Chapter 104, Settled
**Mia’s POV**
Paris.
+25 BONUS
The word lingered in my mind like the aftertaste of expensive wine I watched Scarlett’s animated face as she continued outlining her vision for our Paris trip, her hands moving while Morton looked on her.
“We could stay at Le Meurice,” Scarlett was saying, scrolling through something on her phone. “Their suites have the most gorgeous views of Tuileries Garden.”
I pushed my half–eaten salad around the plate, considering the possibility with surprising seriousness.
“I don’t know, Scar. Paris is a long flight for someone who has to pee every twenty minutes,” I said, but my tone lacked conviction.
The truth was, the idea had taken root. I wasn’t too far along yet–Just starting my sixth month. Flying was still safe according to Dr. Matthews, and travel would become increasingly uncomfortable as the twins grew. If I was ever going to see this architecture firm, now might be the perfect window.
“First class has bathrooms,” Scarlett countered immediately. “And we can request the bulkhead seats for extra legroom. Plus, the firm Nate mentioned–Leblanc & Associates, right?-they’re doing exactly the kind of work you’re passionate about.” Iglanced at her, surprised. “You remembered the name?”
Scarlett rolled her eyes. “Please. I’ve been researching them since Nate first mentioned them. Their children’s hospital in Lyon won three international awards last year.”
Morton raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been researching architecture firms?”
“What?” Scarlett shrugged, looking slightly defensive. “I pay attention when it’s important.”
Scarlett can be dramatic sometimes, but she was telling the truth. She cares about me. She’d been paying attention all along, filing away information that mattered to me.
“Thanks, Scar. They are impressive,” I admitted. “And it would be good to make some international connections, even if I don’t take a position there.”
“Exactly!” Scarlett’s excitement amplified. “It’s networking! Professional development! Tax–deductible!”
I couldn’t help laughing. “I’m pretty sure shopping at Chanel isn’t tax–deductible; Scar.”
“Speak for yourself. I’m considering a fashion consulting side business,” she said with a perfectly straight face.
Morton cleared his throat, clearly trying not to smile. “I could arrange meetings with some other firms as well, if you’re interested. The Morton Foundation has connections with several architectural groups working on sustainable public spaces.”
I considered this. My work on the children’s center was nearly complete–another month at most. The timing wasn’t terrible. And maybe a change of scenery would help clear my head of all things recently happened.
“Two weeks,” I said finally. “Maximum. And I’ll need my own hotel room because these two-“I gestured to my stomach, have me up at all hours.”
Scarlett actually clapped. “Yes! This is going to be amazing!”
“Don’t get too excited yet,” I cautioned, half–laughing at her enthusiasm. “I’m bringing a lot of baggage–literal and figurative
-and I move at about half my normal speed these days.”
Scarlett waved dismissively. “I’ll handle everything. You just need to pack and show up.”
“And clear it with my doctor,” I added.
Chapter 104 Settled
+25 BONUS
“She’ll say yes. You’re healthy, the babies are healthy–she’s always telling you to relax more anyway,” Scarlett pointed out. Morton watched our exchange with that slightly bemused expression men often get when confronted with long–standing female friendships. “I’ll have my assistant send over some information about accessibility accommodations,” he offered. “Paris can be challenging with its historic buildings, but most major holes and restaurants have adapted.”
“Always the pragmatist,” Scarlett nudged him affectionately. “That’s why I married you.”
“I thought it was for my family’s yacht,” he replied dryly.
“That was a bonus,” she grinned, leaning over to kiss his cheek.
Lovebirds.
“Alright,” I said, setting down my fork with newfound determination. “Let’s do it. I’ll talk to Dr. Matthews this week.”
Scarlett’s smile was blinding. “My God, how long has it been since we took a trip together? Remember Barcelona after graduation?”
“I remember you convincing me to talk to that bartender, then abandoning me when his very large girlfriend showed up,” I said, unable to keep the laugh from my voice.
“Minor details,” Scarlett waved dismissively. “Paris will be much better. Plus, we’re adults now. Sophisticated, responsible-” “One of us is pregnant with twins,” I reminded her.
“Even better! No one will expect you to do tequila shots!”
It was ridiculous and perfect and so completely Scarlett that I couldn’t help the genuine laughter that bubbled up.
“We should celebrate!” Scarlett was pulling out her phone again. know the perfect place for dinner later this week. Morton, check your calendar–can you do Thursday?”
He was already scrolling through his own phone. “I have that foundation meeting, but I can move it to lunch.”
“Perfect,” Scarlett’s fingers flew over her screen. “Mia, are you free Thursday evening? Say seven–ish? We’ll do Le Ciel. The view is incredible, and they have this chocolate soufflé that’s basically a religious experience.”
“I should be done with my site visit by then,” I said, mentally reviewing my schedule. “Though I might need to go home and change first. Construction sites aren’t exactly haute couture friendly.”
“Just come to our place after your site visit,” Scarlett suggested. “I’ve been looking for an excuse to finally use that fancy guest suite anyway.”
“That’s kind of you-”
“Plus, I’ve picked up some maternity clothes I think you’ll love,” she added with a suspiciously innocent expression.
I narrowed my eyes. “When exactly did you buy me maternity clothes?”
“Here and there,” she shrugged, avoiding eye contact. “I see things.”
“Scarlett.”
“Fine! I may have gone a tiny bit overboard when I heard you were pregnant.” She finally met my gaze, looking only slightly
new you guilty. “But it’s not my fault! They make such cute stuff now, not those horrible tents women used to wear. An wouldn’t treat yourself.”
A surge of affection momentarily overwhelmed me. Trust Scarlett to show her love through aggressive shopping.
“You know I love you, right?” I said simply, reaching across to squeeze her hand.
Her eyes softened. “That’s what best friends are for.”
Chapter 104 Sottled
+25 BONUS
The rest of lunch passed in a blur of travel plans and reminiscing about our last European adventure. By the time Morton paid the bill (smoothly deflecting my attempt to contribute), Scarlett had already texted her travel agent and created a shared document for our itinerary.
“I’ll pick you up Thursday at six–thirty,” Scarlett said as we stood outside the restaurant, waiting for our respective cars. “Wear something comfortable for after your site visit, but bring whatever you need for dinner. I have accessories you can borrow.”
“I can drive myself-”
“Nope,” she cut me off. “Full service begins now. You save your energy for growing those babies and let me handle the rest.”
Morton’s sleek town car pulled up first. He opened the door for Scarlett, then turned to me with a warm smile. “It’ll be good having you join us in Paris. Maybe you can keep her from buying another suitcase worth of scarves.”
“No way!” Scarlett protested from inside the car.
I laughed as my own car arrived. “I make no promises. My impulse control around French pastries is basically non–existent.”
“That’s what pregnancy is for,” Scarlett called out. “Guilt–free eating!”
As my driver pulled away, I checked my phone. Three missed calls from my lawyer–probably updates about Taylor’s case. One text from Mom asking if I wanted salmon or chicken for dinner.
Nothing from Kyle.
Good.
