Tackling the Canvas

Chapter 18

Owen

After meeting my dad, we headed back to the car, excitement buzzing between us. Giuseppe, our driver, smoothly navigated the winding roads, his calm demeanor a reassuring presence as we wound through the picturesque Italian countryside. The scenery was breathtaking—rolling hills dotted with olive trees and vineyards stretched out, bathed in the warm golden light of the late afternoon sun.

As we approached the family villa, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride. It wasn't as grand as my dad's house, but it had a charm that felt just right. The villa, a soft cream color with terracotta tiles, was adorned with climbing vines that wrapped around the pillars, giving it a rustic yet sophisticated appeal.

"We're here!" I exclaimed, trying to contain my excitement. I could see Nora's eyes light up as we approached the entrance, and it filled me with joy.

Giuseppe opened the car door for us, and we stepped out into the fresh air, the scent of blooming flowers surrounding us. The garden was a riot of color, with plants swaying gently in the breeze, and I could hear the distant sounds of laughter coming from inside, signaling a family gathering.

I squeezed Nora's hand, feeling the warmth of her presence next to me. "You're going to love it here," I said, glancing at her. Her smile lit up my heart. It was moments like these that made everything feel like a dream.

As we walked toward the entrance, the inviting aroma of home-cooked Italian meals wafted through the air, wrapping around us like a warm embrace. It felt like home, and having Nora by my side made it all the more special. I knew this trip would be a memorable one, and I couldn't wait to share it with her.

"It's absolutely gorgeous," Nora whispered, her voice barely above a breath. I glanced over at her, watching as her wide blue eyes took in the view with a look of awe. The way the sunlight lit up her face, painting her features with warmth, made me smile. She always had this way of seeing beauty in things, of getting lost in the moment.

The landscape stretched out before us, all rolling hills and lush greenery, like something straight out of a postcard. The air felt fresh, almost like it was alive. I could see why she was so taken by it. Hell, even I felt something stir inside me—something different, like this place had a story of its own.

"I can't believe we're actually here," she said, shaking her head a little in disbelief. I could hear that excitement in her voice, the same excitement she got when she'd finish a drawing she was proud of or come up with some wild new idea.

I squeezed her hand, feeling the soft warmth of her fingers in mine. "Yeah, it's pretty unreal," I replied, glancing out at the view again. It was one of those places that made you feel small, like the world was so much bigger than what you're used to. "I could get used to this," I said with a chuckle, half-joking but also imagining what it would be like to live in a place like this.

Nora turned to me, her eyes sparkling. "Can you imagine?" she asked, her voice full of wonder. "Every day would feel like a dream."

I watched her for a moment, the way she lit up just being here, and something in me clicked. "With views like this—and you with me? Yeah, I think I'd be good," I said, grinning. She smiled back, and we just stood there, hands intertwined.

As we stepped into the villa, I couldn't resist. I scooped Nora up into my arms, catching her off guard as a small yelp escaped her lips. "Owen!" she squeaked, her eyes wide with surprise before she laughed softly, the sound filling the air between us.

I chuckled, enjoying her reaction as I carried her through the entryway. "I couldn't help myself," I teased, adjusting my hold on her as I navigated through the hallway. The place was everything you'd imagine a family villa to be—grand but still cozy, with high ceilings, warm wooden floors, and light spilling in from large windows.