They walked along a wooden walkway, over bridges, and were mesmerized by the gorges, caves, waterfalls, and rock formations. Sunlight filtered through the openings, creating magical patterns. Alice was obsessed with design and architecture, but even she could admit that nothing manmade could best God’s creations. Nature’s architect never ceased to thrill and impress her.
There was an ancient water mill and restaurant at the end of the path. It was quiet; they only encountered a few other tourists. Priceand Merrick gave them some space but stayed close enough to keep a visual on them and scope out in front of and behind them.
Neither she nor Robbie said much, but the tension between them was high. He kept giving her meaningful glances, touching her hand or the small of her back to direct her. She flushed with warmth at each look or touch. She couldn’t get used to this new but old Robbie. He looked like the love of her youth, but his face had matured in all the right ways. The best word she could think of was mouthwatering. She’d never seen a man who was his equal.
It was obvious by each glance and soft touch that Robbie was interested in her. He’d shaved and gotten his hair cut for her. He’d claimed he wouldn’t let his career come between them. Could she trust that declaration? Was he only hoping for a kiss, or did his feelings run as deep as hers?
His comments had sent her reeling. What was she supposed to do with these re-surging feelings? Would he be killed by Big Buddha if she fell for him again? Would he leave her for his important work with Aiden Porter and she’d be devastated and lonely? Could he and her mother ever have a good relationship? What if she had to choose? At the moment, she wanted to choose him over her mother, but could she trust him not to leave her behind again?
Her mind went round and round. Robbie had all but admitted he wanted a relationship. It was hard to make rational decisions when he looked incredible and everything he said or did reminded her of the Robbie she’d fallen in love with who was now a mature and impressive operative for one of the top security gurus in the world.
Robbie Perrine was irresistible.
After the grotto walk, they rented bikes and rode along trails through the lush and green nature park. For lunch, they found an outdoor restaurant in thepiazzaor town square. They chatted about his friends from high school, each of which she’d felt were her friends too. It was good to catch up. She even shared some stories about Ruby and Natalie. Doing so was healing, and she appreciated him drawing her out about them.
They shared a cannoli for dessert. She’d never liked cannoli athome, but this one was flaky and light on the outside with a rich pistachio cream swirled with chocolate shavings. Delicious.
Robbie looked at her with his lashes lowered, an almost shy look that made her heart flip flop. “You haven’t said anything about Jack. Were you …” He swallowed. “Close to marrying him?”
“No,” she admitted.
Robbie straightened in his seat, and his gaze became piercing.
“He was a great guy, but we only dated a few months before he was killed.”
“I’m sorry,” Robbie said. The words were sincere, but there was also an underlying … relief. Robbie had obviously not wanted her falling in love with anyone else. She felt the same.
“Thank you.”
She finished the dessert and moved to stand.
Robbie put a hand on her arm, heat searing her skin from his touch. “Have you been close to marrying anyone over the years?”
Alice sucked in a breath. He hadn’t asked these direct questions right away. Had he been giving her time to adjust to him?
“No,” she admitted.
His blue eyes grew impossibly warm and tender. “Waiting for me?” he asked in a husky whisper.
Alice’s own eyes widened as pain stabbed at her heart. “Absolutely not,” she shot at him, angry he’d say such a thing. As if she should’ve waited around for him when he’d ditched her and broken her trust. She stood and ignored the pain in his eyes. “What’s the plan this afternoon?”
Robbie stood slowly, as if to allow her to appreciate his glorious presence. “A castle and church and town tour.”
“Perfect.”
There was a forced pleasantry between them as they toured the elaborate church—sculptures and paintings and decorative trim crowding the space. The charming town square, complete with clock tower, was intriguing. It blew her mind to think of these structures being close to a thousand years old. They toured the castle ruins of Castello del Piai. It was in a beautiful location close to the grottos they’d explored this morning.
It was early evening when they headed back to Venice and their condo. There was a spread of Vietnamese food waiting for them in the kitchen. The Italian food was delicious but heavy; she was ready for a change and excited about the multitude of green, purple, and red vegetables she glimpsed in the dish.
They assembled plates and went out onto the patio. As they ate, the sun set and a quiet hush settled over the city. It was beautiful. She glanced at Robbie. He was beautiful too.
“What are you thinking?” he asked, rubbing at his jaw and drawing her attention to his clean-shaven face and those lips. Dang his lips.
“No thoughts,” she lied. “It was a great day. I loved the grottos and waterfalls.”
“I knew you would. I guess you do like some surprises.” His gaze focused on her lips before lifting to hers. Those blue eyes held her captive.
“Some,” she admitted through a dry throat. “What’s the plan tomorrow?”
