They were invited out for Christmas dinner… a small party in a private home. They were met at the door by one of their hosts who was dressed in holiday splendor with a red brocade vest under his tuxedo all topped off by a bowler hat. It was a nice touch as he helped her from the car and offered his arm. “Massimo!” What a delicious Italian gentleman. She hoped she would sit next to him at dinner.
The hosts’ house was nicely appointed, comfortable, modern. It was a split story town home with three stories to negotiate and no bathroom on the main floor. Bad planning, but she just wouldn’t drink… much.
The house was decorated with Christmas in every room, nice tree, lovely table settings, cider brewing fragrantly. Champagne and spirits were offered.
The Menu –
- Assorted Crackers and Cheeses along with an interesting Olive Selection
- Smoked Salmon with Creme Fresh
- Scallops in Leeks (actually IN leeks – like they had been stuffed)
- Grilled Caesar Salad
- Lentils cooked with Roasted Italian Sausages
- Lobster Macaroni and Cheese
- Bush d’ Noel
- Coffee with Brandy
She was seated next to Massimo at dinner and she was thrilled to have such an interesting dining companion. She asked him, “What kind of women do you like?” She was thinking of fixing him up with someone she knew. .. her niece maybe. He would be perfect!
“I like women like you,” he said looking into her eyes and taking her hand.
“Ha!” she laughed. ” Charmed, I’m sure…” But she was certainly old enough to be his mother! Still, she let the fantasy continue until the end of the evening when she rejoined her husband.
After dinner they all played “Guitar Hero” and she didn’t suck that much which is all you can hope for as a first timer. They couldn’t believe it when they looked up and saw that it was 3:30 in the morning! Massimo was nodding out on the sofa. Someone covered him with a blanket as everyone said their goodbyes.
They drove home in the crisp clear moonlit early morning, silently holding hands, and listening to the last of the Christmas music on the radio.
Merry Christmas
(First published 12/7/11)
