The title of the short, "Ciao, Alberto," has more than one meaning. "Ciao" can mean either "hello" or "goodbye" in Italian, but also can serve as the end of a letter to someone. The title can refer to the ending of the message letter from Alberto to Luca about how he's doing in Portorosso. However, it could also be symbolic of Alberto later trying to run away from Massimo because of his insecurities - in other words, "goodbye, Alberto." This phrase could also refer to when Alberto's father left him. On a more uplifting note, it could also mean a new beginning for Alberto living with his new family and being welcomed wholeheartedly by Massimo after their communication problems: "hello, Alberto!"
Why is Massimo so awkward around Alberto? Aside from just being a quiet man, he's also alone quite often (save for Machiavelli's company) because Giulia lives with her mother for the entire school year, and she primarily visits him during the summer. He's likely not used to having much company during that time of year, especially not of someone as talkative as Alberto.
