Page 64 of Be More Octopus

'If you insist.'

He handed Em a box of cocktail glasses. She followed him inside and into a lift. Karl let her into his flat on the second floor and indicated a door on the left.

'This is impressive,' she said, walking into a massive living room. One wall was filled with full-height windows overlooking the bay.

'Yeah, the view is even more spectacular in the daylight.'

'Naked cheffing must pay well,' she laughed.

'Not well enough to afford to live here. It's a friend's flat. I'm house-sitting for her while she's working abroad. I get the place rent-free. She won't be back until Christmas.' Karl took the box of glasses off her. 'I've got one more box to bring up from the car. Make yourself at home.'

Em settled down on the sofa, sinking back into the ample cushions and closing her eyes.

'You look comfortable there.' Em sat bolt upright. How could Karl be back so quickly? She must've nodded off.

'I'm so sorry. I've had a long day.'

'If you're tired, we don't have to go to the bar.'

'What would we do instead?' Em tried flirting again.

'We could play a game.'

'Any particular game?'

'Depends what you're in the mood for. Chess, bridge or something less intellectual?' he said with a cheeky grin.

'You need four for bridge.'

'That's a bit racy, even for me. Shall we stick to games for two?' He sat down next to her on the sofa.

'Does that line work on all the women you bring back here?'

'You're the first woman I've brought back here.'

'Are you telling me you live like a monk?' Somehow she didn't believe that was true.

'I wouldn't say that.' He slid his arm behind her along the back of the sofa. 'Can I kiss you?'

'I was hoping you would,' she said.

He leaned over and gently pressed his lips against hers. No fireworks, but it felt nice in a strangely comforting way. She pulled him towards her, feeling his hand move under her top, his tongue parting her lips.

He pulled back. 'Are you ok with this?'

She responded by pushing him back against the sofa and sitting astride him.

'Is that a yes?' he laughed.

'Yes.' She whispered in his ear.

He expertly undid her bra and started caressing her breasts. She pulled her top off to give him easier access. He carefully removed the bra and started covering her breasts in gentle kisses.

'You've got me at a disadvantage now.' She said, unbuttoning his shirt.

'You've been checking out my naked arse all evening. I think you've had a head start.'

'I thought I was being discreet.'