Instruction in Seduction

by Judy Jarvie

  “So why the reservations? I thought you were grabbing life by the neck and making it sing to your new sassy tune?”

  “Maybe I’m just not a sassy saxophone kind of woman. Maybe I’m more sensible, sedate. You think I can play hard ball flirtation with a man like Nick?” Ailsa asked then blew away her hair and sat down beside her friend. “The thing is. I got this letter. Kirsty wrote it for me before she died. It’s a call to action; she thought I needed a new outlook. She said I need dates and told me to transform my outlook and my attitude with men.”

  “Ahhh,” said Lisa, the penny clearly dropping on last night’s antics. “I see. But when push comes to shove you’re worried? It’s all been a front and now you’ve got cold tootsies?”

  “Do you really think I can pull off seducing a piece of Hot Stuff like Nick Gorgeous Guy Palmer? He’s so confident, successful. And it makes me feel unprepared.”

  “You have to believe you can if it’s what you want. You can do whatever you want to do, Kirsty’s right. When I met Andy I knew I wanted to go out with him. I pretty much chased him down. I left him no choice in the end. Fortunately he was attracted or things might’ve got ugly. I won him around in the end.”

  Ailsa laughed and Lisa pulled her to her and gave her an enormous hug.

  “You do want a night of fun with Nick don’t you? That’s what matters? You aren’t committing yourself for life. Just be romanced, enjoy yourself. Play act at being sexy and carefree if needs be. You can do that, surely?”

  “I think so.”

  “Then let’s get to it!” she answered, rubbing her hands together. “Because nothing’s going to make you feel more capable than when you’re standing in front of a mirror looking knock-out. By the time I’m finished with you feeling sexy won’t be a problem. It’ll be holding off the men.”

  On the outside Lisa MacIntosh may be a sensible, serious façade solicitor, when it came to flirty fashion she was a minx who should carry a censorship warning. She could double as a seasoned Celeb Mag Style Columnist if the need arose.

  Lisa got on the case. “You need dressed up but casual. Serious and sweet but sexy. That equals a sharp outfit, high heels and the kind of tailoring that puts hidden ammo on display. And you’ll have to show tiny reveals of underwear; black satin is the favoured choice to cause a man to drool. It drives Andy wild every time.” She chuckled at the memories.

  Lisa threw an ensemble on the bed that looked like it ticked all her boxes so Ailsa figured she’d be okay. It felt like it was all happening too fast; like Cinderella turned Sassy.

  “There’s something else. Any chance you could call up your friend who cuts hair?” She twirled her lacklustre tresses.

  “Surely you aren’t suggesting?” Lisa raised her hands in mock horror.

  But Ailsa had taken note of her sister’s assertions in her letter. She needed a restyle. She was also clueless with kohl and rouge. “I’m going to need your help with make-up later as well. I have a magazine picture that’s sexy and now.”

  Lisa nodded wisely and made the call. No wonder Andy couldn’t keep his hands off her. Lisa linked her arm and led her to her chair at her dressing table.

  Lisa smiled. “I’ve been waiting to do this for such a long time. You are going to look so hot you’ll scorch your own shadow.”

  Ailsa grimaced. But what harm could a few clothes and make-up do? She aimed to realise the resolution after all. Seductresses didn’t do thermal p.j.s. on dates or bad hair days. They looked like they’d stepped out of satin sheets.

  They smiled, took things in their sexy strides. So could she.

  Lisa opened her drawers of beauty gadgets and primping essentials; they gleamed with menace like an array of instruments of torture.

  “By the time we’re finished, you’ll stop traffic,” Lisa promised. “Let’s vamp you up to the max. This is going to be one unforgettable transformation night for Nick Palmer!”

  “Do your worst. I’m ready,” Ailsa answered.

  Chapter Four

  When Nick met Ailsa in Chez Angelle’s high-style, select lobby she was somewhat overwhelmed by her surroundings.

  No wonder the likes of Kylie and Daniel Craig booked to stay here during visits. It was double oh seven sensational.

  The place was a notorious ‘place to aspire to visit’. It boasted sumptuous statement furnishings from mirrors that could grace an 18th Century Countessa’s abode to velvet upholstery made for reclining on whilst being fed grapes. The style touches were decadent, opulent; the lighting subdued. No wonder the celeb cognoscenti clamoured to get reservations. Ailsa felt like she needed a pair of chic shades just to enter the building.

  Yet all the time she wondered, how exactly had Nick Palmer managed to slide their names so easily onto the New Year’s Day list?

  Nick rose from his seat to greet her in the freshly showered flesh and he more than lived up to her recollections of how much he attracted her. Her tummy tilted and did a back flip just at the way he watched her. He looked movie star casual but still suited and sharp. His smile could cause an inferno in an icebox.

  His hot good looks could make her say yes to a lot of off-limits things. Sizzle was instantly top priority.

  “You look sensational,” Nick remarked and took her hand then twirled her to better admire Lisa’s bold, new ‘transformation and tweaks’.

  Her hair was shorter to shoulder-length and straightened and layered to make it magically glossy, wisped and glam. Even though she liked the new style very much it still made her blush having Nick openly examine her.

  “I fancied something different.”

  “I love it. You’ve been busy today.” He raised a brow.

  “The balloon invitation made me figure you’d gone to some effort too. Thought I’d surprise you.”

  He grinned. “Glad you liked the balloon, but that’s just the beginning.” Then he whispered, “By the way, do you know how hard it is to get a helium balloon made to order and good chocolate when all the shops are closed? It takes grovelling. Almost magic and MI6 membership.”

  “I can imagine.” She laughed. “And how exactly did you get a gig here? At the best place in town. Murder or more espionage?”

  He shrugged. “Contacts, angel. I’d like to keep my mystery on that one. Trade secrets.” Then he changed the topic. “I love the outfit too.” She saw his gaze linger on the skirt split that spanned up to a high point on her thigh.

  She had gone to some effort. Effort that involved a long, de-fuzzing bath where masks and scrubs were obligatory. In the end she’d opted for a dress of Lisa’s. It featured a clingy, dark skirt (with a kamikaze split) a matching wide waisted 40s style belt but the real genius was the chiffon blouse-styled top that was almost see-through. An illusionist’s trick in sheer black whispered seduction.

  The ensemble was knee-length and worn with high boots, she knew she rocked. Her hot reflection foretold it and the repeat glances from men underlined the effect. Some of them even gulped as she passed.

  Kirsty would have given her merit for this one, she was sure of it.

  Nick blew a low whistle between his teeth.

  “You’re bringing out my protective instincts. The waiters keep staring. I’m only forgiving them because tonight I’m the lucky one. Did you have to bring out all the ammo this early?”

  He looked effortlessly good in that charcoal suit worn with a pearl grey shirt, his eyes glittering with promise. Nick’s lazy smile hinted his appreciation at their shared secret that tonight was a special tryst.

  Secrets could be so delicious. Why had she lived a dull life? Were the visible hints of dark satin bra too bold?

  “I’m not giving up on unravelling your mystery yet. However did you get reservations here?” She pushed, still keen to know.

  Nick shrugged, “Call it a perk of my job. I know useful contacts in the travel business. This one owed me a favour. And I’ve got the best date in the house to enjoy it all with.”

  He certainly knew how to pick
a great place. And at least she’d have great memories of initiating her seduction instruction.

  What had she expected? An underground illicit venue for one night stands?

  “Where are you staying in Edinburgh while you’re here?”

  “I should be staying at my sister’s. She has an apartment but it’s being redecorated. Right now she’s in the middle of a nasty split from her husband. But tonight I’m staying here – call it a work freebie,” said Nick. “In fact we can go to my room and you can see if you like the amenities? Then we can talk more at our leisure. Unobserved. The sooner the better now that I’ve seen you and can’t keep my eyes off you.”

  Ailsa nearly gasped. This was forward.

  Was he genuinely inviting her up to view the place? Or was he heading straight to the ‘entertainment’ part of the night. Inching towards the bed and intimating he’d rather get on with the main agenda.

  Instantly a part of her felt disappointed at him. Nick might be making moves soon because that’s all he was in this for. But then isn’t that what she got for faking gung-ho? After all she’d propositioned him.

  Did she expect romance her when she’d demanded a no strings night?

  “You have the penthouse?”

  “Actually.” He watched her sagely as they walked towards the lift. She saw long fingers press the up button. “I have the best suite. Let’s see it.”

  Reminding herself not to panic and this is what seductresses were expected to do, Ailsa took his hand and followed his lead.

  ***

  If she’d thought the lobby was incredible, wow didn’t cover the suite. Ailsa breathed out an exclamation of appreciation as Nick pushed her ahead of him inside the door and followed.

  It was film star phenomenal. It was clearly the best in the house. Just how rich and influential was he?

  The colour theme was deepest opulent burgundy and brown. The whole lounge/relaxation area was big enough for a party. She could see through the open bathroom door that the Jacuzzi tub was enormous and could probably squeeze in two ladies’ beach volleyball teams. A huge white marble whirlpool arrangement with dappled coloured mood lighting that changed every ten seconds. It was like something from a dream.

  And Edinburgh castle’s fairytale view sparkled as a backdrop beyond darkened glass.

  Ailsa gulped. “Wow. You weren’t kidding about best in house.”

  “I never kid. You’ll begin to appreciate that the more you get to know me. Care for a drink?”

  It was only as Nick walked over to the window that she saw the dinner setting awaiting them. Yes there was a floor to ceiling glass view over Edinburgh too, complete with a balcony (how could she really imagine there wouldn’t have been?) And next to it there was a table with glistening crystal and white china and champagne on ice. The champagne was, of course, the most expensive stuff available.

  A tap at the door could have been timed to a tee.

  “Like it?” he prompted.

  She breathed out slowly. “More than like. How could I possibly not?”

  “As luscious as the dining room is here, I figured you might prefer to dine in private. That way I get you all to myself.” He turned towards the door. “Let me just get that…” said Nick before the waiter wheeled in a trolley and prepared to present them with a sumptuous banquet.

  Nick told the waiter they’d manage themselves from here and tipped him well for his attention and discretion before he left.

  Then he turned and smiled at Ailsa. He took her coat from her arm. His skin brushed the skin of her arm and it made her buzz and thrum with delight. He’d held her gaze in his all the time.

  “Let’s get you that drink, then plunder the treasure they’ve just delivered.”

  Dinner itself was an array of sumptuous courses. Ailsa felt as if she were a visiting dignitary. Unfortunately, she was a dignitary whose appetite had taken a nose-dive.

  “Ailsa,” Nick urged as she prodded her delicious appetiser with her fork. “Don’t you like it?”

  “Not like? I love it. It’s delicious. I love seafood too. The chef’s a genius. Michelin clearly know their stuff.”

  “Then what’s the problem? You’re chasing it around the plate?”

  Ailsa blew away a wispy tendril of her hair. “It’s just so fantastic. And it must cost a fortune. And it’s better than many newlyweds get on honeymoon and I can’t believe you’ve gone to this much effort and now I feel like you’ve gone to all this trouble for me.”

  As soon as the words were out Ailsa realised her seductress mask had slipped irreparably.

  “Why wouldn’t I go to trouble for you?” Nick held up a stalling hand. “I can afford it. Worrying is not on the menu. I won’t bite. Chillax okay. I wanted to do this; I’m actually doing the owner a favour coming here at all. He’d like me to stay longer. He’s begged me for years.” Nick blushed deeply at the confession then held his champagne flute to his lips. She saw his jaw flex. He slowly sipped. Then steeled himself. His eyes bored into hers.

  She looked at him askance. “You’re not just saying that to make me feel better?”

  “Want me to call him and make him tell you that?” Nick went into his pocket and took out his iphone.

  Ailsa held out a stalling hand. “No need to go to those lengths,” Ailsa answered, now feeling foolish. “I am relaxed,” she said and dropped her napkin then scrabbled on the floor to get it. Nick’s fingers brushed hers when he reached it first. The point of contact scorched like it was molten.

  Relaxed pah. So relaxed her toes were tapping on the carpeted floor hidden beneath the table. Her fingers clutching at the cutlery.

  “You relaxed? And a porcupine isn’t prickly. You’re wired. Come on, loosen up here.”

  “Turns out you lead a millionaire lifestyle and I’m suddenly out of my league. Who was I kidding?”

  “You’re frightened of success and money? Or of me?”

  “Both. I’m worried I’ll let you down. Worried it’s under false pretences; I really don’t go around propositioning men for hot nights together. In fact, I guess now that I’m getting to crunch point I’m wondering if I really can.”

  As soon as the words were out she realised she’d gone and defied Kirsty’s mantra. She’d screwed up on her mission.

  All her well crafted preparations tumbled down to reveal the patent truth. At her own admission, she wasn’t up to this. She was fake.

  Half an hour at this place with Nick and she’d gone right back to her Pygmalion of Passion roots. She was faking assertiveness. Lying about being a vamp. In the face of such open opulence she just couldn’t keep up the ruse. But surely truth was better than falsehood?

  She stood up. Laid down her napkin, “I should go.”

  She may be wearing Lisa’s clothes; but clothes alone didn’t make the vamp.

  Ailsa Murray didn’t do this kind of thing. She couldn’t keep up the façade.

  “I’m just not hungry right now,” she said and pushed her plate away. “As divine as everything is, it’s shown me I’m just not equipped.”

  Nick stood up and stopped her in her tracks from walking away from the table.

  “There’s no pressure or expectation from me. If you look through there,” Nick said, pointing with his finger, “you’ll see that there are two rooms in this suite. As I said an enjoyable evening getting to know each other with entirely no pressure from me. Stop over-thinking things.”

  His words made her heart wobble and her resolve melt.

  “Don’t use any excuse you can to spook yourself.”

  She looked where he’d pointed and indeed there was a room, he even took her to the master suite to prove it. Two amazing rooms, with no inter-connecting door. No expectation.

  He wasn’t just romancing her, he was rocking her world.

  “Now I feel like an idiot.” She pulsed her temples with her fingers.

  He smoothed his hands down her arms. Then did so again and she almost melted on the floor in front of him. “Don
’t. Just kiss me and I’ll forget all about it,” he urged her. And welcomed her into the cave of his arms. She was inches from his chest, his warmth. And magnetised by the heat of the man.

  His head lowered to hers. Their lips met and the molten heat that he always incited with that deft flick of lips and tongue started an instant inferno. My, his kisses were magic. And he didn’t prolong the kiss either. He pulled back and gave her a heart-stopping smile.

  “I’m not letting you go tonight. I made that mistake once before.”

  And Ailsa realised she’d done him a huge disservice assuming he may have seedy motives. The man was the most romantic man she’d ever met in her entire life. What kind of idiot was she, doubting him?

  “Was that kiss okay? Don’t want to peak too soon?” His handsome smile curled in mischief.

  “Think I peaked from the moment I walked in.”

  Nick confided, “I saw your TV ad. You never said you’re such a temptress. I’ve put a deposit on a leather three piece. I may even go back for the recliner chair.”

  Ailsa laughed. “I’ll have you know I’m the sexiest thing on sofas in Scotland. There was a poll about it once. None of them imagine I’m this awful at dates though.”

  Most men went into fits of trying to impress her. Nick took it in his stride.

  “You’re so much better in real life than the model version.”

  “The modelling is cheesy but it’s a regular contract. I’m saving money for my business start-up.”

  “Tell me more?” he encouraged.

  “I love my day job working for a tour company in the old town that runs ghost tours. But I want to start a drama club for disaffected kids. I’ve been studying at nights to finish my qualifications. All I need is money now and I won’t stop until I’ve done it.”

  Nick’s eyes held hers and softened. “Very commendable. You really are a woman of hidden talents.” He placed down his folded damask napkin like it was a done deal. “In that case I heartily endorse the modelling for getting you where you want to be.”

  “If you’re not going to eat all this wonderful food.” He took her fingers in his. “Then the least we can do is go over to the sofa and make ourselves comfortable while we get better acquainted?”