We got out of the hotel, and he led me to his car. He drove for a few minutes and parked in front of a luxury boutique. He saw me looking and smiled. "Let's get you something beautiful to wear." He got out of the car and opened the door on my side. He led me through the entrance of the store.
A young woman in her early twenties came to us in a flash. Lorenzo waved her away and led me deeper into the boutique. There were rows of beautiful dresses in every color and style one could imagine. I had never seen anything like it before. "Why did you bring me here?" I asked in wonder.
He smiled as I stood there, admiring the array. "Pick any dress you want. I want you to look your best for the wine tasting event," he said. "We have a big day ahead of us."
I didn't bother to refuse. How could I reject this kind of gift? My heart fluttered as I walked through the offerings. They were all so beautiful, making it hard to choose. But then I saw it – a stunning navy-blue dress that flowed effortlessly to the ground. I knew this was the one. I showed the dress to Lorenzo and asked him to help me put it on. Entering the dressing room, I composed myself as he took off my sweatshirt.
Lorenzo's eyes widened when he saw me in the dress. "You look stunning," he said. "Absolutely stunning."
I blushed as he ran his hand over the silky fabric, grazing my curves. It fit like a glove and made me feel and look like a princess. But the surprises didn't stop there. He escorted me to the jewelry counter and picked out the most beautiful necklace I had ever seen. It was a delicate silver chain with a sparkling diamond pendant. He fastened it around my neck. I immediately felt like a million dollars. The diamond sat nicely on my neck, giving me a regal air. I looked at myself in the mirror - I couldn't recognize myself.
"Lorenzo, this is…. You are the best!" I was blatantly overwhelmed. He smiled broadly at me, his eyes twinkling. I hugged him, feeling truly magical at this moment.
"Seeing you this happy is worth it." He ran his hand through my hair, drawing a smile to my lips. Could this get any better.
He paid for everything, and we scurried back to the hotel. We were going to the wine tasting in just a few hours. I took the available time to work on my hair and makeup, got into the dress, and donned red heels for a contrast. Ready to go, I went to the connecting door and knocked.
He answered immediately; he was wearing a blue bespoke suit that complemented my dress. He had his tie around his neck and was halfway done tying it. "Can I come in?"
He let me pass into his room. There was a long mirror in the middle of it. I walked to it, and said, "Come here, let me help you with that." I beckoned to him, feeling sexy at the way he looked at me. I believe I won't tire of him - ever.
I speedily helped him with his tie, holding his gaze. Breathing faster, I turned away to look at my flustered face in the mirror. He hugged me from behind and held my gaze through the mirror. "We look good together."
Yes, we looked great, but I wasn't going to admit it. Surely, it would give away my feelings. I just nodded, not trusting myself to speak. "We should get going since from London to Stratford-upon-Avon is not a short ride."
"Let me go get my purse. I'll meet you outside." I took that opportunity to run away. I got my purse and joined him at the elevator. "Are you ready?"
"Very." I replied.
We reached the car, and we drove off. This time, he took a different route, driving farther away from the crowded hub of London. Fewer cars appeared, allowing us free and easy passage to our destination. The houses and industrial buildings dominating London started growing scantier, and in no time, we passed them. Now there were barely any houses; for miles, I just saw stretches of grass and lush foliage. I relaxed in my seat, enjoying the sights. Lorenzo was focused on the road while his hand rested on my thigh.
I placed my hand on his and enjoyed our journey for the rest of the ride. Two hours later, we entered a small homey town with low buildings painted in pastel colors and surrounded by gardens. Lorenzo slowed down as he maneuvered through the streets and finally parked beside a large building with a pinecone shaped roof.
"Is this where we're going?" I asked, seeing as this didn't match the image of luxury I had pictured.
"Elijah likes using serene and usually rustic environments to host his wine tasting events. However, when we get inside, you'll see a different sight." He unhooked his seat belt and left the car. I waited for him to come to my aid - I was learning to play this game of etiquette. He opened the door and extended a hand to me. I took it, and he helped me out like the gentleman he was.
The air of this town was crisp and fresh: the sun less harsh than usual. This seemed like the perfect place for a countryside vacation. Lorenzo's hand went around my waist as he guided me to the entrance. By the door was a fierce-looking muscular guy. He wrapped his arms across his chest and gave us a blank stare. "Password?" His voice was rough, and his accent was hard to place.
Lorenzo shrugged, "Wine is life and life needs wine." The bouncer looked impassive, and I feared Lorenzo had said the wrongpassword.Then he smiled and opened the door behind him.
"You're welcome, Mr. Rosii and Miss. Goldwyn." That shocked me. How did he know my name? I saw an earpiece and thought there was someone giving him the information from inside.
"Let's go in, my lady." Lorenzo's cool voice disarmed me.
I linked my hand through his. "Yes, my lord." I dipped a bit, trying to imitate the courtesy gestures I had observed in old British movies. He arched an eyebrow. I saw that he was trying not to laugh. I schooled my expression and entered the building with him.
The bouncer closed the door behind us. "You know you didn't have to do that," he said in an amused tone.
"I remember a wise person once said when in Britain act like the Brits," I retorted.
"I think it's…. never mind, you win." We headed to a purple curtain. Lorenzo parted it, and when we stepped through, I saw a different sight than I had imagined.
All around were tables layered with glasses of wine. The decoration of the room was exquisite with paintings depicting the Greek God of wine, Dionysus, everywhere. The organizer stuck to the motif of wine for all it was worth.
Around the tables were pairs of men and women. I assumed they were couples, walking about with drinks in their hands and talking to wine aficionados. I felt nervous and suddenly out of place. Lorenzo seemed to notice since he put his hand around my waist, and bent over to whisper, "You will be the star here. Don't doubt it."
I let out a shaky sigh of relief and stood taller. "What are we waiting for? Let me make my debut in high society." He smiled at my confidence and led me to one of the tables. A waiter quickly appeared to serve champagne. We each took a flute. "These champagnes are the appetizers; the best ones are coming later." I nodded, trusting him.