Page 103 of A Puppy Love Christmas

‘Be my guest.’

‘In fact, I’ve got a friend in documentaries who might be of use.’ Ben began flicking through his contacts on his phone.

Rocco took a sip of his Jack Daniels over ice as Ben made a call.

CHAPTER 46

FRANKIE

‘But I’ve never run a business before!’ Frankie put her cannoli back on her plate, untouched. She’d spent a restless night wondering what her nonno wanted to speak to her about that morning, never for a moment thinking it was for her to run the trattoria while he was away.

‘You run your own dog walking and boarding business.’

‘But that’s dogs. What you’re suggesting is way more. I don’t know the first thing about running a restaurant.’

Matteo took a sip of his double espresso before replying. ‘Of course you do. You’ve been helping me out here for years and you are a natural with the customers. They and the staff all love you being here.’

‘But, I don’t cook like you and⁠—’

‘Frankie! For the past few years I’ve been giving more responsibility to Chris. We create dishes and plan the menu together and I still do the occasional turn in the kitchen but that’s about all. Chris is delighted to have you here and he’s already planning some menu tweaks he’d love to run by you. You have a good palate.’ He winked. ‘I taught you well! The trattoria will be different, yes, but that’s a good thing.’

It was so much for Frankie to process, but she couldn’t deny she was excited about the challenge.

‘I have a few weeks to get you up to speed on everything. The staff are going nowhere. Paul runs the bar so well. And remember, I am only a phone call or an email away. I’m sure there is nothing that can’t wait until a time difference is sorted. Also, I have to face facts; I won’t live forever.’

‘Nonno—’

Matteo waved her concerns away. ‘Don’t worry, I have no plans on popping my clogs for quite some time yet, but I would like to know that this trattoria is going to someone who loves it as much as I do.’

‘What about Mum and Aunt Cara? Shouldn’t it be passed to them, or Dad or Stefano?’

‘I spoke with them all this morning and they think you taking over is a wonderful idea. Your mother loves teaching and your aunt has her own business. They aren’t looking for a new career. And as for your brother or sister, neither have ever wanted to work here. And Nick and Lisa are far too young.’

‘But, as you pointed out, I’ve got my dog walking business.’

‘I know. And I’m not belittling what you’ve achieved but, the fact that you still want to help out here at weekends and holidays speaks volumes. I know you love it here as much as I do. I’m not asking you to stop your business. I’m sure you will be able to manage both, although I guess you will have to cut back on some of the walks. Please think about this.’

Frankie looked around her. She loved the place, that was not in any doubt.