Page 19 of Pampered in Paris

“I had to bring you a surprise.” He pulls out a textured green box with gold edges. It’s a box of macarons fromLadurée. “They’re so you have a sweet memory of Paris. I know you leave next week.”

“That’s very thoughtful of you, Alexandre.” I open the lid and peek inside. There are twelve macarons of all different colors sitting like colorful easter eggs.

“I want to apologize again for the other night, Anne.” I start to interrupt him but he puts his palm out as a stopping motion. “I shouldn’t have snooped or intervened. I love your passion for trying new things and your zest for life. You have every rightto stay angry at me. I didn’t want to tarnish your vacation or anything. Thank you for joining me for a picnic.”

He hands me a piece of baguette, and I happily accept it. I bite into it. It’s the perfect amount of crispness and softness.

“I appreciate it all, Alexandre,” I reply after a few bites. “How has work been?”

“Busy as usual. I’ve been trying out some new dishes.”

“That’s fun! Anything extra delicious?”

“Nothing that I’d call a winner.” He sips on his wine before leaning back on the blanket. The way the sun hits his hair adds a little glimmer of golden hues to the chocolate color. I want to run my fingers through his hair and kiss him.

“Do you often experiment in the restaurant?”

“Not usually. Normally, I’d try new things out at home and then cook it for François after I’m happy with it. A while back he offered me the role of co-owner and chef for a new place in Spain he’s opening. He’ll be moving with his wife and he’s been bugging me about my decision.”

My throat suddenly feels dry, and I don’t know how to reply. I was going to tell him about me accepting the spot withLe Cordon Bleu, but there’s no point if he’s moving to Spain. We’re both putting ourselves and our goals first. Nothing wrong with that.

Besides, I don’t want him to feel obligated to stay in Paris and miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s exactly what I’m going through. I’ll be moving from Maine to France for my career, not for him.

Though, being with Alexandre is like all the extras on top of a sundae. They make everything better.

“When do you leave?” I ask, hoping he can’t hear the shakiness I feel is present in my voice.

“I haven’t decided if I’m going yet, but if I accept then I would leave sometime over the next few months. I’ll stick around to find a good replacement forLe Petit Poissonbefore I move.”

“Seems reasonable.” We munch on bread and cheese in silence for a little bit as we enjoy the warm summer day together.

We chat for a while as we eat all the snacks and share a couple of the macarons. It’s almost as if neither of us want to face saying goodbye. If the timeline works out the way I think, when I return to Paris, Alexandre will already be gone.

If this is really a goodbye then I want to spend just a little more time together. I’m not sure of his work schedule since he took days off to spend with me.

“Want to get an early dinner with me? Or perhaps a coffee if you have work later?”

“I would love to grab dinner. Let me text François to cover for me. Do you have a place in mind?” He starts texting before I can urge him to not take work off.

Maybe it’s selfish, but even if we don’t get a chance to be together, I still want to be at the forefront of his mind while we’re still in the same city.

“I leave it to you. You’re still my personal tour guide, you know.” I bump his shoulder with mine and I look up into his indigo eyes. His tender gaze suits him. His features are sharp and yet his eyes and smile put you at ease. It’s a lovely combination.

“Mais bien sûr.” He laughs as he stands. He extends his hands to help me up, too. “I’ll always be your guide,mon trésor.” Alexandre squeezes my hands before he lets go.

I want to kiss him.

But I let the moment pass.

Chapter 10

Alexandre

It feelsgood to enjoy the summer day with Anne by my side. It feels even better that she’s continued my bit about being her personal tour guide.

If only we had more time together.

If only she was going to be in Paris for pastry school. I’ve never been interested in long-distance relationships. It’s not an ideal option. I’d prefer to date in person, to be able to touch my lover, to kiss her goodnight and sleep side-by-side. Perhaps Anne and I can continue to get to know each other after she goes home to Maine. We can remain friends and exchange texts, phone calls, and meet up virtually. Something is better than nothing.

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