Holding my wine class by the stem I enjoy the taste of the robust red as it kisses my lips and tantalizes my tongue. I find myself surrounded by a group of people, some I know, some are strangers. I laugh and converse with them. They're good people, smart people, and we're all here to enjoy the evening and support a worthy cause.
Every so often I look for you as I make my way around the room. You're in the same place with the same people, and it makes me smile that you prefer to sit back and relax while I meet and converse with many. You're rarely quiet and reserved alone with me, but in public, you're often stoic. Just another one of your many qualities that enchant me and keep me under your spell.
I take a sip of wine and feel it coat my mouth before I swallow. I didn't realize I'd closed my eyes until they flutter and find you in front of me. You take my elbow, and I know you're ready to go to our room. However, tonight I have a surprise for you.
We exit the ballroom and head toward the elevators. I stop 3/4s of the way down the hall. You look at me inquisitively, and I smile an impish smile. "What?" you ask, the corners of your mouth starting to rise. You've seen this smile on my lips before, and you know it usually leads to trouble. "Well, I have something I want to show you," I reply.
I push against the wall, and it gives way. You realize it's a door painted to look like the rest of the hallway. Once opened, it reveals a narrow passageway. You raise an eyebrow and look at me. I shrug my shoulders, grab your hand and pull you through.
The hotel has been around for over 100 years. The secret passageway leads to a room that was once a speakeasy during prohibition. I arranged with the general manager to have access to the room tonight, and I lead you down the dimly lit corridor. The only sounds are my heels clicking on the concrete, the whisper of my long, red gown against my legs, and our breathing.