Angelica is a delicate young woman with lush, curly hair. Her skin is snowy white, and her eyes are a heavenly blue. She stood out from others—thoughtful, curious, and well-read. She always delighted in the rays of sunlight, butterflies, and birds. She noticed rainbows in dewdrops. She loved flowers and often gazed at the clouds. In short, she saw everything through rose-colored glasses.
— You act like a big child, rejoicing over every blade of grass. You need to come back to reality sometimes. Life will pass you by, and you won’t even notice, — her mother always told her.
— She’s odd. It’s like she’s always floating in the clouds. A quirky one, — the neighbors would say.
These words meant nothing to Angelica. She only laughed in response.
— My dear, have a seat, — the editor said to her one day, summoning her to his office. — It’s been a while since you’ve written anything interesting. What’s the problem?
— George William, I lack inspiration. I’d love to write something, but lately, I can’t squeeze out a single line.
— That’s not good, my dear. Come up with something. Visit a beautiful place. I don’t care where you go or what you do. Just deliver results.
— Alright. I’ll do as you say.
— I’m not rushing you. I care about my authors. I know it’s hard to write without inspiration. But… if you want to be a staff writer, you’d better do the job you’re paid for.
— Of course, George William. I’ll get it done. Don’t worry.
— I’m not worried. You’re a talented writer. But rules are rules. Just a reminder. There are always others eager to take your place. I’m giving you two weeks. If you don’t make it, you’re out.
— Understood.
— You’re free to go.
On her way home, Angelica pondered the editor’s words.
— Hey, friend! How’s it going? Where’ve you been? — asked a dark-haired young woman.
— Hello, Miranda. I’m doing fine. The editor’s demanding a new romance novel. He said I should travel somewhere for inspiration. I’m thinking about it.
— Wow, what a coincidence! I have two tickets to a wonderful place. I can’t go myself. Take your sister and go. Everything’s paid for.
— That’s great news! Where to? When? And most importantly, how much do I owe you? I can’t afford an expensive trip right now.
— You don’t owe me a thing. My boyfriend James paid for it all, but his business won’t let him go.
— It must be nice to have a boyfriend like that. I’m jealous in the best way, — Angelica said, throwing her arms around Miranda.
— Easy there, you’ll strangle me! You’ll be flying to the western part of Georgia—Samegrelo. There’s a small village called Mukhuri with a wellness retreat. That’s where you’re headed. Don’t worry, I’ll explain everything and write it down.
— Thank you so much!
— It’s a beautiful place. The village sits at 1,800 feet above sea level. Crisp mountain air, wild nature, a river. You’ll rest like never before. Just promise me you’ll name the heroine of your new novel after me.
— Absolutely.
Thrilled by the news, Angelica immediately shared it with her sister and mother.
— Sweetie, I’d love to go with you, but I can’t get time off work right now. You’ll have to enjoy the mountains without me, — her sister said sadly.
— That’s a shame. I’m a bit scared to go alone.
— Watched too many old movies and think someone’s going to kidnap you?
— Maybe.
— Oh, come on. What century are you living in? Nobody kidnaps anyone anymore. Unless it’s girls chasing after boys now, — both sisters burst into laughter.
A few days later, Angelica packed her suitcases and headed to the airport. She first flew to Atlanta, then took a bus from there.
— What beauty, — Angelica thought, gazing intently out the window.
Soon, the bus arrived at the wellness retreat. The area was dotted with separate buildings and charming cottages with ornate fences. Angelica set down her suitcases and stood for a long time, taking in her surroundings.
— Just arrived? — asked a short young woman who approached her. — Follow me, I’ll show you your cozy little home.
Angelica followed, looking around curiously at the retreat’s grounds. She was settled into a small cottage with wooden paneling and a lovely staircase.
— Here’s your key. Though, nobody locks their doors around here. The bathroom’s outside. You’ll eat over there, — the woman pointed to a small building that didn’t look much like a dining hall.
— Are there any activities here?
— Oh, yes. Horseback riding, swimming in spring and mountain water, fishing—we’ve got trout. If you catch something, bring it to me, and I’ll cook you a delicious fish dish. There’s also a sauna, sports fields, and a water park.
— No, fishing and walks in the fresh air will be enough for me. Thank you.
— You’re welcome. I’m Tamara. Let me know if you need anything.
Angelica nodded happily.
— Make yourself at home. Lunch will be ready soon. I can let you know if you’d like.
— That’d be great. I’m starving.
Tamara smiled back and told Angelica about a horseback riding tour organized by her husband, Nathan. She eagerly agreed to go riding after lunch.
— Everyone here is so kind and welcoming, — Angelica thought, licking her lips after a hearty meal.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the voice of a short man, Nathan.
— The horses are ready. We can head out if you’re up for it.
— I’d love to.
Angelica was ready in minutes. It was hot outside. Without much thought, she grabbed a swimsuit, insect repellent, and slipped into a light summer dress.
— Wow, you won’t get far in that dress. You need pants, — Nathan said. — But if you’re comfortable, no problem.
Angelica looked around. A small group of people stood before her, all in pants or shorts.
— Just my luck. Standing out as usual, — she thought.
Nathan helped her mount the horse, gave a brief instruction, and the group of ten set off. The horses moved forward, the riders giggling like children. Angelica kept up with them.
— Stay together. Don’t fall behind, — Nathan called out from time to time.
The view was breathtaking—picturesque landscapes, crisp mountain air, and singing birds. It was almost overwhelming.
After half an hour, the group descended, passing a small mountain village. Angelica looked around, taking mental notes, and lagged behind. She was so absorbed that she didn’t notice a large metal rod sticking out of the ground. Her horse scraped its leg badly and began to limp.
— Your horse won’t make it far if you don’t treat that wound, — said a young man who appeared suddenly from the village.
He was tall, tan, and athletic, with a short beard and green eyes. Angelica looked up, distracted from her notebook.
— Sorry, what?
— Your horse is hurt. Look at all that blood.
Angelica noticed her horse’s leg was indeed bleeding.
— Oh no, so much blood, — she paled and fainted.
— What’s wrong? — the young man caught her just in time, saving her from a fall.
Moments later, Angelica opened her eyes. She pushed the handsome stranger away and nervously adjusted her dress, which had ridden up.
— Thank you for not letting me fall. I’ve never handled the sight of blood well.
He flashed a dazzling smile and approached the horse.
— We need to clean the wound. Now, — he said, pulling a flask of water from a small bag and washing the blood away. — You’d better sit here, or you’ll faint again.
After cleaning the wound, he tore a sleeve from his shirt, bandaged the leg, and patted the horse.
— Good girl. She’ll be fine, — he said, turning to a stunned Angelica. — I’m Brian. I live nearby.
— Thank you, Brian, from me and my horse.
— You’re welcome. My parents live in that house over there. If you’re ever around, stop by, — he said, flashing another smile.
— I will.
Angelica took the horse and hurried to catch up with her group. Meanwhile, Nathan’s son, Victor, was already looking for her.
— Where’d you disappear to? We’ve been searching for half an hour!
Angelica glanced back at Brian.
— There’s the hero of my novel. I’ll write my new story about him. Strong, handsome, attentive.
Inspired by the encounter, Angelica couldn’t wait to start writing. She lagged behind again, sat on a large rock by the river, and jotted down her thoughts. Then, she looked at the water and dipped her hand in.
— Brr, so cold. I have to swim, — she said, checking her surroundings, pulling out her swimsuit, changing, and wading into the water.
The water was icy. After adjusting, Angelica swam farther, but her body couldn’t handle the strong mountain current. In a split second, she lost control. The river’s force pulled her under, and she began to drown.
— Help! — she managed to scream before being dragged underwater.
A sharp tug, and her fragile body was in strong arms. When Angelica opened her eyes, Brian’s face hovered above her.
— You restless creature. How many times do I need to save you in one day?
Angelica gave a weak smile.
— Notice, I’ve saved you twice today, and you still haven’t told me your name.
— Angelica.
— Perfect. We need to warm you up. Take my shirt, — Brian said, draping it over her shoulders. — You’re probably hungry. Come, I’ll introduce you to my mom. She makes the best khachapuri in the world.
Angelica nodded.
— Don’t worry, I’ll get you back to the retreat later. Otherwise, you’ll fall into a ditch or step on a snake. I’d have to save you a third time.
The villagers were incredibly warm. Seeing a guest, they invited her into their homes, each tempting her with delicious food and hospitality.
— We have good, kind people. We’re always happy to have guests, — Brian told Angelica, who had retreated into her thoughts and hadn’t said a word during their walk.
Brian chuckled, watching her. As they approached his parents’ house, an elderly woman with flour-dusted hands came out.
— Son, we have a guest? Why didn’t you tell me? I’d have set the table.
— We haven’t even entered the village, and you already knew, — Brian grinned.
— That’s right. Our people know everything about everyone. Come inside, don’t stand at the door.
Brian’s parents were as kind and welcoming as he was. They fed Angelica, gave her coffee, and promised to send her off with some churchkhela.
— Thank you for the warm welcome. I’ve loved it here. It’s a bit stuffy—mind if I step outside?
— Of course. Brian will help me clear the table, — his mother said warmly.
Angelica went into the yard, spotting ripe grape clusters. She approached and began picking berries one by one.
— Not from around here, are you? Brian brought you? — said a girl with jet-black hair tied in a long braid, approaching her.
— You talking to me?
— Yes, you. I’m Clara, Brian’s fiancée. Stay away from him. He’s mine. Go back to your retreat and don’t show your face here again, or you’ll regret it, — she said, vanishing behind a tall fence as Brian’s voice approached.
— So that’s how it is? — Angelica muttered, leaving the yard and heading down the road.
She met an elderly man on a tractor who offered her a ride. Half an hour later, she was back at the retreat. When Brian came out, his guest was gone.
The next day, he saw her by the river, preparing to fish with a group. Angelica struggled to cast her line, her fishing line hopelessly tangled. As she tried to untangle it, her skirt caught on the hook’s sharp end.
— Caught a fish? Looks like I need to save you again—this time from yourself, — Brian said, laughing.
Angelica tried to leave quickly but only tangled herself more. Brian helped her.
— There, saved you again. Why did you run off yesterday? I didn’t even get to walk you back.
Angelica looked at him carefully.
— Thanks, but we shouldn’t meet anymore. Your girlfriend doesn’t approve. Focus on your own business.
— I see Clara’s already talked to you. She’s not my girlfriend. She just thinks she is.
— Sounds like she has reasons to think that.
— Don’t mind her. I’ll spend time with whoever I want. Let me show you how to catch trout instead.
Brian stepped closer, and together they cast the line. Their first fishing trip was a success—they caught a fish, which they later cooked at Brian’s house.
— This is all great, son, but this woman’s been here a lot. Be careful, she might break your heart and leave. You don’t think she’ll stay, do you? — his mother said.
— We’ll see, Mom. Maybe she will.
After a delicious dinner, Angelica thanked her hosts and stepped outside to walk down the street. While Brian talked with his mother, his guest wandered far. Suddenly, a car pulled up. Two men jumped out, covered her mouth, and dragged her into the vehicle.
— Sit still and don’t move. You were told to stay away from Brian, but you clearly don’t listen, — one of the kidnappers said, throwing a sack over her head.
The other tied her up, and the car drove on, stopping at a cliff’s edge. They pulled Angelica out and placed her near the drop.
— Tourists go missing all the time. No one will notice you’re gone, — the kidnappers laughed, removing the sack.
— Let her go, — Brian said, appearing suddenly.
A neighbor’s child had told him about the kidnapping, and he’d rushed after them. The kidnappers were Clara’s brothers.
— Relax, man, we just wanted to scare her. Clara asked us to.
— I’ll deal with you later. Let me take Angelica back to the retreat, — Brian said, freeing her and driving her back. — Looks like saving you is becoming a habit.
— Seems like it. Thank you for everything, — she said, and the two shared a kiss.
They spent another week enjoying each other’s company, but her vacation ended. Angelica had to return home. Brian didn’t want to let her go, but a free-spirited, dreamy writer couldn’t be tethered to a village. She was used to city life and chose not to stay.
Upon returning home, she wrote a vibrant romance novel about a strong, brave man who saved the life of a delicate, romantic woman. Who knows, perhaps one day Angelica will return to Georgia and see her beloved mountain hero again.
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