And bring us white and red wine.” “Very good, sir.” The thin woman rushed off. Gabriel took Ava's hand, and she drew in a surprised breath as she snatched it away. He smiled, saying nothing as he sipped water from a crystal fluted glass. His silence unnerved Ava, but she was determined not to break it first. Steaming bowls of soup and chilled salads were brought in along with large bottles of wine. “Which shall you have, Ava?” Gabriel gestured toward the bottles as servants hovered. “Neither. I abstain from alcohol.” He chuckled, leaning back in his chair and looking at her. “I suspect wine has never crossed your lips.” Ava flushed. How does he know? Do I appear such a child to him? Glancing down at her white dress and its plain design, she realized the answer was yes. “I do not drink it.” She lifted her chin. A servant cleared her throat nervously. “Well, tonight you shall try it.” “I—” He waved his hand, cutting her off.
