Page 53 of The Off-limits Grump Next Door
My father, Damon, and I accompanied Kendra on the vineyard tour, the scent of ripe grapes heavy in the air. The estate vineyard, where it all began, was now mostly used for experimenting with new crossbreeds as we expanded production to larger sites.
“As you can see, we have several varieties,” I explained, gesturing to the neat rows of vines stretching out before us. “Our flagship wine,Don’s Essence,is made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and two secret ingredients.”
Kendra’s eyes lit up with curiosity. “How did you come up with the formula?”
Father’s smile held a mix of pride and nostalgia. “Years of experimentation and trial,” he replied softly.
“And the name?” she asked, her gaze shifting between the two of us.
“Don’s Essenceis a tribute to my best friend,” Father said quietly, the sadness in his tone unmistakable.
Kendra’s expression softened. “Tribute?”
“He died before the world could have a taste of the masterpiece we created.” I answered, recalling everything my father had told me. I couldn’t believe how biased I had been, thinking the worst about him.
Eve gave me fragments of the story, and conveniently left out certain details to make him look like the villain. I’d never understand why he kept protecting her, caring for her, and letting her threaten the company. “The name was dad’s way of honoring him, keeping his legacy.”
“So you had a partner?” Kendra pressed gently.
“Something like that,” Father murmured, his eyes distant as if seeing someone no longer there.
As we continued down the vine-laden path, Kendra’s questions turned to the technical side of winemaking—soil quality, irrigation systems, harvesting techniques. Father answered each query with enthusiasm, clearly enjoying the exchange.
“You really are one inquisitive lady,” George chuckled. “Someone might think you’re planning to write a report on us.”
Kendra laughed nervously. “No, nothing like that. I’m just… fascinated.”
Damon, who had been uncharacteristically quiet, chimed in. “If I had half your curiosity, I’d probably have my own wine label by now.”
We all laughed, the lighthearted moment dissolving some of the earlier tension.
When we reached the old production facility, the sounds of machinery echoed softly in the distance. This was where the winery had taken its first steps toward becoming an international brand.
“This is amazing! Can we see the cellar?” Kendra asked, her eyes wide with excitement.
Father nodded. “Of course. The cellar here used to be the heart of our operation before we moved to the main facility. It’s not as busy anymore, but it still holds our history.”
“Well, this is where it all began, right? Makes the tour all the more interesting,” she said, smiling brightly.
After another thirty minutes or so of exploring, we headed back toward the main building. Kendra slipped her hand into mine, leaning against my shoulder as we walked. I smiled, feeling a contentment I hadn’t experienced in a long time.
“Thank you for the tour, sir,” she said warmly, directing her gratitude toward my father. “This has been incredible.”
His smile widened. “Anytime, my dear. You’re part of the family now.” He glanced at me meaningfully. It was an unspoken hope—for more. Much more.
As Dad and Damon went inside, Kendra and I lingered behind. Just as we reached the entrance, a small white Bentley pulled up, kicking up a plume of dust on the driveway. I stiffened as the door swung open, and Eve stepped out, her raven hair cascading down her shoulders, eyes as piercing as ever.
My grip on Kendra’s hand tightened involuntarily.
“Antonio,” she greeted, her voice a smooth blend of confidence and condescension.
My expression turned cold. “Eve.”
Kendra’s eyes darted between us, her fingers trembling slightly in my grasp. I knew she’d recognize the name.
Eve’s gaze flickered to Kendra, and then back to me, a sly smile playing on her lips.
“Aren’t you going to introduce me to your friend?” she asked, her tone dripping with false sweetness.
