Page 8 of Sex, Blood, and Real Estate

“This is huge what an amazing looking operation it must go on for miles and miles. You are so lucky to live in this beautiful place.” Wyatt was gushing stunned by the grandeur and finery. He stopped talking and just kept turning trying to take it all in. He stopped when he heard Sam chuckle.

"I forget how magnificent this place is until I get the opportunity to see it through another's eyes," Sam interjected thoughtfully. "I know that I'm lucky . . . in so many ways." Sam looked at him with eyes that seemed to burn, and he reached up and cupped the side of Wyatt's face. For a moment, Wyatt thought he might kiss him, but he brought Wyatt's hand up to his lips and kissed the knuckles so gallantly it made Wyatt shiver with expectation.

"My uncle and his husband are in the wine cellar, and they wish to meet you, so we will start the tour there." Sam continued to hold his hand and led him inside the Chateau and to an elevator that took them to a lower level. Wyatt wasn't aware that Emmanuel Cabot was gay, but apparently, he was if he had a husband. The man was a total enigma rarely seen in public, but his power was felt throughout the area. Meeting him was quite an honor, and Wyatt had no idea what he did to deserve this level of attention.

When they stepped into the wine cellar, the feeling was pervasive, as if something important was taking place. It seemed heavy but in a positive and energizing way. Emmanuel Cabot was just as powerful and awe-inspiring as he'd expected. He had an aura that emanated influence, control, and command of everything in his sphere. Wyatt took a quick breath, steadying himself as the man and his husband, a handsome young man, came toward them.

“Relax sweetheart you’re fine actually you’re perfect.” Sam’s supportive words had a nice affect and Wyatt felt himself relaxing and donning a tentative smile. Emmanuel extended his hand as Sam made the introductions and when Wyatt took Emmanuel’s hand he felt a weird connectedness a familiarity that made no sense but helped him loosen up.

The discussion was about wine, and the vineyards and they never asked about anything to do with his father’s company or his father and that was refreshing. “Here taste this.” Taylor poured him a taste of wine he’d been experimenting with to get Wyatt’s opinion.

“I like it.” Wyatt finished the glass quite impressed with Taylor’s skills as a vintner. He then had him try two more, both of which were lovely and had a beautiful flavor.

“I don’t know much about wines, but these are really great and unique.” Wyatt was warmed by their welcoming demeanor.

"Taylor is very proud of his blends, and they will soon be part of our general stock," Sam explained further.

"My love is multi-talented, gorgeous, and the absolute love of my life. I am a very lucky man." Emmanuel leaned over and kissed his husband, who accepted it eagerly and showed their deep regard. It was delightful to witness such genuine affection. He felt Sam's hand tighten around his, and he was urged a little closer.

"We'll leave you two to enjoy the remainder of your evening while Wyatt and I continue our tour," Sam said as they made their exit back to the main floor of the Chateau. The tour took them through the heart of the winery. It was just a brief walk-through, but it was still impressive. They stopped at one of the barrel rooms and another wine cellar, where Wyatt was getting the picture.

This was a massive operation but still held to the old ways, and the people were dedicated to their craft. This would be a wonderful place to work was the thought that raced across his mind. Sam was pleasant and considerate to everyone he met. The thing that struck Wyatt was the level of security and the secrecy of Cabot Wines.

"Why do you maintain such a high level of privacy? I understand the need to keep your blends and methods confidential, but this seems extreme." Wyatt was simply curious, but he wasn't making a judgment. He figured there was a reason for it and wondered if Sam would tell him what it was.

They were back at the Chateau and stepping into the elevator when Sam responded. "There are secrets here other than those related to the vineyard."

“That sounds intriguing.” Wyatt teased. “Is it some sort of government contract with a secret testing facility on the premises? It’s mind control isn’t it.” Wyatt was only half joking.

“I saw your uncle once in public walking back to his car, and a guy in the crowd was becoming particularly unpleasant and making everyone uncomfortable. Your uncle simply stopped, turned, and looked at the man for no more than a second. No words were spoken, and he instantly fell silent and walked away. It was incredible. I wish I had that kind of power with some people." He stopped and took a breath, realizing he was rambling about nonsense.

"You have an amazing imagination, Wyatt, and you're not too far from the truth, no government contract, though, and that discussion is for another day. Tonight, it's you and me and a fabulous dinner in the comfort of my apartment.” Sam bent and placed a light unexpected kiss to Wyatt’s cheek.

He was finding his kisses quite delightful and hoped they’d get more serious as the night wore on. He was enjoying this man quite a lot and had hopes of a relationship that lasted but even if Sam were just looking for a hook up, Wyatt would not deny him.

Sam’s apartment was handsome just like him it was homey and warm but also had a slight regal air to it. Wyatt couldn’t put his finger on it, but the place felt old and staid and gave him the sense of having existed just like this for centuries. It was a good and stable feeling of life and family and fealty. It was a good place and Wyatt took a deep breath of the fresh clean air filled with the sweet scent of flowers.

"You have a lovely home, Sam," Wyatt told him.

"Thank you." He answered and led Wyatt into the space, showing him the layout and discussing some features before taking him to the balcony that had been set for dinner. It was impressive and gave Wyatt an Italian feel with the brick, stone, and greenery.

Sam’s constant attention made him feel special in a way that didn’t seem contrived. What he felt from Sam was genuine regard and it was so good to be seen and appreciated. Even if it is only one night, Wyatt knew he would treasure it for a lifetime this man was pure gentlemanly manners and sophistication. There was also a heated excitement that radiated from him as well.

Sam helped him get seated and poured their wine before serving the dinner. It was so nice, and the food was delicious. After a few minutes, the conversation began, and Sam asked him about school, interests, and general light topics before going in for the main query.

"Are you seeing anyone, Wyatt?"

“No, are you?”

“No, there we got that out of the way.” He smiled and Wyatt laughed. “I know we have this business between me and your father but that will be finished soon, and it doesn't need to be a factor in our relationship. It’s completely separate from our business, you and me.” He motioned with his hand and leaned forward. Wyatt found that when Sam wanted to get serious he always leaned into him.

"Like I said earlier, there is something between us. I can feel it in my bones, and I would like to see where this goes." Sam reached over and refilled Wyatt's wine glass.

"I feel the same," Wyatt admitted with hesitation. "The only person lower than me at my father's office is the mail boy, so I know you're not looking for influence or clout, so your interest in me must be honest. There is nothing to be had by faking it." Wyatt was frank and forthright, and Sam's deep, steady stare never left him.

Same reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone, and a few seconds later, Wyatt's phone went off. When he checked it, he saw a list of job opportunities with Cabot.

CHAPTER FIVE

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