Cedric listened to the crowds gathering in the theater, the aroma of beer, bodies and oranges permeating his senses. He could picture the way the candles fringed the stage’s edge like fairy lights, dancing attendance upon the performers who would fill the stage. People would still talk, even as the candles and lamps in the gallery were snuffed out and the orchestra stirred to life. Cedric remembered what a sensual joy it was to share the experience in a beautiful woman’s company.
“Anne,” he whispered as he held his left hand palm up.
He expected her to ask him what he wanted. But she never said a word. The warm weight of her hand, fine-boned but strong as her fingers curled around his made Cedric’s heartbeat jolt into a quick canter. Was he pathetic for enjoying this simple touch, this s
