Page 31 of Kisses Sweeter than Wine

“What are you doing out here all alone?” he asked as he jogged down the path.

“I wanted some fresh air.” That was the truth. “I was also feeling a little out of place in there with all your family and friends.”

“I’m sorry my dad ditched you.”

“Oh, he didn’t. He was actually very kind. Introduced me to everyone. It was honestly overwhelming.”

Merlot laughed, taking her free hand. “Come on. The vineyard is gorgeous at night. But watch your step in those heels.”

“Maybe we should get back. I’m sure your family wants you in there.”

“And risk my mother finding me again and sending me off to go do something? Absolutely not.” He snagged her wineglass. “I should have brought a bottle. But we can stop by my place.” He pointed in the direction of the cottage. “I live right over there. You can’t see it yet, but there’s a small house by the river. I’ve got a bottle of the new wine. We can fill up and keep walking.”

“I won’t be able to drive if I have more.”

“There is such a thing as Uber. Or I know a few pregnant ladies who aren’t drinking.” He leaned a little closer. “You can always stay with me.”

“That’s not funny.”

“It wasn’t meant to be.” He pressed his hand on her back. “But I promised I would be a gentleman, so if you did stay, I would keep my hands to myself. I swear.”

“I won’t be staying,” she said firmly. Unfortunately, she let him guide her right to his humble home. Every muscle in her body ignited with the memory of the first time they’d made love.

It had been right here in this very cottage.

They’d been seventeen years old. His brother, Malbec, normally claimed the cottage as his place when he was home from college, but Merlot used it when he was gone. Their first time had been amazing. It wasn’t at all like she worried it would be. Some of her friends told her it would be awkward and it would hurt.

But Merlot had been sweet and tender. When the pain did come, he did everything he could to ease the discomfort.

And it worked.

She loved him for it.

They had made love five times before she had been sent away, and during one of those times, they had created Corbin.

A name Merlot had picked out one night when they’d been discussing how he’d never name his children after wines.

She had to agree.

When she asked why Corbin, his simply responded it had a nice ring when matched with River.

She couldn’t give Corbin the name River, but Corbin Marcus Grant was good enough.

“This is quaint,” she said, entering the familiar space. Not much had changed. The pictures on the walls were the same. The furniture was the same, but the comforter was different. So were some of the knickknacks.

“Eliza Jane lived here when she first moved to town. Then Chablis and now me. Eventually, I’d like to buy some land outside of town and build a house, but that will come in time.” He set the wineglass on the counter. “I know I said I wouldn’t kiss you, but I want to.”

She swallowed. Hard.

He inched closer. “You’re an irresistible woman, Talbot. I’m drawn to you.”

“We shouldn’t.” She needed to get out of the cottage. Being in this place—with Merlot—was more than dangerous.

“I can’t think of one good reason why not.”

Her knees buckled as she caved to his sweet kiss. She wrapped her arms tight around his strong shoulders. She couldn’t get close enough. Feel enough. She needed him more than she’d ever needed anyone in her life. She was desperate to feel all of him again. To be a part of him.

He pulled back, palming her face, and smiled.

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