Succubi - the sexual vampires

[Lady_Kit]

“…The new groom reported missing 4 days ago claims to have no memory of his whereabouts. Mr. Jeffery Winthorp insists that he left his bride standing in front of the American Airlines ticket counter only moments before he was spotted by airport security. He is currently undergoing psychiatric evaluation in an undisclosed location. The bride could not be reached for comment.”

Cassandra turned to look over her shoulder as her companion finished reading aloud the small article in the morning paper. Smiling, she returns to the table on the balcony of the beach side house. The morning sun is rising above the sparkling blue waters and in the distance the last of the deep sea fishing boats are heading out.

I thought that it was a nice touch; returning him to the airport. No real harm done, he can pick right up where he left off.

The beautiful face across the table frowned. No need to tell her it caused wrinkles, Cass thought. She’d probably say it would make a welcome change. Cass knew that taking the man to the airport was a foolish thing to do, but sometimes she felt so bored by it all and just wanted to increase the thrill. She looked again at the stunning woman who shared her breakfast and her existence. She thought she could see a slight smile forming, that was a good sign, it meant that Cass would soon be forgiven.

You have to admit, he was virile. How long has it been since we had one that lasted for 4 days? His bride is a lucky woman, well she will be when he regains his strength. She had to smile as she added the last bit.

“I agree that he was ...satisfying, but that his hardly the point. Your appetites are impairing your judgment Cassandra. I thought we agreed to a low profile this time? You promised to behave and not draw attention to yourself, or to me.”

How could they not draw attention? Cass pouted a bit as she looked at their reflection in the French doors leading into the house. It showed two very beautiful women, their age undetermined. Cass, blonde, tanned and curvaceous, always told men she was 35 because she felt it was a pleasant age, and it did have certain advantages. Young men that thought her sexy were even more attracted when they considered what they might learn from a more mature woman. Older men looked into her deep blue eyes saw her as young and exciting. Her companion was just as lovely and desirable, even though at the moment, she looked a bit like a parent scolding an errant child.

Hoping to make ammends, Cass plucked a ripe strawberry from the chilled bowl on the table and offered the other woman a bite. White even teeth gently bit the end from the berry, then brushed closed lips against the wet flesh, letting the juice color the pretty mouth.

"He was very tasty, in a young inexperienced way. Perhaps we should have taken the bride too...who knows how long the two of them would have lasted?" Her companion offered.

Smiling at the image of the newly weds as prey, and feeling a thrill at the hunger she saw in the sparkling eyes across the table. Cass laughed aloud, and knowing all was well again, popped the rest of the berry into her own mouth, then leaned back in the chair.

The true age of both women is unimportant. They have always been as they now are; they have lived for hundreds of years, never aging, or growing ill. They are the last of their kind. They are a kind of vampire…these two beautiful women, stealing the life of their sexual partners…draining the energy from their victims….They are Succubi.

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OOC: Anyone here old enough to remember the B Horror Flicks like “The Wasp Woman?” You know…Aging glamour queen finds the fountain of youth, but it usually means sacrificing someone young & beautiful. Well, this is an updated version of that old theme.

Read along, as modern day Succubi feast on the sexual energy of the horney men and women who cross their paths. They take their sustenance from their victims and use it to maintain their alluring appearances. The greater the thrill, the bigger the jolt for the ladies, and the more draining for the victim.

This will be primarily a closed thread for me to share with Chanaud, but we'll be hunting victims...er...asking for volunteers...from the general population of Lit.

 

[chanaud]

With closed eyes, Jolie slumped back on the cushiony Adirondack chair while she savored the burst of sweetness from the strawberry. Only the slow movements of her delicate jaw line told you she hadn’t fallen asleep. Her perfectly oval face leaned towards the waking sun. A low satisfying moan rumbled through her. Yessss, life was perfect.

Jolie opened her eyes finally and like always fell upon her best friend, Cass. Her beautiful, sensual best friend. Oh, they have shared so much. Jolie had to smile at the thought. Where would she be today if she hadn’t met Cass many centuries ago? She would probably be a whore for some dark lord or alone and scraping for blood from every low creature.

Cass felt eyes on her. When she saw Jolie’s cinnamon eyes studying her, she smiled. She knew she was forgiven.

Promise me, you will be careful next time.

Though her voice was stern, there was still warmness in her eyes. Cass leaned across the table and pushed a lock of red curl from her face. The corners of her sensuous mouth curled up.

“Of course, beautiful. I’ll let you choose our next toy, ok?”

Jolie breathed in deeply. The smell of sweet strawberries permeated her nostrils making her eyelids droop lazily. The aphrodisiac was working. She leaned in close and found Cass’ soft lips instantly. Their passion grew with every passing moment. Only the low rumble of a moan separated the two sensuous women.

Their roles have changed. It was Jolie’s turn to feed the beautiful woman across the table. She picked up a strawberry and held it high above Cass’ lips. Cass lifted her thin chin while her pink tongue reached out playfully. Jolie’s eyes were mesmerized at the sensual display. Tingles raced through her eternal veins making her willowy body to shift with desire.

Hmmmm….shall we go inside, dear?

 

[Lady_Kit]

After you.

Cass smiled and watched as her dearest companion stood and moved through to french doors that led back into the great room. Always proper was Jolie...it would never do for the neighbors to see them misbehaving on the balcony in broad daylight. Never mind that several of them had surely heard them at night. The sight of Jolies perfect ass moving away brought Cass back to the business at hand. She licked her lips, tasted strawberries and grinned with wicked intent. As she passed the table she grabbed the bowl of red berries before hurrying to the house.

The interior of the house was dim after the bright sunshine of the deck, but still light enough for Cass to see Jolie disappear into the large bathroom. She followed and paused at the door to watch as Jolie let her light clothing drop from her lithe form to the floor.

Cass stepped up behind Jolie and placed the bowl of berries on the vanity. She wrapped her arms around Jolie, savoring the warm skin and firm flesh. She laid a soft kiss on the swanlike neck before turning the other woman in her arms and wispering,

I wasn't finished with the berries darling....

She pressed Jolie against the smooth marble top of the vanity, then slowly slid down her body, until she knelt before the nude beauty.

But since you seem to be getting into the shower anyway...I'll continue here.

Cass selected several large berries from the bowl and crushed them in her hands as she held them above Jolies breasts. The juice dripped between her long fingers to fall in cool streams onto the warm skin. Jolie gasped at the first drops and leaned back, arching her body gracefully, and sighing with pleasure as Cass began to lick at the sweet juice as it ran over her skin.

mmmm...just what the berries needed, a bit of sweetening. Such a lovely color against your skin...just lovely....

Cass murmered as she rubbed the crushed fruit over the full breasts that were so tantilizingly close to her face. Her hands massaged and stroked the skin of Jolies tits, covering each mound with red pulp and using the wetness to tease and pull each nipple into tight sensitive buds. As her lips took the fist nipple into her mouth Jolie groaned, encouraging Cass to suckle at the delightful breast in earnest. She moved her mouth from one breast to the other, licking and sucking until she had removed most of the fruit and juice.

Cass looked up at Jolie; her love and desire for the other woman showing clearly in her face. She'd never put Jolie into real danger, not when the other woman meant so much to her. She hoped that Jolie knew that. Cass would do anything to protect Jolie, including reigning in her own impulsive nature.

Before licking away one lone drop of juice as it ran down Jolies flat stomach Cass asked,

Shall I let you have your shower now? Or is there something else you'd like?

 

[chanaud]

The wicked glow in Cass’ eyes darkened like the maddening sea. Reveling in the sensations, Jolie threw her head back and allowed her hair to cascade down into a natural waterfall. The sun streaming in from the painted window made Jolie’s hair glow with all shades of red.

Jolie lifted Cass up to eye level. Long delicate fingers cupped Cass’ chin as she leaned in and kissed her fully on the mouth with hungry passion. It took all of her will power for Jolie to part the tasty lips a few moments later.

Ooooo…You are simply too enticing to resist, but, resist I must for we are due at a breakfast meeting for the WPO.

A soft whimper fell from Cass’ pouty lips. Jolie cursed internally. Damn that Aunt Sophie! Why this morning of all mornings. When she saw the amused Cass’ eyes, she chuckled. Like always, Cass knew what was streaming through her mind. She knew Jolie would never say the words aloud but her flashing stormy eyes were a dead giveaway.

Afterwards. I promise you, I will make it up to you after the meeting.

Cass’ infamous pout returned. “We don’t have to attend, do we?”

Yes, we promised Aunt Sophie. You know how important this is to her and to all the women across the nation. The WPO needs our support to promote women in business….

The ancient grandfather clock chimed in alerting them of the time.

Oh, dear! We only have a half hour.

 

[Lady_Kit]

"Sulking doesn't suit you, Cass." Jolie gently chided, as they strolled through the lobby of the downtown hotel were the WPO meeting was being held.

Cass gave into a childish urge and stuck her tongue out at her friend in reply. She knew Jolie was right, but she wanted to play today and failed to see why they should care about womens business issues. After all, it wasn't as if she needed to work, neither did Jolie for that matter. Several lifetimes of careful investment had yielded more money than even she could ever spend. She sighed quietly, no need to make Jolie think she was being difficult as well as sulky.

I know it's important to Aunt Sophie, and that we do owe her alot, but I hate meetings. Especially this kind. All these stuffy business types. Most of these women are so busy with their careers and their companies that they've completely given up on sex. You know how that drains me. Jeeze, Jol, you might as well put me in a habit and lock me in a convent.

Jolie stopped at the doors to the banquet room. She looked so smart in her designer suit, her appearance was always immaculate, and completely appropriate for the occasion. The lines of her garment were perfect and she looked wonderful, even with her arms crossed over her chest, and a disappointed expression on her face. The whiney quality of Cass' voice had drawn a raised brow from Jolie and she tapped one tiny foot as she stood before the entrance.

Cass was beautifully dressed as well, but her own style tended to be a bit more flamboyant, and she often pushed the limits of what was allowed in polite society. Today, that meant that the skirt of her garnet red suit was as short as her taylor would allow, and the jacket lapels met just high enough to keep her ample breasts contained. She wore a red & black scarf tied at her throat and black high heeled pumps on her feet. Her long blonde hair hung loose down her back, and was held away from her face by the sunglasses she had pushed to the top of her head.

Oh, all right. I'll behave. I'll be a good girl and not embarass you or Aunt Sophie, but I want a reward for this later.

Cass put on her best smile and followed the relieved Jolie into the room. She really was being a brat, and it wasn't fair to Jolie, who had to put up with her bad behavior.

Besides, she didn't want to upset Sophie, wasn't really an "Aunt" at all, but had certainly helped them through the ages more times than she could count. It had been Sophie who had educated them both and taught them how to look and act like ladies. A difficult task where Cass was concerned. As the bastard child of an upstairs maid and a butler, she had a chip on her shoulder from the start, and resisted most of the help offered her until Jolie had finally pointed out the wisdom of improving their social status.

It always came back to Jolie in the end. Cass was sure she'd have been lost long ago if not for the steading presence of her friend. So now, she followed her lead and entered the room full of perfectly dressed, well behaved yuppies, matrons, and power hungry females. All of whom, she presumed, were here to network with women just like themselves, and to discuss how to advance their respective companies in todays economy.

They found their seats just as Sophie was calling the meeting to order.

 

[Huntress]

Erika

She fidgeted idly with her pearls as the meeting was called to order. Long, elegant fingers, winding and unwinding the strand, perfectly manicured nails clicking against a loop of slightly pink orbs as Sophie Warfield made her introductory address and presented this month's guest speaker.

"Our guest today is well known to you all. She's a brilliant architect and lecturer with degrees from M.I.T, Columbia, and Radcliffe. Her firm is currently designing the new oncology wing at UCLA Medical Center. Please help me welcome Dr. Erika Langston."

Erika stood and bowed her head slightly, acknowledging the applause as she glided to the podium. Her svelte figure moved with the grace of a dancer, each step measured and controlled. A caramel colored Ann Klein suit showed off her long legs and raven hair. She was a study in poise, refinement and elegance. Not bad for a skinny kid from the Bronx. How appropriate that she be invited to speak for the very organization which had given her the inspiration and courage, not to mention the scholarship, that took her out of the slums and into some of the most prestigious environs in the world. Honoring Sophie's request was the least she could do to repay such a debt.

"Good morning. What a lovely, warm reception. Madame Chairperson, members of the board, I am honored to address this gathering."

"Women today have unprecedented opportunities to compete on more level playing fields. Our challenge is to make sure that educational opportunities do not lag behind..." She smiled inwardly. Public speaking was her passion. The thrill of touching an audience with her words and achieving a desired effect was nearly as satisfying as good sex. Nearly.

The well planned, thirty minute speech was flawless in its execution. Each point was designed to stimulate and challenge the assembly, to urge them to make a greater investment in the growing population of young women from disadvantaged backgrounds. As questions from the floor were posed, Erika knew she'd achieved a measure of success. With deftness and clarity, she answered each inquiry in turn, feeling more and more satisfied with the impressions she'd be leaving on each woman's consciousness. Yes, only the most intense sexual experience could hold a candle to the feelings she had at this moment.

A striking woman with dark auburn hair raised her hand.

"Yes? You have a question?"

 

[chanaud]

The audience had their undivided attention on our Aunt Sophie. That is everyone but Cass. She sat next to me and was in a constant fidgety state. Her neck would crane to the left and then to the right looking for anything of interest. Jolie glanced a frown at Cass but her beautiful lover’s head was turned. She leaned her torso forward. She didn’t want to miss anything of importance as Aunt Sophie introduced the guest speaker.

Cass leaned in and whispered, “Can we leave now?”

Jolie’s perfectly styled auburn tresses swung as she released a vehement Ssshhhhh

Even that didn’t dissuade her. Cass continued her conversation in Jolie’s hair while her fingers leaned across and played with the Jolie’s tailored hems.

Please stop…

“Good morning….”

Jolie stopped mid sentence as low, husky tones amplified across the room. She turned her head towards center stage and her eyes lit up immediately with interest. She recognized the woman on stage. There was a feature article in the New England Journal of Medicine with a photo of the guest speaker throwing the first shovel of dirt at the construction site. Jolie remembered thinking impressed with the Doctor’s beauty and list of accomplishments. Now seeing her on stage, she realized the photo didn’t do any justice for the Doctor was even more beautiful in real life.

As she continued to watch, Jolie became more enamored with the Doctor. The banquet’s bright lights shone down making her hair every shade of red. Her smile was wide with just the right amount of fullness. Even a few feet away, the slight dimple winked at Jolie. The speaker had impeccable taste; the Anne Klein suit molding over her luscious curves proved it. Even through her immaculate tailored suit, the Doctor couldn’t hide the earthiness in her, which made her even more desirable.

Jolie sat mesmerized; and drank every fluid movement of the speaker. She found herself nodding with each word as they spoke to her. Only once Jolie turned her head towards Cass to find intent eyes on her. Cass has never seen Jolie so enamored before. Gold dusts were sparkling from her eyes. Cass turned to the women on stage and nodded. It was Jolie’s turn, she had stated so earlier. And Jolie had chosen the perfect victim to satisfy their eternal needs.

"Yes? You have a question?"

The Wall Street Journal had recently published an article stating there was a dramatic increase of women business owners in the past year. The majority of the increase were home based and business serviced, with a moderate increase in research. If I am remembering correctly, the smallest increase were Internet related. Women are not investing in Internet businesses. Why is that? And what can we do to promote women's interest in the Internet world?

 

[Lady_Kit]

Cass watched Jolie watch the speaker. She noted the quickened breathing; the flush of excitment; and when Jolie turned in her direction, Cass saw the swirling gold of Jolies eyes. She nodded her approval and sat back to watch the hunt.

As much as Cass hated to admit it, Jolie was the more skilled hunter of the two. Not that Cass couldn't manage very well on her own, it was just that she was a bit lazy about the process, and her particular charms tended to appeal to a different kind of prey. She tended to attract the playboys, gamblers, straying husbands, and women of questionable virtue. She also managed the occasional man of the cloth, which was a rare and delicious treat. She smiled wickedly as she thought of Father Timothy...that wonderful Irishman she had enjoyed...how long ago now? With a mental shrug, she dismissed the years, and simply enjoyed the memory.

Jolie, on the other hand, attracted the intellectual, the artist, the musician, the blue-blooded socialite. Her victims were more challenging, because they seldom wanted to fall, but ultimately could not help themselves. The hunt was always exciting to watch, no matter who Jolie selected; and Jolie always made wonderful choices.

The woman at the podium was stunning. She fairly vibrated sensuality and passion. Cass felt her hunger build as she examined the details of the speakers appearance. She had no idea who the woman was, but it was clear that Jolie knew something about her. What was evident was that the woman was educated, well dressed, and was respected in her profession. The first and last were requirements for her appearance at the meeting, the second, well, Cass knew expensive clothing when she saw it. The suit was not to her taste, a bit too conservative, but it fit well, although it couldn't entirely mask the shapely form hidden beneath.

The other detail that Cass noticed was that when the speakers eyes landed on Jolie her breathing quickened.

She smiled. Maybe meetings were not so boring after all. Perhaps, she'd have to attend a few more.

 

[Huntress]

Erika frowned slightly as she focused her gaze past the bright lights and tried to make out the speaker's face. She'd been waiting for someone to ask about women and the internet. How appropriate that the question should come from such a sophisticated, well spoken woman. It was impossible to make out her face. Perhaps there would be time after the meeting to seek her out.

"I'm so glad you asked. That's a topic near and dear to my heart particularly because at one time it was so difficult for women to make inroads into the high-tech arena. While the Journal's data is valid, the report neglected some very encouraging statistics.

Were you aware that 50.4% of all internet users are women and over 4.5 million of us work from home? Add to that an 89% increase in women-owned businesses over the last three years and the fact that women-owned businesses are more likely to have a website than male-owned businesses, and we have the makings of an incredibly exciting future for women and the 'net..."

Ten minutes later, she had to stop. Promoting women and the WWW was her current passion but it frequently left everyone else bored to death. Not wanting her excitement to run away and spoil the afternoon, Erika concluded her remarks with thanks to the audience and the board, then relinquished the podium to Sophie.

As she sat down, she scanned the rows from front to back trying to spot the red haired woman. It took several minutes... There she is... Oh! What a remarkable face! Their eyes met and a jolt of excitement ran up Erika's spine and back down into her stomach which flipped in protest. Her body's response was highly unusual; powerful and unnerving. She dropped her gaze uncomfortably and tried to regain some modicum of composure as the meeting came to a close.

What on earth had prompted that?

Still mulling over what had just happened, she didn't hear Sophie's first invitation to lunch. Only when the older woman bent down and put her lips next to Erika's ear did she come back to the present.

"Oh, I'm so sorry," she said smiling wanly. "Lost in thought, I'm afraid. Lunch? Why, I'd be delighted. Thank you!"

That was probably the best thing for her unsettled gut right now and the bonus would be having some of Sophie's undivided attention. She desperately wanted and needed the woman's support for her pet project: a new facility in Boston that would house an academy dedicated to the advancement of women in high-tech fields.

"Good. That's settled," Sophie responded. "I've asked my niece and her companion to join us. I think you'll find the three of you have a lot in common."

 

[Lady_Kit]

Did someone say lunch? I'm starved! Jolie made me skip breakfast so we'd arrive on time.

Hello Aunt Sophie. How are you darling? Jolie will be along in a moment. That dreadful woman from the library foundation grabbed her as we passed.

Cass gave Sophie a warm hug, she really did care for the old dear. She extened her hand to the days speaker and gave her a brilliant smile.

Thank you very much for taking the time to speak today. These projects are so important. We must all do our part to help women move up the corporate ladders.

Sophie looked at Cass as if she'd grown a second head, and it was all Cass could do to keep a straight face. Sophie knew Cass had no real interest in anything that didn't directly impact herself or Jolie. Well, perhaps Cass had some regard for Sophie, but she held no illusions about where she was on the list.

Cass tried to give Sophie a reassuring look. Couldn't have the old dear thinking she'd gone crackers. She was only being polite, and trying to stall things until Jolie arrived.

Oh, I'm sorry, how rude, I didn't introduce myself. I'm Cassandra Reynolds. Sophies' niece.

 

[Huntress]

It was difficult to stop a sigh of disappointment from escaping when Sophie mentioned others would also be coming to lunch. Drat! Erika so wanted to have Sophie's support for the Boston project. She couldn't always rely on luck. Sometimes one had to make things happen. If the opportunity didn't arise today, she'd just have to make an appointment with the old darling another day.

Erika stood and took Sophie's hand warmly. "Sophie, you know I'd do almost anything for you. I'd be honored to meet your nieces. Especially if they're anything like you!" She grinned at the idea of a young Miss Warfield and what a hellion she must have been. Sophie was still capable of shaking up the status quo and making herself heard. Erika hoped her nieces had similar qualities and interests.

Yes, dear... I'll have lunch with you and if I can't bend your ear, perhaps I can get one of your nieces to listen to my schpiel about the academy. Indirect routes to your precious WPO funds are sometimes more effective anyway..."

Just then a willowy blond strolled up and hugged the older woman. She spoke briefly to Sophie before complimenting Erika for the morning's lecture and introduced herself. So this was to be one of her luncheon companions!

Cassandra's voice had a honeyed quality; rich and lanquid, designed to seduce. She wore an impeccably tailored, if a bit audacious, red suit and had a disconcertaing way of appraising another with a very direct gaze. Coupled with the warmth of her hand, the contact made Erika shift uncomfortably and feel flattered at the same time. Time to adjust her "all business" mask to fit better or she'd lose her edge.

"Cassandra, you said? Erika Langston," she said briskly as she freed her hand of it's delicate prison. "Pleased to meet you. Your sacrifice of a morning meal has been duly noted and is appreciated. Its wonderful to see that Sophie's dedication to the advancement of women in business has passed on to her nieces. I hope you found the presentation entertaining at least?"

Her green eyes twinkled as the tip of her tongue flicked along her upper lip and the beginning of a smile lurked at the corners of her mouth in anticipation of Ms. Reynold's response.

 

[Lady_Kit]

Cass

Her red tinted lips formed a delicate pout, but Cass couldn't hold the look for long. After a moment a small dimple formed at the corner of her mouth and she soon began to laugh quietly.

Oh, bother! I was just getting the hang of that one. Jolie worked so hard to help me form a nice polite response. Now we’ll have to come up with another one. It will be awful! She’ll make me recite!

Her pained expression faded and she looked Erika again. This time analyzing different qualities; then at Sophie, and was serious when she spoke.

Sophie, whatever Erika Langston wants, you should give. I’ll help. She is going to go far.

You know, Erika, most people hear only what they want to hear. I used all the right words with you, but it didn’t matter, you heard the truth in what I said. Interesting.

Cass shook her head slightly, as if shrugging off another persona and when she spoke again the business-like quality had left her.

Now, may we please move along toward lunch? I’m beginning to feel faint, and, if I’m not mistaken, Our Jolie is going to kill Ms. Sharp-Faulkner. We must rescue her.

Cass turned without looking to see if they followed. Her high heels were quiet as she moved across the carpet and bore down on the library lady and her unfortunate captive. It would have been better for Ms. Sharp-Faulkner if she had heard Cass coming.

 

[chanaud]

The meeting had adjourned. Most women fell into place in their tight circles, while the few bold ones networked their way from one group to another to promote their agenda. Jolie’s first intention was to greet Aunt Sophie. Her eyes found her instantly and her body turned to follow but the scene before her made her stop instantly and cock her beautiful head. A second later, a slow grin stretched her flawless complexion. Though she didn’t know it, Aunt Sophie was the perfect accomplice. She will hand the lovely Doctor over to Cass’ and Jolie’s preying hands. When she discovers her hand in this little tryst, she will be furious, very furious. She had proclaimed long ago that proper ladies in society do not perform such acts especially with another female. Such acts belong to women of the streets and certain ill reputed homes. When Aunt Sophie discovers her hand in delivering Dr. Langston, it will be too late. The beautiful Doctor will be spent and Cass and Jolie will be satiated.

As Jolie held back, she was able to observe at a safe distance. The more she saw, the deeper the hunger spread through her veins. Her delicate tongue outlined her tongue as she imagined her taste. Oh yessss, Dr. Langston will be a delight. Jolie was sure of it, as she was sure the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.

An amused smile overcame her as she saw Cass approach them. Cass was not one to be ignored. Jolie waited to see Dr. Langston’s reaction to Cass’ boldness and even bolder ensemble. This is the true test, she thought. How will Dr. Langston react to Cass? Most women in power usually crinkle their nose when they take on her flamboyant style. The few that took time to look beyond Cass’ colorful canvas discovered she was indeed an intelligent woman and was able to stand toe to toe with any intellect without losing her composure.

“Joooooolie….” The most irritating voice made Jolie wince. She soon recovered and turned to the familiar voice.

“Why Ms. Faulkner, I was just looking for you…”

Ms. Sharp-Faulkner giggled uncontrollably. “You were? I was wondering why you were standing by yourself. It’s so unlike you. Why, I was just telling my Ralph the other night that you are always the center of attention no matter where we happened to be. He agreed wholeheartedly. Well, he didn’t exactly agree. He was reading the Financials. The poor dear, he’s always working. Working, working, working. If he’s not studying the index, then he’s on his laptop….”

How unfortunate! Jolie thought as her face was nodding with interest as the leading chairwoman of the Reading Festival babbled incessantly.

“Jolie! Rita!” Cass’ voice boomed making everybody in the room to turn their heads towards us and making Ms. Sharp Faulkner to stop midsentence.

“Rita, I just saw your husband a few nights ago at the Bath and Racquet Club. I’ve noticed how bulging his muscles are. I couldn’t help thinking how lucky you are to have such a virile man like Ralphie. Of course, it explains your constant good humor. Tell me, does he have to take Viagra? I hear most men do these days.”

Ms. Rita Sharp-Faulkner’s middle-aged face reddened. It didn’t stop Cass from continuing.

“Either way, it doesn’t matter. He’s soooo yummy. If you don’t watch out Rita, I might just have to steal him away.”

 

[Lady_Kit]

"Well! I never!" Rita Sharp-Faulkner sputtered as she lifted her nose and stamped away.

Perhaps you should, darling, it might improve your attitude.

Cass noted the look of disapproval on Jolies face, then smiled.

Now, Jolie, you mustn't scold me. You'll look so much better by comparison to me, and it isn't as if she'll never speak to you agian.

Besides, look who I've brought. Aunt Sophie, and the lovely Dr. Langston.

She waited until the other women caught up, then formally introduced Jolie to Erika. Cass watched as Erikas eyes widened at the touch of Jolies hand. It was just as she suspected, Erika was perfect!

Just as the women were preparing to leave for lunch a strident voice called to Sophie. The older woman excused herself to address the speaker, and then came back a short time later. Her normally calm face wore a frown of annoyance.

"Ladies" she said, "I'm afraid you're going to have to go to lunch without me. I have a crisis that must be dealt with before the fundraiser tonight. Please run along and have a good time." Seeing the disappointed look on Erikas face, Sophie patted her shoulder and promised a private meeting at a later date. Then she was gone.

Well, well, well, looks like its just the three of us. Come along Erika, don't be disappointed that Sophie won't join us. We can't wait to hear about your pet projects. I promise you that you will have our undivided attention.

 

[Huntress]

Events were moving much too fast for Erika's taste.

Cass' endorsement was still echoing in her head as Sophie departed in swirl of lavender chiffon. Only the soft scent of an unidentifiable perfume gave proof she'd been there at all. Jolie was eyeing her intently having recovered from her encounter with Ms. Sharp-Faulkner and Erika... Erika was standing with her mouth agape, staring at the spot where Sophie had been only moments before.

"I promise you that you will have our undivided attention."

Erika snapped her lips closed, pursed them, frowned and looked at Cass.

"Umm... thanks." She paused, frowned again, then looked directly into Cass' eyes and tried desperately not to get lost in the silver flecks that swam in the deep blue pools surrounded by dark lashes.

"Ok, I think I'm suffering from low blood sugar. Your lunch offer? You're on. Let's go."

Without another word, Erika turned away from the sisters and headed toward the backstage exit where her limo waited.