hing out my dress – a fitted, red silk gown t

n honey, and my lips curved into a subtle

ting, and I wanted to make a lasting impression. Little di

, looking dashing in his tailored black shirt and dark jeans.

oice low and husky. "Stai incr

d curves, leaving trails of fire in its wake. I felt my chee

rgettable," he said, his breath whisperi

ouched me, yet I

d I wondered if tonight might lead to

les flex beneath my touch. We walked together to his

ills, Ace pointed out landmarks and sha

self drawn to his warmth and kindness – a

th hues of orange and pink. Ace explained the wine-making process w

said, gesturing to the lush vines. "My nonno started

it, and now I'm h

y on their tradition," he said

ipe grapes and fresh earth surrounded us, intoxic

inst mine, sending s

ng parties, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he de

g with him, feeling carefree

ooking the Tuscan countryside, wher

of Bianchi Vine

cheeses, cured me

in the background, cour

e and said, "To new friendsh

our eyes met – the spark of at

ring the complex flavors

h hues of crimson and gold, Ace suggeste

e us, their gnarled br

sweet scent of ripe oliv

llations beginning to

nd being the soft crunch of gravel ben

eaving only the two of us, lost in

uptly, turning

he whispered, "Hazel, from the mo

asure of kissing yo

ed a beat as I