Page 268 of My French Love Affair

He shrugs, like it’s the simplest thing in the world.

"I told you London isn’t far.”

I blink. “I -”

“And I was right, of course. Took me less than two hours.” He steps closer, tilting his head. “Was that too long for you, mon ange?”

My lips part, but nothing comes out.

Because -what?!

He came here. To me.

Just like that.

I stare at him, my chest tight, my fingers gripping the doorframe like I need something to hold onto.

“I told you,” he murmurs, reaching out, his fingers brushing against my waist. “This isn’t over. Not even close.”

I exhale sharply, my pulse roaring, my heart stumbling over itself as I finally, finally give in.

To him. To this.

To whatever thehellthis is.

With a breathless laugh, I throw my arms around him, burying my face into his shoulder as he catches me with ease, his arms tightening around me like he has no plans of ever letting go.

And maybe -

Maybe he won’t.

Maybe this isn’t just a summer fling, or a whirlwind romance, or a stolen moment lost to time.

Maybe this is the start of something real.

Something impossible.

Something likeforever.

Epilogue

Poppy

One Year Later

Fifteen months ago, I stepped off a plane in Nice and battled my way through the ruckus to find a taxi, utterly clueless about what my future would hold.

Now, I’m standing in the grand hall of my university, dressed in a cap and gown, my name about to be called to collect my first-class honours degree in Fashion Design and Business Management.

I take a steadying breath, smoothing down the fabric of the dress I’ve designed for today. It’s a classic and elegant ivory piece, subtly embroidered with flowers.

And one that belongs tomy brand.

A brand that didn’t even exist a year ago. A brand that launched just before Christmas and, within weeks, changed everything.

Since then, my life has been manic.

My website crashed twice when my Spanish Grand Prix dress sold out within minutes of launching. My collections consistently sell out within hours. We’ve expanded into two offices - one in London, one in Paris - and we’re alreadyplanning further expansion.

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