Once he’d found them a table in the corner, he deserted her long enough to talk to the aproned man behind the ancient-looking bar. Armed with two bottles of Perrier water and two croques monsieurs, he returned.
She took a bite of the melted ham and cheese sandwich. “Mmm. I haven’t had one of these in ages. It’s delicious. Does every winery offer food like this?”
“Not many.”
“The sales must skyrocket after someone has been here.”
He finished his food. “That’s the idea.” His eyes gleamed as he looked at her. “I can get you coffee if you’d prefer it.”
“Thank you, but water is much better while I’m working.”
“I couldn’t agree more. When you’re ready, I’ll show you around the winery.”
“Let’s go now. I’d love to see everything possible before I have to get back. I don’t want Gregoire to think I’m taking advantage.”
“We can’t have that.” That slow smile made her pulse race.
She held on to her half-full bottle of water and followed him through a door that led to the heart of the building. The huge vaulted rooms filled with machinery and barrels overwhelmed her. The place reminded her of a scientist’s laboratory all devoted to producing sumptuous wines that kept the Fontesquieu Corporation one of the top winemakers in the world.
Dominic smiled at her while they walked from room to room. “You’re not saying anything.”
That was because his native intelligence pretty much staggered her. “I’m too busy marveling over this amazing world. I’m afraid I feel guilty that I don’t like wine.”
A chuckle escaped him. “Your liver is much healthier leaving it alone.”
“I don’t think I dare quote you,” she quipped, loving this hour spent with him while he explained the winemaking process, overwhelming her with knowledge he’d been learning since birth. He knew so much about everything that it seemed he could go on forever, but it was past time to leave. “I should get back to work.”
“I was afraid you’d say that,” he whispered. “I’ll explain to Gregoire it was my fault that you’re late. Come this way.”
Dominic led her to another exit not used by the public and they walked around the building to his car. As he cupped her elbow, his touch sent a dart of electricity through her body, making her come alive.
He helped her in before driving her back to the terroir. After he stopped, he said, “Since I don’t want this day to end, why don’t I pick you up after work?”
She sensed he wanted to be with her as much as she wanted to be with him. It was hard to believe this was really happening. “Only if you have time.”
“I’ll make it,” he declared in a firm tone of voice that sent an unmistakable message of his desire to be with her.
“Thank you for lunch and the tour, Dominic. To be shown around by an expert has been a highlight for me I’ll never forget.” She meant what she’d said and knew she sounded breathless.
“That makes two of us.”
He handed her the backpack before she got out of the car. Their hands touched, once again making her feel weak with longing. Nathalie walked to the row where she’d been snipping grapes. When she reached her spot, she finished the bottled water and got busy, counting the minutes until she could be with Dominic again.
When the heat reached its zenith, Nathalie checked her watch. It was four thirty. Quitting time. She gathered up her things, so eager to see Dominic, it was ridiculous. But after reaching the road, there was no sign of his car. Undoubtedly something had held him up because she knew he’d had every intention of coming for her.
Disappointed, she avoided the trucks and started to walk toward the mobile home, anxious to get out of the hot sun. Three-quarters of the way back, she saw the black Renault coming toward her. It shouldn’t thrill her to see him, but it did. She was in so much trouble. When she’d followed through on her plan, she hadn’t considered being enthralled by the man she’d been searching for.
He stopped and got out. “I’m sorry to be late, but it couldn’t be helped.”
“Please don’t apologize. I know you’re a busy man.”
In seconds he’d opened the passenger door. This time their arms brushed as she climbed inside, making her acutely aware of him. The AC felt wonderful and she was relieved she didn’t have to walk. He made a U-turn and drove them back toward the mobile park.
He pulled up behind her blue Peugeot. “Why don’t you go in and freshen up, then we’ll drive somewhere for a bite to eat before I bring you back here. Lunch didn’t fill me and I’m starving.”
“I’m hungry too. Thanks. I’ll be out soon.”
His invitation opened up a whole evening where she could learn more about his personal life. Totally intoxicated by him, Nathalie slid out of the car and unlocked the door of the mobile home. She hurried inside and took a quick shower. After putting on jeans and a blouse, she brushed her hair.