Maya's POV
The encounter with Valentina still left me rattled as I made my way back to our display area, but I refused to let her ruin what had been an exceptional day. The pavilion hummed with excitement around us, and Puregrape continued drawing crowds of investors and wine connoisseurs.
Sebastian spotted me immediately, concern flickering across his features. "How did it go?"
"Valentina showed up," I said without sugarcoating it, and I watched his expression darken.
"What did she try this time?"
"The usual manipulation tactics," I replied, placing my hand on his forearm to steady him. "But she didn't succeed. I handled it."
He searched my face intently, clearly trying to determine if I was being honest or just protecting him from worry. Then, completely unexpectedly, he drew me against him and kissed me deeply right there in front of everyone.
