Necklace

Next came the bidding for the necklace and, being the more valuable piece, the bidding went much higher. This time the high bidder was a much younger man and as he approached the platform she wondered if he was a child of privilege or had started from scratch like her husband had. "Hello Mrs. Compton, my name is James Harrington," the man said. Rebecca recognized the last name – they were one of the most prominent families in the area. Old wealth. "Thank you for allowing your beautiful jewelry to be auctioned in the name of charity. That's very generous of you."

"It's my pleasure," she replied not wanting to tell him that it hadn't been her idea. Harrington leaned in close as he reached behind her to unfasten her necklace and Rebecca could detect a musky, masculine scent. He smelled good to her. Harrington placed a light kiss on her cheek that sent a little tingle up her. I'm a married woman now, she scolded herself as she watched him retreat to his seat, but she took a little delight in the air of sensuality she knew she was exuding.

With the auctioning of the jewelry now completed, Rebecca began to step off the platform. "One moment please, Mrs. Compton, we aren't quite finished yet." Puzzled, Rebecca returned to Daniel Thompson's side. "Just a couple of more minutes of your time please. Thank you for your patience." Rebecca nodded unsure of what would be required of her.