My indebted recognition goes to the Volunteer Editors invaluable critiques and suggestions that encouraged the best from me.
*
Stretching her cramped legs under the table, Trish stops taking notes long enough to scan the room. It is another late night, trapped in a corporate conference that has dragged on for hours. The hotel has been diligent in keeping the coffee service filled, and ample bottled beverages still remain. A slow, deep breath relieves the stifling feel of the crowded room.
Glancing at faces, most expressions are listless and bored, except one. Trish stares, intrigued by a man's steel-gray eyes, as they observe people intently. Attractive broad shoulders hint at a muscular build under the dark tailored suit he wears. His eyes fascinate with the reflective sharpness of his mind, as does his grin when his observations provide their own conclusions.
Trish is startled as his head deliberately turns, fixing his eyes on her. Caught brazenly staring, she blushes with burning embarrassment. In the blink of an eye, he stripped her bare. The intimate realization of how exposed and vulnerable she feels under his gaze causes her body to shiver. With a knowing smile he releases his hold, leaving Trish stunned and wondering if she imagined the whole thing.
More than a little shaken, aroused and confused, she tries to collect herself, making every effort to avoid his scrutiny again. The meeting adjourns and packing away equipment keeps her busy; she doesn't have time to rationalize why her panties are moist and nipples hard.
Mercifully, the emptied room is finally quiet, and Trish checks one last time to make sure everything is packed and the lights are out. She steals a moment to stand at the window watching the city sparkle below. Touching the coolness of the glass does nothing to sooth the desires stirring within.
