The Journey of Us

Chapter Two: Sparks in the Vineyard

Sophie awoke to the sound of birdsong and the faint murmur of waves crashing against the cliffs. The soft morning light filtered through the gauzy curtains of her bedroom, painting the walls in a golden glow. She stretched lazily, a small smile playing on her lips. For the first time in what felt like forever, she felt… light.



After a quick breakfast of fresh bread, honey, and coffee she’d found in the villa’s kitchen, Sophie decided to explore the village. Cinque Aria had an unhurried rhythm, its cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, vibrant cafes, and locals who greeted her with warm smiles. 



But it was the vineyard Luca had mentioned that lingered in her thoughts. Her feet seemed to move of their own accord, carrying her up the hill to where the vines stretched in perfect rows under the late morning sun. 



The vineyard was breathtaking, with rolling hills blanketed in lush greenery and framed by the deep blue of the sea. Sophie stood at the edge of the property, taking it all in, when a familiar voice broke her reverie. 



“Admiring the view?” 



She turned to find Luca walking toward her, a basket of freshly picked grapes in one hand. He was dressed casually in a navy shirt and worn jeans, his sleeves rolled up to reveal strong forearms dusted with faint streaks of dirt. 



“It’s stunning,” Sophie admitted, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. 



“I like to think so,” Luca said, his smile slow and easy. “Would you like a tour?” 



Sophie hesitated for only a moment before nodding. “I’d love one.” 



---



As they wandered through the vineyard, Luca explained the intricacies of winemaking with a passion that was infectious. He spoke of the soil, the climate, and the centuries-old techniques his family had perfected. 



“And here,” he said, stopping beside a particularly verdant section of vines, “is where we grow the Vermentino grapes. These are used for our white wine. Crisp, light, perfect for summer.” 



Sophie leaned in to examine the plump green grapes. “It’s incredible how much care goes into all of this.” 



Luca’s eyes softened as he looked at her. “The land gives back what you put into it. Much like life, don’t you think?” 



Sophie’s breath caught at the sincerity in his tone. She glanced away, suddenly feeling exposed. “I suppose so,” she murmured. 



Luca tilted his head, studying her. “You’re not just here for a holiday, are you?” 



“No,” she admitted after a pause. “I needed a break. From… everything.” 



He nodded, as if he understood more than she was saying. “Well, Cinque Aria has a way of mending what’s broken. You just have to let it.” 



---



As the afternoon wore on, Luca invited Sophie to stay for lunch. They sat at a rustic wooden table under the shade of an olive tree, sharing a simple but delicious meal of bread, cheese, and cured meats paired with a bottle of the vineyard’s red wine. 



“So,” Luca said, pouring her another glass, “what do you do back in London?” 



“I’m—or I was—a graphic designer,” Sophie said. “But I quit my job a few weeks ago.” 



“Why?” 



She hesitated, swirling the wine in her glass. “It stopped feeling right. The long hours, the constant deadlines… It wasn’t what I wanted anymore.” 



“And what do you want?” Luca asked, his gaze intent. 



Sophie let out a soft laugh, though it held little humor. “I’m still figuring that out.” 



Luca smiled, leaning back in his chair. “Well, that’s what life’s for, isn’t it? To figure things out.” 



For a moment, they sat in comfortable silence, the sounds of the vineyard around them—birds chirping, leaves rustling in the breeze—filling the space between their words. 



---



As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, Luca walked Sophie back to the villa. 



“I’m glad you came by,” he said as they reached her door. “It’s nice to share the vineyard with someone who appreciates it.” 



“I had a wonderful time,” Sophie said, her voice softer than she intended. 



Luca’s gaze lingered on hers, and for a brief moment, the air between them seemed to hum with unspoken possibilities. But then he stepped back, his smile tilting into something teasing. 



“Don’t be a stranger,” he said, tipping an imaginary hat before walking away. 



Sophie watched him go, her heart racing for reasons she didn’t quite understand. 



As she stepped inside the villa and closed the door behind her, she couldn’t help but think that her summer in Cinque Aria was already shaping up to be far more than she’d anticipated.