AllFreeNovel
Share Us
He shot Noelle a triumphant look, not the least bit daunted by her scowl. Christian intended to do whatever it took to win his son’s love. Even if it meant siding with him against his mother from time to time.”
“Christian, I don’t think that’s a great idea.”
“It’ll be fun. Something he can show off at school and make the other kids jealous.”
“Wine-colored feet?” She shook her head in a maternal show of disgust. “Okay, you can stomp grapes.”
While Marc whooped in the backseat, Christian reached over and squeezed Noelle’s hand in thanks. Her lips softened into a smile at the gesture, and she put her hand atop his.
The car rolled down a long driveway flanked by fields of grapevines and came to rest near the low building that housed the tasting room and an intimate space available for private parties and lunches such as the one Christian had planned today with Noelle.
Almost before Christian turned off the engine, Marc had unbuckled his seat belt and was keyed for the instant his mother opened the passenger door and tipped her seat forward. He wiggled through the door and was off across the lawn in a flash, heading for the tasting-room door. Noelle called after him, but Marc was too excited to slow down. By the time she and Christian reached the building, Marc had disappeared inside.
“I love his enthusiasm,” Christian commented as he held the door open for Noelle. “Everything is an adventure. You’ve done a good job raising him.”
“Thank you, but the job’s not over yet.” She paused in the doorway and touched Christian’s arm. “I know I haven’t done much to improve your relationship with Marc, but I want you to know that watching you with him this weekend has made me realize how important it is that you two bond.” She paused. “No matter what happens between us, I want you and Marc to have as much time together as possible.”
“I appreciate that.” While he was grateful for her approval, he was less than pleased that she continued to doubt whether they had a future as a family.
“Mama, is this where I get to stomp grapes?” Marc tugged at her hand. “Can I do it now?”
Christian chuckled. “Let me talk to Louis and get it all set up,” he told his impatient son. “Why don’t you see if Daphne has some fresh grape juice for you to try.” He indicated a pretty blonde girl behind the bar. While Marc raced toward the bar and climbed up onto the tall stool, Christian turned to Noelle. “Give me a couple minutes to get Marc settled. Then we can go on our tour.”
