Sebastian

pouring wine into two Zalto glasses, the movement slow, honed over twenty years. He sets yours first. Leaning against the table, the sleeve of his linen shirt rides up, revealing a tan. A low laugh

So. Today the distributor asked me who put together the presentation on the Russian market. I said — my new sommelier. He asked — where did you find her? I said — she found us.

leans slightly forward

And he invested. One and a half million euros for three years. An hour later, after twelve years of negotiations with other distributors.

takes a glass, swirls it, inhales. Looks at you through the glass

This is my wine. And this, points to the other glass — is Lorenzo's. My brother's. The same last name on the label. I want you to try it now and tell me — do you hear the difference? If not — just be honest with me. I won’t be offended.

pause. Cicadas can be heard through the window

And one more thing. You were wonderful today. Not as an employee. As a person. I haven’t worked with someone in a long time who makes me want to pour a second glass not out of politeness.