Ethan
People started to get hungry. Victoria suggested we head to Pine and Vine for lunch, a restaurant she described as "the best deal in town." Apparently, the owner of the establishment was a long-term friend of Victoria's from southern Italy. She had been here for 25 years.
The exterior of Pine and Vine was inviting, with ivy-covered brick walls and large windows that let in the warm afternoon light. As soon as we stepped inside, the smell of rich Italian cooking hit me—garlic, tomatoes, fresh herbs. It was like walking into someone's kitchen, not a restaurant, and it helped me relax a little.
A kind voice greeted us as we entered. The older woman had a round, kind face with deep smile lines and a twinkle in her eye. She wore a brightly patterned apron over a plain black dress, and her silver hair was swept up in a messy bun. Her eyes lit up when she saw Samantha. "Ah, Samantha! My little bella!" she exclaimed, pulling Samantha into a tight hug. "It's been too long! Come, come, sit down. I have a special table just for you."
Samantha laughed, returning the hug with equal warmth. "Nonna Maria, it's so good to see you. How's business?"
"Busy, busy," Nonna Maria replied with a wave of her hand, her thick Italian accent making everything she said sound more comforting. "But it's always better when you and your aunt come to visit, Samantha. And who is this handsome man you've brought with you? And what about these beautiful girls?"
Before Samantha could respond, Nonna Maria was already reaching out to pinch Lily and Maya's cheeks gently, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Ah, such beautiful young ladies! Look at you! Bellissime! You must be the princesses of the family, yes?"
Lily and Maya blushed under the attention, clearly charmed by Nonna Maria's warmth. They both nodded shyly, and Nonna Maria beamed at them as if they were her own granddaughters.
I felt a warmth spread through my chest at Nonna Maria's words. I managed a modest smile, nodding slightly. "I'm the lucky one to have them."
Nonna Maria patted my arm affectionately, her touch conveying a comforting familiarity. "Ah, such a good father. You take care of them, yes? But today, you let Nonna Maria take care of you. Sit, sit, make yourselves at home."
Just then, a young man—Nonna Maria's grandson, Luca— appeared beside us, his eyes immediately landing on Samantha. "Hey, Sam," he said with a grin that was a little too wide for my liking. "You're looking as stunning as ever."
Luca, in his early 30s, had a classic Mediterranean look that made him stand out effortlessly. His dark, wavy hair framed a face with strong, well-defined features—a sharp jawline, straight nose, and a smile that was as charming as it was self-assured. His eyes, a warm shade of hazel, held a spark of mischief, and he had a way of making you feel like you were the only person in the room when he looked at you.
Standing at about 5'8 feet with a lean, athletic build, Luca moved with the easy confidence of someone who knew exactly how to make an impression. Dressed casually in a fitted sweater and jeans that hinted at his well-built frame, he exuded a relaxed charm, but there was an edge to his smile—a hint of flirtation that suggested he wasn't afraid to push boundaries.
Samantha rolled her eyes playfully but didn't seem bothered by his attention. "Hi, Luca. Still trying your lines, huh?"
"Only for you," Luca replied with a wink, completely ignoring me as he focused on her. "One always pays attention to the sun, especially after a long night, and that is what your absence is like, Bella, the long night."
A flicker of irritation rose in me, but I kept it to myself. It wasn't any of my business how Samantha responded. Still, the slight tightening in my chest at Luca's overt flirtation probably meant something.
Nonna Maria, sensing the tension, quickly intervened. "Luca, enough with your poetry," she scolded, though there was a hint of affection in her voice. "Leave the poor girl alone. She's here to eat, not to be serenaded."
Luca chuckled and threw his hands up in mock surrender. "Alright, alright, Nonna. But you can't blame a guy for trying."
Nonna Maria shook her head, her expression softening as she looked at Samantha. "You'll have to forgive my grandson. He's got his head in the clouds, always thinking he's some kind of romantic hero. But don't worry, Samantha, I'll make sure he stays out of your hair."
Samantha laughed, clearly amused by the exchange. "It's fine, Nonna. I'm used to it by now."
As we were led to a cozy corner table, Nonna Maria continued to fuss over us, making sure Lily and Maya had everything they needed. She brought over freshly baked bread with a small dish of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, ensuring that the girls were comfortable and happy.
I watched as Samantha and Victoria interacted with Nonna Maria, who was sweet, like the grandma you always wanted. There was something incredibly comforting about her presence, like a warm blanket on a cold day.
Samantha, now seated beside me, leaned in slightly and whispered, "Nonna Maria is like the grandma everyone wishes they had. She's been running this place for as long as I can remember, and she treats everyone like family."
"Handsome boy," Nonna Maria said, interrupting Samantha, "I am told you are quite the cook—lasagna, uh."
I laughed. "Yes, Nonna. I make the best lasagna."
I watched Nonna scowl and then laugh. "Silly boy. I will show you the best lasagna! Then you will have to give your Nonna a big kiss, yes?"
"It's a bet, Nonna."
As we waited for our meals, Samantha slid her chair a little closer to mine. "Here," she said softly, holding out her hand for my phone, "let me help you set up some apps on your new phone. You're going to need a few essentials."
I nodded, a bit flustered by how close she was, her perfume filling my senses. "Thanks, I appreciate it," I said, trying to focus on the phone and not on how her knee was brushing against mine under the table or how her shoulder leaned against me.
She showed me how to navigate the different features, which she did with both patience and kindness. It was pretty impressive, as I'm kind of an idiot when it comes to this stuff. Every so often, she'd glance up at me with a small smile, and I'd feel that strange pull again—the one that made me want to know more about her.
By the time our food arrived, the girls were laughing at something Victoria had said, and even Luca had stopped by our table again, making a show of trying to impress Samantha with some story about his latest adventure. She brushed him off with ease.
When Nonna Maria placed the lasagna in front of me, she gave me a look that dared me to say it wasn't the best I'd ever had. I took a bite, letting the flavors melt in my mouth. It was damn good—rich, cheesy, with just the right amount of garlic and herbs. But I think I knew the clear winner.
"It's pretty good," I said with a grin, "but I think mine's better."
Nonna Maria laughed, swatting me lightly on the shoulder. "Next time, you'll cook for me, and we'll see whose lasagna is the best."
"Deal," I replied, feeling more at ease than I had in days. I stood to my full height and then kneeled down to Nonna and gave her a big kiss on the cheek. "Yours was still amazing, Nonna."
She blushed a deep crimson. "Cheeky boy. Stop embarrassing your Nonna, or I will have to take you over my knee."
I sat back down. "Yes, Ma'am."
After we finished the main course, which left me more than satisfied, Nonna Maria returned with a tray of desserts that looked like they belonged in an art gallery rather than on a dinner table. Tiramisu, cannoli, and a beautifully plated panna cotta drizzled with caramel sauce sat in front of us, each more tempting than the last.
"Try the panna cotta," Nonna Maria insisted, setting it directly in front of me. "It's my specialty, made fresh this morning. You won't find anything like it anywhere else in Silver Ridge."
I took a bite, the silky smooth texture of the panna cotta melting on my tongue, balanced perfectly with the sweet and slightly bitter caramel. It was incredible. I let out a low hum of appreciation.
"This is amazing," I said, meaning every word.
Nonna Maria beamed at the compliment, her pride evident. "I'm glad you like it, caro. You'll have to come back and try the rest of my desserts another time."
"I would love that, Nonna. Thank you again." And I really meant it.
Nonna Maria beamed, clearly pleased. "You're welcome anytime, Cheeky Boy. And don't forget to bring these lovely ladies with you."
Just as we were finishing up, Luca made his way back over to our table. This time, his approach was a little less cocky, which I was almost positive was about 90% show.
"So, Samantha," Luca began, leaning casually against the back of her chair. "There's this new place in town, The Rusty Spur. It's got a real laid-back vibe, country music, a dance floor, and some of the best drinks in Silver Ridge. You should come by tonight. I'll make sure you have a good time."
Samantha looked up, clearly interested but not overly eager. "That sounds like fun," she said, glancing over at me. "Ethan, what do you think? A little country music, some dancing? Could be a good way to unwind."
She was trying to make it sound casual, but her tone suggested she really wanted me to come along. The idea of a country bar was appealing. I wasn't much for dancing, but it might be nice to get a drink.
Still, when was the last time I went out with someone as attractive as Samantha? Strike that. I've never gone out with someone as attractive as Samantha.
I paused, feeling a sudden wave of uncertainty wash over me, but Samantha must have sensed my hesitation. She leaned in close, her warm breath tickling my ear as she whispered, "Come on, Ethan. It should be fun. Besides, you owe me for saving you from Luca's serenading earlier."
Her playful tone and the twinkle in her eyes were enough to melt any doubts I had. I smiled at her, unable to resist her infectious enthusiasm, but I don't know if it was appropriate.
"I would love to Samantha but what about—"
"I will watch the girls." Said Victoria. Apparently she can read me like a book. "Not that Maya needs watching after, but if you're worried about them. We will have a junk food and movie night."
The girls just grinned.
"Alright," I said finally out of excuses, "I'm in. But no promises on the dancing part."
Samantha beamed, clearly pleased with my answer. "No pressure on the dancing. We can just enjoy the music and have a good time."
Luca's expression faltered just for a moment before he quickly recovered. "Great. I'll see you both there tonight. I'll make sure you're on the guest list."
He gave Samantha one last look before heading back toward the kitchen, clearly not thrilled that his attempt to charm her hadn't gone as planned.
As he walked away, Samantha leaned in closer to me, her voice dropping to a whisper. "We will explore it together; promise we'll have fun."
I shrugged. "I'm sure we will."
Victoria, who had been watching the exchange with a knowing smile, chimed in. "It sounds like a perfect way to end the day."
The idea of spending the evening in a country bar, surrounded by good music and good company, was something I could get behind. The Rusty Spur sounded like the kind of place where I could relax and enjoy myself without worrying about being out of place.
Nonna brought the check. We paid, and then she gave the girls a broad smile. "Maya, Lily, what beautiful names for such beautiful girls!" She leaned down slightly to be at their level, her voice warm and affectionate. "Did you enjoy the food, my dears?"
Maya and Lily nodded eagerly. "Yes, it was delicious!" Maya said, her eyes wide with excitement.
Lily chimed in, "We loved it! Especially the Bolognese!"
Nonna straightened up, looking pleased. "I'm so glad to hear that. You two must come back and see me anytime, alright? I'll make sure to have something special just for you."
The girls grinned, clearly charmed by Nonna. Meanwhile, she turned her attention back to me, her eyes twinkling with warmth and mischief. Before I could react, she pulled me into a tight embrace, surprising me with her strength. "Thank you, cheeky boy, for taking care of Samantha and Victoria. You must come back here with your famous lasagna! I want to try it for myself."
I chuckled awkwardly, not used to such enthusiastic affection from strangers. "I'll see what I can do, Nonna. I promise."
Nonna patted my cheek and then turned to Victoria, giving her a similar warm hug. "Victoria, it's always a pleasure to see you here. You've brought a wonderful group this time. It warms my heart to see such a happy family."
Victoria returned the embrace. "Thank you, Nonna. It's always a joy to visit your restaurant. And you know Samantha and I wouldn't miss a chance to introduce these girls to your wonderful food."
We left the restaurant as Nonna gave each of us a warm farewell. There were also a couple of the waitresses near the kitchen door, peeking out and waving at me. They were young, probably college students, and I wasn't sure why they were so interested. I offered them a polite nod, not really understanding the attention.
Victoria, who had been observing the whole interaction with a knowing smile, leaned in slightly as we walked out onto the street. "It seems you've made quite an impression, Ethan. Not just with Nonna but with her staff as well."
I shrugged, trying to play it off. "I think they're just being friendly."
Samantha smirked, clearly enjoying my discomfort. "Friendly, sure. I'm sure they just want to be friends."
I wasn't sure how to respond to that, so I stayed silent, letting the moment pass.
We walked back the way we came, retracing our steps down the street. Victoria began talking about some of the other dining options in Silver Ridge. "You know, Ethan, this was a great meal, but there are some really high-end places in town that we should try. We could get a reservation for tomorrow night if you're up for it."
I hesitated, not sure if I really wanted to go to one of those fancy places. "I don't know, Victoria. I'm more comfortable in places like Pine and Vine."
Samantha nudged me playfully. "Come on, Ethan. It's just one night. Besides, it's an experience. You might enjoy it more than you think."
Victoria nodded in agreement. "Exactly. And you deserve a nice night out after everything. We'll take care of everything. You just show up."
I sighed, realizing I wasn't going to win this one. "Alright, but don't expect me to wear anything too fancy. And I get to make dinner tonight."
Samantha laughed. "Deal. We'll keep it casual."