Snippet #1531565

Damien strolled along the avenue quietly, his observant gaze sliding over the fine houses he passed. It was by now very late, and he met no one as he continued along the path. The moon was full and ripe at its apex---illuminating the street in a silvery-blue light. Seen from one of the windows that overlooked the street, he appeared nothing more than an innocent (if nocturnal) passerby.

It had been torture attempting to extricate himself from the clutches of the ball after Miss Marwick had departed. One young lady after another had endeavored to make his acquaintance, and he had been forced to subject himself to several unpleasant dancing partners before he managed to make his escape, pleading weariness when in fact he couldn't have felt more awake. The night was crisp and refreshing---an exhilerating night for a hunt, though he felt no pangs of thirst. His intentions in these parts of London were less than pure: he had traced (with some difficulty) Miss Marwick's faint scent back to this street from the ball. He did not expect to meet her again---indeed he would be hard pressed to fabricate an excuse for his presence if he did---but merely wished to familiarize himself with the area in which she lived.

Farther along the street, he could see that a window stood open. The breeze wafted a scent towards him, and he was pleasantly surprised to recognize Miss Marwick's distinct musk. Quickening his pace a bit, he strode down the street purposefully, eyes fixed on the open window. Mere feet stood between the open window and himself when, to his immense surprise, a figure emerged into sight. In one glance he see that it was female, and far less than appropriately clad. Another moment and he was able to ascertain that it was indeed the young lady with whom he had been speaking earlier that evening. It was too late to avoid being seen, and so he slowed his pace, hoping to enjoy the sight of her exposed skin for a few seconds longer.

His eyes slid across the pale expanse slowly, a reverent caress. The nightgown she was wearing did little to conceal her figure, and Damien gazed appreciatively at the exposed curves. She was the essence of everything natural and innocent in those few moments, and the images would stick with him long after she had withdrawn from his sight.