“Lots of women,” he continued. “But they were all fake. Plastic dolls looking for someone to buy them whatever they wanted. They weren’t like you. You are honest about yourself. I remember that first day I saw you sitting in Aunt Elene’s restaurant. You didn’t act like most tourists, who think that because they’ve watched a few movies or looked at a few pictures they know everything about Italy and life here. You took my aunt’s advice and let her guide you. I liked that.” Colette could hear the smile in his voice. “I also liked the outfit you were wearing. Also the face you made when you tasted the limoncello. It was a photograph.”

“Really?” Colette questioned as she turned to look at him. It was a mistake. His face was so close that when she turned, their noses met and her breath hitched.

She could feel the heat begin to rise from her neck up to her face as she quickly turned away, much to Luca’s amusement.

“You really do blush so easily,” he commented as he pulled her closer.

“I can’t help it. You unsettle me,” she admitted.

“In a good way, I hope.”

“I suppose. I’ve never had anyone affect me this way before.”

“Never?”

She shook her head. “Not really. I told you.”

“You told me you never really dated in England, but surely there was someone of importance?”

Colette thought about the question before she answered. She didn’t have to think too long. There was only one.

“There was someone at university...” she admitted.

“What happened with him?”

“Nothing,” she said softly as she hung her head. “He didn’t like me.”

Luca chuckled. “He was a fool. Then again, he was young, and when you’re young you make foolish mistakes.” He hugged her tighter. “I’m thankful he did.”

“You are?”

“Yes, I am. If he’d seen what was before him, you might not be standing here with me now,” he explained. He leaned closer again. “And I like that you’re here,” he whispered.

Her breath quickened and her heart was racing so hard she could hear it in her ears. “So am I.”

She didn’t dare turn around again. Luca’s gaze was difficult enough to hold when he was sitting a few feet away. When he was only inches...she couldn’t imagine what effect it would have on her.

She felt his hands at her waist as he turned her toward him. The moment he did she was caught in his eyes. Lost in the dark pools that looked at her as if she were the only woman on the planet.

“Colette?” he whispered as he leaned closer.