AllFreeNovel
Share Us
She shook her head. “Maybe there’s hope for you.”
“Hope?”
“To learn that there’s more to life than work.”
As they entered the small shop, he couldn’t stop thinking about his conversation with Stasia. He grew uncomfortable with her peeling back his layers and figuring out how he ticked.
Wanting to change the subject, he said, “It’s your turn to order.”
She ordered limone and let Roberto have a taste of the lemon indulgence. In turn, he shared some of his gianduja, with its creamy chocolate and hazelnut flavors.
As they ate, Roberto couldn’t help thinking how Stasia’s presence in his life made everything feel so different. Until this point, he’d traveled all over the world but he’d never slowed down long enough to savor the gelato. But with Stasia next to him, he wanted to slow down and take in everything about this marvelous day.
When they’d finished, Roberto removed another small box from his other pocket and placed it in her hand.
Her eyes grew wide. “Roberto, this is too much.”
“No, it isn’t. I don’t have anyone in my life to do these things for. Please indulge me.”
She opened the box and gasped. “It’s gorgeous.” Her gaze met his. “You do know that you’re spoiling me.”
“What can I say? I like to make you smile.”
When she went to put on the necklace, she had a problem with the catch. His instinct was to help her, but he hesitated. Getting close to her so soon wasn’t a good idea. But when her frustrated gaze met his, he moved into action.
She swept her hair out of the way and tilted her head to the side. The nape of her slender neck was right there just begging him to press a kiss to it. His jaw tightened as an inner war waged within him.
None too soon, he’d latched the matching diamond-and-blue-sapphire necklace. He quickly stepped back as though sprung from a trap. It fit her perfectly, stopping just above her cleavage. The gems caught the sunlight and sparkled.
“Thank you, again. This is a birthday I’ll never forget.”
“And it’s not over yet.”
He’d visited Venice before but he’d never appreciated its beauty. But today, seeing it through Stasia’s eyes, it was like he was seeing it for the very first time.
* * *
This was such a different side of him.
A more down-to-earth version of him.
Stasia smiled as they continued their exploration by visiting the Accademia Gallery, taking in the great masterpieces. She kept glancing at Roberto to make sure he was having a good time. She never would have guessed he’d be content in an art museum. She knew he was doing it for her and she appreciated it more than she could say.
Lukos never had the patience for this stuff. He was an active guy, from running marathons to playing European football at the park. He always had to be on the go, and strolling through a museum wouldn’t qualify.
But Roberto was different. He was interested in what appealed to her. Or at least he’d give the activity a chance.
“This was an unforgettable birthday.” She smiled at him. “And it’s thanks to you. If it wasn’t for you, I’d probably be hidden away in my cabin for most of the cruise. Thanks for being such a great friend.”
His gaze delved into her, making her heart beat faster. “I’d like to think we’re a little more than friends.”
“Does fake girlfriend count?” She was trying to lighten the mood; after the thoughts of Lukos, she needed some levity to alleviate some of the weight on her heart.
“I’ve never had a fake relationship, so that makes you special.”
“And I’ve never had a fake boyfriend.”
“Earlier you mentioned that you wanted to discuss something—what was it?”
“You know how I’ve been working on my life plan?” When he nodded, she continued. “I see how passionate you are about your work and that’s what I want for myself. I want to wake up in the morning with a purpose—one that gets me motivated and ready to hit the day with all of my energy and passion.”
“And you’re sure that isn’t real estate?”
She shook her head. “It’s just not me.”
