*Lily*I have been completely absorbed in my art studio within the past few days, devoting myself to my latest collection titled "Divine Energy." The recent circumstances of my experiences have instilled in me an unwavering sense of determination, which I have channeled into my artistry. The result is a series of bold and dynamic pieces, exuding a raw power that I am sure will resonate with anyone who views them. I feel this collection truly represents my artistic vision, and I am excited to share it with the world.As I delved deeper into my artistic process, I was completely consumed by the inspiration flowing through me. Even though I received messages from Rachel, Patrick, and Adam, I made the conscious decision not to respond to any of them at the moment, as I didn't want to disrupt my focus. The only person I briefly conversed with was William, and I must say, I truly appreciated his understanding and respect for knowing I needed to complete my new projects.I was feeling i
*Lily*Today is the day. I still couldn't believe I was going to Paris. I've pinched myself a hundred times to ensure I'm not dreaming. I was still uneasy about not packing more clothes, but William was adamant about taking me on a shopping spree once we arrived in the city. He wanted me to have a new wardrobe to celebrate this new chapter in my life, and I couldn't agree more. As I meticulously packed my suitcase, I couldn't help but daydream about the perfect signature look that would make a statement. Initially, I considered an elegant and timeless style, but my recent artistic endeavors have inspired a more daring and edgy aesthetic. In my mind's eye, I saw myself confidently strutting down the streets of Paris, adorned in a pair of stunning Gucci sunglasses featuring intricate black and pink hearts and exquisite crystals. The sunglasses perfectly complement my dazzling tassel diamond mini dress and iconic Red Bottoms. My ultimate goal was to turn heads and leave a lasting imp
*Wiliam*After exiting the jet, I arranged for a limousine to take us to the Parisian hotel. As we drove through the city, I could sense that Lily was astounded by the breathtaking views. It was a joy watching the excitement in her eyes. I had been to Paris several times before for business meetings, but this time it was special. I had never been with someone I cared deeply for, and this trip carried a more profound sense of purpose and meaning. I had watched Lily overcome insurmountable challenges, and she deserved every new opportunity that was now opening for her. As we approached the city, Lily continued to stare at the skyscrapers and bright lights. Her eyes lit up brighter than the stars shining at night. I chuckled silently as I watched her occasionally gasping and covering her mouth in amazement. "What are you thinking? I have to know." I rested my hand under her chin and gently turned her face toward me. "I don't know whether to laugh or cry. My emotions are all ove
*Lily*The tension between William and me was becoming heated, and I could sense that we were headed for an argument. "William, you planned a full evening of events for us, and now you can't make any of them?" "I'm sorry, Lily. It breaks my heart that I can't go with you right now, but I’ve got to deal with this stuff at work. It can’t wait… I promise I’ll make it up to you." I could tell William was disappointed, but it didn't completely remove my frustration. "Fine. I'll explore a few smaller museums alone while you attend to your work commitments." I proceeded to grab my pocketbook and leave the hotel. "Lily, you can't go out there roaming the streets of Paris without anyone to protect you." He gently grabbed my arm, attempting to prevent me from leaving. "I will be fine, William. I saw a few art galleries on the way in and can walk to them. I'm not going to stay in this hotel all day when we’re in Paris and there’s a whole city waiting to be explored." I close
Chapter 55: Who is Jean? William I felt deflated after talking to Grace on the phone. It was unbelievable that my stakeholders were planning a coup. Despite my anger, I knew I had to focus on other things. I needed to make it up to Lily and had already planned for us to spend time at Le Cinq. The restaurant has excellent food and a luxurious romantic atmosphere that I hope will help me regain her trust.Upon her return to the hotel, Lily approached me with a beaming smile and planted a surprise kiss on my lips. I experienced a sense of relief when she displayed affection towards me and hoped it was an indicator that she had moved past her state of agitation. "Um, are you okay?" Unsure as to why she was now calm. "Yes. I'm fine. I know I was upset earlier, but I decided I will make the best of the trip no matter what. I can only focus on what I have control over." She smiled and walked to her suitcase."I have a wonderful dinner planned for us. You are goi
*Lily*"William, sweetie, did you hear me?" "Huh? Sorry, what did you say?" he looked at me, surprised. "I said, what do you think about checking out a few museums after my interview tomorrow?" William appeared to be preoccupied the whole night. He seemed lost in a daze. Am I boring him? I bet it's Eva; she's probably up to her old antics again. "How's Eva?" I asked, hoping to probe for further information as to whether she's engaged in any recent behavior that may be causing the disengagement. "She's good," he nodded."Just good?" I replied with a sense of intrigue."We actually had brunch a few days ago, and she apologized for her behavior. I’d been meaning to tell you but got caught up with work. It slipped my mind." Despite William's comments about how well things were going with Eva, he still didn't appear enthusiastic, which I was starting to find odd and unlike him.I finished the rest of my dessert and tried getting him to talk again. "Oh, did I tell y
*Lily*The sun pierced through the curtains as the morning approached. I opened my eyes, letting it sink in that my dream was a reality. 'I can't believe I'm waking up in Paris.' I sat up and yawned, noticing that William wasn't beside me. I realized I didn’t wake up when he came to bed and wondered if he ended up sleeping on the couch.After wiping my eyes, I headed to the living room suite, curious whether William was still in the hotel. I searched the living room, guest room, and kitchen but couldn't find him.'Surely, he wouldn't have left without saying anything.' As I prepared to walk to the bedroom, grab my phone and call him, William opened the bathroom and was fully dressed. He wore a champagne-colored Fiore jacket, silk black Armani blouse, and black slacks. 'Damn! Was he being interviewed or me?' I shouldn't have been shocked by his dazzling appearance. William always dressed as if he had just stepped out of GQ magazine. "Well, don't you look handsome
*William*As I waited for Lily to finish her interview, a nagging feeling in my gut was telling me that the individual she had mentioned, Jean, might not be trustworthy. Glancing down at my watch, I noticed that I had a bit of extra time before her interview ended. I needed to learn more about him.Sitting at my desk, I opened my laptop and began searching for information on Jean. Though my initial findings were limited to a few pictures of him outside art galleries across different countries, I didn't let that discourage me. I continued with my search and eventually came across some informative videos of Jean delivering lectures on various artworks within those same galleries. It was clear from the videos that he possessed an impressive knowledge of the art world, but I wasn't going to let that deter my suspicions.I studied him carefully, looking for any signs that would confirm my red flags. I could sense the deceit in his eyes, and I couldn't wait to catch him in a lie. I wou