As Shalma Hughes's voice fell, the hand gripping her tightened a fraction before slowly releasing its hold. He looked at her, his gaze intense and unblinking. His thin, pressed lips curled into a smile, the arc at the corners of his mouth as dazzling as a hidden rift in a galaxy of stars. He leaned in, his lips brushing lightly against her cheek. His voice was faint as he asked, "Do you really not want to know?"
Rather than an explanation, it was a blatant seduction.
Shalma felt it. She smiled, uncaring that Julian Winslow was standing right in front of her. Taking a step back, she turned around and walked into the makeshift office. She shut the door directly with a loud BANG, the force shaking loose a layer of dust that settled onto Julian's broad shoulders.
