Page 64 of A New Year In The Presidential Suite

Lori didn’t hesitate to begin looking.

“What do you think?” asked Griff, coming up behind her.

“I love all the whimsical art objects, the bright-colored artwork hanging on walls, and the way each shelf, cupboard, and table hold things of interest,” she said. “I’m glad I came inside.”

“I knew you’d like it. Everyone does. Mia and Mike work hard, but they do very well.”

“I want to come back here. But, for now, I want to see what they have,” said Lori.

While Lori went on her own to look, Mia approached Griff.

“Loralie’s adorable. Is this the woman from Florida?” asked Mia.

“What? How do you know about her?” asked Griff.

Mia chuckled. “You had too much to drink one night and told me about her. Don’t worry. I won’t say anything about it.”

Griff studied Lori across the store and turned to Mia. “I think she’s the one for me. She doesn’t know it yet.”

“I’m glad you’re over Cassandra, not that you were ever truly into her. I still don’t understand why you wanted to marry her,” said Mia.

Griff frowned. “You know why. Grandad was afraid he’d die without my having found a woman to help with the vineyard.”

Mia let out a soft snort. “Cassandra was never going to be part of it, no matter what she said. She wanted your money.”

“Well, I know that now. Besides, what I feel for Lori is totally different. She wants to learn about the winery and the winemaking process. Grandad is quite smitten.”

“And you aren’t?” said Mia cocking an eyebrow at him.

Griff lifted his arms in surrender. “I admit it, okay?”

“Good,” said Mia. “Now, back to business.”

Griff stood back and watched Mia and Lori talking, relieved he’d finally said out loud what he’d been feeling for Lori. He’d been intrigued with her from the beginning, and being with her now made him realize she was everything he’d been looking for.

CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE

LORI

Lori and Mia chatted easily as Mia spoke about some of the items that had caught Lori’s attention. It was more than a gift shop; it was filled with a diverse range of art, from sophisticated to more unconventional pieces.

“Rosie and I discussed showcasing art at the winery’s shop,” said Lori. “Perhaps a deal could be worked out between the two of you. You could display items there. It would help you both.”

Mia studied her. “I like that idea. Rosie is smart, and you are too. Griff tells me you’re interested in the winery and vineyards. Is that true?”

“Yes. Ever since we met and I learned about Adeline Hills Winery, I became fascinated by the process,” said Lori. “After hearing him talk about it, I wanted to learn more. It’s much more work than I thought. But I love the idea that it produces lovely wines for everyone to enjoy.”

“Do you think you’ll ever move here?” asked Mia.

“A part of me would love to, but all my family is back home in New York. They were my strength through my husband’s battle with cancer and the aftermath two years ago. Without them, I might not have made it. I owe them a lot.”

“But wouldn’t they want you happy, even if it means you living away from them?” asked Mia, focusing her attention on Lori.

“Maybe so. It’s something I have to work out for myself and them,” Lori said.

“Griff is a great guy, and someone sought after by many women who don’t appreciate what a fantastic person he is,” Mia said. “Please don’t hurt him. Cassandra was a mistake from the beginning, but it still caused him pain that he didn’t deserve.”

“What are you two ladies talking about? It looks like something serious,” said Griff, coming up to them.