Secret Seduction

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Happy New Years! *pops champagne* Who wants some??

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Why? That was the only question battering my mind at the moment. Why did he have to show up and make the situation even more intense? It was already enough on my hands that I would be repeating myself to Herenandez, but now...I just had this feeling that things would not go the way I intended. Quite honestly, not a damn thing goes the way I intend it to whenever I'm around July. Why does that even surprise me a little bit?

I tried to keep my focus on the cream table, perfectly set for a dinner of four. The atmosphere had a welcoming warmth. Echoes of silent conversations, brisk laughter, and clinking silverware filled the dining room.

I considered myself avoiding July's presence until he started laughing. It was soft and full with a nice tone. I couldn't help but admire how good July looked in a simple dress shirt and a pair of slacks. The shirt seemed to cling to his muscles, every crease wrapped around his skin tightly. His usually wild hair was combed back but it wasn't stiff with hair products. I could even smell his cologne from across the table.

A few brief flashbacks seemed to sneak up on me and carry my mind elsewhere. I could see myself in July's bedroom again, my hand wrapped around his neck and our mouths pressed together. Before my fantasies took me any further, I snapped myself out of it, reaching for Carley's hand underneath the table. I gave it a reassuring squeeze. I was reminded that I had my wife by my side and I'm pretty sure July would catch the hint. Not saying that he would pay attention to it. I just wanted to clarify that I didn't want any further interactions with him, not if it puts everything I have on the line.

"So, how did you two meet?" Carley inquired, out of curiosity I suppose but the answer was straight in front of her. Before July could open his mouth, I answered her.
"I was having dinner with Herenandez and a few others after I became CEO, we were introduced then." I stared at her briefly, dropping my gaze to the half eaten steak surrounded by a forest of vegetables and some orange sauce.

Carley picked over her pasta and nodded softly. "It's funny, he never mentioned meeting you," she pulled a peculiar look before shooting July a dazzling smile, "You seem like such good company. It's like being around a younger mold of Herenandez."

"Oh stop it," Herenandez chided, playfully. He dropped his fork in his plate before leaning back in his seat. "I was nothing like him in my younger days." The older man seemed to fade into ripe memories, a soft smile touching his lips.

"I'm sure you weren't as charming as I am." July piped, raising his wine glass to his lips and sending Carley a smirk.

July's words became the disturbance that shook Herenandez from his trance. "Please, I was Mr. Suave in my day. I taught you all you know about charm. If you don't believe me, ask your Tia."

"I may've followed a few tips, but trust me, I learned the ropes on my own." July placed his wine glass down.

"Are you dating anyone?" Carley took it upon herself to ask.

July shook his head, "Not at the moment. Honestly, I haven't dated in some while."

Herenandez rolled his eyes, "My nephew's a man whore."

"Something I learned from Mr. Suave," July chuckled, "How would I know? I asked my Tia."

"If there wasn't some truth to that, I would break a plate over your head." Herenandez gave a gruff laugh, offering everyone else to join in.