From Time

Sois à moi💍 Part 3

"Rise and shine!" Anastasia's voice echoed through the room.

I blinked a few times, still half-asleep, and realized I was alone in the bed and fully dressed. "How did you get in here? What time is it?" I asked groggily.

"Does it matter?" she laughed. "Jay sent me—he said you've got a breakfast date."

After a quick shower, Anastasia laid out my outfit and started on my hair. While she worked, my phone rang—private number—but the call ended before I could answer.

"Anastasia, I'm seriously thinking about a big chop," I said, tilting my head in the mirror.

"How much are we talking?" she asked.

"Like Halle Berry short," I laughed.

"Hmm... are you sure?" she asked, concern in her eyes.

"Yeah, maybe in December. I'll see how I feel."

"You'll change your mind, but you're looking amazing right now," she smiled.

Feeling ready, I went up to the hotel roof for breakfast. Jay was already there, staring at the Eiffel Tower.

"Beautiful view, isn't it?" I said, nudging him.

He turned, a small smile playing on his lips. "Not as beautiful as you," he said, smirking. "Sleep well?"

"I did. Paris is amazing—I've actually been here before, stayed at a hotel a few blocks away," I replied.

"I think I know the one," he said. "I grew up coming here with my dad every summer. I know a few hidden gems too."

I laughed. "Now I understand why everyone seems to know you so well."

Breakfast flowed effortlessly, the city sparkling behind us. Conversation light, laughter easy, and coffee warm in our hands. Afterward, Jay excused himself for work calls, giving me the morning to explore.

Back in the room, I freshened up, and the girls and I hit the streets for shopping. Paris was alive—the boutiques, the streets, the energy—it all felt like a runway. I grabbed a few special pieces, including a portrait of myself, knowing most would end up with my mom and sisters.

Later, after a successful shopping spree, I FaceTimed Áaela. Seeing her tiny face light up—even over the screen—made my heart ache a little. I missed my little bear more than I expected, but the city's magic made the day feel just a little brighter.

6pm

I stepped out of my hotel room, the dress Jay bought catching every glimmer of light. Heads turned in the lobby, and I couldn't help but smirk—this was definitely too much for a dinner, but I was loving it. Gene, my quiet escort, stayed just a step behind, eyes following me like he was guarding a queen.

My phone buzzed on the elevator. Drake. I ignored it. Tonight wasn't about old drama—it was about this.

The restaurant was perfect. Glass walls, a quiet waterfront, and a patio that practically begged for romance. Jay pulled out my chair with that mischievous grin that made my stomach flutter.

"Wow... you're too beautiful for this simple dinner," he whispered, brushing his hand against mine.

I rolled my eyes, laughing. "You keep saying that, and I might start expecting it every night."

"You better," he shot back, playful, his eyes twinkling. "I've got a lot to prove tonight."

Dinner passed in a blur of laughter, teasing, and stolen glances. Jay was impossibly charming, leaning over to steal bites of my food, joking about my Instagram obsession, and making me blush more than I'd like to admit.

After dessert, we strolled toward the Eiffel Tower. The lights sparkled, reflecting in his eyes as he raised his phone to snap a photo. Then he turned, hands in his pockets, smirk widening.

"You know, I could just kiss you right here," he teased.

I laughed nervously, covering my mouth. "You're ridiculous."

"Am I?" He dropped to one knee, velvet box in hand. "Because I'm serious about this. Essé Adajío... will you marry me?"

The crowd paused, but all I could hear was my heartbeat. Part of me screamed yes, part of me froze—this was huge. Could I really say yes?

"Yes," I whispered, barely able to contain my smile, my fingers trembling as he slid the diamond onto my hand.

He stood, pulling me close and kissing me like it was the first and last time. "I promise to love you... and only you," he murmured against my lips.

Around us, people clapped and cheered, but in that moment, it was just us. My heart danced between joy, excitement, and a tiny flicker of doubt—but tonight, all that mattered was this perfect, magical, ridiculous, wonderful moment.

Essé's engagement ring

Ess Morning Outfit.