CHAPTER FORTY THREE – MR STONE CHECKS IN

Moments later, Mr. Stone reappeared, a plate of steaming pasta in hand. He set it down on the coffee table in front of Scarlett, a mischievous glint in his visible eyes. "Voila," he declared, a playful bow escaping his lips. Scarlett laughed, a genuine, carefree sound that echoed in the room. Taking a bite of the pasta, she found it surprisingly delicious. She couldn't remember the last time she'd enjoyed a meal so much. "This is really good," she admitted, her mouth full. "Glad you like it," Mr. Stone replied, leaning back against the counter with his arms crossed. His gaze never left her, his eyes catching the way the dim light glinted off her wine glass. "You seem much more relaxed now." Scarlett wiped a stray strand of hair from her face, feeling the warmth creep up her neck under his scrutiny. "Maybe it's the company," she admitted, her voice a husky whisper. "Or maybe it's the wine." He chuckled, a low rumble that vibrated through the room. "Perhaps it's a combination of bo