Page 110 of The Strength Of A Woman

“What would you like to do tonight?” he asks as we stroll back, still locked together.

His arm is still draped over my shoulders.

Mine still looped around his waist.

“What about we’re having dinner here?” I say.

He tilts his eyes to me, smiling.

“Here? At night?”

“Yes. Why not. I’m sure it will be beautiful. A night picnic.”

He looks at me, amused.

“Away from your people,” I go on.

“You don’t like my people?”

“I love your people. They saved my life. I just want to imagine a different life for you and me. One in which we're allowed to do crazy things like this. Have dinner in the vineyard at night. Lie down, look at the stars, and talk about life.”

He studies me with a thoughtful look on his face.

“It sounds good to me,” he eventually says, and I press my head against his shoulder while he kisses my hair.

“Thank you,” I say, happy.

“You make my life so easy,” he tosses back at me, with humor.

“You make my life possible, so I win.”

My words carry the burden of truth, brimming with honesty, but we laugh instead of delving into a serious conversation, and soon, we reach our horses and head back.

19

LEILANI

I spendthe rest of the evening in the kitchen directing the staff, while he takes care of his business.

With so many people on the property, we have a sizable staff, which includes a chef and his assistants.

They particularly grill food for us, and bake a cake, and by the time night comes, goodies fill my picnic basket. Wine, cheese, freshly baked bread, an almond cake, grilled zucchini, tomatoes, and fish.

Once the food is packed, I run upstairs to change.

I know we’ll be horseback riding, but I don’t want to wear the same clothes.I intend to make this night unique, something to remember.

Digging through my closet, I find a sleeveless tunic dress in my favorite A-line shape that flows nicely over my body and hits above the knee, and a new pair of Roman sandals.

My dress is light blue, and my sandals are done in an earthy shade of terracotta red. My tan looks great against my outfit.

I pick up a fallen flower from the garden and put it in my hair.

Because I’m riding, I wear shorts underneath.

I’m ready when he walks into the house, sweaty, with dirt on his hands.

He notices my outfit and gives me a knowing smile.