Tangled In Strings

Chapter Six

"When I left, she was a normal-looking color, Zia," he says, reproaching.

"It's just hot in here," I interject as his hand rests on my shoulder. I reach up to grab it, immensely relieved that he's back. I will definitely make sure he doesn't leave my side again.

"I only asked the important questions. Family. Marriage. Children..."

"ZIA!"

She smiles mischievously, standing up. I have to applaud her efforts. "Alright, alright."

"I'm not leaving her with you again."

"Gio, these are questions that need to be asked!" She takes a plate of what looks like risotto from the chef's hands. "You both are successful and aged enough to start having some children. Just imagine how beautiful they'd be!"

"It's extremely soon for a conversation like that. Drop it."

"Okay, okay, okay... what about marriage?"

"Zia."

She grins. "Kidding."

My gaze is firmly on the table, but I hear his sigh. He bends as she calls for the others to come in to eat and wraps his arm around my shoulders. My eyes close as he kisses my throat.

"I'm sorry for that."

"It's fine. Don't be."

"I won't leave you with her again."

I smirk slowly and whisper, "You better not."

...

After a healthy night of more sleep, we set out for the vineyards. Marco and Luca joined us. Maria had painting in town, so she stayed behind. I was relieved to hear it. Dinner consisted of many attempts by her to find out more about Giovanni's new lady, and Giovanni quickly shutting her down.

I have no doubt she wasn't kidding when she said he's her favorite. She treats him like a son.

The day was hot and dry but traveling through the countryside was just as beautiful as it was the day before. I never wanted it to end.

Giovanni's fingers entwine with mine as we walk towards the apartment, only lamp posts to guide the way.

"What do you think about taking off to the beach tomorrow? Marco told me of one that shouldn't be swarmed with people. We can rent a place overnight, take some time, just you and I?"

"I'd love that."

We start up the steps. "I'll tell Maria in the morning then. We can pack tonight."

"Will she be okay with it?"

"She'll be fine. This is our time together; she knows that."

"You're right. She probably wants us to spend the time alone. Work on popping out some kids," I joke, and hear his laugh.

...

My eyes greedily take in the view of the ocean from the window. Even as exhausted as we are, having been moving since we arrived here, we both have changed into swimsuits. My gaze shifts to him, specifically to the maroon swim shorts that end mid-thigh, perfectly formed to his body.

I throw a sarong over my bikini, just so I'm not walking across the street nearly naked, and take Giovanni's outstretched hand, feeling very much on vacation.

I never knew it could feel this good.

I lean my head against his arm as we take the stairs down one floor to the main level. The rustic, old lobby is empty, apart from the old man behind the desk. He begins to laugh, seeing us.