Richard's eyes caught sight of the frail, lacy knickers Evie wore as she climbed into his bed.<i>For now</i>, he agreed.<br/><br/>The man scooted back, making an inch more room for the auburn-haired lass. He found deep amusement in how Evie believed she held even a modicum of control just then. She returned to his bedroom for the evening, wearing nothing but skimpy underwear and stockings that he provided. The thin layer she pulled between them -- the bunched sheet -- imparted a "cotton courage" that promoted her to ask about his proclivities when it came to seducing the hired help. Richard rested the side his head on his fist as he reclined upon his side. The question itself was rather immaterial, though the real issue wove about her slight snark and awkward attempt at humor.<br/><br/>"No, James and I have not shared a bed. Though that uptight duffer could sure use a bit of fun, don't you think?" Richard watched Evie and her expressions closely. "I don't 'bat for the other team,' as they say. Norah and I share a bed at times because it is what we want ... it is our choice. A touch of light fun with no strings attached. Neither is coerced and neither are bound to anything. Just as you are free to depart at any time with a tidy sum." A sneer-like smirk marred Richard's handsome visage. "I'm not a rampant philanderer, if that is what you are asking."<br/><br/>Richard's foot shifted and rubbed against Evie's toes, feeling the fishnet stockings that bound her feet. He didn't want to be hurt, that much was clear; Richard could not offer her assurances, only the opportunity to be close and know him intimately and thoroughly. Richard's vision caught the alluring contours of Evie's supple upper chest. Her pale skin shines of pale cream, and the sheet she held close stopped Richard's sight of her full breast and nipples. Never one to be denied, Richard slowly reached and took hold of the sheet she clutched. Green eyes gazing in to hazel above the faintest of smirks, he slowly tugged the veil of modesty away from Evie's front.