Garnet Sky: Crimson & Steel, Book 3 By Ric Bern

"Will there be anything else?"

She allowed her stare to linger a bit more on his frame before alighting on his face. He had high, brutally sharp cheeks and a thick, square jaw. His eyes were the color of polished copper, like the effigy of Jupiter Dolichenus in the temple district. Her breath quickened as Bhwekizizwe stepped toward her and tepidly reached out a hand.

"Are you all right?"

"What? Oh yes, quite all right...enjoying the sunset." She felt heat rising in her bosom and her cheeks.

He let his hand fall to his side. "You did not answer me."

"My answer is: I would like some wine." She cast a glance at a glass decanter and a pair of pattern-cut, long-stemmed flutes resting on a low table near the wrought iron bannister.

He poured the burgundy liquid into the colorfully layered and etched vessel and handed it to his mistress. Their fingers touched as they made the exchange. Little more could have excited her in that moment. She curled her toes and quietly turned up her glass. The familiar sensation of alcohol caressing her belly was welcome.

"Goodnight, mistress." He turned away.

"Bhwekizizwe. I have not dismissed you." She pouted her lips.

He turned back, yet did not advance. "What may I do for you?"

"Come. Converse with me. I am lonely." She drained the remainder of her drink. "And, please, pour me more wine. These flutes are delightful, although intended for an imbiber with the discretion of a woman more sensible and chaste than I."