Ciao my loves,

The waiting is over. I hope y'all enjoy this chap. Things are heating up to the nth degree. STAY TUNED to see what happens. I pray my God that you like it.

Here's the Thirty-fifth installation of Italian Coffee House.

Please

ENJOY XD. I'm exceedingly grateful to each and everyone of you who has supported me thus far. Just hang in there. Love you guys.

XO,

Ang

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35

*Nick*

God knows, I was probably as much of an idiot -- as there was immense love, I'd grown to possess for that woman.

Before we'd received the amazing news, even then, it was imaginative to think that any other living soul would ever sink their clutches into my heart the way Ada had. More so, now that she carried all of my world within her gorgeous petit soma. Even now, at the annual wine-tasting event, I was plagued by thoughts of no other. Intimate fragments of the last night's rabid closeness -- undisclosed -- in the confines of our bedchamber. The retention caused hairs at the nape of my neck to stand at attention, as my body became electrified with need.

Lord knows I've done some sinful things in my time, but nothing as wicked as the things I did to her. The image of her sultry form writhing beneath me, near coaxed a primal groan from deep within my chest. Her fervent moans echoed in my cranium, haunting me despite my best attempts to salvage my restraint, as the need to be with my wife grew exponentially. Such a power she wielded over me. Even if she weren't here by my side. Even if she didn't know it. Wherever or whenever, I was absolutely powerless against the intense pull, each and every thought playing upon my heart like that of a stringed quartet. Likely, I would never feel anything quite like it ever again.

Our relationship may have started with my blackmailing her into marriage, but soon I came to understand that Ada was it for me. I was doomed never to love another the way I loved her.

I swirled the glass of wine in my hand a moment, inhaling the potable liquid detecting the pleasant distinct hints of chocolate, roses and smoked bacon among other things. Later, sampling its essence. God knows, even the brief sensation, the aroma that flooded my senses, reminded me of her. She was so sensual, so raw, so feral ... and I loved it. A more compatible woman for me would never exist.

The task was mine to repair what foolery I'd displayed towards her, over the notion of Papa learning of our arrangement. Evidently, I'd grown fond of the man but it wasn't so much him finding out as it was what his reaction might be that alarmed me. Now that I'd found my beautiful bride, in all the chaos, I knew I wouldn't be caught alive without her. If merely surviving, could be called the same. I couldn't bare the thought of her father forbidding me to see her. The fear of losing her, proved to be too much and shook me, more than anything else.

I recalled that moment I'd upset her, the livid expression on her face, her eyes glazed with unshed tears. The make-up sex was mind-blowing in its own right, but I couldn't bare the thought of her being consumed with untried anger towards me. Even if she managed to make it possibly the most arousing sentiment to ever cross her features. It was an incredibly sexy look on her, but I wouldn't tell her that, lest I be scolded with regard to my reaction. I found myself chuckling at thought undeterred by my best efforts to keep a low profile, winning me a few dirty looks from what few zealots had gathered for the affair. Honestly, I couldn't care less about what the other guests thought of me.

"Hello Gorgeous," I took another sip of my wine, a feminine voice caught my ear. A woman appeared, defined in a slinky red dress, advancing in my direction. Her dark hair pulled into an elegant up-do. Classy silver heels adorned her feet, adding roughly six inches unto her height. Her eyes a devastating shade of green, assessing me from head to toe, before a suggestive smile flickered on her features. "My name is Corina. And you are-"

"- Not interested," I interrupted abruptly, causing her to flinch. The once titillating smile on her face, briefly turned to a scowl before she quickly recovered, replacing it with a smug look. The woman was beautiful in her own right, but she couldn't hold a candle to my better half. Unbothered, my attention returned to Johnathan, who had cracked a joke causing the others to erupted in laughter.

"Well who ruffled your feathers? I was merely trying to be polite. No need to be conceited," She continued, an edginess evident in her tone. Her persistence puzzled me. It was clear I had no intentions of continuing the conversation or returning her courtesies. Some people just couldn't take a hint. "I'm sure you'll come around once you hear what I've got to say."

Finally, Corina took her leave. Though she seemed awfully determined that our paths were destined to cross again. That this was not the end of our exchange. What could she possibly say to alter my impression about the situation? She spun on her heal, the fishtail of her gown flailing at her low legs. It was not long before she receded the way she came, her heels clicking against the polished oak flooring, until she disappeared among the crowd.

The entire tent on this spread of the Keller Winery and Vineyard surrendered to silence yet again, as Johnathan Keller continued with his speech. He was the grandson of Julian and Danu Keller, and heir to the Keller dynasty. Jonathan enamored the other guests, steering the conversation to that of the achievements of the last fiscal year and further, proposed undertakings of the foreseeable future.

Almost instinctively, I reached into the right pocket of my slacks, fishing for my cellphone. Wondering what kind of a day my wife was having. Could anyone blame me for wanting to hear her voice? I missed her fiercely and, as no incoming calls were logged from hers to mine, the sensation grew.

The foreseeable future. Lately, it was unrealistic that I would imagine anything but a future of my own. Falling dozy on the loveseat, with the triplets snuggled against my chest, sleeping soundly in my arms. Picnicking in the park, on a beautiful day, with the little trio and their mother. Krysta, Papa, Tey, Josie and I indulging them in fun and games before bed, while their mother scolded us, to tuck them into bed. Giving them a sample of daddies delectable culinary creations.

Tuning in as they first tried to form words, in an attempt to speak to each other. What I imagine would possibly be the cutest thing I'll ever hear in my lifetime. One of the experiences I looked forward to the most. Recording their firsts - everything from their momentous words to initial steps. Listening nearby as Ada sang sweet lullabies to them before nap-time. For some reason, she struck me as a woman who would perform effortlessly as that type of mother. It was a future I held on to by its reins. Together watching as our children grew, blossomed. Giving them a life we could never dream of having at their age. There was so much I had to look forward to, my heart soaring at the idea.

To every cloud, there was a silver-lining. For me, starting a family with Ada, that was it. They were my silver-lining. For all the pain I'd endured in the past. The missing pieces to my puzzle, all along.

The sound of applause pulled me from my reverie, in time to see Julian Keller lace an arm around his wife's waist, smiling down at her with a mischievous grin. He whispered something in her ear, bringing a face-aching grin to her cheeks. It was as if they were still very much in that newly-wedded phase of their marriage, even after half a century together.

Danu swatted his hand playfully, prompting his attention back to their grandson. It was quite evident, their joint pride in him. Johnathan had also grown up under unconventional circumstances. Though I didn't pry, I knew that they had raised Johnathan as their own. No doubt they had invested a lot of love and care into his world, shaping him into the man he would eventually become. They'd raised him well, even if we weren't always on the same page.

About two decades prior, when he was around eight years old, they'd decided to start-up a small business out of their home. Julian told me once that he'd always had a passion for wine. Danu being the gem she is, had supported him without hesitation. He had the means to provide manual labor, she had the necessary perspective and business skills that easily won over her peers in their market. Putting their heads together, they had the foresight to peddle their products. Twenty years of blood, sweat and tears had yielded great reward. The company would boast a net worth of well over eleven billion dollars. A story, compelling in its own right.

Naturally, it was my job to scout the market for the exceptional bottles of wine to serve at the restaurant. Almost six years to the day, I finally stumbled upon a wine-tasting event hosted by the Kellers. It was fancy and all but that was not what had caught my attention. It was the love and devotion that might as well have been worn on their sleeves. Beyond anything else, it was their pragmaticism that had captivated me that day.

Shortly after, I proposed a business plan to mutually benefit both parties. A steady freight was supplied every fortnight to my restaurant, for which they would be compensated. Not only would they have gained a loyal client, but their wine would be exposed to a different market. We've conducted business ever since. It didn't help that Julian and Danu had quickly taken a liking to me either, or that I admired them.

Not even a year into business and I discovered that they were enthusiastic about my restaurant. Sometimes, they would even share their unique perspective about how to add some zest to the ambiance of the restaurant. As a show of good faith, I reserved a table for them on their anniversary, so they could have the full dining experience compliments of the chef.

There was a lot I learnt from the couple back then. Even more, now that I'd found myself in a bit of a pickle. God knows I have to do a lot more than aromatherapy to make it up to Ada. She had forgiven me, but I didn't take it lightly. I was determined to atone for my shortcomings.

In truth, I had not attended the wine-tasting solely for business purposes. Julian and Danu were two in only a handful of friends I could count on one hand. I had come to seek their counsel. Their union spanned a remarkable fifty years, yet the flame ablaze between them glowed brighter, with every encounter. If that was even possible. At least, they would have a wealth of knowledge and myriad of experience, to impart on a young love like mine. Being together for so long and all.

Of what few years I've had the privilege of their friendship, it was quite obvious that they held each other in the utmost regard. They were fond of each other a great deal. To anyone, Julian was beguiled by his wife. He revered as his equal, was mindful of her views aspirations and goals. Next to God, Danu was what he cherished most in the world. Any fool could see that. She was his friend and his conscience. All in all, they were never seen without each other.

I wanted that for us, for Ada and myself. A connection potent enough to inspire and bring sanity back to the world. After our children, that would be our greatest achievement. If anything, I hoped to gain insight into what has glued them together for all these donkey years.Their love was a monument. A shining example that real love exists, was achievable and could burn brighter with time. Whatever aid they could offer would be invaluable to the cause. Even a fraction of it would be worth it to be with Ada. I wanted those years with her. Years of unfazed tenderness, passionate quarrels and hefty love-making.

Just then, the couple descended the podium, almost consumed by a mob of wine fanatics. Fortunately for them, Johnathan intervened. "Everyone, as enriching as it would be to have the couple of the millennia answer your questions, I'm afraid you're stuck with me."

It was my great fortune that Julian and Danu were already headed in my direction. Determined to pick their brains, I intercepted giving them falling into step with them as they made their exit to the left of the tent.

"Niccolò my boy," An amused smile played on Julian's face as he pulled me into a hug, patting my back lightly. "What a pleasant surprise."

"I'm glad you could make it." No sooner had Julian released me, than Danu pulled me into her bone-crushing embrace. "Considering you've been avoiding us since our last conversation."

"My darling wife, he's probably too fragile to reveal his misogynistic ways to be nothing but a facade of astronomical proportions to sway himself from getting too close for fear that one would surpass even his most clandestine ambitions." Despite his words, I couldn't help but smile. It was very good to see them again. Besides, Julian was only pulling my leg.

"Aye, he probably thinks the fairer sex is designed to perpetuate inflation and bring about the next Stone Age." Danu laughed, joining her husband again, obviously mocking me. They held hands, interlocking her fingers. I admit they could be a bit of an acquired taste at times but I suppose it added to their charms.

"It's obvious you have nothing better to do than to mock a fool about his once prejudiced views about women. A man who, since we last spoke, has learnt the error of his ways." Their expressions took on a more incredulous nature, almost as if they thought it was some sort of a prank.

"Dear, do you think maybe he's ill?" Danu pressed her hand against my forehead, searching for any sign that could provide a rationale for my change in behavior.

"Maybe he's found himself a girl?" He questioned, scrutinizing me for anything that would confirm his suspicions. Just my luck, that at the thought of Ada, a smug grin consumed my face. "Ahhh, so it is."

"You found a girl?" Danu's eyes shot wide in inextinguishable excitement. "Did said girl accompany you? I'd love to meet the woman who changed your mind."

"Unfortunately, she's not with me tonight. I'm sure she would like to meet you. Her name's Ada and she's not just a girl, she's my wife."

"Oh. My. Gosh. You little rascal. You didn't even invite us to the wedding." Danu suddenly turned frantic hitting me playfully on my arm repeatedly. "Does Krysta approve?"

"She's the one who brought us together, still stubborn with level head on her shoulder and a keen eye. Thank God for small mercies." If it weren't for my sister and her persistence, her intuition, I would've missed the blessing of a millennia.

"Now, I have to meet this woman Julian and I better." She said, folding her arms and eyeing me with a stern motherly look.

"Congratulations son," The elder man shook my hand, void of humor, but a smile on his face. I could tell that he was genuinely delighted at the news.

"Oh ... congratulations Niccolo." She enveloped me in one of her warm motherly hugs. "Beyond measure, I'm thrilled that love has found you."

"Thank you both, truly and Danu that could be arranged."

"Well, now, I wouldn't be so sure about that." A feminine called from behind me, interrupting our conversation. Her voice uncannily familiar. The smile that had warped my features fell as I turned to notice the woman in the red dress. "I said in so many words that that wouldn't be that last you see me."

" What's going on here?" Julian pried, obviously confused.

"Nothing of your concern old man." Julian scowled, evidently disconcerted by the woman's unbecoming disposition, just as a thought suddenly occurred to me. It was the lady from before. The very one who'd been forward with me, who couldn't have gotten away from me fast enough after I shunned her.

"Don't you dare talk to my husband like that." Danu shot back.

"Save it Grandma." She turned to the couple with a smile that didn't quite meet her eyes. "My business is with Romeo over here."

"Niccolò do you know this woman?" Julian asked stepping around his wife.

"We met earlier but our ties run no further than that-"

"-Well, we're about to get real acquainted." I didn't like her tone. It suggested something more was going on here. More than a crappy attempt at a comeback. A sinking feeling gripped me.

"What the hell are you talking about?" I was beyond livid at this moment. What could possibly lead her to believe that we would become acquaintances after I was clear that I wanted nothing to do with her. As if reading my thoughts, she fetched a cellular device from her clutch before advancing toward me. She activated the device before bringing it to my face.

If I was livid before, I was seething now. Never had I been consumed with the profound urge to strike a woman than I did at that moment. On the screen, my wife sat in at the corner of a sterile concrete room trembling as tears spilled from her eyes. Apparently, the feed was live from some surveillance device. My jaw clenched in rage as my nostrils flared. I tried desperately to keep my wits, to keep a cool head. Somehow my wife had been taken. It was not the time to do anything rash though how could I not be tempted given the circumstance.

"Now that I have your undivided attention," The woman stepped too close for my liking almost begging for what was coming to her. "We will contact you in the next eighteen hours. Oh and if you're half as smart a you look, you won't involve the police."

She walked by me, handing me her phone. It took all within me not to lose it in that second. "If so much as a loc of her hair is out of place, you will rue the day you ever met me."

*End of Chapter Thirty-five*