too! The sun shining bright, no longer seemed like a cruel joke, but a reflection of her mood. A dance! Wait… a beautifully romantic dance to bring in the new year, and she still had to get ready. There were so many things she needed to do! One would thing nearly a whole day would be enough, but she felt so short on time! A nervous flutter of excitement made it’s way through her body as she quickly chugged down her coffee. Karma needed to look better than RPA had ever seen her! She would be graceful and charming, no doubt it would no where near match her partners, but she was going to try!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The grounds chosen for this New Year’s dance were no less spacious and grandiose than the illimitable reputation of the one who had invited her here. There were more than a few people who whispered in corners that there were but few denizens who qualified as eloquent royalty, and N was certainly one of them. The being—who most often assumed the form of a man, though the few scholars of the realm were not entirely certain that he was necessarily even human—cast a long and severe shadow in the eyes of the general populace, and to dance with him was considered less than desirable, usually ending in suffering and humiliation at best.
Yet, there was no doubt that he carried himself with a regal air that some took for arrogance, and so there was reason to wonder at just what kind of dance Karma had been invited to, since he was not always so ominous and threatening, and there had been that remarkable showing at the Masquerade of 2015. Still, it was generally believed that while N was without doubt a noble creature (however monstrous and terrifying to some), he did not generally exude an aura of warmth and affection.
The atmosphere of this place would be a surprise then to all who beheld it, considering the one who had invited her here. Glowing wisps provided just enough ethereal fire to keep the skin breaking out in goosebumps, while being modest enough in their illumination to appear as no more than faerie fire, so that one could still look to the clear sky above, across which one or two isolated clouds passed lazily, and see a host of stars that had turned out for this occasion. The moon was smartly dressed in a slim crescent, keeping her possessive shine to her corner of the sky while offering her lunar blessing to the dancers below.
Beyond and below the fete, set upon a high cliffside manor as it was, the waves washed gently into shore, glittering like a dark blanket with diamonds strewn across them. The sea breeze lilted upon the festivities of these palatial grounds, set in St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France, and whispered into the ears of attendees its eternal, rhythmic music.
The gardens themselves were legendary in their expansiveness, including long walkways of fine white stone, adorned on each side by expertly manicured green grass, cut to perfect in designs that betrayed more than a little artistic talent on the part of the groundskeepers. Trees of several varieties, including palms and pines lined the walkways, providing a wild touch to the perfectly manicured lawns, which was punctuated by busts and statues of one deity, hero, or another along with splashes of red and white brought to life by the roses planted neatly around them. There were even hedges cut into symbolic patterns to be found in squares that bordered the intersections of the walkways, and within some of these or beside others, were illuminated dancing fountains that seem to sway to the music that floated upon the air as the sun sank into the sea.
All of the walkways led to an ostentatious pink mansion, the house of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild itself. With at least three floors, and two sets of balconies, adorned with high arching windows and great double doors, it was a palace fit for a French princess, and a lovely home to spend all of one’s days running about in mirthful bliss and joy. The mansion itself presided with a jovial visage over the ceremonies before and below it, and if there was ever any doubt as the tepid night descended upon the province about the frivolity of this occasion, the pink walls with their brassiers and torchiers certainly put those concerns to rest.
This was indeed a happy occasion; a festive celebration meant to ring in the New Year with a smile, and it drew all the finest people. Musical accompaniment was provided by a man who looked and possess a talented voice that compared beyond conceit to the late Frank Sinatra, together with a talented band of instruments that seemed to move and play all of their own accord, as if moved by some mysterious enchantment. Each of the guests were dressed in their finery; the ladies in gowns and dresses, the men in tuxes and suits, comprising a myriad menagerie of colorful fashions, such as might suit such a paradise on earth as this. Butlers and waitresses bore aloft silver platters with glasses of wine and flutes of champagne for the guests to drink as they arrived and mingled, some of them conversing while others engaged in their own little private dances.
Such as N had invited her to engage in with him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Had she thought of everything? Karma’s mind was racing as she looked over her nails, freshly manicured with french tips. Flipping out a mirror to tuck in one of her big banana curls where she had went and got her hair done quite elegantly. Long curls cascading down her exposed shoulders. She put the mirror away just to flip it out again a few moments later. Karma took another drink of the champagne that this glorious limousine had provided. N had simply thought of everything.
When they pulled up to the glorious gardens, her breath caught in her throat. Never in her life had she seen something so spectacular. When a man opened her door, holding out his hand, she took it and stepped out, her whole being still hardly being able to take in the beauty of the location that N had chosen for them. Swallowing hard and taking a deep breath, she nodded her thank you with a smile to the man who had helped her out, and proceeded towards where she presumed the festivities would take place.
Stepping into the gardens, she was even more in awe-if that was possible- at the beauty in front of her. Beautiful music played in the background and everything was just... Perfect. Honestly, she should have expected nothing less from the intimidating man that had invited her here. Where was he? She wasn’t sure what he would be wearing or where she was supposed to be.
So for a moment she just stood at the entrance, her eyes searching, but too nervous to really step more inside. Everyone was beautiful, Karma was immediately self conscious. Her dark red gown was long, but on the left side was a slit that went up to her knee, giving her room to walk and revealing red heels that made her stand at least two inches taller than her normal height. Her shoes were simple, as she hadn’t wanted to distract from her long gown. In the right light, you could see her dress sparkle and shine, subtle enough to be elegant, but not enough to seem too extravagant or distracting. The dress hugged her curves just right, all the way up her body to where it attached around her neck. The V shaped neck of the dress was most definitely alluring, considering the size of her bust (which seemed to be popular around RPA), but not enough to be too revealing or trashy. There was simple string of pearls hanging from her neck, and hidden by her cascading curls, were pearl earrings to match.
Taking a few steps forward, she stopped again, her heart beating fast. Nervously tucking yet another dark brown curl back, that was not actually out of place,she smiled. It’s okay, Karma, breathe. He invited you because he wanted you here. He chose you. She gave herself a pep talk as she straightened herself up, brushed down her dress one last time and walked further into the garden, searching for her partner.
When he caught sight of her, standing at the top of a small set of steps leading down from the path she had walked upon to reach the center terrace where he was waiting, N was mesmerized and stood amazed. If flowers could be jealous, he was certain they would be at the elegant rose that had appeared before them, sparkling as though with fresh dew in the wan light of the moon and stars. She gracefully, tentatively stepped down, one step after another, her eyes wide and beautiful, searching the grounds, the party-goers for him, no doubt. He smiled. Her eyes hidden beneath long lashes, but he glimpsed a soft brown through them, peeking out as they moved over the gardens, taking in the breathless scenery she found herself in.
N began to take his first steps towards her, indirectly, like a lion circling slowly as it kept its eyes fixed upon its prey. It was his natural predisposition of course—he was was a hunter. Not of the type that men become when they stalk game, but of the wilderness itself, moving with fearful symmetry, powerful muscles carrying him effortlessly among the statues and greenery with a smooth, flawless gait. He was in no hurry; Karma would see him soon enough. But he wanted to savor her first, wide-eyed, dressed in elegance and sensuality. Admittedly, he found her alluring, and the dark red gown she had chosen complimented her figure in every way, accentuating her feminine curves and bust in way that left his lips in need another sip of the champagne he had picked effortlessly from a silver platter that had passed him by moments ago.
For his part, Karma’s paramour this evening would materialize before her in a clean, midnight black jacket, tailored to perfection to frame and define his powerful shoulders, her V-shaped back and torso, and follow his lines right down to his black dress pants, which descended his tall, six-foot form to his shining wingtips, complete with a touch of silver on their toes; just enough to compliment their shining polish, reflecting sleek finery approvingly to the eyes of any woman who would look upon them. His shirt was white royal linen, concealed behind a crimson vest lined with a light silver chain in one pocket that seemed to glimmer with starlight. His vest matched her dress perfectly in color, as though he knew precisely what she was going to wear. The vest and collared shirt hugged his strong chest like a second skin, and all of this masculine elegance might have led one to assume that if they traveled ever upward, they would find a bowtie embracing his flawless, pale neck…
… but it was not so. For if there was one thing that seemed to hold for N, changeable as he was, it was that he could abide nothing about his throat except the arms and hands of woman. And so his collar remained outlandishly unbuttoned and open to the midnight air, its ends flaring out with debonair rebelliousness, inviting the one who would dance with him a closer look at the intimate features of his collarbone and flawless throat.
And so it was that he came up behind her, and whispered in her ear with a low, husky voice that carried the promise of a smile upon his lips, “You look absolutely stunning tonight.” When she turned, she would come face to face with a timeless gaze from a thousand years ago, looking upon her through irises of stormy gray and shades of blue, swirled with vines of green and occasional streaks of something that, in a luminous moment, might even resemble a summer storm. His features were definably strong, cut along a powerful jaw, a straight nose, and lips that were just full enough to beg savoring. Behind them, glimmering sharp white teeth fit for a tiger revealed themselves to her warm brown eyes, but he was a man, a lord, in every sense of the word. His long hair flowed back from his high forehead in brown locks, streaked at times with silver and copper, and perhaps even an occasional strand of gold, but they curled like cats down upon his shoulders, relaxing from their straight roots.
Taking her hand in his, she immediately felt softness and warmth envelop her skin, as he raised it to his lips and kissed the top, his eyes lowering for but a moment before returning to gaze into hers. “Would you like a drink before we dance?” he offered with a noble smile.
Karma had been searching, taking one step at a time slowly, her brown eyes looking one way and then the next when she heard a voice in her ear. How had she not heard him come up behind her? It actually quite suited the mystery that tended to surround N. A bright smile illuminated her face as she turned around, looking upon her beau for the evening.
A crimson color spread slowly across her cheeks at his words, and she looked down for a moment, only to move her brown globes up to meet his eyes when he kissed her hand. His eyes were easy to get lost in, with all of the colors, she found it hard to break her gaze. When she finally did, a darker red spread across her cheeks. Oh yes, he had spoken to her! She had been so struck by the vision of him, she had forgotten she had a voice. Every item that he had dawned, fit him perfectly, the vest even matching her dress. Karma had expected a bowtie, but found her eyes stopping at an open collar, causing a small smirk to cross her lips. Finally she found her voice. “And you look devilishly handsome, as expected.”
Standing on her toes, she put her hand out to touch his hair that hung down perfectly, but pulled it back realizing that touching of hair and face may not be welcome so quickly. Giving him a quick kiss on the cheek. “I would love a drink actually, thank you!” The smiled that graced his perfect face, put her at ease, and Karma linked her arm in the crook of N’s elbow, smiling at him. Still finding it hard to focus on anything but him. “I’m not going to lie, I did expect a tie.” She laughed softly, the pink shade on her cheeks fading slightly as she became more comfortable.
Karma had a lively vitality to her, and it enlivened his own spirits, as he watched her attention move from his eyes, to his kiss, to his eyes again, his spoken words nearly forgotten like a passing memory until his offer awakened them again within her. He watched her with his pleased expression as she reached out to touch his hair, his lips spreading into a wider smile when she pulled away. Her shyness did not curb her enthusiasm however, as she delightfully accepted his offer, slipping her arm through his, and her mood lightened even as her cheeks flushed (much to his approval) with excitement as she commented on her expectations of the traditional accoutrement that gentlemen were almost always expected to wear.
N allowed himself a throaty chuckle, leading her own like a lion over the stones of the walkways, the power of his form conveyed through her as she held on to his arm. “Indeed, the only thing I want around my neck tonight is your arms,” he smiled at her from the side. “Do you prefer wine or champagne, darling?”
Oh, he was determined to keep her cheeks red, and it was working. The shy smile never leaving her lips and his words causing her eyes to shine with her own mischievousness. “It best be wine, if you expect my arms around you that easily.” Her own words made the blush spread and another soft laugh escaping her lips.
“Wine it shall be then!” he answered with a smile. “A white seems to match this occasion more with its golden color; like the color of wine, and I suppose silver and gold always come to mind when I think of the celebration and passage of the New Year…” Without hesitation, he raised two fingers of his left hand at a waiter in the distance who glided over momentarily with two glasses of Chardonnay, from a harvest dating back twenty years, crisp and sweet with notes of lush fruit, bright acidity, and impeccably balanced oak. It wasn’t the most expensive wine in the world, but then sometimes, the best wines are those you find between the racks and boxes.
Taking the first glass by the stem, he turned and offered it to his sensuous partner with a smile, waiting for her to take the glass with watchful eyes, before reaching back and taking his own, his eyes fixed upon her, entranced by her appearance tonight.
“To us, to the new year ahead, and to a long and lovely dance with you this evening, dear Karma, and to dances to come!” He raised his glass to hers by the moonlight, waiting for her to complete the toast.
Karma actually loved how he took charge of the situation. Choosing a wonderful Chardonnay and waving to the waiter. Her shy nature truly appreciate his more dominating one and made him even more masculine and alluring to her. Eyes sparkling with anticipation, she took the glass that was offered to her, in her small dainty and freshly manicured hand. Swirling the wine a bit in the glass, Karmas brown eyes moved to gaze into his again as he made his toast. “To the dance and wonderful new friendships.” She smiled and put the edge of her glass to his gently.
The ringing “clink” that sang out as a soft, tinkling note in the evening sounded the moment perfectly, and N nodded approvingly with a smile, adding, “To us,” as he put the glass to his lips and savored the golden, delicious elixir of grapes, fruit, and alcohol. It was as if he was imbibing the celestial light of the stars, and when he finished, the glass was empty. He hadn’t rushed the experience, but as with his hand, which slid warmly now over Karma’s lower back, he hadn’t wanted to let go or stop either. N waited for her to finish her wine before making his next request:
“Shall we dance?”
Karma put her own glass to her lips gently, to not cause too much of her gloss to come off onto the glass. At first she had considered to be more lady-like and not take the whole glass in one drink, but the taste was so perfect, she couldn’t help but finish the glass. Bringing the glass from her lips, she handed it to a waiter nearby so that her hands were free.
N’s hand on her bare back cause a shiver to go up her spine. Its touch was soft enough to not be forceful, but present enough to be strong, masculine, and almost commanding. She loved it. With his request, she couldn’t help but do exactly what she had hesitated with before. Putting her hand on his hair and stroking down his cheek ever so lightly.
“There is nothing I would like more.”
She was like warm, living silk to his touch, and responded to his touch with desire, as she dared to caress his hair and face with her fingertips now, causing him to close his eyes for a moment and focus only upon her touch, the whole world disappearing in that instant to the sliding, soft tips of her fingers and grazing of her nails.
Slowly he reopened his eyes, alive now with desire and passion, he slid his hand from her back to her hand, taking it gently, yet purposefully in his as he led Karma to the center plaza, vacant, as if reserved just for them, with flickering candles adorning its perimeter, a space not more than twenty meters across in diameter—enough room for two souls to come together in a private dance, yet still move freely through the steps. Stepping through the opening of the candles, N turned, and led Karma into his arms, changing hands as he slid his right over her back, his left hand interlacing with her fingers, pressing her close enough to feel her soft warm body against his, as the musical accompaniment and its Sinatra began their next song, timed and chosen just for them (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9ZGKALMMuc), as the other guests stopped what they were doing and watched these two dancers take their first steps.
Looking into Karma’s deep brown eyes, N communicated in unspoken words, with his strong hand firmly, yet warmly upon her back, keeping her close as he took his first step forward, leading her to step back, and then step forward again, before turning, keeping a sensual, yet powerful tempo between them. His cheeks acquired a color of their own, as his eyes remained fixed on Karma’s, communicating breathlessly to her that nothing else in this world could compare to her beauty right now, in this moment; that nothing else mattered apart from the closeness and heat that grew between them, as they stepped together, in perfect, rhythmic sync with each other.
He could he feel her soft breaths grace his lips, her breasts rising and falling in time with their steps, and her heartbeat pounding through her chest, beating out its own feverish rhythm, to his own stirring delight and pleasure. N enjoyed her passion, her excitement, her closeness and heat thrilling him. He would make sure her glow outshined all the stars and guests this night before this dance was done.
Taking N’s hand in her own, gently caressing it with her thumb, she gladly took his lead to the plaza. “Wow.” The word truly could not contain how wonderful the view was around them. When everyone stopped, her cheeked couldn’t help but get warm again. But… when his eyes met hers, his hand touching her back, they were alone in that moment. Nothing else mattered except for the warmth of his hand on her back, his fingers intertwining with hers. Hers so small in comparison.
Surely he could feel her heart fluttering in her chest, but her figure just seemed to fit perfectly in his embrace. When the music started, he lead her perfectly. In that moment, she was his. Every ounce of her being, her movements, and every flutter of her heart belonged to this strong, intimidating, yet sensual and sweet man in front of her.
As his cheeks turned a color a small smirk graced her lips. Seems he could be made to blush as well, but she made no mention of it. Not that she wouldn’t in the future. His breath against her skin caused her own to become a bit unsteady, but in a moment of courage she moved even closer to him in their flawless movement. Laying the side of her head on his cheek. Karma’s hot breath now running down his neck, and her body pushed up against his as she continued to follow his lead impeccably. He made dancing seem easy, in control of every move they made as if it was as easy as walking and she was lost in this trance with him.
Karma was a natural, he thought with a smile. He could feel her racing pulse with no small measure of delight but she never hesitated, never frightened herself into wooden, distant movements that would have chilled the air between them. No, she closed the distance, and as she pressed herself to his broad, powerful chest, he slid his arm tighter around her waist, drawing her into his embrace even as her soft cheek brushed against his, the fragrance of her hair delighting him with its scents.
But it was her hot breath upon his neck that made his fingers clench ever so noticeably, firmly upon her skin and dress, and his blood flowed like rum through his veins now, as he enjoyed the sensuous, passionate closeness that they now shared, melting into each other intimately, their breaths moving in time as their bodies and feet. He led her to the very edge of the circle, and then back across, turning the lovely woman in his arms as easily as the sun and stars moved across the sky, so that if they were paying attention to the figures watching them, holding glasses with smiles and whispers of how enrapturing they were together, they might even feel dizzy.
N had only Karma in his world however, within a circle of lights and candles, upon white stones to the music of Sinatra and the sea, and the pounding of heart and his making their own intimate music between them, their pulses quickening, as they turned together again, legs pressed against each other, bodies so close that only by breathing together could they possibly draw breath at all. Karma could feel his heat, his desire, his need for her as N kept her close, moving with her, leading her through these deep, intimate, passionate steps that spoke of his appreciation for her, his pleasure for the way she moved, and for her sensuous closeness, the caress of her breath and the touch of her hands. He spoke without words to her and his deep attraction to her as a woman, for all of the femininity and sexuality she exuded, and when his breath whispered through her curls and caressed her skin, it was hot with molten desire. Again, holding her closely with powerful arms, he turned her again in his embrace, leading them back to the center of their dance.
As his hand slid more around her waist, a slight but noticeable shiver made it’s way up her spine. Every movement N made overflowed with intensity and sensuality and she had been enraptured by it. His touch, his strength, his movement, his breath, his heartbeat had become her world, as if they had become one. It felt as if her whole being was not her own at this moment of their lives. Even as her face turned to graze her lips ever so softly against his warm cheek, the movement felt slow and breathtaking. Like time and normal physics had no hold on the two of them. Karma had no idea where she was being led to on the dance floor, it mattered not to her. Nothing mattered except their two hearts beating as one, and their breath in perfect consonance with one another.
Feeling Karma’s lips upon his cheek, N exhaled and moved his to her ear, nestled among the curls of her sweet scented hair, his breath embracing and enveloping the sensitive skin there, as his balmy words slipped into her blood when he spoke: “You are positively ravishing tonight,” he began, with a possessive squeeze. “And I should love the opportunity to savor… every… single… inch of you in the hours to come…” Then his teeth, those sharp, white, glimmering teeth, bit down with enough pressure to send a tremor of pleasure straight down through her body before he released her. It was a carnal act, concealed by her vibrant curls and the shadows of the evening that played among the flickering lights, like a lion, taking the ear of a lioness possessively as he takes her passionately in the jungle, making her his. She was marked, beyond question, and his bite was a promise of things to come that did not belong where others could wickedly enjoy them with their eyes and desires, their dark fantasies and lingering jealousy.
His lips then brushed lower, dangerously, slowly lower, without breaking his tempo or steps with Karma, leading her on through a dance that had become far more intense than she had likely anticipated, or that was exactly what N had hoped. Keeping her off balance, aching to the very limits of restraint, thrilled him, even as his own veins burned with a barely contained lust that longed to know what champagne would taste like upon her skin, mixed with the scent of her passion.
Those shadows at the perimeter and their hopes and dreams, wishes and desires no longer mattered anymore, they both knew. There was only the pressing closeness between them, the oneness that sang through their bodies, as they moved like liquid desire across the stones that blazed to life with each of their steps, glowing with the heat of their ardor. Wine may have warmed their blood, but only passion set it afire, and if it was possible to see their heat, it would be as a rhythmic flame, dancing at the center of the garden, high into the night.
“Do you think the angels are watching?” his sultry, wicked words kissed her skin again. “Shall we make them watch a little longer?” His smiled glimmered with predatory pleasure as he moved against her with each dominant step, moved with her with each possessive turn, and beckoned to her with each rhythmic beat of his heart.
Karma had opened her lips to respond to his passionate words about savoring her, her words caught in her throat as she felt teeth on her ear, causing an unwilling response down her spine, her body arching into his without her telling it to do so. Her hand gripping him just a bit tighter and her breath quickening against his flawless skin. Their passion and lust was apparent, but the onlookers around could not even begin to imagine how that passion felt as she felt his dominance and hot breath on her ear in that moment. When he spoke again, she could have sworn she felt her knees buckle slightly as the husky voice filled her ear once again. Karma’s whole body giving an obvious response to just his voice, not to mention his touches and his breath.
“I’m... not sure we would want the angels watching what I have on my mind…” Her own voice was husky with desire, her words said almost completely against his skin, only for his ears to hear.
His grin spread wider upon hearing her words, and as the music came to a close in the distance, N brushed his lips along her cheek until he was right before her, their heads together, eyes fixed upon each other and nothing else in the world, noses barely touching, and lips aching for but the bare distance between them. Karma could see N’s desire for her burning intensely in the bright glow of his eyes, and with words that would have seared the wings right off those angels, he answered her closed enough for her to feel his words upon her own lips as he spoke them:
“Then let us leave them to their drinks and go somewhere the angels will fear to tread, should they interrupt us.” Then he sealed his proposal with a long, deep, sensuous kiss upon her lips, stealing her breath completely from her body with a squeeze of inflamed pleasure, which she could feel like a blazing inferno from his. He savored her with his tongue, as though she was like that glass of wine, exquisitely enjoyed with indulgent, erotic pleasure.
A smirk crossed Karma’s soft lips at his words, seeing the passion in his eyes. There were chills across her skin from the night air, but she paid them no mind. Suddenly her lips felt his upon them. Fireworks exploded in her mind, her hands immediately moving to his face to pull him closer, her tongue dancing with his as their bodies had just done. As if they were one. Nearly gripping onto his hair, she held him in a passionate embrace. Both hands running along the sides of his soft skin on his cheeks. And just like that, it was gone. His lips that breathed heat and passion into her body had departed hers, and left her absolutely breathless, her head swimming in desire.
Taking in her full reaction with such complete satisfaction that his head swam and his body sparked with electricity, N stepped back, reintroducing for the first time since they came together the air, which—while tepid to others—felt positively brisk against her skin. Had the night truly been colder, N imagined little curling wisps of steam would be rising from both of their bodies, with the clouds of warmth from their lips to match. He never let go of Karma, keeping her hand in his as he leaned down and kissed it once more, as though the raging flood of desire did not beat through their veins even in this very moment.
The pretense of decorum could only last so long, however, as glittering frost in the warm rays of the vernal sun. “Shall we?” he said with knowing smile
Karma was still trying to become grounded from such an earth shattering experience that it took her a moment to answer. Smiling up, a hint of mischievousness in her smile and a lustful glint in her eyes. “Yes, please,” was the only response that would come to her in her state. Allowing him to lead with his masculine grace and dominant air, following in perfect step beside him.
Leading Karma on with the same masculine grace that moved through his powerful, leonine frame, they departed the gardens to the sound of applause and the clinking of glasses, as the onlookers expressed their approval with laughter, whispers, and approving nods. It was not long after they disappeared from the palatial grounds that blazing fireworks erupted into the night sky, signaling with bursts of colorful, loud passion the coming of the new year.