I sign my name to each page as Miguel indicates. Ten years of rebuilding my training academy, flying to every wine region in the world, tasting and teaching and hundreds of sleepless nights are distilled into a few strokes.
“Congratulations” Adriana takes the wire instructions from me. “The money should clear by noon.”
It’s official. Within two hours, I’ll have more zeros in my bank account than I ever imagined. “Thank you, Adriana. I’m honored you’ll continue my legacy.”
Outside, Miguel catches my elbow before I can escape. “Dinner tonight? Mamá’s expecting us.”
“Wouldn’t miss it,” I promise, embracing him properly. “Thank you, Miguel. For everything.”
Back at my flat, I hang my jacket carefully because habits of precision die hard. Then I loosen my tie and stand at the window. Barcelona swells with light below me and, for the first time in a decade, I have nowhere I need to be except exactly where I wantto go.
The thrill of anticipation courses through me, a constant reminder of what’s hopefully to come with Rosa. We may have only had a few hours together, but something deep inside knows our connection is real. I crave her touch.
Closing my eyes, I imagine her standing before me. Hips pressed against the counter, breath quickening when I reach for her. I picture her turning her head and whispering my name. My kitchen filling with soft sounds and shallow breaths.
Every part of me tenses with desire. I fight the urge to shove my pants down and take myself in hand for the third time today.
Instead, I grab a notebook and start to write. Not work stuff. Or poetry.
A plan. For Rosa. For us.
It doesn’t take long for me to fill the pages with a list of places where passion and privacy collide.
A day trip to a secluded beach, where the air is filled with the scent of salt and sunscreen. A picnic in a hidden cove, fresh fruit and cold wine shared between kisses. A drive to a quiet vineyard, where the wind rustles the leaves and the vines speak of enduring passion. An evening back in the city at a quiet table ina dimly lit corner, where we can share secrets, hopes, and desires.
If things go well, a cozy inn nestled in the hills, where the sheets are crisp and the air is cool. Somewhere I can explore every inch of her body without interruption. I’ll watch her face flush with desire as she experiences pleasure like never before and revel in the moments when she lets go of all control.
The page fills with dreams. Promises. Each one, I intend to keep.
I’m finished by the time the city shifts into early evening. Standing on the balcony, I watch people fill the streets as the breeze cools my heated skin.
It’s not even a question. I want to be the man who makes her every moment count. Who doesn’t rush something worth savoring.
Somewhere down below my flat, Rosa is finding her way on her own. Hair loose. Eyes sparkling with curiosity and desire. Maybe even looking up at the same sky, as excited to see me as I am to see her.
Tomorrow can’t come fast enough.
If I’m lucky, she’ll be game for a month of exploration, discovery, and unbridled passion.
Chapter seven
The Next Day
I’vebeenwatchingthegreen door for two nights.
Waiting. Anticipating.
Tonight I finally walk through it.
Can Cisa is perfection. A true locals’ joint. The walls are stacked with colorful bottles, every label softened by time. A handful of tables fill an ancient,narrow room. Candles reflect off glass. Everywhere, faces are lit with the kind of warmth and joy the very best wine brings.
I’m shocked when the host greets me by name and leads me to a small table by the window. Outside, the narrow street flickers with storefronts closing for the night. I watch the strangers moving back and forth through the glass.
Each one not him.
God, what if he changes his mind?
It’s happened before, so I’m not sure why I expect more from a man I met on a plane.
