Page 75 of Baby for my Daddy's Best Friend

“Oh, right. I suppose it makes sense you don’t have any clue since looking at stories is the last thing you’d be doing right now. But there was a fire at the vineyard. I think they’ve put it out now, but apparently, it caused quite the damage.”

I’m immediately worried about Enzo. Knowing how much he cares about his business, it must have devastated him.

But it’s not my place to ask him if he’s alright. He didn’t mince his words when he said that distance between us would be best, and reaching out would be the opposite of that.

“I hope they figure it out.” I sigh.

“Yeah, I hope they do.”

When it’s time to go to the airport, Lilly walks me down to the lobby.

“I’ll meet you very soon, okay?” She hugs me, squeezing tightly. “Take very good care of yourself.”

“Thank you, Lilly.”

“I know it doesn’t feel that way now, but you’re going to be just fine. I know it. Call it my intuition.”

She blows me a kiss, and I drag my bags over to the counter to check out.

“Room five-oh-nine.” I slide over my keycard.

“Leaving already, Miss Quinn?” The receptionist smiles warmly, fingers flying across her keyboard.

I nod, gripping the handle of my suitcase tightly. Just a few feet away is the lounge area where Enzo and I met for our first date. The memories hit me like a ton of bricks, and I cannot wait to get out of here as soon as I can.

“I hope that you’ve had a pleasant stay.”

She hands me my checkout receipt, and I nod a quick thank you before turning away from the hotel desk.

The automatic doors glide open, the warm summer air hitting my face.

This vacation had its moments that I’m never going to forget, but it’s time to get back to reality now.

Get a cab to the airport. Check in. Go through security. Pass passport control. Find seat.

I’m just going through the motions, but it helps me keep my mind off Enzo, who I am forever leaving behind as I embark on my journey back home.

I find a seat near the window, pull out my phone, and send a quick text to Laurie.

Just boarded. Flight DL0183. Pick me up when I land?

My phone lights up immediately with a response.

Obviously. Safe travels. Xxx

I turn my phone off and stash it inside my bag. Being without internet for the next ten hours is probably better for my mental health, anyway.

I settle into my seat, pulling down the blind to block out the bright tarmac.

The hum of the airplane fills the cabin as more passengers board. I close my eyes, hoping for a few moments of peace before we take off.

It goes well enough, until the person next to me shifts in his seat.

I open my eyes to find a middle-aged man there. He has a kind smile and seems eager to chat.

"Heading home or away from home?" he asks cheerfully.

"Home," I murmur, turning away from his gaze. My voice is flat and drained.

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