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“We’ve been really fortunate with the weather lately,” Paisley remarked, shielding her eyes from the sun with her hand as she looked up. “It makes working outdoors a lot more enjoyable.”
I chuckled, glancing over at her. “Yeah, Mother Nature’s been kind to us. But, you know, it’s not just the weather. There’s been something...or rather someone else that’s brightened up this place.”
She raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. “Oh? And who might that be?”
“The talented artist who’s designing our new labels,” I said with a grin, nodding toward her sketchbook. The faintest blush rose on her cheeks, and her lips curled into a modest smile.
“Thank you, Austin,” she replied softly. “But really, I’m just doing what I love. And this vineyard…it inspires me.”
I stopped walking, prompting her to pause and face me. “Paisley, I need you to understand something,” I began, choosing my words carefully. “Ever since you’ve come here, there’s been a palpable change. The vibrancy, the passion you’ve brought with your art—it’s something we’ve been missing for a while.”
She looked slightly taken aback, her eyes wide with surprise. “Austin, I?—”
“Let me finish,” I interjected gently, holding up a hand. Taking a deep breath, I continued, “This vineyard has been through a lot over the years. Changes in management, shifts in the market, challenges with crops. But through all that, it’s always had a certain spirit. And recently, with your arrival and your artistry, I’ve felt that spirit come alive again.”
The weight of my words seemed to settle between us, the gravity of the sentiment making the air feel thick. Paisley swallowed, searching my eyes. “I never realized…I mean, I hoped to make a difference, but hearing you say all that…it’s overwhelming.”
Reaching out, I gently squeezed her shoulder. “It’s the truth. Your designs, your perspective—it’s like a breath of fresh air. The vineyard is so fortunate to have someone of your caliber working on these labels.”
A slow smile spread across her face, the weight of my words sinking in. “Thank you, Austin. That means a lot. I promise to give it my all.”
“I have no doubt,” I replied. “In fact, I can’t wait to see the final designs.”
She chuckled, a playful glint in her eyes. “No spoilers! But I promise, you won’t be disappointed.”
As we continued our walk, the atmosphere light and filled with laughter, I couldn’t help but think how serendipitous it all felt. The vineyard, in all its beauty and history, had found its muse in Paisley. And I, amidst the vast fields and the sprawling grapevines, had found someone who rekindled the spirit of this beloved place.
9
PAISLEY
Every moment with Austin was like a page from a storybook, unexpected and breathtakingly beautiful. Valle di Sole had quickly nestled its way into my heart, but with Austin, it was a deeper kind of magic. Our dates, filled with stolen glances, lingering touches, and deep conversations, painted the town with shades of enchantment.
One Saturday morning, Austin had a glint in his eyes, that mischief I had come to know so well. "Dress comfortably," he'd said with a sly grin. "And maybe pack a swimsuit."
I raised an eyebrow. "What are you planning?"
His lips twitched. "It's a surprise."
I smiled, deciding to play along. "Alright then, Mr. Mysterious. I'll be ready."
True to his word, he arrived in his pick-up, a picnic basket placed snugly in the back seat. "Ready for our adventure?" he asked, helping me into the passenger side.
As we drove out of town, the scenery changed. Vineyards gave way to lush forests, the cacophony of the town faded, replaced by the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves. Finally, we reached a sparkling blue expanse. The lake, its surface mirroring the sky above, stretched out before us. Tied to a wooden dock was a beautiful white boat, "Sole Mio" written in elegant gold letters.
"You have a boat?" I exclaimed, my eyes wide with surprise.
He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah. It's been in the family for a while. Thought you'd like it."
Walking down to the dock, he helped me onboard. He skillfully steered us out into the open water. The wind whipped through my hair as we glided effortlessly. There was an intimacy in that vast openness, with just the two of us and the world around.
Without a word, Austin reached for his phone, connecting it to a speaker. The soft strums of a guitar filled the air, followed by a soulful voice. It was a song about love, hope, and endless summers.
Austin extended his hand, a playful challenge in his eyes. "Care to dance?"
A laugh bubbled up. "On a boat? Are you serious?"
"Dead serious," he winked, pulling me close.
