Page 102 of Love Among Vines

He raised an eyebrow as he followed her directions.

“Perfect. Now stare out over the land. Remember, this is your kingdom.” She lifted her phone and took in as many details asshe could. The crisp feel of the air, the glimmer of dew that lay on everything.

Lust engulfed her again. God, he was beautiful. Those thick, dark eyelashes that were always wasted on men. The strength rippling in his triceps as he gripped the railing.

Not now, vagina.There was a 5k to run and a booth to manage.

She captured several pictures from different angles. Hopefully there would be enough to translate this into a painting later.

“Can we go now?”

“Fine, fine.”

Leaving the blankets and remnants of dessert behind, Rett grabbed her hand and tugged her down the stairs.

“We’ll have to get you a T-shirt,” he said, still shirtless. “There’s some in the gift shop.”

They opened the door to the tasting room, and there was a scream followed by a crash. Rett leapt in front of Jade, shielding her with his body.

She peered around him. “Elaine?”

“Oh, no. I’m so sorry.” Rett bent down and helped the woman up. She looked shaken.

“No, no.I’msorry,” she said. “I didn’t realize you were here. I just came in early to grab some inventory so the booth was ready for you after the race.”

“Thank you so much,” he said earnestly. “Oh, I have something for you to take home.”

He disappeared into the storeroom, leaving Jade and Elaine staring awkwardly at each other.

“Beautiful morning,” Jade said.

“Absolutely. Great day for a festival.” Elaine smiled warmly. She glanced at the door to the storeroom, which had swung shutbehind Rett. She dropped her voice. “You know, I’m really glad you came here. I haven’t seen Rett like this in years.”

Heat crept into Jade’s cheeks again. Elaine needed to believe this was real. Getting caught was actually probably best-case scenario for the ruse.

“I’m glad too,” she said, just as Rett nudged his way back through the door.

“Glad about what?” he asked, carrying another unmarked bottle.

“Nothing,” both women said.

“Is that what I think it is?” Elaine peered at the bottle.

“It is. And it’s good.”

“It’s amazing, actually,” Jade interjected.

Elaine danced on the spot and flung her arms around Rett. “Oh, Rett. She would be so proud of you. Not just because of this. But because of the man you turned out to be. It’s so good to see you moving forward, capturing your dreams. Opening your heart again.”

He cleared his throat. “Yes, well. Enjoy the wine. We had better get going.”

He strode over to a stand with T-shirts in different sizes and plucked out two matching ones. He tossed one to Jade.

She caught it with one hand. “So nice to see you again, Elaine. Hey, what day are we starting setup for the party?”

“Decorations are coming on Thursday.”

“Perfect. I’ll be here to help with setup and prep work.”

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