Master smiled back and covered her hand with his. “It will not always be easy,” he said. “But great things never are. That is why their achievement is noble. Now you may drink some wine.”
The avocado was perfect, just ripe enough and with a tangy sauce. She finished it before Master had completed his antipasto. Carefully he folded a slice of salami onto his fork and held it to her mouth.
“Eat,” he said, and she took the food from him like a lapdog.
The pasta was delicious, rich and garlicky. Half way through she had finished her wine. She wanted to ask if Master would pour her another glass, but she thought she should wait. To her disappointment, one appeared to be her allotment.
For dessert there was fruit, and then tiny cups of strong Italian coffee. As they sat sipping Master sudden
