Page 70 of Reeling in Love

“You told us what you and Gabriel had decided. But is that still true? I noticed the way you spoke about him. The charged air around you both when you looked at each other. Be honest, are you both still just friends?”

“Even if what you say is true, which it isn’t. But even if it is, I can’t act on it. I’ve spoiled everything now, maybe even our friendship, by accusing his mom of bribing Kevin. So that’s the icing on the cake of my beautiful mess. And the cherry is me not believing in love. You know that. So I’m never chasing anyone for love, let alone Gabs.”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying. It’s not always about chasing something or someone, Nora. Sometimes it’s just about opening your eyes to see what you have and realize that what you want and need has been right there, in front of you, all along. Take a chance at what your heart says, for once. Don’t be me. Don’t be scared. Please.”

“I don’t know what you’re saying. But right now, I need to deal with the mess that I’ve put myself and Gabs in.”

“It’s just a rumor on social media. Treat it like that. No one remembers yesterday’s posts about someone by a third person. No one cares. It’s your life. Always remember that. You live for yourself, your family, and friends, not for the digital image you portray. Live in reality, Nora. In the real world, everyone will forget about this in a day or two. Take care and think about what I said.”

She hangs up, and as I slowly slip the phone back into my purse, I hear a light chuckle. Turning my head, I see the old woman smiling.

“Oh, to be young and in love.”

“I’m not in love,” I growl.

“I’m sorry, but I couldn’t help overhearing. The way you spoke about your man, is it Gabs? I’m sure you’re in love, my child. Bless you and bless him. I hope you find the courage to accept it and act on it. This is Paris, the city of love, after all.”

She stands up and walks toward an approaching man, as old as her, with their skin all wrinkled and hair all silvered. He gives her a rose, then kisses her lightly on the lips, before she slips her hand into his. He coughs and she immediately hands him a handkerchief she’s carrying. They lock eyes, and even from a distance, I can sense their unspoken love. She turns her head and gives me a wink before walking away.

I find myself smiling at the beauty of what I just encountered. Maybe, just maybe, true love exists. Perhaps it’s not all rosy, but with a partner by your side, the journey becomes easier. But not everyone is meant to experience this beautiful feeling. Some, like me, are broken from within.

For now, I somehow need to sort everything out and see how to shut TruthSeekerBob. I can think about the rest later.

Chapter 30

Gabriel: #TruthWillSetYouFree

You want to see the epitome of foolishness? Come find me.

What was I thinking? First yelling at her and then kissing her when she was so upset. Jesus! Way to fuck everything up. And now she doesn’t want me to be near her. How could I blame her for everything? I mean, I was a party to that entire plan. I could’ve stopped it anytime I wanted, but I didn’t. And when things went south, I blamed her. What a gentleman!

I’m seriously the worst. Maybe Nora doesn’t deserve someone like me. I’m better in the background of her life. Look what a few weeks at the forefront have done. I’ve messed up the one thing I’ve treasured my whole life. Who cares about this stupid TruthSeekerBob? Everyone knows he gossips. Things die down after a few days. But what I’ve done is far worse. I made a dent in our friendship. Shit!

My phone rings. Is it Nora?

I grab it from the bed, where I’d thrown it earlier. Sophia! Now what does she want? Probably wants to rail about Nora again. Ugh! I let it ring. She calls again. I guess I have to pick it up or she won’t stop calling.

“Hey, Sophia.”

“Hi. Is Nora also with you?”

“No. She’s… gone out for a walk.”

“Okay. Come over to my office once she’s back. I might have something for you.”

“What’s this about?”

“I have a guy. You may call him a private eye if you like. He’s found something and is coming over to my office right now. It’s about TruthSeekerBob and the proof he claims to have. I’m getting into a meeting now. Let me know when you’ll reach. I’m usually in the office till around nine.”

She hangs up, and I glance at my watch. It’s seven o’clock. Her office is barely fifteen minutes from the hotel. What could she have on the stupid guy?

I call up Nora. She doesn’t pick up, so I send her a text. “Come back asap. Might have some information on TruthSeekerBob.”

She calls back in a few minutes. “Sorry, it was too noisy. I didn’t hear the phone ringing. I’m almost there. What have you found out?”

Thankfully, she seems okay. Her tone is normal, not furious or upset. A little toned down, but at least not angry.

“I don’t know the details. I’ll explain when you’re here.”

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