“Now you have my number.” Sam told him with a satisfied smile. Wyatt checked the message and laughed. The message asked if he was free this evening and would he like dinner and a tour of the winery at Old Mission Peninsula.

  “What time?”

  “I’ll pick you up at seven.”

  “I’ll give you my address." Wyatt was blown away by how fast this was moving, but he just could not get off this ride right now. He had to see where it went.

  Sam drove Wyatt back to work and dropped him out front with the promise of seeing him at seven. He was surprised that Wyatt agreed to go out with him considering how indecisive he was throughout lunch. But he also accepted that the pull present between them helped to bring about Wyatt’s tentative agreement. Wyatt was concerned but also curious.

  Wyatt’s father and workmates have really done a number on his confidence and self-worth. Sam was utterly shocked to see the son, whom Grey speaks of so proudly, seated in a grim little cubicle and being treated like trash. The only positive was that he was done taking it and was looking for other employment.

  "I'm bringing someone home tonight I will be giving them a tour of the winery and we will have dinner in my room." He made the call to security so they would be prepared for an uninitiated human to be present on coven grounds. His next call was to Uncle Emmanuel to let him know that he had found his beloved.

  "Wyatt Grey, that's wonderful, Sam. I am so happy for you." He told him.

  “His father is a bit of a challenge, but I don’t believe they are close.”

  "Holden Grey is not the most honest or ethical, but there are a lot worse, and all I can say is to be careful. You don't really know their relationship yet, and your beloved might not appreciate your dismissive attitude. Humans are tricky they can attack someone but then turn around and fight to the death to defend them when someone else attacks them." Sam understood, and although he held little regard for Holden Grey, he would try not to let it show until he was clear regarding their relationship.

  “It will be difficult. Wyatt is not treated well in that company even though his father owns it.”

  "He's still his father, so I'm just advising you to be careful with your words."

  “Yes, I will.”

  “Bring him around tonight, I’d like to meet him. Taylor and I will be in the wine cellar.”

  “I’ll see you there.” Sam was feeling a little giddy and a sense of excitement so fresh and new was coursing through him and making him lightheaded and energized. He headed back to work but couldn’t seem to keep his mind on anything. Wyatt was filling his heart and his mind with thoughts of the future and visions of the fullness of family.

  “Marc,” He put in a call to his assistant. “Get me everything you can on Wyatt Grey as soon as possible.” He had checked social media but found very little so put Marc on the job. Sam wanted some background and insight to use as he pursued the Fated love of his life. That thought put a big smile on his face and he couldn’t wait to see him again.

  He then had another thought and sent a message to Marc. “Send me a list of all our current job openings.”

  “All of them?” He clarified.

  “All of them.”

  “Are we looking at a new hire?” He teased.

  “I’m looking very closely at a new hire.” Sam shot back.

  Wyatt walked in, ignoring everyone, took his seat, and got back to work while disregarding all the stares in his direction. It was none of their business and he was going to stick with that. No one actually said anything to him until Griffen came barreling into the room and started breathing down his neck.

  “What the fuck was that?” He stated softly near Wyatt's ear in an exaggerated tone. "No way in hell he just wanted to take you to lunch. He's a solid ten, and you're a three at best." He snarled his insult. Griffen was about thirty pounds overweight and balding, so his attacks on Wyatt's looks never landed.

  "Personal and not your concern." Wyatt answered and kept his eyes on his monitor, not giving Griffen the attention he was seeking.

  "You're going to fuck this up. You're going to take my hours of hard work and just fuck it up like you always do. No wonder your dad has you in the pool and refuses to let you be a part of anything the least bit important or complicated. You're a fuck up, Wyatt." Wyatt did not respond, and Griffen continued to breathe down his neck, trying for intimidation but failing.

  "Your dad is going to bust you down to the mailroom for this pretty boy." Those were his parting words and Wyatt was glad that he was finally leaving and took a deep breath and exhaled letting out the pent up anger. He desperately wanted to take a chunk out Griffen to knock him back and fill him with doubts and insecurities. It was a dream that would never be since his father doted on Griffen and considered him his right hand man.

  It was near five o’clock when his father came to his cubicle and placed a firm hand on his shoulder as Wyatt was shutting down his equipment and preparing to leave. The presence of Holden Grey had everyone in the area tensing up and avoiding eye contact. He wasn’t a bad boss it’s just you never knew what his mood would be, and it was better to remain silent unless spoken to.

  “You had lunch with Samuel Cabot.” Was it a question, was it a statement, Wyatt wasn’t sure.

  “Yes.”

  “Did you discuss our business with him?”

  “No, sir.” Wyatt did not elaborate. His father let silence fall between them and continued to grip Wyatt’s shoulder. Wyatt held the silence and did not strive to fill it as usual. After a few minutes, his father removed his hand and walked away. Wyatt wasn't sure what to make of the exchange, but experience told him that nothing good ever came from upsetting Holden Grey.

  Wyatt gathered his things and left, not wanting to analyze a situation over which he had no control. He got home and instantly began getting ready for his date with Sam, changing clothes five times before settling on simple black pants, a tan sweater, and the usual accessories.

  Sam was from a long line of impressive men, so Wyatt hoped to put forth a good impression and an adequate knowledge of proper style. He felt good and that in itself aided his confidence. There was something about Sam Cabot that gave him peace rather than anxiety. It was nearing seven, so he was not surprised when he heard the buzzer at the front door of his townhouse.

  CHAPTER FOUR

  Sam was nearly crawling out of his skin, waiting to pick up Wyatt. The wait was excruciating. The information Marc had pulled together gave him something to do while he waited, but it did not tell him anything that he was not already suspicious of. Holden Grey ran his company with an iron fist, and although his son Wyatt had proven himself academically, he had yet to be given any position of trust within the company.

  Holden likes to make people work for what they get, and his idea of work means to start at the bottom and stay there apparently. From what Sam could see, Wyatt had shown excellent performance on everything assigned over the last year, and yet he has not been given any kind of promotion, which should be automatic for someone like Wyatt with his qualifications. His relationship with the head of the company, his experience, and his stellar education were being wasted.

  Individuals who started with the company at the same time as Wyatt have seen growth and some significant promotions such as Griffen Humbolt. Why would the man push a man like Humbolt forward at the expense of his own son? The background of this family was confusing. All Sam could conclude was that Wyatt desperately needed to get away from that company out from under his father’s control or his future was going to be bleak in terms of career.

  With that thought in mind, he also had the list of openings with Cabot Inc. and with any luck Wyatt will see something he likes. Sam was ready to give him anything he desired just to have close, but he knew he needed to handle this in a professional manner. Wyatt was not easily fooled, and he would smell insincerity a mile away. He coached himself to not be too pushy but to present all the positives of taking a position with Cabots.

  He pulled up to the townhouse Wyatt indicated, quickly jogged to the front door, and hit the buzzer. Within seconds, Wyatt's sweet voice came over the intercom, and the door opened. Wyatt stood there looking good enough to eat.

  “Are you ready?” Sam asked.

  "I'm looking forward to seeing the vineyard. No one I know has ever been there, but your uncle keeps it very private." Wyatt smiled like a kid, and Sam was so glad he could give this to him.

  "It's amazing and beautiful, and you will not be disappointed." He took Wyatt's hand and led him out to his car. "I'd also like for you to meet my uncle."

  “Emmanuel Cabot.” Wyatt looked stunned.

  “He wants to meet you.” Sam said and helped Wyatt get seated and buckled in before getting in the driver’s seat and heading off to Old Mission Peninsula.

  “Do you live there?” Wyatt asked once they were well on their way.

  "I have an apartment in the Chateau, which is the primary structure at the vineyard, and I also have an apartment on an upper floor in the Cabot building in town." He took a chance and reached over to gently lay his hand over Wyatt's, which was currently resting on his thigh.

  Wyatt glanced over at him with a pleasant smile, and it went straight to Sam’s heart and his cock. He’d never gotten so hard so fast in his life. This was going to be a very interesting evening and challenging.

  "You have a nice place. I've always liked townhouses." Sam referred to Wyatt's home.

  "It's not mine; it belongs to the business, which means it belongs to my father. It's the one perk he didn't deny me, but I think he simply wanted me out of the house." There was that smile again, but this time, it held uncertainty and a little sadness and didn't glow like the previous smile.

  “If you ever need a place to stay, just call me.” Sam told him feeling the need to ease the insecurity but also knowing that at this point in their relationship he probably doesn’t believe him. “I have plenty of room and there are apartments available at the Cabot building.”

  “I’ll keep that in mind.” Sam could feel that some of his sadness had eased.

  They drove on in silence for a while before Wyatt began to share, and Sam understood his concerns. "My father cornered me when I got back to the office today and questioned me whether I discussed business with you, his business." He paused, but Sam did not comment because he felt that more was coming. Wyatt hadn't made his point yet.

  "I want to know if that is your intent. Is this all to get something over on my father or to undermine him in some way? Are we serious, or is this just a game?" He turned to look at Sam directly. "I'm not satisfied with my position at the company or with my relationship with my father, but I would never betray him."

  “I would never ask you to and this has nothing to do with the sale that’s being negotiated or with any business concerning you father. This is me pursuing you after seeing you, meeting you and discovering that I like you very much.” Sam spoke the truth and Wyatt seemed to respond. “I think we would be good together and I’d like to investigate that theory a little further. Are you interested?”

  “You make up your mind fast. You sound so sure of yourself that you’re making me believe that maybe we would be good together.”

  “You can feel it in your bones.” Sam teased and squeezed his hand.

  "I can feel it in my bones," Wyatt repeated with a chuckle, and there it was again. Sam could feel himself getting aroused by a simple laugh. It was going to be an interesting evening, and he could hardly wait to get it started.

  Wyatt had to ask for clarification although he feared what Sam might say. He read him as a truthful man so if asked a direct question he would give a direct answer. Thankfully he got the answer he’d hoped for. There was mutual interest and Wyatt couldn’t be happier.

  Sam was an exciting and ambitious man, and Wyatt found him not only drop-dead fucking gorgeous, he also found him to be nice, but he also had an edge that was clearly visible at times. Wyatt could see the hardened businessman and the clever persuader. He was a force, and everyone knew that he would someday take over all the Cabot interests. The man was someone to watch and maybe fear. There were two very distinct sides to this man, and Wyatt liked them both.

  The moment they pulled through the gates and crested the hill, the way the property opened up before him was pure magic. They pulled up to the Chateau and parked. It was an old-world in its layout and construction, and it felt like he was entering another country. The Chateau was a huge and sprawling structure, elegant and mysterious, such a wild surprise to find on the outskirts of town.

  “This is huge what an amazing looking operation it must go on for miles and miles. You are so lucky to live in this beautiful place.” Wyatt was gushing stunned by the grandeur and finery. He stopped talking and just kept turning trying to take it all in. He stopped when he heard Sam chuckle.

  "I forget how magnificent this place is until I get the opportunity to see it through another's eyes," Sam interjected thoughtfully. "I know that I'm lucky . . . in so many ways." Sam looked at him with eyes that seemed to burn, and he reached up and cupped the side of Wyatt's face. For a moment, Wyatt thought he might kiss him, but he brought Wyatt's hand up to his lips and kissed the knuckles so gallantly it made Wyatt shiver with expectation.

  "My uncle and his husband are in the wine cellar, and they wish to meet you, so we will start the tour there." Sam continued to hold his hand and led him inside the Chateau and to an elevator that took them to a lower level. Wyatt wasn't aware that Emmanuel Cabot was gay, but apparently, he was if he had a husband. The man was a total enigma rarely seen in public, but his power was felt throughout the area. Meeting him was quite an honor, and Wyatt had no idea what he did to deserve this level of attention.

  When they stepped into the wine cellar, the feeling was pervasive, as if something important was taking place. It seemed heavy but in a positive and energizing way. Emmanuel Cabot was just as powerful and awe-inspiring as he'd expected. He had an aura that emanated influence, control, and command of everything in his sphere. Wyatt took a quick breath, steadying himself as the man and his husband, a handsome young man, came toward them.

  “Relax sweetheart you’re fine actually you’re perfect.” Sam’s supportive words had a nice affect and Wyatt felt himself relaxing and donning a tentative smile. Emmanuel extended his hand as Sam made the introductions and when Wyatt took Emmanuel’s hand he felt a weird connectedness a familiarity that made no sense but helped him loosen up.

  The discussion was about wine, and the vineyards and they never asked about anything to do with his father’s company or his father and that was refreshing. “Here taste this.” Taylor poured him a taste of wine he’d been experimenting with to get Wyatt’s opinion.

  “I like it.” Wyatt finished the glass quite impressed with Taylor’s skills as a vintner. He then had him try two more, both of which were lovely and had a beautiful flavor.

  “I don’t know much about wines, but these are really great and unique.” Wyatt was warmed by their welcoming demeanor.

  "Taylor is very proud of his blends, and they will soon be part of our general stock," Sam explained further.

  "My love is multi-talented, gorgeous, and the absolute love of my life. I am a very lucky man." Emmanuel leaned over and kissed his husband, who accepted it eagerly and showed their deep regard. It was delightful to witness such genuine affection. He felt Sam's hand tighten around his, and he was urged a little closer.

  "We'll leave you two to enjoy the remainder of your evening while Wyatt and I continue our tour," Sam said as they made their exit back to the main floor of the Chateau. The tour took them through the heart of the winery. It was just a brief walk-through, but it was still impressive. They stopped at one of the barrel rooms and another wine cellar, where Wyatt was getting the picture.

  This was a massive operation but still held to the old ways, and the people were dedicated to their craft. This would be a wonderful place to work was the thought that raced across his mind. Sam was pleasant and considerate to everyone he met. The thing that struck Wyatt was the level of security and the secrecy of Cabot Wines.

  "Why do you maintain such a high level of privacy? I understand the need to keep your blends and methods confidential, but this seems extreme." Wyatt was simply curious, but he wasn't making a judgment. He figured there was a reason for it and wondered if Sam would tell him what it was.

  They were back at the Chateau and stepping into the elevator when Sam responded. "There are secrets here other than those related to the vineyard."

  “That sounds intriguing.” Wyatt teased. “Is it some sort of government contract with a secret testing facility on the premises? It’s mind control isn’t it.” Wyatt was only half joking.

  “I saw your uncle once in public walking back to his car, and a guy in the crowd was becoming particularly unpleasant and making everyone uncomfortable. Your uncle simply stopped, turned, and looked at the man for no more than a second. No words were spoken, and he instantly fell silent and walked away. It was incredible. I wish I had that kind of power with some people." He stopped and took a breath, realizing he was rambling about nonsense.

  "You have an amazing imagination, Wyatt, and you're not too far from the truth, no government contract, though, and that discussion is for another day. Tonight, it's you and me and a fabulous dinner in the comfort of my apartment.” Sam bent and placed a light unexpected kiss to Wyatt’s cheek.

  He was finding his kisses quite delightful and hoped they’d get more serious as the night wore on. He was enjoying this man quite a lot and had hopes of a relationship that lasted but even if Sam were just looking for a hook up, Wyatt would not deny him.

  Sam’s apartment was handsome just like him it was homey and warm but also had a slight regal air to it. Wyatt couldn’t put his finger on it, but the place felt old and staid and gave him the sense of having existed just like this for centuries. It was a good and stable feeling of life and family and fealty. It was a good place and Wyatt took a deep breath of the fresh clean air filled with the sweet scent of flowers.