Page 121 of Babies at Coconuts

Chapter 85

After they ate breakfast, Cheri, Julio, and Victoria strolled the bustling, charming streets of Paris filled with florists, bakeries, cafés, and art galleries. The streets seemed alive with Parisians and tourists.

Stopping at a shop, Cheri admired nearly every bottle of French wine and sampled various cheeses. Next door, she and Victoria window shopped at a chocolatier while Julio spoke with a butcher across the street. Speaking with the chocolatier, Cheri gave her a business card and assured her she’d be ordering the chocolate delicacies for future clients.

Cheri reached for her mom’s hand. “Parisians are so fashionable and fun. I love it here. I can see why you and Daddy have stayed so long.”

“Darling, nothing compares. It’s no wonder Paris is the world’s top travel destination. Don’t get me wrong. I still love New York City but Paris is next to perfect.”

Cheri noticed a faraway look in her mother’s eyes. “Something tells me you miss Manhattan.”

Victoria shrugged. “I suppose. I miss my friends.”

“Invite them here.”

“I have. Some have flown over. They always enjoy seeing the sculptures at the Rodin or going to the Louvre. Personally, I’d rather shop, have lunch, and sip wine at a sidewalk bistro.”

“Then let’s do that right after we go to the Eiffel Tower.”

Victoria rolled her eyes. “The tourists.”

“It’ll be fun. I haven’t seen the Eiffel Tower in ages.” Cheri motioned for Julio. The threesome eventually made their way past throngs of people who had gathered around the historic monument, taking photo after photo, mostly selfies.

Julio scanned the crowd and ridiculous lines. “Bad idea. Want to go to the Moulin Rouge again?”

“No,” Cheri and Victoria both said.

Victoria winked. “One risqué show per week is my limit.”

Julio shrugged. “How about a beach? There’s a beautiful topless beach in Nice. Let’s go there tomorrow.”

Cheri knew that was her opening. “Why don’t you go to the topless beach? I’ve been there, done that. Mom and I can shop and chat since we haven’t seen one another in forever. I hope you understand.”

“Certainly.” Julio grinned. “Besides, I’m not into shopping.”

“And I’ve seen enough topless women to last a lifetime.” Cheri giggled. “Thanks for understanding.” Victoria brightened. “I know just the place. There’s a lovely new boutique by an up-and-coming French fashion designer named Gigi. Her shop is called Gigi’s Couture. I’m trying to help her make a name for herself. She’s charming and extremely talented. I’ve introduced all of my society friends to her. Everyone loves her style. I know you will too.”

“Sounds perfect, Mom.” Cheri yawned. “Can we go back to the house? I’m suddenly exhausted.” The earring discovery still nagged at her but she wasn’t about to bring it up after her mother’s reaction. She decided to file it away. Maybe the earring is perfectly innocent. Maybe not.

~ ~ ~

The next morning, Cheri’s mother gave the chauffeur the address to the boutique. Julio had taken a train to Nice where he said he’d spend the day at the beach. Glad to finally be alone with her mother, Cheri wondered how much she should pry.

After the driver pulled up in front of Gigi’s Couture, Cheri remarked about the gorgeous stain-glass doorway.

“Gigi has remarkable taste. You’ll love her.” Victoria leaned back inside the limo and instructed the driver to pick them up in three hours. Obviously already feeling like herself again, She placed her hand on Cheri’s back and ushered her inside.

As a bell jangled, the stylish designer, Gigi, met them with a big smile and two glasses of Bordeaux. “Bonjour.” Gigi air kissed Victoria’s cheek.

Simultaneously reaching for the red French wine and returning the air kiss, Victoria said, “Thank you, darling. This is just what I needed. I’ll have another in ten minutes.”

“Oui. Of course.” The petite brunette practically curtsied. “I always keep your favorite wine stocked.” She glanced at Cheri. “This must be your daughter. I see the resemblance. Such beautiful women. You almost look like sisters.”

Knowing that was the quickest way to get on her mom’s good side—or inside her wallet—Cheri studied the designer. With a dark chin-length bob and short bangs, the clothier appeared youthful. Cheri couldn’t decide if Gigi was her age or younger. Admiring anyone who worked hard to make a name for herself, she extended her hand. “Mom has gushed about your designs. I can’t wait to see your collection.”

Gigi gave a nod. “Merci, Mrs. Van Buren.”

Putting a hand on her hip, Cheri’s mother said, “I’ve told you a hundred times to call me Victoria. That moniker makes me feel old.”

---