Every Wednesday and Sunday was market day in the city of Carbon, the pasta capital of France. During market day, farmers near the city, with artisans, bakers, and artists, bring their produce and wares to the market square to sell.Tourists flock around the stalls snapping pictures and buying souvenirs, but to the locals, it was a way of life. It is where they get their fresh and organic groceries.Until recently, Regina had only passed by the market. She was living alone, and buying produce usually meant they were spoiled even before she could consume them.Regina was not an excellent cook, so thinking of a recipe took forever. If she dropped by the market, she bought bread, cheese, and pastries, things that were ready to eat and easy to prepare.But today would be different, as she was shopping with the ladies from the nursing home. A few able-bodied individuals would come to the market so they could plan their meals, and the excitement of the people around the square rubbed off on

Jason told the ladies he was in town to join his best friend in learning more about handmade pasta and preparing authentic sauces from the different regions in France. He was thinking of opening an Italian restaurant or adding some pasta dishes to the cafe menu so they could serve lunch. But, of course, since Jason learned Regina was on vacation, he thought it would be the perfect opportunity for them to get together. He did not expect to see Regina the first week he arrived, and it was pure coincidence, but he was happy about the outcome. Now that they were alone, Regina felt awkward being with Jason. She knew nothing about the man in her current state and was apprehensive that she was leading him to her apartment. “I’m sorry if I was too forward by inserting myself into your schedule with the women from the home care,” Jason said when he noticed Regina grew quiet on their walk home. “I didn’t think we’d have another chance to see each other if I let this opportunity pass.” “It’

Jason took control of Regina’s kitchen, and she realized there was nothing to be nervous about because all her anxiety had been in her head. She’d never felt comfortable in the kitchen, but with Jason showing her the ropes, she felt more at ease. It made her think that having a boyfriend who can cook would be a plus in a relationship. Jason taught her chopping skills while they waited for the pasta to dry. They diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped basil for the sauce. Regina had never worked so hard for a meal in her life, but she felt satisfied that they were eating something she helped make. Regina thought following recipes was manageable, as long as it stated how much she needed of each ingredient. Grilling, baking, or sauteing meat was easy enough for her to handle, but she was not too confident with sauces. She felt they were always much more complex, and tasting the food constantly made her lose her appetite. After dinner, the couple sat on the couch close together, drink

“I’ll make some tea,” she replied and got her top from the floor. “I think the caretaker hates me or something.” He whispered as he grabbed her waist from behind and kissed her neck. “Don’t be absurd. He’s a very nice guy. Caelan makes me feel like I have a burly uncle watching out for me.” “This is the second time he’s interrupted us.” Regina smiled. “You can stay over after he leaves.” She turns her head toward him and angles her head. “I have your package, Ms. Albright.” Caelan interrupted, before Jason could kiss Regina again. “Wow, that is a big box.” Her eyes grew wide at the box that was almost as tall as she was. “Thanks for bringing it up. Would you like to have some tea?” She offered for his efforts. “No, thank you,” Caelan glared at Jason when he heard him release a sigh of relief. “Check your messages. I think the sender said something about a phone call.” And just when the door closed, her phone rang. “Mrs. Bennet, it’s nice hearing from you. Yes, I got your packa

“Raffy! Maggie! And oh my gosh, my little man, Marcus! Look how you’ve grown. I missed you so much. Thank you for all the letters you sent me.”Regina hugged each family member tightly and invited them to her apartment, as she still had packing to do.Over the last few months, she had accumulated more clothes and accessories, as she loved buying trinkets and sale-priced items at the street markets. So it was hard for her to decide what to wear.“Aunt Reggie, I like your other place better because you have a pool.”“I know, babe. I miss having a pool, too. Don’t worry, we’ll learn how to swim again.” Regina shook her head. She knew Marcus was afraid of the water, but didn’t remember teaching him how to swim, so she was confused by her statement.“Your apartment looks better than when we got it,” Maggie commented as she turned on the TV for Marcus.Regina beamed. “Yeah, I decorated a little. Do you like it?”“I do. Maybe you should decorate the condo the same way. Are you bringing home