Diego’s leaving party

From the Modern Pantry I walked towards Diego’s flat on St-John’s street.

On his roof-terrace, we danced, with a view of London at night, with different people from different countries.

Ally the pastry chef is from Colorado. She was so drunk she told me the story of her blind date with one of the chefs of The Zetter three times, surely more to others, which was ok since she narrates with art. I like her. She seems to come out of a teenage American movie, playing one of these cool and non-popular teens.

On the roof-terrace we danced till the sky took tones of grey and blue. I wrote a word on the paint, which was already covered with red letters from people who knew Diego in London.

Diego’s girlfriend, Margaret, put me in Diego’s bed, next to Louis the bartender who was already snoring, so I could get some sleep before going to Sunday Brunch at 9.00. My manager Zoe wished me a good night. I asked our head Chef to remove my make-up, benefitting from this odd non-hierarchical time – I had just slapped his bump under my manager and my colleague’s eyes - but he still refused. He is very proud.

I felt warmed during my disturbed sleep. From Diego’s bed I could catch pieces of conversation, feel the sunlights waking up London and the music still playing on the roof. In my sleep I heard someone say: “I love Gabi!” and I thought it was Drew. Later, Diego covered my feet with a blanket.

In my sleep I could surprise an argument between Diego and Margaret, apologizes, words of love, words of life. A scene of a great movie we would like to be part of. 

Margaret woke me up three hours later for work and sent me to the shower. When I came back to the bedroom, Diego was comforting Lizzy who was in tears. He made sure I would do the same before leaving us.

I realized I didn’t know how deep and rich was Diego. I felt very sad to understand that I would probably never know him more. I think Diego is a beautiful and intelligent person, opened to his feelings, very sensitive to every human being. I’ve always seen him understanding, enjoying life and welcoming people. I’ve seen loads of books, movies and music in his room. I know I will always remember Diego and will always hope to meet him again.

I don’t know if it is Europe or if it is because I hang out with older people, but I happen to meet deep people with great values much more than before. Respectful, passionate, delicate, intelligent, sensitive people.