Tuscan Love Letter

CHAPTER 5

Early the next morning, I slip out of bed with practised quietness, careful not to disturb Noah's slumber. As I get changed, Noah stirs, his voice sleepy and drowsy.

"Where are you going?" he murmurs, his eyes still closed.

"I have to go to work. I'll be back for lunch," I reply softly, leaning down to plant a kiss on his cheek.

"Noooo," Noah groans, his hand reaching out to pull me back towards him, the warmth of his embrace inviting.

I chuckled at his playful protest. "I really have to go, amore," I say, running my fingers through his tousled hair.

Noah pouts, his lips forming a playful frown as he leans up to kiss me. "I'll see you later," he says, his voice filled with a mixture of reluctance and affection.

I return his kiss, and with one last lingering glance, I reluctantly tear myself away from his embrace and make my way out of the room, leaving him behind in the comfort of our bed.

✽✽✽

When I arrive at the Diontris' villa, I make my way to the little house where I am staying, just a short walk from the main house. The early morning air is crisp and refreshing as I approach the quaint cottage. Dante, my loyal companion, greets me with enthusiastic tail wags.

"Buongiorno, Dante," I say, smiling as I pat his head. I quickly fill his bowl of food and let him out into the garden so he can run around and enjoy the morning.

After making sure Dante is settled, I head to the main house to prepare breakfast for the Diontris' family. The estate is still quiet, with only the soft chirping of birds breaking the silence. The Diontris' have always been early risers, but today it seems they are taking their time.

The Diontris' family, Carlo and Bianca, are old friends of my parents. They have become like family to me over the years. Their grandchildren, Matteo and Aurora, are delightful kids who I teach English to, so I always speak to them in English. With Carlo and Bianca, I switch effortlessly between Italian and English, depending on the flow of the conversation.

I enter the kitchen and begin gathering ingredients for breakfast. The familiar routine is comforting, and I enjoy the peaceful solitude of the early morning. As I prepare pancakes and fresh fruit, I can't help but think about how much I cherish these quiet moments before the household springs to life.

Just as I finish setting the table, I hear the soft patter of little feet approaching. Matteo and Aurora appear in the doorway, their faces lighting up when they see me.

"Good morning, Matteo! Good morning, Aurora!" I greet them, smiling as they run over to give me hugs.

"Good morning, Sofia!" they chime in unison, their English improving with each passing day.

"Are you ready for some breakfast?" I ask, leading them to the table.

"Yes, please!" Matteo says eagerly, while Aurora nods enthusiastically.

As they settle in, Carlo and Bianca enter the kitchen, their faces brightening at the sight of their grandchildren.

"Buongiorno, Sofia," Carlo greets me in Italian, his voice warm and welcoming.

"Buongiorno," I reply with a smile as I put the finishing touches on the table.

"Breakfast smells wonderful as always," Bianca says, her eyes crinkling with a smile.

"Thank you," I reply, feeling a sense of contentment as I serve the food. These mornings with the Diontris' family are precious to me, a blend of work and cherished moments that makes Italy feel like my second home.