His Hidden Treasure (Completed)

Thirty-Two

I found myself seeking solace in the vineyards with Renato. Taking up his offer for a walk through the vines in the crisp morning air, I needed to put some distance between Zephyr and myself. The dew-kissed grapes released a refreshing scent as we made our way through the rows of lush vines. Surprisingly, Renato was a gracious host, his usually flirtatious demeanour softened as he shared the history behind each trellis.

As we wandered, Renato's passionate narration painted a vivid picture of a family deeply rooted in tradition and love for their craft. He spoke of generations that had toiled over these vines, their dedication seeping into every bottle of wine they crafted. No wonder the wines tasted delicious at the party. It was all handmade in Nonna's winery. With each word, he revealed an intricate tapestry of harvest festivals, wine-making traditions, and secret family recipes handed down through the years.

Lost in his stories, I marvelled at the old oak barrels where the wine aged and listened intently as he explained the delicate balance of time, temperature, and technique needed to achieve rich flavours. Renato was in charge of the winery and yard; his fervour for the job was evident in every aspect of his work, reflecting his genuine love for his craft.

Soon enough, Renato brought up my drunken ramblings from the night before, "So, my mom mentioned something you said yesterday."

My heart raced as I attempted to recall what blunder I made while intoxicated. "What did I say?"

"That you weren't staying?" He looked at me, waiting for my explanation that I was sputtering.

"Oh, I," I chuckled nervously, as I fumbled over my words. "I was drunk yesterday, I'm sure I was just blabbering. I was probably referring to staying in Genoa," I said more confidently.

But he seemed to take my words at face value, "I see," he replied, and we continued walking in silence - surrounded by golden vines basking in the morning sun.

As we approached the house, I caught sight of Zephyr on the veranda, speaking into his phone. My phone rang and it was Nolan on the line. Grateful for the distraction, I thanked Renato for the tour before catching up with my brother. My mood was lifted and I laughed along as he complained about his physiotherapist and pranks to annoy him.

"How's Genoa?" he asked eagerly.

"It's beautiful here," I replied truthfully, gazing out at the stunning view of the coast.

"I'm so jealous," he said with laughter echoing through the phone. We chatted for a while longer before I hung up, just as Orillia approached with a beaming smile.

"Good news?" she asked curiously.

"Just talking to my brother," I replied, pocketing my phone and turning to face her. Her warm smile was like a ray of sunshine.

"How's he doing?" she inquired, and I filled her in on his progress.

"Families are so important," she sighed wistfully. "It's the little things we miss the most when we're away, isn't it?"

I nodded in agreement, feeling a pang of sadness at the thought. The soft humming of my mother in the kitchen and the scent of my father's favourite aftershave - these were the small things I missed deeply. Suddenly I felt a pang of sadness.

Orillia seemed to sense the turmoil in my mind as she leaned over and gently patted my hand, a sympathetic look in her eyes.

"But you're part of our family now too. And we're here for you, cara," she reassured me with warmth in her voice. I couldn't help but feel grateful for her words.

"Thank you, Orillia," I replied, giving her hand a squeeze in appreciation.

"Anytime, cara. Also, thank you."