Page 73 of Lexi, Property of Rhyder

We walk to a bench where wine glasses sit, and different open bottles are displayed.

“This is where the tasting is done. Sometimes there could be issues with the grapes that make the wine, so we need to check and make sure quality control is at a premium.” Master pours a glass and hands it to me. I accept, then bring it to my lips—tastes like sweet grapes and something woodsy. I’m not usually a wine drinker. I have maybe had a glass or two when my parents had guests, but I’m not familiar with different wines and their brands.

“Good?”

“Yes, very,” I say, placing the glass back on the bench. “You’re not a drinker, are you?”

I shake my head. “I have to admit, I’m not.”

Master places his wine glass down and turns to me. His eyes hold desire. I’ve seen this look before, and it’s usually before he kisses me, so I turn away trying to break the intimacy.

He places his hands in his pockets. “So, what do you think of my winery?”

Looking out at his employees, I lean my backside against the bench. “It’s amazing,” I say, smiling and meaning every word.

His phone rings, and he answers, “Yes? Now? Okay, give me five.”

“I’m sorry, I have to end the tour early, it seems I have a visitor.”

A visitor?

Can they help me get out of here?”

“Who is it?”

Master moves in close and cups my cheek. “Nothing that concerns you. Till later.” He runs his fingers down my cheek. “Come, we need to go.” He grabs my hand and walks me to the house quickly.

A man is standing on the patio wearing linen pants and a white shirt. The man appears young like Master, and there’s also some resemblance, but I think he might be a little older.

The guest smiles when he sees me and turns to Master. “You going to introduce us?”

Master looks at me, and I can tell he’s uncomfortable with this situation.”

I step forward, placing my hand out to the visitor. “Hi, I’m Red, and you are?”

“I’m this guy over here…” he points, “… eldest brother, Stefano.” Stefano shakes my hand and brings it up to his lips, kissing the back of it then he looks at Master and says, “She’s a beauty. Where do you find them?”

Master snatches my hand out of his brother’s and steps in front of me. “You wanted to talk? I’m here. Let’s talk.”

Stefano smiles wide. “Well, well… this one means something to you. It’s okay, Fabien, I won’t touch your prized possession.”

Fabien? Is that Master’s name?

Stefano looks at me, and there’s something about him that doesn’t sit well, but I have no idea what it is.

Gail steps out, and Stefano lights up when he sees her. “Gail, how are you?” He leans in and hugs her, then looks back at me.

“Gail, won’t you please take Red to her room,” Master says.

“Please, can I stay outside? It’s such a beautiful day.”

Master looks at me, contemplating my question.

“I’ll stay with her,” Gail says, and my heart sours.

Yes, maybe I can confide in Gail.

“Keep your eye on her,” Master orders.

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