prologue

P R O L O G U E

My name is Cécile Garnier, and I've just been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I just turned 25 two months ago and my life is supposed to be just beginning.

Doctor Martins had said the cancer is advanced and it's likely that I will have a few months.his words the day he broke that sad news to me still echo in my mind like a death sentence.

I remember the day at his office like it was yesterday. The look on his face, usually calm and welcoming, was lined with concern as he delivered the diagnosis and His gentle tone couldn't mask the gravity of the news.

My mind raced with questions, but my voice was frozen with the sound of my heartbeat echoing in my ears. As Silence enveloped the room, the ticking of the clock became deafening.

I never realized my body was trying to tell me something throughout those times I felt very tired and exhausted. But I kept brushing it off as stress from work. If only I had listened, I would have asked for help sooner Because I have a lot to live for; my parents, my brother Leo, My job and my friend chloe. But It's too late now.

My mom's gentle tone and assuring voice echoed in my mind, I could still vividly remember her words to me “ Don't be angry with life, Cecile, instead use that energy to live each day to the fullest. Don't let the diagnosis take that away from you.”

As I sobbed in my small apartment, the place that was once my sanctuary now felt like a prison, confining me to a life I never wanted. That was when I made up my mind to go to monaco. I've always wanted to visit the city. Besides I've been drawn to Monaco for reasons I don't even fully understand, mom told me that was where I was born. It's only fair if I give myself a one time treat and I long to leave a mark, a memory in the place where my life began.

C H A P T E R O N E

the Art of Beginning Again

C É C I L E G A R N I E R

I stepped into the grand lobby of Hotel Hermitage, one of Monaco's finest.The luxury and lavishness of the decoration took my breath away. I felt like a small fish in a big pond,but in a good way.I couldn't have afforded a place like that if I hadn't been working tirelessly and saving every penny for all these years denying myself so much.

And boy! I'm glad I made this decision, where do I even begin, the ceilings were so high like they aimed for the sky, the chandelier danged effortlessly with its sparkling crystal drops. I couldn't tell if the sofa's were taupe or charcoal gray but they definitely looked soft and silky and the way they were arranged in cozy circles made me want to sink in and just stay there for a while. Very tempting but I had to make my reservations.

I breathe in deeply inhaling the subtle scent of fresh flowers that filled the air, my mind was completely erased of every worry. I just couldn't wait to feed my eyes with what's left of this place.

When I approached the reception desk, The receptionist was warmly exchanging pleasantries with guest while typing away on her computer. The gentle murmur of staff and guests filled the atmosphere.

The receptionist with a warm smile greets me in perfect french

“Bonjour,madame” i said in response trying to sound confident “I would like the most expensive suite, please”

The receptionist looks up at me,her eyes widened slightly in surprise before she smiles graciously

“Of course madame, our most expensive suite is the imperial suite, with a stunning view of the Mediterranean. Shall I prepare the keys for you?

I nod, feeling excited. “ I'll take it”

She smiles back and begins typing away in her computer while I watch her.

without lifting her face she said “ the cost is……

But I quickly interrupt her “I don't care…. just show me how I can make the payment”

“Very well then madame”She nods back. “How long do you plan to stay”

“Uhm, maybe a week” I replied a bit unsure.

“Alright , May I have your card?” She asked with her hands outstretched waiting for my credit card. I reached into my handbag and hands it over to her.

“You'll be assisted with your luggages” she added.

After the payment was made, she handed the key over to me, welcoming me and wishing me a great stay. I felt like royalty while I made my way to the elevator which glided smoothly upwards.

The moment I stepped inside my suite, I Knew I made the right choice.

“This is the second best thing taking my breath away today.” I thought to myself

It was even more breathtaking than I had imagined! The luxury is unmatched. The Mediterranean view was right there in front of me! Fluffy carpet ,elegant furniture and paintings. The living area was cozy and the bedroom magnificent.

I throw myself on the huge king-size bed. Basking myself in its softness and scent . I was starting to get relaxed.

Suddenly, the Telephone rings. Startling me for a moment. I picked it up.

“yes?”

The person on the phone sounded apologetic “this is the hotel management, I apologize for the disturbing ma'am, a very important guest has arrived, demanding for the most expensive suite…apologies again for the inconvenience … he stuttered “But.. we can't refuse him… we will have to move you to another suite… and we'll compensate you..”

“isn't it a bit too early for another bad news” I thought to myself still trying to wrap my head around what the supposed hotel manager was trying to say.

“Wait, just hold on let me get this straight” I shunned him cutting his statement short

“What the fuck Is this supposed to mean? And what the do you mean ‘An important guest’ Is this how the management here operates? I am an important guest just like who ever he is too” I said in a high assertive tone

“I'm sorry for the inconvenience, I agree it's the managements fault as the receptionist would have informed you that the suite was already reserved “ he pleads

“I paid for this suite in full and I will not be moved. Tell him to find another suite,the management should sort it out with him. no one is ruining my vacation ” I said firmly and placed the phone back,feeling triumphant . He must be one of these spoiled rich folks that think they can get whatever they want. But over my dead body was he going to get my suit, the one thing that ever went right in my life and is still keeping that smile on my face.

The phone rings again interrupting my thought and I let out a frustrating sigh as I picked it up.

“What part of I'm not giving my suit up you don't understand?” am I being intimidated because I am a lady” I blurted out sharply

But the manager maintained a calm but shaky voice, I could sense the nervousness in his tone

“ I'm so sorry ma'am, but the gentleman is taking no for an answer,... he is demanding to speak with you.” The manager's voice cracked,

“And why is that?” My eyes narrowed.

“ Tell him am not interested”

“ Ma'am, for your own sake, I'd advise you should just come,he is not a man you would want to disrespect ” The manager's voice was barely above a whisper this time, he sounded very scared. But I didn't care. I hung up still and also became curious

Who was this “important “ guest and why he is so determined to get my suite,why can't he just go for another one” I thought to myself.

Now there was a heavy bang at my Door!

I was initially hesitant to open up. but when I did, a tall, powerful figure strutted In with his head held high, he gazed at me, and gave me a very intimidating stare, there is something about that stare that made my skin prickle. unlike anything I’ve experienced before, except from my boss at work. but I refused to back down. “Was he the important guest that wanted to speak with me?” I thought to myself

“Who are you” I asked firmly.