“I don’t know, someplace in Italy. Are you sure she left? Do you want me to call her? She answered the phone that day I called her when the café caught fire and I found her grandfather.” He rocked back and forth from foot to foot, his eyes wide. “I can try to call her, Mr. Slade.”
“You would do that for me? That would be awesome.” He smiled and extended his hand to shake Denny’s. “You didn’t do anything wrong.”
Denny looked at him and smiled. He took a hesitant step forward, watching Kellen’s face. When Kellen smiled back, he rushed forward and grabbed his hand pumping it up and down. “Great, that’s just great. I’m so glad you aren’t mad at me. Let me try calling her right now.” He took a phone out of his pocket and flipped it open.
Kellen shook his head when he saw the out-of-date phone. “I think you are going to have to use my phone to call her. I don’t think yours will reach Italy.” He handed the phone to Denny after hitting dial.
His face lit up. “Ms. Rhian, it’s me Denny. I haven’t seen you. Are you okay? Can you please call me back? Are you still in Italy? Oh, I’m still working with Mr. Kellen. He let me use his phone to call you. He said mine wouldn’t reach all the way to Italy. We got the place looking pretty good now. Okay, call me. It’s Denny.” He disconnected the call and handed the phone back to Kellen. “She’ll call me back, you wait and see. Come on sir, we’d best get workin’. I told her we was doing good.”
Kellen slapped the man on the back. “You’re a good man. You let me know where she is when you talk to her, okay?”
“I will Mr. Kellen, don’t you worry.” He picked up the next board and laid it across the two sawhorses. “Ready for you to make this one, sir.” He hummed a tune Kellen didn’t recognize as they worked.
Chapter Nineteen
Rhian awoke eager to see the first portrait she had almost finished in Italy. Glancing at her phone, she saw a missed call and message from Kellen last night. Her heart fluttered as she clicked “play.” Disappointment hit her when she heard Denny’s voice. She listened carefully to the message and realized she missed the big man. She counted backwards and knew it was midnight in Savannah, so she would have to wait until later today to return his call.
Pulling on her paint clothes, she slipped on her shoes and made her way to the kitchen to make coffee. She looked at her painting as the coffee brewed. Why am I painting Kellen? She slowly walked towards the canvas, staring at the pain and hurt in his eyes. Is this what I see when I look at him? The sadness on his face hurt her heart. Oh Kellen, could I be enough for you? What hurt you so badly that you have hardened your heart?
Her phone rang and she ran to grab it. She found herself hoping it would be Kellen. She slid the lock and saw an unknown number lighting up on the cell. “Hello?”
“Good morning, Rhian. I hope I didn’t wake you. This is Dante Barone calling.”
“Good morning, Dante. Actually, I’m having coffee and looking at my first portrait. How are you today?” She twisted a strand of her hair between her fingers and leaned back against the counter.
“I’m wonderful. I just wanted to check in to see if you need anything or if you would like some company? I thought I could show you around a bit, take you to dinner.”
She took a deep breath, glanced over at the portrait of Kellen, and placed her hand over her heart. “Sure, that would be great. When?”
“I thought I could pick you up around eleven today, if that’s all right with you?”
“Today?” She glanced at the clock—only seven thirty. “Sure, eleven sounds perfect. I can get some painting in and be ready when you get here. What should I wear?”
“Something comfortable and some good walking shoes, Mia Bella. I will see you soon. Ciao.”
Rhian heard the disconnecting click of the phone. She looked forward to some time with him, but part of her felt as if she were cheating on Kellen. How stupid! Kellen is nothing to me. But she knew she had feelings for him. He was one of the reasons she had left.
She placed paints on her pallet and began working on his portrait. Her desire to create a beautiful piece of art soon made her forget the ache in her heart for this man she created on canvas. She wanted to show a man who had been hurt so deeply he turned off his humanity and ability to love.
When she finished for the morning, she stepped back and looked at the portrait. Tears streamed down her face as she imagined the pain inside him. I pray one day someone can find the real you, Kellen, and draw you out from the wall you have closed yourself behind. She cleaned her brushes and put everything away. As she turned from the painting, she glanced at the clock—ten fifteen.
Panicked, she rushed to the bathroom, stripping off her clothes as she ran. She took what had to be the fastest shower in history, quickly dried her hair, and put on lotion and minimal makeup.
She snagged a cute, rose-colored sweater and a pair of black jeans. Underneath, she put on the rose-colored Victoria Secrets demi-bra and matching thongs. She had just finished dressing when she heard a soft knock on the front door. Glancing in the mirror, she hurried to the door to let Dante in.
“Mia Bella, how lovely you look,” he exclaimed, as he took her hand and brought it to his lips. “You take my breath away.”
“You are too kind, Dante. Thank you for the compliment. Please come in while I grab my shoes. I’m sorry I’m not ready. I confess I got lost in my work this morning.” She shrugged her shoulders.
“I understand. He glanced down. “You even have beautiful feet.”
She laughed. “You are too much. No one has pretty feet. Make yourself comfortable, I’ll be right back.”
When she returned, she found him examining her painting. She took in a sharp breath as he turned to look at her.
“What’s the matter Rhian?”
“I didn’t expect anyone to see my painting yet, especially you. I’m really embarrassed.”
“Don’t be. This painting is outstanding. You have captured such pain and sorrow in this man’s eyes. It makes me feel much compassion for this person. His story seems to be one of hurt. Maybe he is hiding a secret deep down inside of himself?”
Rhian turned pale, she felt light-headed as she held her breath while Dante spoke.
“Who did you use as a model, Mia Bella?”
“You really see the pain in his eyes?” she whispered.
“Yes, I do. Very few artists can accomplish what you have, Rhian. I am very impressed.”
She let out a sigh. “I didn’t know if anyone would see that other than me.”
“You painted it beautifully. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone capture so much expression before, not even me!”
“I’m just amazed you could see what I saw in his eyes.”
“Ah, this man …” He pointed toward the painting. “He is someone you know, someone you have feelings for?”
She glanced up into his eyes and saw no judgment, only concern for her. “Yes, but he doesn’t return those feelings. He might be too damaged.”
“What happened to him? Do you know?” he asked gently.
“I don’t know what happened to cause him to close himself off. He acts hard, as if he doesn’t care about anyone but himself.”
“Mia Bella, don’t be upset. If he is someone who could not love a woman like you, he is not worth another thought. You are a woman who feels deeply in her soul, and he may not be capable of returning those feelings. I’m so sorry you were hurt. Is that why you came here, to leave him behind?”
She felt her face flush crimson. “Yes.” A tear slid down her cheek. “It’s one of the reasons.”
“Oh, please don’t cry. It is not a crime to feel such passion. I think it is wonderful to have such deep feelings and to care so much for others. Here in Italy, we feel emotion is nothing to be ashamed of.”
“Really?” she asked, looking into his eyes. “You don’t think I’m a stupid woman feeling this upset over a man I have no relationship with?”
“Mia Bella, did your
heart feel something for this man?”
She nodded her head.
“Then why would I think you were foolish?” he asked her gently.
“I don’t know. Maybe because I wanted to be with him, consequences be damned? I left out of fear that my feelings would not be returned—and my daddy’s anger toward the relationship. I guess I got what I wanted.”
“You got what your mind reasoned you wanted. Your heart and body didn’t get what they wanted. I don’t feel it’s wrong to make love to someone you feel a connection with. We don’t think like Americans.” He put his hand under her chin. “Now you must let your mind rest and not worry about what your heart wanted so badly. Do you understand me?”
“I’ll try. I just don’t know how strong I can be. I hope I haven’t spoiled our day.”
“No. Come, splash some water on your face. I think you need to go out today with me, Rhian. Hurry up.” He smiled and kissed her on the forehead. “I shall wait right here for you.” He crossed his arms and tipped his head toward the bedroom. “Go on.”
“Thank you.” She hurried down the hallway. I’ll be damned if I'll let daddy or Kellen ruin my visit to Italy! I will enjoy my time here to the fullest.
As they drove away, Rhian glanced over at Dante, thinking what a wonderful man he was. He understood so much and had an open, nonjudgmental attitude. She made up her mind to live her life her way while she was here. No father, grandfather, or nosey friends to spy on her and judge her every move. She felt a peace come over her as she made her decision.
“What have you been doing other than painting? I thought you might call me because you were bored.”
“Bored? Oh no, I’ve enjoyed the quiet of the villa. It's relaxing and gives me an opportunity to think about my life.” She found herself speaking freely to him. “I’ve taken walks and even pulled some weeds from your planters. Something I have never done before.”
By the time they arrived at the restaurant, she felt ready for almost anything. They pulled up in front and left the car with the valet. Dante’s hand on her back sent a shiver down her spine as he escorted her through the front door.
“Welcome back, Mr. Barone. The table is ready.” He shook Dante’s hand as he motioned the headwaiter to come and escort them to their table. “Let me know if something is not to your liking, sir.”
“I’m sure everything will be perfect as usual.” He took Rhian’s hand and they followed the man to a lovely table on the covered patio.
“This is beautiful, Dante. I gather you eat here often.” She tried to take in everything at once. “Oh, look at that view.” Again, Rhian admired the beauty of the small mountains in the distance. “I love how everyone has planters of flowers everywhere. When I go home, I’m going to get some for my balcony.”
“I’m glad you are pleased. I thought we could have a light lunch and then I could show you around town. There are some quaint shops you might find interesting.”
“That is very thoughtful of you. I’m glad I put on my walking boots.” She lifted her foot up and showed him her dress boots. “You didn’t say anything about actually walking, though.”
“We won’t walk fast, I promise. Would you like me to order for us?”
“Sure. Surprise me.”
Chapter Twenty
“She didn’t call you back, Denny?” Kellen asked. “You should have heard by now.” He paced back and forth, looking at his watch. Why am I so worried?
“Mr. Kellen, she will call soon. She might be busy at the moment.”
“I’m just so damned upset she left and never tried to call. Don’t know why I give a shit, it’s not like we’re dating or anything. She doesn’t owe me anything, right?”
“Mr. Kellen, can I ask you something without you gettin’ mad at me?” He backed up a few steps, putting some distance between them.
Kellen ran his hand through his hair. “Christ, I’m not going to hurt you. Ask me anything you want.”
“If you liked Ms. Rhian, how come you didn’t tell her? Why’d you go out with those other women?”
“Denny, who says I went out with other women? Where did you hear that?” He walked towards the man slowly.
“You did sir. And people talk around me. Some folks think I’m stupid, so they talk in front of me like I won’t understand. I’m not stupid, I just think a little slower since the accident. I heard two women talk about how good sex is with you. Just like you told me, they fall for you and you take them home, have sex with them, and leave. Remember?”
Kellen nodded his head. “Yeah, I remember. You must think I’m a real dick. I can’t explain why I do it, you wouldn’t understand.” He saw the hurt in Denny’s eyes. “Not because I don’t think you’re smart. It’s because I can’t even explain it to myself. I don’t know why I do it. I’m a waste of space. That’s all I’ve ever been, and it’s all I’ll ever be.”
“I don’t believe that, Mr. Kellen. I think you’re a good man. Maybe you just don’t know it yet. You ain’t no dick, no sir. Not at all.” He laughed and slapped his leg.
“What’s so funny?”
“Just picturing a big dick in your clothes.”
Kellen’s jaw dropped, and he burst out laughing. “Holy shit. That’s some picture.”
Denny snorted and clamped a hand over his mouth. Every time they looked at each other, they chuckled harder.
Finally, Kellen fell to the ground and rolled onto his back. “Stop, my damn sides are killing me.”
Denny lay down next to him and looked at the sky. “What you looking at, Mr. Kellen?”
“I’m trying to see the world the way you do. I wish I could make everything so simple. How do you do it?” He glanced over at Denny.
“It’s easy. I take everything as it comes and look for the good in people. That’s what my ma always told me to do. It ain’t hard if you try.”
“Good advice. Your mother sounds like a genius. Give me your phone. I’ll go put my number in it. You can call me whenever you want.” He took the phone and punched in his name and number. “Let’s call it quits for the day, okay? I’m going to eat and see what’s happening at the club.”
Denny’s face dropped and he turned away. “Okay, Mr. Kellen. You goin’ to go get one of those women again?”
Kellen hung his head, embarrassment spreading through him. “I don’t know, I really don’t know.” He stood and put away his tools. Denny was silent as he helped.
He went home and showered and dressed then found himself checking his phone for about the hundredth time. He grabbed his keys and helmet and headed out the door.
When he pulled into the parking lot of the blues club, he was ready to forget Rhian St. Claire. He sauntered to the bar as he surveyed the room for his next conquest. Julie sat next to her friend, Linda, so he walked to the far end and hoped they wouldn’t notice him. He spotted a lovely redhead at a table near the stage, and his eyes slowly wandered down her body. Her breasts were in danger of escaping the extremely tight black dress that ended at the top of her thighs. His eyes continued downward. Holy crap, she’s wearing come-fuck-me shoes.
She locked eyes with him; he nodded but turned away as if he was not interested. He glanced into the mirror over the bar and saw a confused look cross her face. He knew she wondered how a man could see a woman like her and not be interested. He smirked as the Kellen he had groomed himself into now returned. He pushed Rhian out of his mind, ordered a shot of whiskey, and downed it.
She’s the one that left and hasn’t called, so she’s made the choice. He ordered another shot and slammed it as well just as the redhead walked slowly toward him, swaying her hips. Okay, it’s on honey. Hold onto your hat because you are in for the ride of your life.
“Hello, Kellen,” she whispered into his ear. “My name is Cassie. I heard you’re someone really special. Is that true?”
He cocked his head, looking her up and down. “Could be.” He lifted his hand and nodded to the bartender for another round.
�
�Well, I’ve been told I can do things to you that will knock your socks off. Why don’t we go to your place and see if those compliments are true?” She purred, brushing against him seductively.
Oh shit, she’s a prostitute. “Knock it off, Cassie. I don’t sleep with whores.” He downed the shot and brushed past her.
“Who are you calling a whore? You think you’re better than me because you don’t take money for it?” She laughed. “You can only fool yourself for so long, Kellen. You really don’t know what you’re missing.”
“Yeah, I do know,” he snarled. As he headed for the door, he saw Julie smile at him. He cocked his finger at her and she jumped down off her stool and hurried through the crowd of people.
“Hey Kellen,” she said, looking up at him. “What’s up?”
“Want to go back to your place?”
“Sure. Let me grab my purse and I’ll meet you outside.”
Kellen followed her back to her place, hoping he hadn’t just made a mistake. He didn't want her to think taking her home again meant he liked her. They usually did. He just wanted some distraction from his thoughts of Rhian. Why the hell can’t I get her out of my mind?
Julie climbed out of her car and headed for her front door. “I’m so glad you wanted to come back here tonight, Kellen. I’m sorry about the other night.”
“No problem. Just so you know, I won’t be staying tonight either.” He shrugged his shoulders. “It’s just not something I do.”
Frowning, she replied, “It’s okay. I didn’t think you would. I’m just happy to have another time with you. That sounds crass, doesn’t it?”
He grabbed her around the waist and pulled her against him. “No, you’re a woman who knows what she wants. That’s a turn on.” He leaned in and kissed her hard, leaving her breathless when he finally pulled back.
“Come on, let’s go upstairs.” She grabbed his hand and pulled him along behind her. “You are a mystery, Mr. Slade. A nice mystery, but a mystery just the same.”
Whispers of Winter: A Limited Edition Collection of Winter Romances Page 22
