*Anne*
It's a terrible idea, truly terrible. I can think of countless reasons to refuse, but I don't object when he takes my snifter, finishes its contents, and sets it aside. I don't pull away when he unravels the strands of my braid, his touch gentle yet firm.
Instead of stepping back, I sway forward as he cradles my face with one hand and holds my nape with the other, his lips meeting mine. It's incredible, simply incredible. A rush of warmth courses through me as his thumb strokes the underside of my chin, and his kiss works its enchantment. The taste of brandy on his tongue is more intoxicating than in the glass.
I maneuver myself until I'm in his lap, yearning to be as close to him as possible. I remove his jacket, sliding it off his shoulders without breaking the kiss. The famili
