Free Champagne Kisses by Zuri Day Page A

business quite seriously and when I’m focused, I know I can be a bit short. I’m sorry.”
    Marissa smiled. Donovan held his breath and captured what was for him an angelic image on the camera in his mind. “Thank you, Donovan. I too apologize for…everything.”
    Donovan was tempted to bring it up again, that night so many months ago that started the conflict. He still wondered about the man at the bar, the one Marissa said she knew. The reason that she didn’t come in. Who was he? An ex-boyfriend most likely, though she’d denied it. But why else would it matter to the guy who Marissa dated? The thought of her being with someone else didn’t sit well with Donovan at all. He didn’t like imagining another man enjoying her subdued charm, didn’t like picturing anyone’s hands on her but his. And following these thoughts, Dexter’s words floated to the fore. We’ve got to live each day to the fullest and let the chips fall where they may. I say you should go after her. Dexter was absolutely right. Life was short, and this window of uninterrupted opportunity was shorter. Eight days, now. That’s how long he had to wear down the armor Marissa had seemingly built up around her heart. Whatever had happened in her past, Donovan knew he had his work cut out for him.
    He reached for the champagne flute and lifted the glass. “To new beginnings.”
    Marissa followed suit. “To new beginnings and great working relationships.”
    “Hear, hear.”
    They drank, and the sparkle in Marissa’s eyes rivaled that in the glass of fruity ambrosia with a hint of a kick.
    “I’m not much of a champagne drinker, but this is really nice,” she said after a couple sips.
    Donovan nodded. “It’s still a work in progress, part of the exclusive line that we’re developing for the Asian market and a few other select clientele. This top-shelf product will only be available in the most exclusive of establishments. It’s been aging for five years and will be uncorked and publicly unveiled for the first time during the holidays. That’s what this is…one of our latest creations.”
    “What is it called?”
    “We don’t know yet. Dexter’s department has been tossing several names around. Boss suggested that we call it Diamond.”
    “I like that!”
    “So does his wife,” was Donovan’s dry reply.
    “I can see calling it Diamond rather than Dexter or Donovan.”
    “Ha! You have a point.”
    Marissa smiled and took a sip of the champagne before placing the flute on the table. The champagne was not only delicious, but potent. She could already feel a buzz. “So, Dexter is the winemaker?”
    “Among other things. Our parents raised us to know all aspects of the business and juggle multiple responsibilities. Along with being the head winemaker, he’s also director of Business Development. I’m CFO, but also spend quite a bit of time in sales, my initial position after graduate school. Thus, my heading up the international expansion, working very closely with my dad.”
    “And Diamond is the director of PR and Marketing, right?”
    “Right. But as you know she also headed up the last phase of our renovation.”
    “And did an excellent job,” Marissa said, again looking around the room. “And while doing so she met Boss, and the rest is history.”
    “At least that part of it,” Donovan agreed, taking another sip of his drink. “But considering tonight, I’d say that history is still being made.”
    “How so?”
    Donovan shrugged. “I guess we’ll see.” He motioned to Marissa’s plate. “After you.”
    “Of course.” Marissa placed the stark white linen napkin in her lap and took a bite of the salad filled with herbs and greens from the vineyard’s large, organic garden.
    “How’s your room?”
    “Absolutely gorgeous! I love how all of the rooms are themed by colors and wines.”
    “Which one are you in?” Donovan took a generous bite of salad and reached for one of the freshly baked rolls still warm