Page 269 of The Heart You Kept

“Thank you.” We climb out of the car and he takes my hand in his, the front doors open and an elderly man in a gray suit is standing there with a folder in his hands. “Good afternoon, Edward.” He smiles.

“Hello, Marcel.” They shake hands. “This is my partner, Alora Sorenson.”

Gah, that will never get old.

“Hello, nice to meet you.” I smile as I shake his hand.

“So here we are.” Marcel gestures to the house as he leads us inside. “Welcome to one of the most prestigious and breathtaking properties in Monte Carlo.”

Jeez.

My eyes rise to the three-story-high ceilings….

“There isn’t a doubt that this mansion is the ultimate expression of elegance, sophistication, and exclusivity,” he continues as we walk through the living area, the back wall is giant arched windows with the most beautiful view. I stare at it, mesmerized, as Marcel carries on talking. “Architectural masterpiece offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, world-class amenities, this spectacular estate seamlessly blends classic European elegance with modern luxury.”

Edward squeezes my hand in his, he likes it.

It’s classically French but with a romantic grandeur. Large archways and windows, molded cornices, and super-high ceilings with low-hanging giant chandeliers.

I look around with my heart in my throat, I’ve never been in such a beautiful house.

Marcel continues his sales spiel. “Featuring high ceilings, grand arched windows, intricate detailing, and the finest materials, every corner of this mansion radiates opulence. The spacious open-plan living areas, designer chandeliers and premium finishes make this home an unparalleled work of art.”

As we walk through the home, each room gets better than the last. Up the grand staircase to a beautiful master bedroom with its own terrace. The lights of Monaco are just beginning to twinkle. It has a view of the city that meets the sea, the ocean a deep blue, the sky is a beautiful shade of pink and I wonder if Mother Nature has joined the sales team.

I stand on the terrace and stare out over beauty.

“She sure is putting on a show tonight.” Edward smiles as he kisses my temple.

“She is.” I smile.

We walk back downstairs and through the large arched door that leads to outside and I don’t know where to look first.

“Unrivalled outdoor spaces set against the backdrop of Monaco’s stunning coastline, the mansion boasts expansive terraces, lush gardens, and an infinity pool that appears to merge with the sea. A large vegetable garden. The perfectly designed outdoor entertainment areas, with comfortable lounge spaces and al fresco dining setups, make this the ideal retreat for relaxation or lavish gatherings.”

Oh….

My eyes meet Edward’s and he smiles as if reading my mind.

“This is luxury at its finest.” Marcel holds his hands out to the surroundings. “World-class amenities. This Monte Carlo estate comes equipped with everything you need for an elite lifestyle, including an infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean. Private cinema room for the ultimate movie experience, a state-of-the-art wellness and spa center. A high-end gourmet kitchen with premium appliances. Sophisticated wine cellar, a grand master suite with a private terrace. Multiple luxury guest suites for friends and family. High-tech security system and smart home automation.”

“How much?” Edward cuts him off.

“The price is €100,000,000 and is a complete steal, featuring six bedrooms, an infinity pool, a private spa, cinema room, wine cellar, breathtaking terraces, staff quarters and a security watch house.”

“One hundred million?” I gasp, wide-eyed. “That’s….”

“I’ll give you some privacy, I’ll be inside.”

Edward turns me toward him and takes my hands in his.

“Do you like it?” Edward asks.

“That’s too much money,” I whisper.

“Do. You like it?”

My eyes roam over the infinity pool, the gardens and grassed area. I thought inside was magical, but the outside has blown my mind. “This is the vegetable garden of my dreams.”