“Yeah, when we learned we’d both be on the cruise, we decided to hang out together since we were both traveling alone,” added Rob.
Simone looked at Ben and said, “Pardon me, but you look awfully familiar. Have we ever met before?”
“I don’t believe so, but you may have seen me somewhere. I’m Ben Rockingham.”
“Oh, of course, that’s it!” Phil joined in. “We’ve seen your films. It’s very nice to meet you.” He reached over to shake Ben’s hand.
“Thank you. I appreciate it, but if it’s all the same to you, I’d prefer to keep a low profile on the trip.” Ben smiled sweetly. “Just trying to relax for a few days before I head back to the States.”
The remaining couple at their table appeared a bit older and had introduced themselves as Sarah and Jerry but hadn’t said much more than that.
The servers returned with large bowls of pasta covered in steaming tomato sauce and freshly grated cheese. They set them on the tables along with a stack of small bowls so that everyone could help themselves. They also replenished the water and bottles of wine as they were emptied.
Serving themselves and each other, Rob and Ben dug into the flavorful food.
As they ate, an older gentleman walked to the front of the dining area. He was dressed in simple work clothes. His hair was graying a bit, but his bright blue eyes were filled with pride. It was clear that he was the head of this family business. “Good afternoon everyone, I am Antonio Giorgio. This farm has been in my family for three generations. After lunch, we will go on a short tour.” He spoke with a heavy Italian accent.
“That sounds like fun,” Ben remarked.
“I wanted to tell you that the olives you enjoyed earlier came from our olive groves and the grapes to make the wine you are drinking were also grown here. We also grew the tomatoes used in the sauce for your pasta today. And for dessert, there will be cake spread with cherry preserves that comes from our cherry orchards. We hope you are enjoying everything.Buon appetito!”
Everyone applauded when he finished. The tour guide standing off to the side said, “There are toilet facilities around to the back if anyone needs them. Once you are finished with dessert, please meet back outside for the tour. It is only a little bit of walking but if anyone wants to skip that, our driver will be near the bus and you can get back on whenever you’d like.”
Trays of cake were delivered to the tables and folks continued to chat among themselves as they finished lunch.
When they finally headed out of the tent for the tour, Ben turned to Rob, “I’m so happy you asked me to join you for this. I’ve had such a good time. Thank you.”
“Of course. While I’m sure I would’ve had a enjoyed this by myself, it’s a lot more fun with someone else. I’m really glad you’re here with me.”
The tour was, indeed, short. They walked around a bit and saw the olive groves and the main garden area where the tomatoes and a wide assortment of vegetables were grown. In the distance, they could see the cherry orchards. There was a small stand on the side where the Giorgio family sold olive oil, wine, and cherry preserves.
Rob and Ben each bought a few jars of the preserves. “I’m not much for souvenirs,” Rob said. “But I’ll enjoy this at breakfast when I get home and remember the time I spent here with you.”
