364 Breaking Bread and Barriers

(Winona)

The backyard is alive with laughter and chatter as the grill sizzles away. Jayden stands at the helm, flipping burgers, hot dogs, and skewers of vegetables, while Bobby and the girls dart around, helping where they can.

It’s a beautiful scene—warm, welcoming. The large fire is burning well and there are many gathered around it. Some sitting on the many stumps provided as seats and some just standing near the warmth.

Everyone is smiling and chatting. I’d gotten some of the bottles of rosé from the main house cellar brought down. Not everyone likes beer.

Viktor walks over, holding a beer, his usual stoic expression softened. “I think you’ve won them over,” he says in his deep, accented voice, gesturing toward the staff who are now mingling and laughing, clearly enjoying the meal.

“Bobby has really outdone himself. I never would have expected it of him.”

“Kids can surprise you if you don’t limit them.”

I glance around, taking it all in. The chefs have been cooking alongside Jayd