Keeping Deena company — so weird, how she’d hit it off with that food influencer. They were polar opposites

Yochi walked beside T as the caterer wheeled his small carry-on through the lobby.

“This is it then,” he said dismally. “I can’t believe you’re really leaving. How will Touring Together look without you?”

“I wish I could stay, you know that.”

It was strange, this disappointment at seeing T go. Was it only five months since he’d introduced himself to the renowned caterer, squirming as they sat down for their first meeting?

He glanced at T. “I’m remembering that day in Greece, when you became fleishigs at seven thirty in the morning.”

“Noooo, don’t remind me.”

Yochi laughed. “I think that was the first time I realized there’s a beating heart behind your chef’s apron.”

“A beating temper, you mean?”

Yochi winked.

Over the Zambia and Greece tours, the awkwardness had vanished, and Yochi had discovered that the talented chef was genuine and kind and funny. He’d been intimidated for nothing.

The front doors of the resort glided open and Yochi escorted T outside. The air was clear and crisp, the sky an overwhelming blue. He had a sudden urge to light up, take a short break, but he thought of Pessie and resisted.

Yochi parted from T with a warm handshake, holding on for an extra moment.

“I left you two stocked freezers and Gedalya has my number. It’ll be good, Yochi, I’m telling you.”

“B’ezras Hashem. We’ll miss you. Have a safe trip, text me when you land.”

And then he straightened his back and hurried back inside. T or not, there was a tour to direct. His guests would start arriving within a few hours.

In the office, Yochi printed a copy of the room plan, then called Pessie. “Are the girls ready for those host packages? Where can I meet you?”

“Yes. I’ll send them to the lobby. We’re all in the kitchen, keeping Deena company.”

“Great, thanks.”

Keeping Deena company — so weird, how she’d hit it off with that food influencer. They were polar opposites.