“That’s what Tom Hanks did in July 2020 after thirty-two years,” the waiter adds.
“Come again?” I ask.
“He and his wife became Greek citizens after visiting the country for over three decades, most frequently coming right here to Antiparos. Hanks’s wife, Rita Wilson, is Greek, so it makes sense.”
“Octopus it is,” I say and the waiter scurries off.
“What does octopus taste like?” Caleb asks.
“Chicken,” I joke. “Everything in the world does pretty much, especially these days.” But then again, that’s not true. There’s just something about being out here in the Aegean eating this Mediterranean diet that cleanses the body and the soul. But I know why I’m really on cloud nine and it’s not just because of the food.
It’s them. My family.
Carter planned out the entire vacation. We’ve been paddle boarding almost every day, riding horses, taking long naps, catching sunsets, and enjoying the most amazing olive oils, bread, yogurts, and gyros I’ve ever tasted.
And just like the pronunciation of ‘gyro’, Carter truly is my hero.
Over the last decade and a half, his firm hand has guided me through so many parts of life, and I’ve come to truly appreciate what it means to have a Daddy. And I know our kids are just as proud of their daddy too, although in a different way of course.
For me, there’s nothing better when you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you can come home and have an older, experienced, man there to listen to your every word without trying to correct or offer solutions right away. Just listen. That’s the kind of experience, wisdom, and emotional intelligence you can’t teach. And speaking of teaching, Carter shares wisdom with our five kids each and every day, guiding them just like he guides me. And when they’re bratty he disciplines them, although in a much different way than he disciplines me when I admittedly get out of line from time to time. Although I won’t admit if it’s intentional or not.
After a cool glass of Greek yogurt underneath the shade of pink and purple bougainvilleas and shadowy eucalyptus trees, we make our way through the narrow cobbled stone alleys and streets, back to our white-washed home for the week, with the sea-blue shutters.
“Why do we ever leave this place?” I ask as I throw myself in his arms.
“Better schools for the kids and all their friends. Plus our foundation,” he reminds me.
“I know, but sometimes I just wish we could stay here forever. It is paradise after all.”
“I’ve been in paradise every day for the last fifteen years of my life,” he quickly adds. My head rises up from his chest and I can’t help but smile. “Because I have you.”
“Even after five kids you still find me attractive.”
“My appetite for you is insatiable,” he says, shutting the door to our room as we both know our kids are already in their rooms and passed out, just like they have been each afternoon after these amazing meals. “But somehow it seems to grow even more so each and every year,” he says, pulling my sarong up and over my head.
“You lie,” I protest, but in all honesty, I’m not about to complain.
“
I’m telling the truth. Woman, knowing that you’ve carried five children in that body turns me on more than you could ever imagine. You’re the matriarch of everything we have, my Athena, and I love you now more than ever. And the only lying that’s going on in this room right now is you on your back, so Daddy can have his way with you…little girl.”
He had to go there, and am I ever glad he did.
“Am I in trouble for accusing Daddy of fibbing?” I say, quickly sliding into the role play that makes our relationship so amazing.
“You’re always in trouble, young lady. Now face down on the bed, ass out. Daddy needs to punish you.”
“But won’t other people hear?”
“We’re going to play the silent game.”
“But how can we be silent if you’re spanking me, Daddy?”
“Who said anything about spanking you. Daddy’s going to put two fingers in your mouth and something thicker and longer into your private place.”
“Daddy!” I fake protest.
“Do as you’re told young lady or Daddy will have to do it himself.”