Delicious Torment

Weve been invited to dinner, Eric told her, his eyes dancing and his smile verging on lunacy. Amazing!

Thats great Eric.

Tina herself had the feeling she should lock herself away in a tower with no stairs, no doors to keep any unwanted visitors out. All she wanted was a view of the exhibits and not the sensory turmoil of a woman wanting her, swaying to some potent song that Tina did not know she was singing. It was all very dream-like and to extend the torment was a perilous idea. Why? -Because she was suddenly capering to the same tune, albeit reluctantly, but with increasing curiosity.

And curiosity killed the cat. The straight, wavering cat.

I dont think we should stay, Tina told him.

Why not? Eric asked, sounding very much like a child denied a privilege.

If I tell you, youll either laugh or…run away from here screaming with me under your arm.

Erics grin widened. Youre exaggerating, Tina. It cant be that bad.

No, Im not. Tina stopped, turning Eric to her, suddenly serious. I know that you admire Bette Porter; I also know that these dinners are hard to come by, much less be invited to. But Eric, theres just something off about Bette; it may just be me, but I think shes *****

Well, your groping ***** radar seems accurate, Eric admonished, chuckling at her mixed expression. He studied her a moment, found her gaze, and in it, grappled the answer in a frisky, teasing tone. Oh no. She was hitting on you.

Yes, for lack of a better term.

Tina, honey -they flirt without thinking and Bette, as beautiful as she is, has that effect on everyone, including myself. Tina glared. And I cant blame her for taking a fancy. Youre beautiful. You always are. He caressed her cheek and though Tina began to soften somewhat, Eric laughed, in sudden revelation. Alice, the Minion. Oh, theyre clever. If it had been anybody else, I would have invited them to the parking lot for a scrap.

Tina hit his arm. Stop it. Arent you in the least bothered?

Eric kissed her forehead. I trust you completely. Its Porter and Piezecky that I dont.

Tina looked up at him, at his wide eyes, innocent and trusting. God, it wasnt Porter she didnt trust. It was herself.

~*~*~*~

TBC