Off they went down the canal, gliding over the peaceful water. They took in the striking architecture of the surrounding buildings. They crossed under footbridges and past other gondolas.
His hand moved to the ring box still in his pocket. It dampened his mood. It was like an albatross around his neck. Stasia turned to him with the brightest smile on her face. He moved his hand and returned her smile.
“Are you enjoying the ride?” he asked.
“I am. This is amazing—the whole day has been amazing.” She gazed deep into his eyes. “Thank you.”
“For what?”
“Making this amazing day.”
It had been amazing for him too.
“Roberto...” Her voice was soft as it floated through the air.
Or perhaps it just seemed that way because the loud pounding of his heart drowned out most of what was going on around them. Right now, all he could concentrate on was Stasia.
He reached out to her, tracing his hand over her cheek. “You are the most beautiful woman in the world.”
Her lips parted but no words came out.
He lowered his head and claimed those sweet lips. He knew he’d never tire of her kisses. In fact, he was quite certain he would remember this moment for the rest of his life. He didn’t care if he got old and forgetful. This would be one of those memories that he would cling to—Stasia in his arms, pressing her lips to his.
As she leaned into him and opened her mouth to him, her arms slipped up over his shoulders, wrapping around his neck. She tasted sweet like the prosecco and gelato they’d indulged in earlier. This was in fact the sweetest, most stirring kiss he’d ever experienced.
A cheer from observers stirred him from the kiss. It was with great reluctance that he pulled back ever so slightly. Stasia smiled up at him—a smile that made her eyes sparkle.
He would never visit Venice again without thinking of Stasia. This was their city.
* * *
That was so much better than working.
Wait. Had that thought really crossed his mind? Roberto smiled. He never expected anyone could convince him that sightseeing could be more interesting than business.
Hours later, they walked along the deck. Neither seemed anxious to go to their cabin and put an end to the day. He moved his hand and it brushed over the ring in his pocket. He needed to do something with it. What would Stasia say when she saw it?
Stasia stopped walking and turned to him. “I should head to my cabin, but I want to thank you again for making this the very best birthday.” Her gaze caught and held his. “I know you’d rather have been working, but you didn’t complain once or rush us at all. That was very kind of you. I’ll never forget it.”
He continued to stare into her beautiful eyes as his heart raced and his fingers tingled to reach out to her. “There was no other place I wanted to be—”
“Hey, guys.” Gaia rushed up to them with a giant smile on her face. “Did you have a nice day?”
Roberto sensed his cousin was up to something, but he couldn’t put his finger on what exactly she had on her mind.
“It was absolutely a beautiful day,” Stasia said before briefly mentioning some of the places they’d visited.
“Any other news to share?” Gaia probed.
“News?” Stasia sent them both a confused look. “Are you talking about the wedding tomorrow?”
“Not exactly. At least not mine.”
And then Roberto realized what his cousin was hinting at. “Gaia, can I talk to you?” When she didn’t move, he added, “Alone.” He glanced at Stasia. “We’ll just be a moment.”
They moved off to the side of the deck. Gaia turned to him. “Didn’t you ask her? What are you waiting for? Venice is the most romantic city.”
“You’ve been talking to Yaya.”
“She told me about the ring. It’s so romantic. What are you waiting for?”
He frowned. “I’m waiting for the right moment.”
“Can I see it?”
He glanced over his cousin’s shoulder to where Stasia was waiting for him. It really had been a nice day. He didn’t want to ruin it.
“Roberto?”
“No. You can’t see it. At least not now. And don’t tell anyone about it—”