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His gaze searched her face, concern etched in his chiseled features. “Crazy drivers. Are you okay, Sophie?”
She smoothed a strand of hair away from her face. “I’m fine. No worries.”
He glanced at her with a raised brow. “Cold?”
“No, I’m fine. Just a little startled.” More like turned on.
Get a grip.She wiped her sweaty palms on her jeans and looked out the window. Time to stop acting like a naïve schoolgirl at the sight of the latest Hollywood heartthrob.
“We made it.” He pulled up to the entrance of a beautiful terra-cotta building with large windows and a slanted roof. Subtle cursive lettering above the doorway spelled Marino’s.
At least she wouldn’t be confined in the small car with him anymore. “It looks like we’re going to someone’s house.”
His lips curved upward. “No, they just like it secluded and cozy.”
“Buona sera, signorina.” A valet was instantly at her door, offering a welcoming hand as she stepped out of the car.
“Grazie,” she replied, using one of her token Italian words.
“Welcome, Nicholas. Welcome. Isabella has your table waiting for you. Quick, quick, go inside so your lady doesn’t catch a chill.”
Nick rested one hand lightly on her lower back and escorted her through the ornate carved wooden door into a charming, candlelit lobby. Deep rose-colored walls imparted warmth. Subtle music played in the background, and white-clothed tables filled the two rooms adjoining the lobby area.
A stunning brunette with a wide smile and outstretched hands approached them.
“Nicholas, it’s been too long since you’ve joined us. Where have you been hiding?” Her gaze flicked toward Sophie.
He shrugged a broad shoulder. “I’m just working a lot, Isabella. This is Sophie.”
“Of course. Welcome, Sophie. Follow me.”
Isabella led them to a cozy table tucked in the corner, against an enormous window. Delicious aromas filled the air. Every cell in her body was on high alert, Nick’s proximity tempting her to lean back into his palm. What was going on with her?
An open bottle of wine and two glasses sat on the table.
“I think someone is already sitting here,” Sophie said.
“No, I requested the bottle be opened so it had plenty of time to breathe. I hope you don’t mind I took the liberty of selecting the wine.” He pulled out her chair, his hands brushing against her shoulder. The hairs on the back of her neck prickled.
He was definitely smooth. She’d noticed his confidence at her house, but not the polished veneer. Sophie hated to admit it, but she loved when a man took charge in certain situations. She wasn’t about to divulge her secret, though. Imagine what he would do with that information.
“I’m sure it’ll be fine. I love wine, so you really can’t go wrong in that arena.”
Before he could reply, an elegantly clad silver-haired man arrived at their table.
“Nicholas, welcome. Are you going to have the usual tonight, or can I bring you and your lady some menus?” The waiter lilted in his lovely Italian accent.
Nick arched his brow at her. “I usually take the special here. Alberto is an amazing chef. Are you game, or would you like to order off the menu?”
“I am sure whatever Alberto prepares will be wonderful.” She beamed at the waiter.
The waiter nodded with a smile and hurried away.
“How often do you come here?” Did he bring all his dates here? A new one every night?
He shrugged a shoulder and lifted the bottle. “It’s my favorite restaurant. Wine?”
“Please. California wine instead of Italian? Is that allowed?” Her lips twitched.
