Page 68 of Humility

JASMINE

I woke up with a spring in my step, and not because of any sexy dream. Put it down to a successful night of sleep without the Absolem and no fantasies about what-ifs.

Dashing around, I dressed and grabbed an armload of baskets to set up. I spent all last night sitting at the table, working out where each item should go to best utilize space.

On my way out the door, I glanced at the television, remembering how weird yesterday was. Going into town was a great way to learn about the area. I got some shopping done, and other than almost being killed by a sports car, it was a great day. Until I saw that same car everywhere I went, like it was stalking me. The strangest part was that I kept catching glimpses of Angelo. His reflection in a window or walking down the street, but the next moment, he was gone. That was the final straw and reason for me to stop the sleeping medication. I couldn’t have those nighttime fantasies turning into daytime visions as well. It was bad enough that I thought of him at all.

Enzo had acted strange last night as well. He had turned on the television to the local news reporting on some shootings in town and how they were looking for a suspect. Every time I moved to look at the screen, he moved to block my view, and we ended up in a strange dance with him apologizing. When I got around him, the character sketch was gone, and he left without an explanation. If he hadn’t been waiting for me when I got home and finalizing my signs while I was gone, I would’ve sworn he was the person of interest. I really liked him, but there was something about him that reminded me of everyone back home. There were always agendas, half-truths, or things omitted from stories for personal gain. I hated the politics of it all, even if I understood the necessity.

The sun was cresting the tops of the trees as I placed the last of my produce out. There was quite the selection, and as I stared at the large table, I couldn’t keep the smile off my face.

Lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, zucchini, sweet peppers, and radishes lined most of the table, but I had some strawberries, figs, and peaches tucked in. I had never been so proud in my life. I produced something from what felt like nothing, and hopefully, someone would enjoy the fruits of my labor. Literally.

A vehicle approaching made my heart jump at a possible customer. I was only mildly disappointed when I recognized Enzo’s black SUV.

“Wow, this looks incredible,” he said, pulling up.

The elated smile on his face sent butterflies whipping around in my stomach. “You think so?”

“You really pulled it all together. Let me go park, and I’ll hang out for a little while.” I watched him the entire way into the driveway, then mentally scolded myself and turned around.

The crunch of his boots on the gravel drawing closer made the butterflies swarm.

“I brought you these,” Enzo said, pulling out a massive bouquet of flowers from behind his back. “It’s a little congratulations for all your hard work.”

“Oh my god, they’re beautiful. I took the flowers and closed my eyes as I breathed in the delicate scent of lily and jasmine. “Lillies are my favorite.”

“I know,” he said.

“You do? How do you know that?”

His smile fell as he rubbed the back of his neck. “I’m not sure. You must have said something,” he said.

I couldn’t say why I didn’t believe him, but before I could push, the sound of a vehicle slowing down caught my attention. I turned to see a fancy black car.

“Hi there, so nice to meet you,” I said, setting the flowers down.

“This is incredible. How long have you been here,” the beautiful blond woman asked as she picked up a tomato and took a bite like an apple. She moaned as some of the juice ran down her chin. “Wow.”

“This is my first day open. You’re my very first customer.” I smiled as she ate the tomato.

“Well, I’m going to be your last.”

My smile fell. Was the tomato terrible? I tried one and thought they were delicious.

“Oh, I’m sorry you don’t like it. You don’t have to pay,” I said, and the woman paused mid-bite and then laughed.

“No, I mean, I’m going to clean you out. I’m buying it all.” She held out her hand. “My name is Gina, and I own Athena’s Palate.”

“Isabella.” I shook her hand and it was warm and firm, like we’d just signed a contract.

“I’ve eaten there. The food is exceptional,” Enzo said, as he came to stand by my side.

“Thanks, but with fresh produce like this, it will be even better. My brother only wants me to buy from certain suppliers, but if you don’t tell him, I won’t.” She winked at me. “Do you grow anything else?”

“Not yet, but I could try,” I said, baffled. Was this even real? For a brief second, I wondered if Enzo had put her up to it, but the shock on his face seemed genuine.

“I’m after herbs and could use garlic and carrots. We have a few signature dishes. I’ll give you the ingredients, and let me know what you can provide. Is this all you have?” She pointed to the whole table.