One of Many Firsts

After they have both finished changing, Gianni and Giancarlo goes to the dining room. They both take their seat at the opposite far-ends of the table. As Gianni was about to take his first sip, Giancarlo calls the maids for a tray. He places his food and utensils on the tray and carries them to Gianni. He sits close to him.

"It was so far away and seemed so lonesome," Giancarlo says as he finishes placing all of the utensils on the placemat. "Sorry, if I interrupted you. I have not had the sorrow of eating alone. I am always with our levies, otherwise I was with father."

"Fret not," Gianni laughs, "and it is true the other end of this table seems to be leagues away."

"What is this soup?" Giancarlo asks as he takes a sip of the dish before him. "I haven't tasted anything like it."

"It's paysanne," Gianni replies. "It has cabbage, carrots, and many other vegetables."