As soon as he saw her, instinct told him she was likely his next conquest. The guy she was with he recognised as one of the company's wannabe top execs. She looked as if she wished she was somewhere else. Hubby was there to score points, press the flesh and reach for the next rung. She was his hood ornament, something to help him upward. Nicholas sighed, what a waste of good pussy. She was a sight to soothe sore eyes. He'd like to brighten her evening.<br/><br/>He watched the couple progress across the room. Lots of hugs and back slapping, much showing of teeth and the touchy-feely moves. In time they became separated as hubby did his thing. She was left alone and looking lost. Ready for the plucking he thought. She moved aimlessly across the room and, seemingly on impulse, moved out through the French windows.<br/><br/>Nicholas followed. "Funny how crowds make people feel lonely," he said to her. Was she one of the dying breed of smokers he wondered. Maybe that was why she was out there. He pulled a pack from his pocket and offered it. She looked away. Refusing the cigarette or hinting that he should move on?  Nicholas persisted. "I only smoke at occasions like this. They give a nice hit when I'm bored silly and give me something to do with my hands."