Lost Lombardi

Chapter 52

The next morning, Dino and Pietro arrived at Whispering Pine Lodge. They were staying in a beautiful, quiet lodge surrounded by tall trees and mountains. The lodge had cozy wooden cabins with large windows overlooking a clear lake. Inside, there were soft leather couches, a stone fireplace, and a spacious deck where they could sit and take in the view.

The lake was calm and perfect for fishing. They had a small boat ready for a ride after they fished, and there was a private spot along the shore where they could swim. The whole place felt peaceful, with only the sounds of nature around them—birds chirping and the gentle splash of water. It was the perfect escape from their busy lives, giving them time to relax and enjoy each other's company.

"Wow, Papa, look at the scenery!" Dino said, staring at the lake view from the cabin. Pietro stood behind Dino, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"Let's take some photos," Pietro said, pulling out his camera. Dino's eyes lit up at the sight of it. "Here, I'll teach you how to use it," Pietro added, giving a quick lesson on how to handle the camera. "Just take some photos. No need to be perfect."

Dino took several photos outside and inside the cabin. He even recorded Pietro unpacking their stuff. While filming, Dino thought about how handsome his dad was.

"I'll post these on my IG," Dino said, collapsing onto the couch, then glanced at Pietro for approval.

"What? Do you need my permission?" Pietro asked, amused.

"I guess," Dino replied, knowing his father wasn't into social media.

"You can post them. I don't mind," Pietro said. However, the internet was slow, so Dino could only post one picture.

"I think I'll have to wait forever to upload them. Maybe I'll do it after we get home," Dino said, frustrated with the slow internet.

He wandered outside the cabin, looking around. There were a few other cabins in the distance, but it wasn't clear who was staying in them. Each cabin was designed to offer privacy, so the guests could enjoy their stay without being disturbed.

"Dino, come check out your room," Pietro called, and Dino hurried inside, eager to see it.

"Wow, Papa, this is so cool!" Dino said, jumping onto the bed. Pietro watched with a smile.

"Be careful. Don't break anything, or I'll have to pay for it," Pietro joked, still smiling.

Dino's room was cozy but luxurious. He had a queen-sized bed with crisp white sheets, topped with a plaid blanket for extra warmth. The bedframe was simple yet stylish, made from light-colored wood that gave the room a fresh, airy feel. A large window faced the forest, allowing him to hear the sounds of birds and rustling trees in the morning. In one corner of the room was a desk and chair where Dino could relax, scroll through his phone, or jot down his thoughts. A small bookshelf held a few adventure novels, adding to the outdoorsy charm of the room.

They had already eaten breakfast before arriving at the lodge, and with a few hours left until lunch, Pietro had a plan.

"Get ready to do some fishing before lunch," Pietro said. He had already changed into a button-up fishing shirt, cargo pants, and a cap.

"You already changed?" Dino asked, jumping off the bed like a spring. He quickly rummaged through his luggage for his clothes. Dino put on his own shirt, cargo pants, boots, and a cap, matching his father's outfit.

Excited, Dino ran ahead to the lake while Pietro walked leisurely behind, recording his son on his phone to capture the moment.

"Dino, stay still. Look over here," Pietro called, and Dino paused, turning back to face him. Pietro snapped a picture.