(no subject)

I forgot how tiring it is to simply be in a different timezone. Jet lag. I feel as if I could sleep for a week. Instead, Alessandro is plying me with strong coffee and unbelievable chocolate to make up for his constant questions and chastisements.

There is an aloof tortoise shell cat watching my every move, I don't know his name yet. He's new, the Signore didn't have this cold tom the last time I was here.

Ah, Tiberius is his name.

I think I'm going back to bed now. I can't think straight and I'm really not being pleasant company, even to a cat.

Christmas Gifts Part Two

The following packages arrive in New York, to their addressees, a few days after the new year.

For Cait:

A scarf of Italian silk, to be worn draped over the shoulder. And a note:

Cait,

I can only imagine what you must be thinking right now and I hope that I can still count you amongst my friends. I'm sorry that I didn't take the time to say goodbye in person and sorrier still for any hurt I've caused you. I'm grateful for all that you've done for me in the last few months and I'll never know how to truly thank you for that.

I saw this and thought of you and though it is belated, Merry Christmas.

Pippa


For Zippy:

A scarf of Italian silk, to be worn draped over the shoulder along with seven bars of Italian chocolate. And a note:

Ms. Zippy,

I know that this is well past late, but I hope your Hanuka was a happy one. I apologize for not delivering these in person but I am no longer in New York. (I am sure you surmised that much from the post mark on this package) I need to find myself and Venice has always been a good place for that. And for making glass.

Pippa