Wealthy businessman Ryder Thompson inherits a struggling vineyard in Tuscany, he sees an opportunity to turn his life around. But what he doesn't expect is to fall for the vineyard's beautiful and fiercely independent manager, Sophia De Luca. As they work together to restore the vineyard to its former glory, Ryder and Sophia must navigate their own complicated pasts and confront the secrets that threaten to tear them apart. Will their love be enough to overcome the challenges that lie ahead?
Ryder Thompson stared out the window of his high-rise office building, his gaze fixed on the city skyline. His mind, however, was elsewhere. The past few years had been a blur of meetings, deals, and endless networking. But the excitement had worn off, replaced by a hollow sense of purpose.
His assistant, Rachel, interrupted his thoughts. "Ryder, you have a visitor."
Ryder turned, his eyes narrowing. "Who is it?"
"Mr. Jenkins from the law firm of Jenkins and Associates," Rachel replied.
Ryder's curiosity piqued, he nodded. "Send him in."
The door opened, and a middle-aged man with a kind face entered.
"Ryder Thompson, pleased to meet you," Mr. Jenkins said, extending his hand.
Ryder shook it firmly. "Likewise. What brings you here today?"
Mr. Jenkins took a seat. "I'm here to discuss the estate of your great-uncle, Leonardo Bianchi."
Ryder's eyes widened. He had never met his great-uncle, but he remembered his parents speaking of him fondly.
"Leonardo Bianchi passed away recently, leaving behind a substantial estate," Mr. Jenkins continued.
Ryder leaned forward, intrigued.
"The estate includes a vineyard in Tuscany, Italy," Mr. Jenkins said.
Ryder's eyes narrowed. A vineyard? That was the last thing he expected.
"Your great-uncle specifically named you as the beneficiary," Mr. Jenkins explained.
Ryder's mind reeled. Why would his great-uncle leave him a vineyard?
"What's the condition of the vineyard?" Ryder asked.
Mr. Jenkins hesitated. "It's struggling. The past few years have been challenging for the wine industry."
Ryder nodded thoughtfully. This could be an opportunity to turn his life around.
"I'd like to see the vineyard," Ryder said.
Mr. Jenkins nodded. "I've arranged for you to travel to Italy. You can assess the vineyard's potential."
Ryder stood, his decision made.
"I'll leave tomorrow," he said.
The Italian countryside unfolded before Ryder like a canvas of rolling hills and golden sunlight. The vineyard, Villa Bella Vita, lay nestled in the heart of Tuscany.
Ryder's driver, Giovanni, spoke broken English. "Welcome, Signor Thompson. Villa Bella Vita, beautiful, no?"
Ryder smiled. "Yes, Giovanni. It's stunning."
The villa's facade was weathered, its stone walls bearing the scars of time. Ryder felt a spark of excitement.
This could be his chance to rediscover purpose.
Giovanni led Ryder to the vineyard manager, Sophia De Luca.
Sophia's eyes narrowed, her gaze piercing. "You're Ryder Thompson."
Ryder nodded. "And you are?"
"Sophia De Luca, vineyard manager," she replied.
Her beauty caught Ryder off guard – piercing green eyes, raven-black hair, and skin like Tuscan olive oil.
"I've heard a lot about you," Ryder said.
Sophia's expression turned skeptical. "I doubt that."
Ryder smiled. "I'm here to assess the vineyard's potential."
Sophia's eyes flashed. "You're thinking of selling?"
Ryder hesitated. He hadn't considered keeping the vineyard.
"I'm considering all options," Ryder replied.
Sophia's face darkened, her jaw clenched.
This was going to be more complicated than Ryder anticipated.
Sophia's eyes seemed to bore into Ryder's soul, her gaze intense. "Villa Bella Vita isn't just any vineyard," she said. "It's a legacy."
Ryder nodded thoughtfully. "I understand," he said. "But I need to make an informed decision."
Sophia's jaw clenched, her face pale. "Follow me," she said abruptly.
She led Ryder through the vineyard, explaining the intricacies of grape cultivation and wine production. Ryder listened intently, impressed by Sophia's expertise.
The sun beat down on them, casting long shadows across the vineyard.
Sophia's passion for the vineyard was palpable, her love for the land evident.
Ryder found himself drawn to her, despite her prickly demeanor.
They walked to the winery, the scent of fermentation filling the air.
Ryder's eyes widened. "This is impressive," he said.
Sophia smiled, her face softening. "Grape harvesting is an art," she said.
Ryder watched, captivated, as Sophia expertly navigated the winemaking process.
Her dedication was inspiring, her knowledge unparalleled.
Ryder's initial skepticism began to fade.
Maybe this vineyard was worth saving.
The tour concluded, Sophia led Ryder to the villa.
Giovanni waited, a warm smile on his face.
"Dinner is served, Signor Thompson," he said.
Ryder's stomach growled, anticipating the feast.
Sophia's eyes met his, a hint of warmth in their depths.
"Join me for dinner," she said.
Ryder nodded, his heart racing.
The dinner table was set with fine china and crystal.
Sophia sat across from Ryder, her beauty illuminated by candlelight.
Giovanni served the first course, a delicious risotto.
Ryder savored each bite, the flavors exploding on his palate.
Sophia's eyes sparkled. "Tuscan cuisine is simple yet elegant," she said.
Ryder smiled. "I couldn't agree more."
Conversation flowed easily, Ryder learning more about Sophia's connection to the vineyard.
Her family had worked the land for generations.
Villa Bella Vita was more than a business – it was her heritage.
Ryder's admiration for Sophia grew.
He saw beyond her tough exterior to the vulnerable woman beneath.
The evening wore on, the night air filled with laughter.
Ryder felt alive, his senses reawakened.
The villa's warmth enveloped him, a sense of belonging.
He hadn't felt this way in years.
Sophia's eyes locked onto his, a hint of surprise.
Ryder's heart skipped a beat.
Had he misread the situation?
Was Sophia feeling the same spark?
The night air vibrated with tension.
Ryder's phone shattered the silence, its ring piercing.
"Sorry," Ryder muttered, answering the call.
Sophia's face fell, the moment lost.
Ryder listened, his expression darkening.
"What's wrong?" Sophia asked.
Ryder's jaw clenched. "Business," he replied.
The call ended, Ryder's mind racing.
He had obligations, responsibilities.
Could he truly leave it all behind?
Sophia's eyes searched his.
Ryder's heart ached.
He didn't know.
Ryder's thoughts swirled, his mind torn between his business obligations and the unexpected connection he felt with Sophia.
Sophia's voice broke the silence. "I'll show you to your room."
Ryder nodded, following her up the stairs.
The villa's interior was just as beautiful as its exterior, with ornate furnishings and intricate artwork.
Sophia stopped outside a door, her hand on the handle.
"Your room," she said.
Ryder smiled. "Thank you."
Sophia's eyes met his, a hint of warmth.
"Goodnight, Ryder," she said.
Ryder's heart skipped a beat.
"Goodnight, Sophia," he replied.
The door closed behind him, Ryder's thoughts racing.
He couldn't shake the feeling that his life was about to change dramatically.
The room was comfortable, the bed inviting.
Ryder undressed, his mind still reeling.
He slipped into bed, his eyes adjusting to the darkness.
Sleep eluded him, his thoughts consumed by Sophia.
Her passion for the vineyard was infectious.
Her beauty was captivating.
Ryder's phone lay on the bedside table, its screen glowing.
He picked it up, scrolling through emails.
The business world was still spinning, despite his absence.
Ryder's jaw clenched.
He couldn't ignore his responsibilities.
The hours ticked by, Ryder's exhaustion growing.
Eventually, sleep claimed him.
Morning sunlight streamed through the windows.
Ryder woke refreshed, his mind clear.
He dressed quickly, eager to explore the vineyard.
Sophia waited in the kitchen, a warm smile.
"Caffè?" she asked.
Ryder nodded.
Sophia poured two cups.
They sipped their coffee in comfortable silence.
Ryder broke the silence. "I'd like to review the vineyard's finances."
Sophia nodded.
"I'll get the documents," she said.
The morning passed quickly, Ryder poring over spreadsheets.
The vineyard's struggles were evident.
But Ryder saw potential.
Sophia's eyes met his.
"You're thinking of staying," she said.
Ryder's heart skipped a beat.
"I'm considering it," he replied.
Sophia's face lit up.
"Villa Bella Vita needs someone like you," she said.
Ryder's thoughts swirled.
Was he ready to leave his old life behind?
The sound of tires crunching gravel interrupted.
Sophia's expression darkened.
"Expecting someone?" Ryder asked.
Sophia's jaw clenched.
"My brother, Alessandro."
Ryder's curiosity piqued.
"Alessandro De Luca," Sophia continued.
"Alessandro has...ideas about the vineyard's future."
Ryder's instincts warned him.
This could get complicated.
Isla has spent her entire life waiting for the moment she would find her mate, believing in the fairy tales of fate and eternal love. But when her mate, Alpha Asher Nightshade, rejects her on the night of their fated union, Isla's world shatters. Deemed too "ordinary" for the powerful and ambitious Alpha, she is cast out of the Shadowfang Pack. Fate, however, has other plans. Years later, Isla has rebuilt herself, finding strength and purpose among a rogue pack that values her for who she is. But when Asher's pack is threatened by an ancient curse, he seeks her out, desperate for her unique gift to commune with the spirits of the forest. Thrown back into each other's lives, Isla and Asher must confront the wounds of the past while facing a dangerous future. Will Asher prove he is worthy of a second chance, or will Isla find a love even greater than the bond that once broke her?
In a world where family ties bind with unbreakable chains, Zara and Damon are caught in a web of loyalty, blood feuds, and forbidden love. The moment their eyes meet, sparks ignite, but their families have been enemies for generations. Zara, the daughter of a powerful crime lord, is promised to a man she does not love, while Damon is the heir to the rival family who killed her brother. As their paths intertwine, the heat of their passion becomes the ultimate betrayal, and every stolen moment could cost them everything. In a world of vengeance and sacrifice, can love survive the storm?
In a world shattered by a catastrophic disaster, Jillian and Tom are among the last survivors, bound together by a shared will to survive and the budding, undeniable bond between them. As they traverse the wreckage of civilization, scavenging for supplies and navigating the horrors of a world stripped of life, they find comfort in each other's presence. But as the days slip by, they must confront the question: Can love bloom in the midst of darkness and death? Amidst campfires, fleeting moments of joy, and the harsh reality of their new world, Jillian and Tom face not only the danger of the outside world but also the fear of losing each other. Will their connection be enough to overcome the shadows that threaten to consume them?
When billionaire Cameron Reed needs a wife to secure his family's business empire, he turns to beautiful lawyer Aurora "Rory" Wellesley. Their contract marriage promises a hefty payout, but as they navigate the complexities of their agreement, they must confront their growing feelings and the secrets threatening to tear them apart. Will their love be worth the risk, or will their bargain destroy everything?
Emerson Grant, a successful event planner, returns to her hometown after a painful divorce. She butts heads with her new neighbor, former NFL star Caleb Mitchell, who's hiding a secret. As they work together to restore the town's iconic lighthouse, their initial animosity turns into a fiery attraction. But will their pasts and fears extinguish the flames of love or will they find their forever?
Struggling musician Avery Wells meets enigmatic billionaire Elijah Stone, their worlds collide in a whirlwind romance. But as their love deepens, dark secrets from Elijah's past threaten to tear them apart. Can Avery's music heal Elijah's heart, or will their love song fade into silence?
In her previous life, Kimberly endured the betrayal of her husband, the cruel machinations of an evil woman, and the endless tyranny of her in-laws. It culminated in the bankruptcy of her family, and ultimately, her death. After being reborn, she resolved to seek retribution against those who had wronged her, and ensure her family's prosperity. To her shock, the most unattainable man from her past suddenly set his sights on her. "You may have overlooked me before, but I shall capture your heart this time around."
"Ahh!" She was in a moaning mess. She did not want to feel anything for this man. She hated him. His hands began to move all over her body. She gasped when he pulled down the back chain of her dress. The chain stopped at her lower waist, so when he zipped it off, her upper back and waist were exposed. "D-Don't touch m-ummm!" His fingers rolled around her bare back, and she pressed her head against the pillow. His touches were giving her goosebumps all over her body. With a deep angry voice, he whispered in her ear, "I am going to make you forget his touches, kisses, and everything. Every time you touch another man, you will only think of me." - - - Ava Adler was a nerdy omega. People bullied her because they thought she was ugly and unattractive. But Ava secretly loved the bad boy, Ian Dawson. He was the future Alpha of the Mystic Shadow Pack. However, he doesn't give a damn about rules and laws, as he only likes to play around with girls. Ava was unaware of Ian's arrogance until her fate intertwined with his. He neglected her and hurt her deeply. What would happen when Ava turned out to be a beautiful girl who could win over any boy, and Ian looked back and regretted his decisions? What if she had a secret identity that she had yet to discover? What if the tables turned and Ian begged her not to leave him?
"Who is she?" I asked, feeling tears well up in my eyes. "He met her at the Alpha training camp," he said. "She is a perfect suitor for him. It snowed last night, indicating that his wolf is happy with his choice." My heart sank, and tears made their way down my cheeks. Alexander took my innocence last night, and now he is taking that thing in his office as his Luna. **** Emily never shifted on her 18th birthday and became the laughingstock of the pack. When her old crush, Alexander Black, returns from Alpha Training, she never expected him to be her mate. After a night of passionate love, Emily finds out that young Alpha Alexander has taken a chosen mate. Heartbroken and humiliated, Emily runs off and disappears from the pack. Now, five years later, Emily is a high-ranking warrior in King Alpha's army, specializing in sensitive matters. When her best friend invites her to a night of music and laughter, she never expects to run into her mate, Alexander. Will Alexander figure out it is Emily? Will he chase after her, and most of all, will Emily be able to keep her secrets safe?
In the previous life, Maggie Johnson was so cowardly, gullible and stupid that she was coaxed by her fiance and stepsister and then broke her legs and lost everything including her fortune, love and even life. However, she was so lucky that she was reborn in the year before everything happened. Since her life restarted, how could she repeat a previous tragedy? Therefore, in this life, she took the opportunity to improve herself and take revenge on the ones who had ever insulted her. Facing the people who had humiliated her previously, she became smart and experienced to break their frames and tricks that had caused her to hurt in the previous life. Finally, no one could stop her pace to amaze the world any more.
They don't know I'm a girl. They all look at me and see a boy. A prince. Their kind purchase humans like me for their lustful desires. And, when they stormed into our kingdom to buy my sister, I intervened to protect her. I made them take me too. The plan was to escape with my sister whenever we found a chance. How was I to know our prison would be the most fortified place in their kingdom? I was supposed to be on the sidelines. The one they had no real use for. The one they never meant to buy. But then, the most important person in their savage land-their ruthless beast king-took an interest in the "pretty little prince." How do we survive in this brutal kingdom, where everyone hates our kind and shows us no mercy? And how does someone, with a secret like mine, become a lust slave? . AUTHOR'S NOTE. This is a dark romance-dark, mature content. Highly rated 18+ Expect triggers, expect hardcore. If you're a seasoned reader of this genre, looking for something different, prepared to go in blindly not knowing what to expect at every turn, but eager to know more anyway, then dive in! . From the author of the international bestselling book: "The Alpha King's Hated Slave."
After being kicked out of her home, Harlee learned she wasn't the biological daughter of her family. Rumors had it that her impoverished biological family favored sons and planned to profit from her return. Unexpectedly, her real father was a zillionaire, catapulting her into immense wealth and making her the most cherished member of the family. While they anticipated her disgrace, Harlee secretly held design patents worth billions. Celebrated for her brilliance, she was invited to mentor in a national astronomy group, drew interest from wealthy suitors, and caught the eye of a mysterious figure, ascending to legendary status.