The bar was small and intimate, the low vaulted ceiling and exposed brickwork amplifying the near Gothic look. Its discreet location hidden under the railway arches, well off the beaten track for those not in the know. Drawing only the most of discerning of clientele, a reputation only further fuelled by a guest list that didn't even guarantee entrance by itself. Only those glamorous and alluring enough passing the vigorous dress code and given the pass to descend into decadence within. As a result, an attractive crowd complimented the setting that seemed in a different era to the bustling city outside.
Large black couches draped with beautiful people sat alongside low chunky wooden tables, positioned across the cold stone flooring. The splattering of dark shades of red adding to the sensual ambience. Discreet red candlelight provided the lighting, wax dripping down onto wood, the flickering flames softly illuminating the bar enough for eyes to glance and seek. Enough for conversations to occur yet also providing a backdrop for those who wish to slip away from prying eyes and disappear beyond into the shadowy enclaves.
For there had always been rumours, stories passed from person to person alluding to a more sinful side, the dark shadows free from the flicker of candlelight, stories of wild debauchery in the sheltered coves hidden throughout. Myth or fantasy, I could almost sense a sexual tension lingering in the air as I made my way to the bar, a warm smile catching the attention of an attractive young twenty-something barmaid, whose youthful eyes, between the playful heavy dark eyeliner, sparkled into life.
My eyes danced over her in a naughty little black number as she tended to my order. Her blatant repeat of my name as I opened a tab, coupled with the slight pout and sultry lingering look, as she handed back my card. The door policy obviously applied to the staff as I returned her smile, stirring thoughts of what may lay ahead.
Drink in hand I slipped from the bar admiring the attractive and discerning crowd. A mirage of desires greeted my eyes as I moved from the bar. My eyes suddenly caught by another as paths crossed.
Beneath an intricate lace mask, smouldering eyes caught my gaze, swallowing me up in an instance. Soft dark tresses framed her beautiful face, her features so elegant. The touch of subtle make-up and crimson red lipstick adding to a most natural beauty.
My eyes were drawn to her body. Sumptuous curves that others would die for. A glamorous black dress adorning her hourglass contours. Slender straps over the shoulders offset her creamy skin whilst the plunging V-shape teased the eye to savour her sculpted cleavage beneath. The exquisite material hugged her body and fell elegantly to the floor, accentuating the most heavenly figure.
I smiled instantly, watching as passe, offering a curl of her glossed lips in return.
As she passed I stood transfixed, noticing the split in her dress that rode high to the top of the thigh, giving a teasing glimpse of toned and exquisite black stocking-clad legs, only accentuated further by her impressive heels.
I couldn't help but notice the subtle dart of her eyes beneath her lashes, beyond her mask, as though eyeing me from tip to toe. My eyes followed as she passed by, intently watching her every step. The hypnotic snake of her hips and sensual flow of her wonderful dress as she floated by before me until reaching a sharply dressed male, who greeted her with a gentle peck on the cheek.
Finding a free table I sat back in the big leather bound chair, slowly sipping my drink, as my eyes glanced around the room. A murmur of conversation rippled over the glamorous crowd. The rhythmic, repetitive beat of the music playing in the background added to the simmering ambience. Revealing, daring outfits and exposed flesh fall upon my gaze, a delicious mix of cute young things that would make a man do anything, in full party mode. Yet despite this allure, my eyes are constantly drawn back to her.
Sat on a bar stool, legs crossed, her dress fell to her feet. Her exquisite heels just visible beneath the hem, resting gingerly upon the foot stall, as she tucked a strand of her dark hair behind her ear, a diamond earring twinkling in the flickering candlelight. All the while her slick male suitor lurked alongside, whispering into her ear, making her smile and giggle as she sipped at her cocktail.
I wondered whether a woman like that would ever want a rogue like me, as I gently stroked the stubble across my rugged face.
She continued to laugh to his words yet I couldn't help the feeling her casual glances my way were somehow aimed towards me, playing havoc with my mind.
Another drink ordered from the staff working the tables, I continued to look among the growing crowds. Aware of a young blonde in a figure-hugging PVC dress that left very little to the imagination, so tight that her it barely kept her cleavage in. Giggling with her friends, eyes discretely or so they thought, flashing my way. I smiled at the attention yet continued looking back towards the bar, despite the growing numbers that obscured the view.