Page 13 of Secret Baby for my Off-Limits Fiancé

My actions and decisions, not my dating life, will speak for themselves.

“Keep me updated on any developments. This is top priority.” I turn and head to my main office to set the day’s agenda.

Later in the day, I step out into the vineyard to meet some of our key buyers. A convoy of sleek black cars pulls up, and I greet the group with a warm smile, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries.

“Welcome to our vineyard.” I gesture to the sprawling landscape behind me. “I’m Valentino Marchetti, and I’ll be your guide today. We’re honored to have you here.”

The group, prominent investors from Asia, exchange intrigued glances.

“Great to meet you, Mr. Marchetti,” one of them says.

Soon, Micah joins us as we begin the tour.

As we walk, I explain, “Every inch of this vineyard is a labor of love. Our winemaking started in the family. My mother had the original idea, and my father built it into the company it is today. It’s even named after her.”

The buyers nod appreciatively.

“Very interesting. It’s always inspiring when passion underpins a business.”

Seizing the moment, I add, “My mother, Valentina, was the heart and soul of this vineyard. She passed that love along to all of us.”

A lump forms in my throat at the mention of her, but I force a smile.

“Have you named any of your wines after her?” a middle-aged woman asks, her eyes warm with curiosity.

“Our most special, aged wine is named after her. But I like to think every wine in our catalogue carries a bit of our family history. It’s our legacy, brewed from our land straight to your table, with a personal touch in every bottle.”

As the tour continues, the buyers grow increasingly engaged, asking questions and absorbing every detail.

We stop at the fermentation tanks.

“This is where the magic happens.” I inhale deeply as the rich aroma of fermenting wine fills the air. “And here, you can sample some of our flavors.”

Micah pours samples, and murmurs of approval ripple through the group. Our product, known for its impeccable quality, leaves no doubt. When it comes to taste, we never disappoint.

Just then, a middle-aged buyer approaches me. “I have to say, we were weighing this investment against another opportunity. But hearing your story, and knowing the passion that goes into every bottle, has me leaning heavily toward you. It’s that labor of love that seals the deal for me.”

A smile breaks over my face. “I’m glad to hear that. My parents poured their hearts into this company. It’s like their child.”

The tour winds down, and as the investors prepare to leave, one of them approaches me. “Your parents set such a great example. Are you dating or married?”

I pause, recalling the many times Dad’s insistence on a “settled life” has haunted me.

“I… I’m dating, actually. She’s someone very special to me. She shares a similar passion for the craft, and we talk about continuing my parents’ legacy,” I reply, trying to sound confident.

The buyer claps her hands together, pleased. “That’s wonderful. It confirms to me that the company is in good hands.”

“Our secret ingredient is love.” The words feel almost too cliché.

Still, the buyer nods vigorously.

Another buyer chimes in, “It’s that personal touch that sold me on your product. Anyone can make a wine, but it’s the story behind it that makes the difference. The fact that this is a labor of love, and for me that is something only a family man can deliver.”

Micah looks over at me. “Mr. Marchetti is very dedicated to the business, and to the special women in his life.”

The investor frowns.

I shoot him a glare. “My sisters and stepmom included.”

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