the Dance, part 2

Once Anastasia had established herself as being in control, the rest of the morning was wonderful. She and Derrick discussed several projects they were both involved in, interspersed with casual touching, joking, and flirting. In fact, Anastasia's newfound confidence in her ability to resist being pushed by this man gave her a freedom to enjoy his company she had never felt before. She found the situation exhilirating.

Now in control, Anastasia found herself being even more open. More flirtatious. More touchy-feely. At the end of the morning, Derrick suggested they have lunch before heading back to their respective offices. They were having a good time, and he asked Anastasia to lunch every time they got together - and most of the times he spoke with her on the phone. She had never said yes, and considering how they started their morning, he expected the same today. That's why he couldn't hide the look of surprise on his face when she agreed.

"So," she inquired, "where should we go?"

With his most charming smile, he suggested, "How about the restaurant at the Marriot? It's near here. It's never crowded. The food is good. And, it's a nice, quiet place where we can talk."

Despite his 'rational' explanation for his choice, he had truly meant it as another joke. He felt confident the suggestion wouldn't upset her, it was completely in line with all the flirting they'd done that morning. He figured she'd just come back with some other, more neutral, place to eat. Heck, this was the first time in the year they'd known each other he'd gotten her to have lunch with him. He intended to have this meal with her anywhere she wanted.

She gave her most charming smile in return and agreed, "Sure. The Marriot'd be great, and I'm not ready to be done with you yet today. Let's go."