The next few days brought a sense of cautious rhythm to the vineyard. Matteo continued to immerse himself in the day-to-day work, his hands calloused from pruning vines and hauling crates. The workers had warmed to him, some even seeking his advice on small improvements to their tasks. Bianca watched it all unfold from a distance, her heart still wary but undeniably softened by his efforts.

On a crisp morning, as the first hints of autumn kissed the air, Bianca found herself standing at the edge of the vineyard with Matteo. The sun had barely risen, casting long shadows across the rows of vines.

“You’ve been keeping busy,” she said, her voice light but tinged with curiosity.

Matteo turned to her, his expression thoughtful. “I told you, Bianca, I’m here to stay. But I know words aren’t enough.”

She crossed her arms, tilting her head as she studied him. “And what happens when the novelty wears off? When the work isn’t as romantic as it seems?”

He smiled faintly. “You think I’m doing this for show?”

“I think you have a way of charming people, Matteo. It’s part of who you are. But the vineyard requires more than charm.”

He stepped closer, his gaze steady. “I know that. And I know I’ve let you down before. But I’m not the same man who left all those years ago.”

Bianca searched his eyes, finding no trace of the arrogance or recklessness she had once associated with him. Instead, she saw determination—and something deeper, something that made her chest tighten.

“There’s a lot at stake here,” she said softly. “This vineyard isn’t just my home. It’s my family’s legacy. I can’t let anyone jeopardize that.”

“I wouldn’t ask you to,” he replied. “All I’m asking for is a chance.”

---

Later that day, Bianca gathered the staff in the courtyard. The golden light of late afternoon bathed the scene, casting a warm glow over the group. Matteo stood among them, his sleeves rolled up and his expression attentive.

“As you all know,” Bianca began, addressing the workers, “the harvest season is fast approaching. This is the most critical time for the vineyard, and we’ll need all hands on deck to ensure everything runs smoothly.”

There were murmurs of agreement from the group.

“Matteo has offered to take on a larger role in the operations,” she continued, her eyes flicking to him briefly. “But before I make any decisions, I want to see how he handles the responsibility. Tomorrow, he’ll oversee the preparation of the southern fields.”

Matteo’s brows lifted slightly, but he nodded. “I’ll make sure it’s done right.”

“Good,” Bianca said, her tone firm. “You’ll have Antonio to consult if you need guidance, but the rest is up to you.”

The workers exchanged glances, some skeptical, others curious. Bianca felt the weight of their scrutiny, but she stood her ground. Matteo wanted to prove himself, and this was his opportunity.

---

The next morning, Matteo was up before dawn. He walked the southern fields with Antonio, who offered curt but practical advice on how to manage the workers and organize the tasks. By mid-morning, Matteo had assembled a small team and was directing them with a mix of confidence and humility.

Bianca observed from afar, resisting the urge to step in. She had always been hands-on during the harvest, and entrusting such a crucial task to someone else was not easy. But Matteo’s steady leadership surprised her. He listened to the workers, adjusted plans when needed, and didn’t shy away from the physical labor.

As the sun climbed higher, Bianca decided to check in. She approached the group, noting the camaraderie that had developed under Matteo’s guidance.

“How’s it going?” she asked, addressing both Matteo and the workers.

One of the older workers, Enzo, grinned. “He’s got a good head on his shoulders. Knows how to listen, which is more than I can say for most newcomers.”

Matteo shot Enzo a grateful smile before turning to Bianca. “We’re making good progress. The team’s been incredible.”

Bianca nodded, her skepticism softening. “Keep it up. The harvest depends on this.”

---

By the end of the day, the southern fields were ready. Matteo stood with Bianca at the edge of the vineyard, the sky painted in shades of orange and pink.

“Well?” he asked, a hint of nervousness in his tone.

Bianca let out a breath, her lips curving into a small smile. “You did well. Better than I expected.”

He chuckled, relief washing over his face. “I’ll take that as a victory.”

“It’s a start,” she said, her voice softening. “But there’s still a long way to go.”

Matteo nodded, his expression serious. “I’m not going anywhere, Bianca. You have my word.”

For the first time, she allowed herself to believe him. The path ahead was uncertain, but as they stood together, surrounded by the land that had shaped her life, Bianca felt a glimmer of hope that perhaps, this time, Matteo’s actions would speak louder than his words.