As January drew to a close, the first month of the year proved to be a remarkable one. The highlight of the trip, and perhaps the most significant event in Grey's life since his divorce from Christina, was his chance encounter with Carmen. The end of January marked the official start of their tour, but Gray's growing feelings for Carmen promised to transform the journey into a fantasy fueled by her undeniable beauty.
The weather was ideal for a private jet flight as Gray took off for Paris with Carmen. The sky was calm, and the setting sun painted the clouds in vibrant hues. Gray had entrusted Jane with managing the company, recognizing her as his most valuable employee after his wife. However, their destination and purpose remained a mystery to everyone.
Paris, France
After a couple of hours of peaceful flight, Carmen's head gently rested on her arm as she drifted off to sleep. While he noticed her slumber, Grey didn't have the heart to disturb her tranquility. A warm smile crept across his face as he watched her sleep.
How was your in-flight nap, Carmen?" Grey asked, as she woke up.
"Quite better than any other sleep on a plane," she replied, and they both laughed.
"So, guess what? We've arrived in the glamorous Paris," Grey announced in a French accent. Carmen looked out the window. "Oh my God, we actually landed!" she exclaimed, surprised to realize she was truly there.
Grey smiled to himself as Carmen gazed out the window. "You're happy now," he said.
"Are you kidding? This has always been my dream. I can't believe it's a reality," she replied, her eyes still fixed on the view outside.
Their ride had already arrived as they stepped out of the plane, it was a thrilling moment for both of them, Carmen was very excited, she could no longer control her excitement, Carmen's affection was infectious to Grey and he loved her openness.
"So, where do we go first?" Carmen asked as they stepped into the car, a ride that Grey had arranged for the two of them.
"Well, you're stubborn, aren't you?" Grey teased, smiling at Carmen. "We've just arrived and haven't got a place to stay yet."
"You'll have to excuse me. I just don't know where this excitement is coming from," she replied, her hand held gently by Grey.
"I know you're a bit too excited, but the fun hasn't begun yet. We've got a five-star hotel to catch first and get some rest. Then we can proceed," Grey explained, his infectious smile causing Carmen's heart to flutter. Her expression conveyed her excitement, and she couldn't help but wonder when Grey had found the time to organize everything.
The car pulled up to the Peninsula Hotel Paris. As they entered, the elegant white walls and the fading light cast a spell over Carmen. She seemed entranced by the building's beauty. The stunningly colorful ceiling paintings and the ornate chandeliers transported her to a dreamlike state.
"Bien venue Madame!!", the receptionist woke her from the day dream, she was actually lost by then, "comment puis-je t'aider", she said
Carmen couldn't get anything, she knew not even a word in French,
"I'm sorry Madam but we don't speak or understand a word in French", she said as she looked at Grey, he was also lost,
"Well, you're in luck. I speak English as well," the lady said with a warm smile.
"Phew, lucky us then," Carmen replied, returning the smile. "I'm Carmen. Nice to meet you." She shook hands with the receptionist.
"I'm Juliet. Nice to meet you too," Juliet replied.
"Oh, Juliet. So, Romeo is somewhere around here, right? It's you, isn't it?" Carmen joked, pointing at the other male receptionist. Everyone laughed at her playful banter. She was feeling incredibly open and friendly with everyone around her, and Grey could do nothing but watch her with a smile.
"Anyway, how can I help you?" Juliet asked.
"Oh, almost forgot. I'm Grey Garcia, and I booked two rooms about a week ago," Grey said.
"Oh , almost forgot, I'm Grey Garcia, and I booked two rooms about a week ago",
"yes, Mr Grey, I recognize you, so Philippe here will take your bags to your respective rooms, thanks for choosing peninsula, enjoy your stay", Juliet said with a smile as Philippe lead their way.
Carmen's eyes darted around the hotel, unable to resist the urge to explore every detail. Each corner of the hotel was a feast for the senses. When they reached their reserved rooms, which were conveniently situated opposite each other, Gray stood facing Carmen as Philippe placed their luggage inside.
"So fell at home Carmen, have fun but not too much, you don't want to spoil your excitement, for tomorrow will be even better", Grey said as he looked into Carmen's eyes,
"I will, guess I'm a bit tired as well, I'll save my excitement for tomorrow", she said with a smile,
"All done monsieur Grey", Philippe said as he came out of Carmen's room,
Carmen's gaze lingered on Grey, her excitement almost overwhelming. The urge to embrace him was strong, but she hesitated as Philippe remained nearby. "Good night, Grey," she said softly, her voice barely audible as she retreated to her room. A sense of anticipation hung in the air, leaving Gray wondering what the night would hold.
"See you", Grey said as he watched Carmen enter her room,
"ahem", Philippe cleared his throat to have Grey's attention,
I apologize for getting carried away," Grey said to Philippe. "This is for your excellent service." He handed the butler a generous tip and then retired to his room, his mind still occupied by Carmen. He pondered the length of their trip, wondering if it was time to make a more permanent commitment and pursue a future with her. The desire to love and be loved deeply once again was a powerful force driving him forward.
Grey awoke early, as was his custom. However, his usual routine was disrupted by the absence of work. He immediately called for room service, assuming that Carmen was also awake.
He called Carmen as soon as their breakfast was delivered, Carmen smiled to herself as she looked at her phone and found that it was Grey calling her.
"Hey," she said, picking up her phone with a smile.
"Hello, Carmen," Grey replied. "How's your morning been?"
"Marvelous. Guess I have the same excitement as you do for today," she said, laughing.
"Oh, I nearly forgot about that, actually. The night seemed like normal nights, but it all changed as I woke up finding myself in such a fancy room and the Paris sunlight shining through the window," Carmen continued.
"Well, that's amazing. It was hard for me. I'm not used to oversleeping, and I guess you're not used to it as well," Grey said.
"so enjoying your French breakfast Carmen",
"delightful, nothing like it for real, these croissants taste the same but in a different place so, it's better , thanks for the trip again Grey", she said with a smile,
"you're welcome anyway you just reminded me of something, I was about to ask you where you would like to go for the first day",
"let's see", Carmen said as she sipped her coffee, "I'm out choices actually, I feel like anywhere could be amazing", she laughed,
"I have no choice as well, so let's visit amazing places we feel like going to, right?" Grey laughed. "Okay then, Carmen. See you in about twenty minutes," he said, glancing at his 24k gold Rolex and ending the call.
Grey was surprised to find Carmen standing outside when he stepped out of his room. "Well, you're fast. I thought I'd have to call you again," he said.
"I guess my excitement just resurrected," she replied with a smile as Grey admired her outfit.
"You look good in that dress, exactly like a Parisian girl," Grey complimented.
"You look great too, Grey. Guess I'm getting used to your new style, apart from a workday outfit," Carmen said.
"Thanks. So, let's get moving. We have a lot to explore," Grey said, taking Carmen's hand and leading her forward. Everyone around the hotel was immediately impressed by their appearance, assuming they were a couple on a honeymoon.
A sleek blue Jaguar was parked outside as they arrived. "Wait, this is the same car I saw in your garage," Carmen exclaimed, approaching it.
"Absolutely, Carmen. I had it delivered separately. Shall we?" Grey replied, opening the door to the front seat for Carmen. She sat in, her eyes wide with amazement at Grey's endless surprises. She smiled to herself as Grey also entered and started the car.
They drove through the city on the cobblestone streets, enjoying the beautiful day. Carmen couldn't resist peeking out the window and smiling. When they arrived at the Eiffel Tower, they parked nearby and stepped out to admire it up close.
This is truly beautiful," Carmen said, her voice filled with awe as they approached the landmark. "It's like a dream come true. It's glorious."
"Are you crying?" Grey asked, noticing the tears in her eyes.
"I can't stop it. It's tears of joy, Grey. This means a lot to me," she replied, her expression softening. "I just wish Derek were here with me."
"You don't seem okay," Grey said, concerned.
"I'm fine, Grey. It's just that I get a bit too emotional whenever I think of him," she replied, wiping her eyes. She forced a smile, trying to reassure him as they continued to admire the tower.
Grey glanced to his side and spotted an ice cream cart. He knew just what to do to cheer Carmen up.
"I know what could cheer you up," Grey said, putting on his sunglasses. "How about a gelato?"
"come on , I've got better now, and perhaps aren't we a bit old for gelato",
"I'm fine with it, and by the way, no one is too old for a tasty treat", Grey said with a smile,
"hmm, don't mind if you ask", she said as they approached the ice cream cart besides them.
"bonjour me chers-ami…", the ice cream boy spoke in French, Grey looked at Carmen and they both laughed for they could not understand a word he said,
"You don't understand, do you?" he spoke in English, and everyone stopped laughing.
"Wow, guess we're lucky again," Grey said.
"In fact, welcome to my gelato factory. I've got the best ice cream in all of Paris. What would you like on this sunny day?" the boy asked in a silly French accent. They all laughed at his comical delivery.
"Okay, I love your factory. It's so colorful. So, can I get a fresh lime and vanilla with some sprinkles on? Make it two, please," Grey said, looking at Carmen as she approached the Seine River bank.
"Excuse me, random guy. I've..." he began to say, but the ice cream guy interrupted.
"Adrien has got it all covered and done. Here's your ice cream. Then go save your wife," the ice cream guy said.
"That's fast. Thanks, Adrien. But she's not my wife. We're just friends," Grey replied, paying for the ice cream and approaching Carmen. The ice cream guy noticed that Grey had given him extra but didn't call him back, as Grey was moving too quickly. "Men these days," the ice cream guy muttered to himself, watching Grey leave. "Just too shy to accept their loved ones."
Where are you going?" he asked, catching up to her.
"No, I wasn't going anywhere. I just wanted to get a clear view of the river," Carmen replied, laughing.
"What's with the laugh?" she asked.
"You freaked me out so bad, I was about to leave the gelato behind," Grey said. "Anyway, here you go," he handed her one.
"Thanks. Hope it's as tasty as it looks," she replied, as they approached the bridge for a clear view of the city.
"Gosh, you truly loved Paris for a reason," Grey said.
"What could that be?" Carmen asked, intrigued.
"I never imagined it would be this beautiful," Grey replied, his voice filled with wonder., his eyes sparkling as Carmen returned a warm smile. He couldn't tear his gaze away from her as they savored their gelato and tossed pebbles into the river. It was another idyllic moment, their connection deepening as they explored the romantic city together, free from distractions. Gray finally understood what Danny had meant. His feelings for Carmen were unlike any he had ever experienced before, growing stronger with each passing hour. Neither of them wanted the day to end, their desire to continue exploring and sharing new experiences together burning brightly.