‘You?’ Cassie said, shock clear in her voice. ‘How could anyone ever callyoua nightmare? You’re a sweetheart.’
‘Merci. She was not happy because she is my mother’s best friend.’
‘Noooo!’ Cassie gasped. ‘That’s wild!’
I told them everything, including how well I remembered us getting on before and explained that I was waiting to find out whether she was staying.
‘There is still hope,’ Nico said. ‘You have the briefing now?’
‘Oui.’
‘If she is as smart as you say, I am sure she will be there.’
‘I hope so.’
‘Keep us posted!’ Cassie added. ‘I’m sooo excited to find out what happens. We’re rooting for you, Gabe!’
‘I appreciate that.’ My heart swelled. They were such supportive friends. ‘Would you like me to tell you more about the hotel and my observations so far? I can prepare a report if you wish.’
‘A report will not be necessary,’ Nico said. ‘You can tell me more when we next meet. In the meantime, just focus on enjoying yourself. Remember, open heart and mind.’
‘D’accord. Have a good meeting.’
‘Merci.’ Nico hung up.
I strode out of the door and up to the rooftop.
It was impressive. As well as the breathtaking city views, which of course included La Tour Eiffel, the outdoor space was like an oasis of calm in the heart of Paris.
An abundance of olive and fig trees and colourful plants were strategically placed around the dark wood decking to make it feel like a beautiful Mediterranean garden, without obscuring the views.
There was a flower wall with aLove Hotel Parislogo which I imagined was created for couples who wanted to pose for selfies and a flower arch which led to a cocktail bar.
Dozens of red-and-white-striped sun loungers were perfectly positioned to enable guests to enjoy the views of the Parisian skyline, along with comfortable-looking sofas and daybeds with red cushions which looked ideal for relaxing on after a long day of sightseeing.
After finding an empty sun lounger, I sat down. Minutes later, Claude and three other staff members appeared at the front. Looked like the briefing was about to start and Laila still was not here.
She was not coming.
My stomach sank like a stone.
I was so disappointed.
‘Bonjour!’ Claude stood in front of the group. ‘I have of course met you all already, but just in case you have forgotten, my name is Claude and I am your Love Alchemist.’
‘Sorry!’ a familiar voice called out. When I turned around, I saw Laila rushing towards the gathering of guests.
A wide grin broke out on my face and happiness flooded my chest.
She stayed.
Oh là là.
Laila was wearing a colourful pink and yellow knee-length dress with gold sandals and she looked absolutely breathtaking.
‘Welcome!’ Claude ushered her in. ‘Take a seat. We have just started.’
I was about to pat the space beside me, but just because she was staying, it did not mean that she wanted to sit close to me.
