1. Romance in Paris

Transcript

Julie opened the door to her new home in Paris, in the Montmartre district known for Sacre-Coeur, Moulin Rouge, Picasso… a dream for a young literature student. The room was tiny, but had high ceilings and beautiful stucco, and there was even a working fireplace and a small kitchenette. Julie felt free and adventurous.

She dropped her suitcase quickly and threw herself on the mattress that was directly on the floor. She loved the simplicity and the frugal French elegance. Some supplies, flowers and candles needed to be purchased, so unpacking had to wait.

She was eager to explore Paris. Her phone rang. It was Monica.

She wanted to meet her at the bar of the famous Georges V Hotel on Avenue Georges, or more accurately, she wanted to meet Julie at the bar. Julie had known Monica since they were kids. She spread joy wherever she went.

High cheekbones and mile-long legs had led to a successful modeling career, and she had lived in Paris for several years. Fifteen minutes later, Julie was in an Uber wearing a black, tight-fitting dress and black pumps from Louboutin, last year's Christmas present from Monica. Her black, shiny hair was in a loose knot, and her lips were painted in Tom Ford's Jasmine Rouge.

Having a best friend with access to high-end clothing and makeup had its perks. Soon she arrived, stepping into the grand lobby of Georges V Four Seasons. The lobby was filled with red roses and beautiful arrangements.

It smelled of elegance and flowers. This was a piece of art, and she couldn't resist taking some photos when she heard a voice behind her. I can take a picture of you, if you like.

She looked up and saw a well-dressed, handsome man. Elegant and sexy. A man who oozed confidence.

Yes, thank you. The man smiled, took her phone, and snapped a few photos of her in front of the roses. He handed her back her phone and reached out a hand for an introduction.

I'm Luke. Julie. She smiled warmly at him as their hands met.

His handshake was firm and his hand strong, but smooth against hers. Julie shivered a little in attraction. Nice to meet you, Luke.

Adieu, Julie. She then turned and walked to the bar. She could feel him looking at her as she left.

She went into the bar and there was Monica. Her face lit up and she threw herself at Julie, hugged her and kissed her on both cheeks. They sat down and admired Monica's style.

She had cut her long blonde hair into a stylish bob that made her cheekbones even more prominent. She was wearing a short skirt, a knitted sweater with a bare back, and slouchy, silhouette, high-heeled boots on bare legs. They talked and laughed and ordered drinks as delicious as they were beautiful.

After catching up for an hour, they decided to head out for the evening. Why stop now and go home when they could dance all night long? On their way to the Uber, she spotted Luke, the man from the lobby.

God, he was good-looking. Chestnut brown hair, broad shoulders, tall, and his green eyes were so seductive that her knees went weak. Luke saw her too and came over.

Monica and Luke started speaking French to each other and suddenly they all sat in an Uber together. They arrived at Matignon and went inside. Luke ordered champagne for the table.

Monica, who seemed to know everyone, disappeared into the crowd, but Luke stayed with Julie. They talked a bit, but the atmosphere between them was so intense that words were no longer important. Besides, the music was too loud to make conversation.

Luke leant forward to put his arm around her waist and slowly pulled her towards him. His lips touched hers and then he stepped back. They looked at each other for a second and then threw themselves into a passionate kiss.

At this point, time and space stood still. The man could kiss. Really kiss.

She felt aroused and her stomach was dancing with butterflies. She wanted more. Then she remembered she was in a club and she barely knew this man, so she pulled away.

Luke smiled warmly at her and ordered another round of champagne. They danced and kissed a bit more, but kept things light until it was time to go home. Monica convinced her to stay at her place as it was close by.

Outside the club, Luke offered them a ride in his Uber. As the Uber arrived at Monica's place, he kissed Julie lightly on the mouth. I hope I see you again.

She was slightly disappointed as she saw the car speed off with Luke. He didn't ask for her number. Would she see him again?