to dangle from her hand. She seemed so damn sophisticated and put together these days. Wine magazines ran features on her. Young winemakers looked up to her because of all she’d accomplished in her short career. Joey was not only blessed to have her talent on board, but her pride in her friend’s accomplishments welled robustly.
Madison watched Joey. Then, finally, “We’ve had some wine. Can I ask about Simone? I filled Gabriella in on the high points on our drive.”
“Of course,” Joey said. No, it wasn’t her favorite topic in the world, but she did just fine with casual conversations that surrounded her ex and their very public, humiliating ending three years ago. Madison had stood next to Joey on what was to be the happiest day of her life, her wedding day. As maid of honor, she was the one who’d picked Joey up off the floor that afternoon. Literally. She’d collapsed in a heap of shock, despair, and humiliation. Joey had believed Simone to be the love of her life back then. But time helped reveal the reality. In spite of the town gossip chain a mile long, Joey was grateful for the outcome. Her life was okay. She loved her job and her Tangle Valley family, and had great friends. What more did she need?
“So, here’s the thing I don’t get,” Madison said. “Simone leaves you at the altar.”
“Yep,” Joey said and sipped. Gabriella winced, obviously experiencing empathetic horror.
“Because she wants a bigger life for herself.”
“True, again. Simone has always believed that life here is too mundane. She wanted something faster paced than, well, a farm.”
“But then she goes and settles down with a veterinarian who’s home by five most days. How is that faster paced?”
Joey shrugged. “It used to bother me, too. But you know what? Constance apparently makes Simone happy in a way I wasn’t capable.”
“Do we hate her?” Gabriella asked, showing that she was, in fact, the best type of friend. “The vet?”
Joey placed a hand over Gabriella’s. “No, but you get major points for the offer. Simone is…not my person. That’s all. Those two were meant to be. They’re honestly very sweet together. I long to hate them, dream about it even. Can’t seem to.”
“She did one hell of a number on Joey, though.” Madison drummed her fingers on the table and shook her head.
“Are you sure we don’t hate her?” Gabriella asked again in solidarity.
“Still sure. And she did not do a number on me,” Joey said, adding another splash of the dolcetto to her glass. “At least nothing long lasting.”
“No? I disagree.” The expression on Madison’s face said that she was attempting to make her point in the gentlest way possible. “When was the last time you dated?”
Joey shrugged. “I couldn’t tell you, but I’m busy with this place, Maddie, and I really like it that way.” Why was she suddenly so defensive?
“Anyone since Simone?” Gabriella asked, her voice soft. Those big brown friendly eyes helped Joey relax.
“No,” she confessed. “I’m not against romance and dating, but…okay, maybe I’m against romance. It hasn’t served me well, so I stick to things that have. Friends, wine, Tangle Valley, a good sunset, and the occasional excellent bowl of soup.” Madison and Gabriella exchanged a look. “What? You’re already exchanging knowing glances. I’m fine.”
“You did not just say soup,” Madison said.
“I did.”
“I’m going to die if my best friend’s excitement level peaks at excellent soup. There’s more to life.” The outrage was clear, but all Joey could do was laugh.
“I believe you’re fine.” Gabriella smiled. “I don’t even know you that well yet, and I can tell as much. Plus, you run one of the most beautiful vineyards I’ve ever seen, so that means you’re more than fine. You’re special.”
“See?” Joey said and turned like a victor to Madison. “I’m more than fine. Well, outside of losing my dad.” Her playful spirits dipped. Sometimes she got caught up in the day and forgot. It was never long, however, until it all came rushing back, like now.
“But you have us here now, and you don’t have to shoulder all of this on your own,” Madison said and took a moment for a long blink. “I’m a tad tipsy, but can we talk briefly about the harvest anyway?”
Joey didn’t hesitate. “We had a good year. The fruit is beautiful. Cooler temps at night served the grapes well, but we never got too cold. The rain cooperated, and the summer was fairly warm and dry.”
“Sounds like we’re