Christmas Choices by Sharon Coady

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
    “S he 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.