Page 36 of The Swap After Hours

My shoulders slumped as I let out a sigh. “I’d really been looking forward to seeing some of the places I’ve read about,” I finally admitted. “But it’s fine. Really. It’s not like this was a vacation. It’s a business trip and now that your business is done, of course we should go back home.”

He studied me quietly for several long seconds and I had to force myself not to squirm under the intensity of his gaze. “Thank you for being honest, I appreciate that. As for what you said…I suppose we could stay a little longer.”

I grinned excitedly. “Really? Are you sure? I don’t want to interfere with your work.”

He waved a hand in the air as if none of that mattered. “I’m sure. Any work I need to do, I can do from here and besides, no one’s expecting us back at the office until sometime Thursday anyway.”

“Yes! Thank you so much, Donovan.”

He smiled at my enthusiasm. “Consider it a reward for all your hard work. Plus, this is your first time traveling outside of the United States. I’d be remiss if I didn’t let you indulge in all the history and flavors Paris has to offer.”

Thirty minutes later, we started our impromptu tour at the Louvre Museum. As we walked through its grand halls, I was captivated by the sheer number of masterpieces on display. We stood in front of the Mona Lisa, surrounded by a throng of other tourists.

I leaned over to whisper to him. “It’s smaller than I expected, but it’s still incredible.”

“Yes, most people don’t realize it’s a lot smaller in person. But the history and significance of the painting are what make it truly remarkable.”

We spent a while exploring the museum, taking in the sculptures, paintings, and artifacts from different eras and cultures. Donovan’s knowledge of art and history impressed me, and I found myself learning a lot from him. I also asked a million questions, but he answered them all patiently, never once acting like I was bothering him.

After the Louvre, we strolled along the Seine River, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the riverside. We passed by street vendors selling crepes and souvenirs, and I couldn’t resist trying a freshly made Nutella crepe.

“This is delicious! Paris really knows how to do food.”

“They sure do. There’s a little cafe up ahead that serves some of the best coffee in the city. Let’s take a break there,” he suggested.

We found a table outside the cafe, and Donovan ordered himself a coffee and water for me. We sipped our drinks, enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.

“This is perfect. I can’t believe we’re actually here. Thank you.”

“I should be thanking you. I’m usually here on business at least once or twice a year, but I’m typically in and out fairly quickly. This is the first time in probably six years I’ve taken the time to actually enjoy it. I’d forgotten how beautiful it all is.”

“I couldn’t agree more. It’s good to step back from work once in a while and experience all the things life has to offer.”

He raised his cup in a toast. “To new experiences and great company.”

“To Paris and everything it has to offer.” I felt a flutter of anticipation as I clinked my cup with his, but it had nothing to do with our location and everything to do with the man across from me.

We spent the rest of the afternoon wandering around the city—so I could take a bunch of photos to send to Doug and his family—and talking. Donovan told me stories about the places he’d been, and which ones were his favorite then he asked me where I wanted to go. He seemed genuinely intrigued when I told him about the bucket list, I’d had to create for a college class and all the places I’d said I wanted to visit one day.

Once evening rolled around, we stopped so we could eat and rest for a bit. I was stunned—and maybe just a little turned on—when Donovan ordered our supper, speaking fluent French.

“Where did you learn to speak French?”

He shrugged. “I taught myself. I do a lot of business here and have to know what the clients are saying. Not all of them speak English as well as Mr. DuBois.”

I smiled, shaking my head in awe. “I shouldn’t be surprised. I have yet to discover something you’re not good at.”

He laughed, his perfect full lips stretching over perfectly straight teeth. It really wasn’t fair for one man to own so much perfection, I thought with a sigh.

“How about we visit the Eiffel Tower after dinner? It’s a completely different experience when it’s all lit up.”

“That sounds amazing. I’ve heard it’s magical at night.”

After dinner, we made our way to the Eiffel Tower. As we approached, I could see the tower illuminated against the night sky, its lights twinkling like a thousand stars. The sight was nothing short of breathtaking.

“Wow. It’s even more beautiful than I imagined.”

Donovan grinned excitedly. “Wait until you see the view from the top.”

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