We walked to my father’s study, the place where he ruled the roost. I’d noticed a few more gray hairs sprouting on the head that was once jet black. My Papa was getting older, and I would imagine the stress of running the family business with all its responsibilities weighed heavy on one man’s shoulders. Having me assisting him was a blessing, but I suspected that he was nearing his retirement plans.
My father had always been the life of any party. I recall countless parties at home while I was growing up—always plenty of dancing, laughter, and mirth. Papa had married my mother when he was in his forties. He’d always said that he wasn’t ready for such a commitment until he’d met her. They’d had me when he was almost fifty, which meant that he was no spring chicken. He was tired and I was mindful.
He handed me a shot of espresso and sat down behind his hand-carved, antique rosewood desk. He looked like a king, presiding over his subjects.
“Is it just me, Papa, or is that desk growing?” I chuckled as a big grin lit up his face.
“Just you wait; when you’re my age, the furniture will be growing around you too.”
“Okay, I consider myself warned. So, what’s on your mind, Papa? I can tell you have something important to share with me.”
Papa and I had always enjoyed a close relationship. He was the boss, and I never questioned it. But he was a kind, loving father, and I could speak my mind without fear. I hoped to have the same relationship with my son one day.
“Joe, I want to retire and take your Mama around the world. There’s so much we haven’t seen, and I don’t want to wait until we’re too old to enjoy the fruits of our labor.”
“That’s very wise, Papa. You guys have worked hard for many years. You deserve to live your lives to the full. How can I help?”
“As you know, tradition dictates that the oldest son takes over from his father. Gino is the older of you two.”
My heart sank as he said Gino’s name.
“However, I cannot in good conscience leave the running of the Coli family to him. He’s my son and I love him, but he’s not the right man for the job. He is impulsive and greedy. He is not a born leader like you are, Joe. I’ve given this a lot of thought; as you know, I don’t make snap decisions. I’m a careful man when it comes to business.”
“That’s why you are loved and respected by your men, Papa.”
“Thank you, Son. Gino is not going to like this one bit, and neither is his mother. They are not cut from the same cloth as us. I fear that he may take his anger out on you and Ella, and that’s the last thing I want for you, my darling son.”
“I agree. He’s most certainly going to throw a shit fit. How are you planning on softening the blow, Papa? He’s going to fight back no matter how you deliver the news.”
“Sicily has become a very dangerous place in our business, Son. I don’t want harm to come to you and your young family. I’ve spoken to my advisors, and they agree that America is the place to run a business like ours from. There are many opportunities in America, and if we want to grow, we must consider this carefully.”
“America? That’s a long way away from Sicily, Papa. Are you sure you’re up for such a huge endeavor?”
“I’m looking ahead, son. Ultimately, we must grow or die out. That is why I wanted to talk to you. I want you to run the new business in America for me, Joe. You are the right man for the job. You are strong, smart, educated, and fair. You will make good decisions. I trust you, son.”
“Wow, that’s quite something, Papa. I’d like to discuss it with Ella first. If we’re going to leave home and live so far away from family, we’re going to need a while to come to grips with it.”
“I understand, my son. This is a big deal, and I know that you will make the right decision. Talk it over with Ella, but don’t take too long. I’m not getting any younger, and it’s better to start your family there, for the safety of all of you.”
“I will. Thank you, Papa.”
“Now, let’s go have breakfast with our ladies. It smells good.”
“It sure does.”
ELEANORA
“You’ve been very quiet, my love,” I said to Joe as we drove home after breakfast. “Are you alright? What did you and Papa talk about?”
“I’m fine, gorgeous. I’ll tell you over a bottle of Lambrusco.”
“Lambrusco. It must be serious.” I watched as tiny worry lines danced across his forehead.
“It’s something we need to talk seriously about.”
“Okay, now you’re scaring me.”
“Don’t worry, my love. Whatever we do, we’ll do it together.”
The drive home dragged. I was never good at waiting. If I wanted to know something, I wanted to know it yesterday. When we got home, Joe opened a bottle of my favorite tipple and asked me to sit with him in the garden.
“Okay, let me have it. You’re killing me here.”
Joe laughed as I stared at him like a child with big eyes.
“I don’t suppose I can persuade you to a quickie, to break my silence of course.”
“Come on, spill the beans you dirty old man! If it’s juicy enough, I may give you a freebie pass.”
“How can I turn down such a gracious offer? Okay, here it is. My father wants to retire soon, and he wants me to take over the running of
