[For Jack] I'm longing to linger till dawn, dear

[st_illunsmeared]

Jack's question and the exchange that followed, still lingered in Phryne's mind a half hour later when they arrived back at her room. He'd been very chary of anything that might sound like he was trying to tie her down, which she appreciated, but perhaps a bit too chary.

The nature of their relationship clearly had changed. No longer did she expect "no" when, as now, she asked, "Will you come in for a drink?" and opened her door to step through. If he did say "no" now, it would be because he concretely had something else to do, and even so, she would be put out to be deprived of his company--and his kisses.

Tonight, they'd already agreed he'd join her, so the invitation was mere nicety, a playful nod to all the many evenings past they'd spent in each other's company. So, she'd already sailed through the door and headed toward her boudoir without waiting for his response. "I'll be just a minute while I slip into something more comfortable."

Comments

[st_illunsung]

Why would he need words when he had her mouth, and her eyes, and her touch? Even just before their marriage had ended, right up to the day she'd moved out, I love yous had been punctuation for him and Rosie - part of saying hello, or goodbye, or phone conversations. Jack, of all people, knew how little the words actually meant. The substance, which Phryne was more than willing to provide, was the important part.

Not that he didn't intend to tease her, occasionally and gently. "Of course. It gives me something to look forward to, you know."

[st_illunsmeared]

Darling Jack. It was so like him to tease that she felt the tension of the moment receding, the sentiments still potent but without the fear. But if he would tease, she could also. "Darling, how long has it been since you've been with a woman? Trust me--" She drew her kisses down his chest and when she'd neared his belly, she flipped the blanket over her shoulders and grinned up at him. "You have plenty to look forward to."