Chapter 1: Introduction
THE WINERY
Closing the firm's doors behind me at five o'clock sharp, my heels click-clacked a rhythm on the pavement as I eagerly made my escape from the day's last mountain of paperwork. The sky blazed with an all-too-rare burst of radiant sunshine tempered by a gentle, temperate breeze. The kind that paints the soul and calms the spirit, making everything—even the obnoxiously orange convertible parked next to me—feel just right. The owner: Mustafa, my new intern.
A handsome, middle-eastern man with a gentle smile and an embarrassing, peculiar fetish; peeing. As our working relationship evolved, I'd taken it upon myself to incorporate bonding experiences to cultivate his loyalty and trust. After all, he had an undeniable affinity for wine, and what better place to indulge in both activities than California's beautiful Temecula winery? He excitedly agreed to join me, displaying a rare passion – perhaps the only one not related to his personal fixation.
The scenic drive eased our trek, and its rolling vineyards soon caressed the horizon. Our arrival at the picturesque terrace saw us greeted by laughter, artfully arranged vines, and exquisite food aromas. Mustafa paused to admire the serenity, his expression elating me, and I knew I chose the perfect place. We explored the vineyards, my arm linked with his, engaging in casual conversation as we awaited our tasting reservation.
"Mustafa, have you ever tried wine-tasting?" I ask.
His dark eyes widened, and the slight quaver in his voice betrays his excitement.
"No, just the cheap ones at home," he replies sheepishly.
I smile warmly at him, patting his arm reassuringly.
"You will enjoy this. It is entirely different. We will learn about the different flavors and how to properly experience wine."
We are soon greeted by our wine consultant, a knowledgeable young woman in her mid-twenties.
We began drinking wine , a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, followed by a luscious Chardonnay and a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. The art of wine-tasting proved intoxicating to Mustafa; he relished the process of swirling, sniffing, and sipping. I watched, amused and delighted, by his newfound enthusiasm.
"You see, Mustafa, each sip tells a story, and I want you to close your eyes and listen with your taste buds," I instructed as he hungrily gulped down another round.
"Now try this one, it's a Merlot." I handed him a glass. "I think you'll find it less intense than the Cabernet, but it has its own distinct flavors and aromas."
Mustafa swirled the wine gently before bringing the glass to his nose, inhaling deeply. His eyes closed as he savored the bouquet, and then a sip. The crimson liquid glided along his tongue, eliciting an excited giggle.
Laura coyly grinned, entertained by his openness and eagerness to learn. They engaged in light conversation between sips, addressing topics such as his family in Egypt and the stark cultural differences he encountered in America. Each exchange felt natural, unloading his burden of diffidence, revealing the genuine, charismatic man within.
However, despite their evolving camaraderie, Mustafa's primary fascination remained discreetly shrouded beneath his exterior.
"You know where the bathroom is?" Mustafa asked.
His eyes darting nervously, a familiar telltale sign of his concealed desire.
I didn't know where they were, but I also really had to pee. I crossed my legs held my crotch , grimacing with discomfort. "Um, yeah, me too," I confessed, the words slipping out before I could think twice.
The wine consultant arched an eyebrow, amused. "Well, let's get you to the restroom before we continue," she chuckled, clearly familiar with the effect of their wine.
Within moments, we were standing outside the charming bungalow which housed the restrooms. Mustafa nodded goodbye, stepping inside the men's room.
I hesitated, lingering by the door. As I leaned against the wall, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief wash over me. The day had been productive, and my bladder rejoiced in the release. Mustafa and I had connected on a level that exceeded expectations, and my spirits soared.
But then, I heard it.