Chapter 74

Violet

"This is where we’re having dinner," he murmurs as he lowers me into a chair. I take in the crisp white table cloth that covers a table that has been set with silverware for two. The alcove is sheltered from the breeze by a screen on one side. The view itself is undisturbed though, and I glance out at the sea that stretches out into the distance. A cool breeze tugs at my hair. I tuck the strands behind my ear, turn back to the table arrangement. There’s a vase in the center of the table with one single perfectly formed black rose, the edges of the petals a blood red. It’s a perfect bloom, unlike anything I have ever seen. He reaches for a blanket that has been placed on a stool by the side. He places it over my lap, then tucks it at the sides.

"How does that feel?"

"Good," I murmur.

"Not too cold? Not too warm?" He nods toward the patio heater, "Should I turn that off?"

"No," I pat the edge of the blanket, "I am comfortable, as is."

"Good." He reaches for a napkin, shakes