This ficlet grew out of a series of drabble prompts sent to me on tumblr. I do hope you enjoy this little tale. :) I own no part of Downton Abbey, but I love it so very much.
"I hope you're enjoying your evening, Mary."
His words elicit a response they shouldn't, and she draws in a fortifying breath before turning to face him head-on.
"I am, thank you," she hums, feeling the flash in his eyes speed across every nerve. "And you, Charles?"
He shrugs and steps towards her, making her take two steps back before deciding to hold her ground.
"I've had better," he replies, the scent of him teasing her thighs.
"I should have known you'd take on the role of the Grinch," she quips, smirking as his face acknowledges her challenge.
"It is a burden I must bear," he grins, making her wonder if he has sprung a trap of which she is unaware. " Perhaps you can help me with my dilemma. All I need is a healthy dose of good will for your fellow man."
He touches his lips suggestively, his dimples beckoning her closer. God, should she kiss the man or slap him?
Why is this even a question?
"You're unbelievable," she retorts, feeling hot in places she tries to ignore. "I came here tonight with Tony."
He dares a glance over her shoulder, dropping his eyes back to hers.
"I know. But I'm hoping you'll leave with me."
Her gaze widens incredulously, and she opens her mouth to speak, only to find it muffled by the pressing of his lips to hers. Nipping, tugging, pulling tingles up from her core that snake through veins with a speed that should be illegal. His tongue is playing games with her, making her an offer that hardens her breasts, promising her things that make her knees feel like jello.
"How dare you?"
Her question is no more than a heavy breath that tickles his neck, the rise and fall of her chest giving away far more than she would like.
"Christmas spirit, Mary," he grins, making her feel dizzy. "You are standing under the mistletoe, you know."