He could make it until then.
He had to.
Because love was worth fighting for.
Even across an ocean.
Especially across an ocean.
Jake took a breath, opened his email, and started writing.
Dear Lucy,
Day one. You've been gone for three hours and I already miss you. But I'm also so proud of you for being brave enough to do this. Paris is lucky to have you...
He wrote until his alarm reminded him about afternoon practice.
Then Jake Morrison got dressed, drove to the rink, and started living the life he'd chosen.
Without Lucy. But not without love.
Never without love.
That would have to be enough.
For now.
Chapter 14
Paris was overwhelming.
Lucy's tiny studio apartment in the Marais was charming in photos but claustrophobic in reality. The shower was the size of a phone booth. The kitchen consisted of a hot plate and a mini-fridge. The bed folded down from the wall and took up the entire living space when deployed.
But the view—the view made it worth it. From her fourth-floor window, Lucy could see the rooftops of Paris, the distant Eiffel Tower lit up at night, the narrow streets below full of bakeries and cafes and life.
Her first week was a blur of jet lag and logistics. Setting up her phone for international service. Finding the nearest grocery store (an absolutely overwhelming experience with all the French labels). Learning the metro system. Buying basics like sheets and towels and dish soap.
She texted Jake constantly.
Lucy:The toilet and shower are in separate rooms. This is so weird.
Jake:That's a French thing. Supposedly more efficient?
Lucy:It's inefficient. I have to walk to a different room to pee while showering.
Jake:First world problems.
Lucy:I miss you.
Jake:Miss you too. How's the apartment otherwise?
Lucy:Small. But the view is incredible. I'll send photos.
Jake:Can't wait to see it. It's 2 AM here. I should sleep.
Lucy:Sorry! I keep forgetting the time difference.
Jake:Don't apologize. I like hearing from you. Even at 2 AM.
