Page 53 of Putting Down Roots

“It sounds awesome. Well done.”

“There’s already talk of a sequel and I’ve been approached for another movie. I might even move there.”

I can’t believe that she dropped that in so casually. At one time, the news that she was going to move to another country would have sent me spiralling into a panic. But now, I’m genuinely happy for her. I’m aware she’s watching me carefully, so it’s less than a heartbeat’s hesitation before I answer.

“That’s brilliant news. I’m so pleased for you.” I give her a hug.

“You sure?” She murmurs, so only I can hear. I give her an extra squeeze for an answer, but I know she’ll want more reassurance.

Jackson downs his coffee and heads towards the door to get back to work.

“Great news on the job Anna. Sounds perfect. I’ll let you both catch up properly and see you later.”

Anna doesn’t waste any time in trying to get details once Jackson has gone.

“So, how’s it going?”

“It’s good—better than good, in fact.” Before I would have told her everything, but now I want to hold some things back. Some things are for just me and Jackson.

“Is that all I’m going to get?”

“He’s so kind, loving, and generous.”

“Does he make you happy? You do certainly look different, though that might be the fresh, clean air.”

“More than happy. I told him everything, and he didn’t so much as bat an eyelid.”

“I said he wouldn’t.” Anna looks pleased she was right. “What about the future? I take it he still works for you.” This is something that I’ve given a lot of thought to. I have a plan. I want to stay here at Larchdown and sell my flat in London, but it depends on Jackson. I tell her my plans, but also my worry that Jackson might not agree.

“If he loves you as much as I think he does, it’ll be fine.” She approves of my plans.

“You make it sound like I’m proposing marriage,” I laugh.

“One step at a time, Luca. I’m so pleased for you, though. You know I wouldn’t think of even contemplating America if you weren’t going to be alright.”

“I know, but you should never hold back on your dreams because of me.”

“No, I would’ve dragged you with me.” She hugs me again.

We have a lovely evening,catching up with Anna, hearing all about life in Hollywood and the stars she’s met.

The next morning, with most of the jobs in the garden completed ready for opening day tomorrow, we give Anna the grand tour. We outline the plans for the garden of the gods for the next year. When she hears that I asked Jackson to model for them, she insists on seeing the sketches. There are a few that she isn’t going to see, though. They’re for my eyes only.

CHAPTER 46

Jackson

I wake earlyon opening day, with Luca snuggled into my side and his arm across my chest. I know I need to move, but I’m content to enjoy the moment for a bit longer. I can’t resist brushing my fingers along his arm, smiling at how much life has changed since I found myself in Larchdown a few months ago. Luca stirs under my touch and looks at me. It will always take my breath away how beautiful he is. His gentian eyes are dark in the half light. He looks almost like he’s from another world.

“How are you feeling?” I ask, knowing that this could be a stressful day for him. I’m nervous enough myself, thinking of a million things that could go wrong.

“I’m okay. Glad I have you here.” He smiles.

“I’ll be by your side all day.” As the owner of the gardens, all the focus will be on him—I’m just the gardener.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done for me.”

“It’s my pleasure.” I get up, giving him a kiss on my way, knowing that if I stay any longer with those deep blue eyes gazing at me, I might never make it out of bed.

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