Page 34 of Finally Found You

As days grow longer and warmer, summer arrives, and the vineyard transforms into a lush, verdant haven. The grape clusters begin to swell, taking on a more defined shape. They slowly mature, shifting into shades of deep purple, red, or golden yellow, depending on the type of grape.

During harvest time, the vineyard becomes a flurry of activity. We carefully pluck the ripe, juicy grapes from the vines and place them in large baskets.

Then I explain the process of harvesting, crushing, fermenting, and aging the grapes to create our exquisite wines. “Each step is crucial in producing a high-quality wine, and we take great pride in our attention to detail and dedication to tradition.”

We enter the winery, where the heady aroma of oak barrels and fermenting grapes envelops us. I show them the stainless-steel tanks, the barrel room, and the bottling line, pointing out the various stages of the winemaking process.

“Who created your labels?” Kenzy inquires, her fingers tracing the edge of a nearby barrel. “I bet Cami can do a better job.”

“I’m not a designer,” Cami replies, her words clipped and her teeth clenched.

“But you could help with that and more. He probably needs someone to do the finance stuff. Can you imagine if you work here?” Kenzy persists, her eyes lighting up at the thought. “Then you wouldn’t have to leave, ever.”

The idea of having Cami with us permanently creates a confusing mix of emotions. I’m elated at the prospect but afraid of what could happen. The attraction I feel for her and the emotions she’s beginning to awaken are unlike anything I’ve experienced in more than eighteen years—perhaps never at all.

The yearning is becoming a heavy burden. It threatens to overwhelm me. It might consume me if I don’t do something soon. It’ll be best if she leaves soon, but the thought of pushing her away is unbearable. I could say it’s because Kenzy will need her, but if I’m honest with myself, I want her to stay for selfish reasons.

The precious moments we share alone have come to mean the world to me. This newfound connection doesn’t detract from my love for my daughter—it’s a completely separate emotion. Yet, with every word, every smile, and every breath Cami takes, she captures another piece of my soul.

I’m aware that I shouldn’t play with fire, but I’m not sure I can resist the powerful pull that draws me closer to her.

* * *

Camilla’s genuine fascination with the vineyard and the winemaking process was palpable, even in her silence throughout the tour. She seemed to be there solely to observe, her eyes following Kenzy as she bombarded me with questions and eagerly absorbed every answer I provided.

I couldn’t help but wonder how different things would have been if Camilla were here for a tour, job interview, or tasting, rather than simply accompanying her cousin.

I’m well aware she’s staying in San Francisco for Kenzy’s welfare. If Camilla had her way, she would have already vanished from my life, deleting my number without a second thought.

Yet even though I should keep my distance, I’m drawn to her, craving her presence.

With Kenzy starting summer camp next week, I’m well aware Camilla will need something to fill her time. Considering the mounting administrative tasks at the vineyard, an idea formed in my mind while we were in Paradise Bay.

It’s a temporary solution, but perhaps we can convince her to stay. Kenzy had mentioned earlier how much she wanted Camilla to remain with us.

I spend the rest of the day thinking about how I’m going to make the offer. It’s not until after Kenzy goes to sleep that I seize the opportunity to broach the subject. “I’ve been searching for someone to help me with the administrative side of the vineyard,” I say, studying her reaction.

Camilla’s eyes narrow, her lips pressed into a thin line, but she remains silent. Taking her silence as an invitation to continue, I elaborate, “I need someone who’s organized, detail-oriented, and can work well under pressure.”

Still, there’s no reaction.

“Would you be interested in taking the job?” I ask, my voice laced with a hint of hope.

She furrows her brow and crosses her arms defensively. “Just like that? ‘Here’s the job. I hope you do it well.’ Aren’t you interested in my credentials? I was fired from my last job.”

“They let you go unfairly. My lawyer says you have a case if you want to sue them,” I respond, trying to show her I’m on her side.

She huffs, her eyes flashing with irritation. “Is there anything you don’t know about me?”

I don’t know the noises she makes during… Okay, I have to stop thinking about her that way. Clearing my throat, I quickly shake every dirty thought I have about her. “I’m confident you can handle the job. From what I’ve gathered, you’ve done bookkeeping, interned at a human resources consulting company, and your last job—”

“Why don’t you tell me something about you?” she interrupts, her tone challenging.

I arch an eyebrow. “Pardon me?”

“I’m at a disadvantage here. You know everything about me.”

I chuckle, trying to put her at ease. “What would you like to know about me? I’m an open book.”

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