Desserts & Dramas

Chapter 33

After stopping by the MacLean sisters' house and surviving a turbulent work week, Gabriel went to the winery for the weekend. His parents realized that he was distracted by something. Or someone.

"Trouble at the company?" His father asked, interrupting his thoughts about Sofia.

"Not really, everything is going well."

"Ah, women then."

It was clear that Raul was trying to get closer to his son.

"They only bring me happiness."

"Not all of them, as it seems." Gabriel chose not to answer and Raul continued. "You know, son, after your mother died, you didn't let anyone get close to you, maybe it's time."

"I'm fine living life this way."

Raul shook his head, giving up on the subject. He never knew how to deal with his son's evasions. Gabriel didn't want to hear any of it. He got up and went to help Angelica in the kitchen. His father didn't understand that he was afraid of forgetting. The tests had all been favorable, everything was fine with him, however, he didn't know when this might change. Better to talk about the help they needed from him.

Dinner progressed on lighter topics and amenities. His father didn't touch on the subject anymore, and Gabriel thought it was better that way. The focus should be on the winery, he already had new information and thought they would be happy.

After dinner, while he and Raul enjoyed a digestive wine, Gabriel began:

"I talked to Eric and some directors about the winery and..." Angelica held her breath and Raul held her hand "and at first the interest in investing was unanimous. "

Angelica let out a huge smile. Raul stood up and hugged his son.

"This is great! This is great! " His father kept repeating.

"However," Gabriel broke free of the hug and continued, "as a standard requirement of any investment, our team will make a meticulous analysis of all sectors to verify that everything is in order before signing any contract. And expansion into the United States is a prerequisite for the investment. So the sooner we start negotiating with the Americans, the better. So I have already found the professional that I believe will be the right person for this case.

"Of course, of course, we will provide all the information you ask for. And who have you found?"

"His name is Adam Williams. He is American, has a double degree in law and economics, and a vast experience in working with companies in other countries, adapting the transactions to the American way. He has consulted for my company on some multinational contracts and has done it very well."

"He seems like the right person to help us, Gabriel." Angelica said.

"I believe so. Then my suggestion is that we arrange a dinner with him to talk about expectations before we start the actual meetings. What do you think?"

"Sure son, we will do whatever you ask, that's why we asked for your help. You can set up the dinner, just let us know when and where."

And he smiled happily at his son. Gabriel smiled too. He was not so close to him and Angelica, but he was happy to be able to help them. Over the years he had remained distant, without asking or offering help. He was not yet ready to talk about his relationships and more intimate matters. His father's attitude was the same as his. This would be a welcome change to the relationship, a way to get closer without so much pressure or interference in each other's lives. And it was already having an effect, as the rest of the weekend had been more pleasant and natural than his previous visits.