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“What about you, what’s your family like?”
“My family…my mother is an American who fell in love with a handsome African Frenchman. That’s how she tells the story.”
“Wow.” I nodded. “How does he tell the story?”
“His version wasn’t as romantic. He said it was her hips and laugh that put a spell on him.”
I smiled. “Very romantic.” He nodded and the corner of his mouth turned up slightly. “How long have they been married?”
“They were married twenty-nine years.” He shifted in his seat. “He died three years ago.”
“I’m sorry.” I wanted to walk over and wrap my arms around him.
“Thank you.”
“That explains your name.”
“Yes, I was named after my grandfather. My grandfather was French and my grandmother was African.”
“Wow.”
Phillippe
I didn’t think the company was in such bad shape when I agreed to take over. This antiquated dinosaur is in need of a major overhaul. I know the changes I’ve proposed to the board are drastic, but if I don’t force some action now, there won’t be a company to save.
If I had the support I was told I’d have, things would be a lot different and this transition, much easier. I am not happy about being on the road for extended periods but, until I build a trustworthy team, I’ve got no choice. The only highlight to this insane travel schedule is spending time with Gabriella.
I can’t believe she doesn’t have a boyfriend. How is that even possible? She’s an amazing girl…smart, funny, sweet and beautiful. I enjoy talking with her.
I almost choked when she asked if I was married or had a girlfriend. I don’t know what Chantal and I were. Towards the end, it seemed like we spent more time fighting than anything else. I think if she’d been a little more supportive, we could have worked out all our problems. The number one reason we broke up was her not understanding why I had to take this job.
I understand Morgan Grant, and I know I can bring it back to the kind of company it was. To an outsider, it seems like everything is fine. The reality is, there’s a lot of debt, dead weight, and antiquated operations and policies. Once I get the company healthy, I plan to get myself healthy. I want what my parents had, a loving marriage and lots of children.
I don’t think I shared that story about my parents with any of my former girlfriends. Watching the gentleness on Gabriella’s face as I shared the tidbit was refreshing. If I’d shared that with Chantal, she would have thought I was weak. Being in love or surrendering to love doesn’t make you weak, it makes you strong and smart.
I looked at Gabriella and still couldn’t believe there wasn’t a man that saw what I saw. She’s the complete package. When we get to Europe I’m going to arrange some private museum tours. I think she’ll like that.
CHAPTER FIVE
Gabriella
PHILLIPPE TOLD ME TO TAKE the day to rest and get ready for the party. He said if I needed help with my hair and makeup to go to the hotel salon and charge it to his suite. I could have taken his offer a couple of ways. One, he didn’t like my hair and makeup or, that he wanted me to amp it up.
I don’t wear a lot of makeup every day, but I do know how to kick it up when I have to. Besides, when Cameron helped me with the gown, he suggested I do a complimentary pink lip, black liner and falsies. I’m already having a problem being relaxed in this dress and heels. I don’t think I can handle false eyelashes as well.
I looked in the mirror and almost didn’t recognize myself. The salon did a good job with my hair. I have to let Cameron know the makeup was right on point.
I sent my mother a selfie of me all dolled up. “What do you think?”
“You look beautiful. Daddy says he likes your hair. Have fun. Call me later.”
My phone dinged with a message from Phillippe. “Gabriella, meet me in the lobby.”
I took a deep breath, grabbed my wrap and bag, and headed for the elevator. When I got to the lobby, I didn’t see Tony or Phillippe. I stood close to the entrance with my eyes on the elevators. A few minutes later, Tony walked past me.
“Tony.” He stopped and turned around.
“Miss Townsend?” His eyes were wide and he smiled. “Wow.”
