Page 74 of Lodged

“Anyway, these are for your mom and Granny.” He passes me both bouquets, and I give him an appreciative smile. I make my way to the kitchen to put the flowers in vases, but as I enter, I can’t help but chuckle. Mama and Granny are by the door, eavesdropping.

“I thought you wanted to meet him, Mama,” I whisper, and she shakes her head.

“I didn’t want to scare him away with all the attention. I’ll meet him when he drops you off later today.”

I make quick work of putting the flowers in water and join Mama and Granny, just in time to hear Gio say, “I know you don’t know me, but my intentions with Ruin are pure. She has told me about her accident, and I’ll let her set the pace—I’m not in a rush. All I want is a chance with her.”

Oh, this man—how can he be so amazing?

“She told you?” River asks.

“That’s good, Riv. It means she trusts him,” Miles says next.

“Listen, I have a younger sister. I’d give my life to protect hers. There’s no way I would hurt Ruin.” There’s a silent pause, and I look at Granny and Mama. They whisper for me to go save Gio. I nod, and after checking myself in the mirror one last time, I head back to the foyer.

“Have fun you two. We’ll have to go out for a drink one of these days,” River says as he shakes Gio’s hand again. Gio nods and shakes Miles’ hand, too. He then places his hand on the low of my back and guides me to the door.

Once we’re in his car, he starts driving and glances my way.

“You look stunning, Ruin. I’m sorry I didn’t say it earlier.”

I bite my lip as I smile. I wish I could remember if I was flirty with guys before the accident or not. But the way Gio makes me feel, I want to jump him and let him kiss me senseless.

“You look pretty dapper, too.” He gives me a wink, and I melt inside.

“So you told me to dress warm, but it’s not officially fall yet. I’m a little confused.” He chuckles at my question and reaches for my hand. His warm hand engulfs mine, and I feel safe and protected.

“Well, we’re going a little high today.” I frown, and he chuckles. “We’re riding a hot air balloon.”

I open my eyes wide and squeal in excitement.

“Not that I remember everything, but I think this is the coolest date someone has ever taken me to,” I tell him honestly. A pang of sadness hits my chest. It’s not fair to Gio that I’m still obsessed with remembering my past when he treats me like I hang the moon.

“I know you really want to get your memories back. Heck, if I were in your shoes, I'd feel frustrated, too, but I’m glad I’m the one you get to make new memories with.” His words settle in my chest, and the warm, fuzzy feelings bloom again.

“You’re right. I need to live in the present. And I’m thankful I’m here with you.” I squeeze his hand, and he squeezes mine back.

The rest of the drive passes in comfortable silence as Gio takes us to the fairgrounds, one of the few flat areas in town. A crew is already waiting for us. Gio helps me out of the car, and my jaw drops at the sight: a huge hot air balloon is being prepared for takeoff. The basket is large enough to fit four people, and from what I can see, it’s stocked with blankets and a picnic basket.

“Gio, I’m in awe. This is simply amazing. Thank you,” I say, hugging him hard. As soon as his arms wrap around me, I inhale deeply, and my senses are hit with the perfect mix of cinnamon spice and him.

“You’re welcome. Just wait until you see the views from up top.” He kisses the top of my head, and we make our way to meet the crew. After a crash course on things to do and not to do while in the air, it’s time to board. Even though I’m excited, I’m a little nervous, too.

“It’s okay, sweetheart. I wouldn’t put you in danger. These people are professionals, and there’s a team waiting for us at the vineyard we're going to.” Gio gives me a reassuring smile, and I nod at him. As the balloon is released from the safety sticks, we start going up, and I hug Gio.

“I’m sorry. I just really want to hug you.” I can feel his chest vibrate with laughter.

“You won’t hear me complaining.” I hold him closer, and he squeezes me tight. I love this feeling of being surrounded by him.

Once we’ve gained enough height, the pilot tells us it’ll be smooth sailing for about thirty minutes until we start our descent. I exhale slowly and gently untangle myself from Gio. Placing my hands on the rail, I take in the view: an endless green tapestry, with various shapes and textures forming the lush canopy of the Blue Ridge mountains.

“This is breathtaking,” I say quietly as I enjoy being here with this amazing man.

“It truly is,” Gio says ,and when I look at him, his eyes are on me.

We chat about his project at the community college, and I tell him about my progress in therapy. The time goes by way too fast, and before I know it, we’re landing in a gorgeous vineyard. The main house looks like an Italian villa, and I can’t believe he took me here.

“Did you know I love Italy?”

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