Page 34 of Christmas Promises
Nolan took a bite and let the flavors unfold on his tongue. “I’d love to go to Italy. Not just for the food but also to see the art and culture. Maybe someday I will.”
“You must go. It’s life changing.”
As they ate, Laney shared more about her time in Italy—the bustling markets, the simple but exquisite meals, and the long evenings spent learning the rhythm of Italian kitchens. “Their approach to food is like love. The purest kind.” Her voice softened with obvious nostalgia. “They’re not in such a hurry to stuff themselves as quickly as they can with as much as they can. It’s about savoring each bite. Cooking with local ingredients that have been part of family recipes for centuries. The epic dinners we had—are not something I’ll ever forget. Nor will I forget this one.”
By the time the lamb shank arrived, the conversation had deepened. The meat was tender, falling apart at the touch of a fork, and the roasted root vegetables glistened in a light herb glaze. Nolan watched as Laney relished her first bite.
"Mmm," she murmured. "The herbs add a brightness that’s just perfect."
Nolan chuckled. “I don’t think I can ever come here with anyone but you. No one would appreciate it as much.”
She let out a happy-sounding sigh. “I love it here. Maybe Mia would let me move in?”
“I wonder if she lives here in the cabin?” Nolan asked. “Now that you mention it, I haven’t heard, which is unusual in this town. It’s hard to keep anything to yourself.”
“Should we ask Remi?”
Nolan shook his head, chuckling. “I’m thinking no. He doesn’t seem like the type inclined to share gossip.”
“That’s too bad. My innate nosiness has been awakened.”
“I prefer to call it curiosity,” Nolan said.
When dessert arrived—a decadent tiramisu with layers of mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers—Laney couldn’t hide her delight. "This might be the best tiramisu I’ve ever had. It’s light, and the coffee flavor’s just right. Sometimes it’s too overpowering. Not this one.”
Remi appeared just as they were finishing up, settling the bill with Nolan before thanking them for their patronage. “Miss Mia sends her best, but she’s unable to come out to greet you tonight.”
“That’s fine. But please tell her how much we enjoyed everything,” Laney said. “I can’t wait to come back.”
“I’ll look forward to that, Miss Gray.” Remi bobbed his head before escorting them to the front.
When they stepped back outside, the sleigh was waiting, Samuel greeting them with a knowing smile.
“Did you enjoy your meal?” Samuel asked.
“So much,” Laney said. “Everything was divine.”
“We’re counting the days until we can return,” Nolan said as he followed Laney into the sleigh.
Samuel covered them with blankets, and soon they were headed away from the cabin. Nolan reached for Laney’s hand and scooted closer to her. “Are you warm enough?”
She snuggled against him. “I’m perfect.”
Yes, you are.
“This has been a fantastic night,” Laney said. “Thank you for such a thoughtful date.”
“It’s my pleasure.”
“Maybe I could cook for you sometime?” Laney asked, sounding dreamy.
“You say when and I’m there.”
The sleigh glided through the snowy mountain path, the world around them hushed except for the clomping of hooves, jingling bells, and an occasional whinny. If only he could hold on to this moment forever. But he feared his days and dates with Laney were numbered. The more he got to know her, to witness her love of life and adventure, the more he doubted that she would stay in Vermont. There was no way a woman like this would be satisfied as the wife of a nerdy college professor.
No sooner had those morbid thoughts entered his brain than she rested her head against his shoulder. “I’ve been thinking about Aunt Edna’s offer.”
“Yeah?” He held his breath, frightened to hear what she was about to say.
