Page 16 of Mr. Blackwood

“Seriously, Jabari?”

“If that’s what you want, then that’s what I’ll do.”

We landed in the small town of Maple Grove, Georgia, forty-five minutes later.

“Is that a vineyard, Jabari?” she asked as we prepared to land.

There were rows and rows of vines and colorful leaves, stunning mountain views, impressive maple trees, and the large mansion that Dominic Charles called home. The property was beautiful, and I couldn’t wait for her to get a tour.

“It is. It’s called Chateau Acero.”

“Don’t tell me that you own this too.”

“No, I don’t. It’s owned by someone else. You’ll meet him soon,” I announced.

She continued snapping photos until it was time for us to exit the helicopter. When we climbed out of the helicopter, Camilla inhaled deeply. I stood back and admired the look of appreciation on her face. I took her hand and led her to where Dominic was waiting.

“Welcome back to Chateau Acero. I’m so glad you could make it, Mr. Blackwood.” Dominic greeted me with a handshake and a pat on the back.

“Thank you. I’m glad you could make time for us in your schedule. Camilla, this is Dominic Charles, the owner of this beautiful property. He’ll be giving us a tour of the grounds today and providing the meal and the wine that we’ll enjoy. Dominic, this is Camilla Valentine, a friend of mine.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Dominic stated as he took Camilla’s hand and kissed the back of it.

She smiled at him and looked at me. It was difficult for me not to hold the growl back deep in my throat. It was challenging for me not to snatch her hand free from his grasp. I would bide my time, and in time, she would know that she shouldn’t provide that opportunity for another man again.

7 – CAMILLA

I had toured vineyards during my college years, but they had all been in California. This was different; I had never visited one in my home state of Georgia. It was beautiful, and the air was crisper and cooler up in the mountains than it was in the city.

Although it was summertime, it was late August, and we were heading into the fall in another month. Jabari had advised me to wear comfortable but not loose-fitting clothing. He had also said that I should bring a jacket to wear because it would be cool at times.

I immediately knew what I would wear. Pairing cream flats with my dusty rose pants outfit and my cream blouse was not only the perfect outfit for what Jabari had planned, but also it showed off my figure. I knew that Jabari couldn’t help but appreciate my curves in my outfit.

The helicopter ride was unexpected but nice. His decision to bring me to the vineyard for a tour and dinner was the most romantic thing anyone had ever done for me. I was over the moon, but I kept sending myself reminders not to get caught up; this was a mission, it wasn’t real.

“I will admit, Jabari, that I’m impressed. The view is amazing. The lush green bushes, the trees with gold-tipped leaves, and hedges manicured in various shapes are breathtaking. That three-tiered hedge sitting in that fountain of bushes is a beautiful way to present a waterfall. The rows of beautiful gold and red vines are breathtaking. So far, you’re measuring up.” I couldn’t hold back the lightheartedness that had taken over my voice.

“Is that right?” he asked.

His deep voice was delicious and had the power to send chills down my spine. I hadn’t realized how close he had stepped to me until I heard his voice. We had finished the tour of the vineyard and the winery.

Dominic had led us to a cozy little mountaintop area with views of the vineyards and the evening sky. A table was set up for us to eat at, and decades-old wine had been brought out for us to enjoy.

“I love the fact that you chose a healthy meal for our dinner tonight. I’m sure that you had something to do with the selection,” I stated.

“You’re welcome. I wasn’t sure exactly what you liked, but I wanted to surprise you. I noticed the night that I took you to the Cuban restaurant, you made healthier selections. Did I get it right?”

“You did. Thank you.”

He had ordered eggplant parmesan, an Italian salad, parmesan roasted broccoli, and garlic rolls. He had added rainbow trout for himself to his meal. There was a nice red wine to accompany our meal, and it was delicious.

“Do you live a healthy lifestyle overall?” he asked.

“It depends on what you consider healthy. I’m a vegetarian, and I drink water and teas, but I also like wine. I make my juices from fresh fruits and veggies that I grow in my garden.”

“You have a garden?” His eyebrows lifted.

“Yeah. You couldn’t see it because you dropped me off in my driveway, but in the backyard there’s a nice little vegetable garden, and I have a raised herb garden on my deck.”