MEET TO PART

NINE

         MY LADY BOSS
ROSWELL'S POV

I received compliments from my employees at work and at home about how good-looking, glowing, and healthier I had become. It was all thanks to Elle. I knew I was going to miss her terribly. She was leaving for Nigeria next month, considering an earlier departure if not for the doctor's advice.

My past issues with Kimberly were gradually fading into oblivion. My connection with Nancy remained, but Elle had become my newfound friend and wife. Speaking of Elle, Britney planned to take her on what could be considered a vacation, though it was more about having someone accompany her.

Arriving home, I felt the emptiness of the house, even with the presence of my butler, cooks, bodyguards, and cleaners. Seeking solace, I retreated to the rooftop pool garden, attempting to calm my restless mind. Despite the tranquility of the surroundings, my thoughts wandered into unknown realms. Ordering coffee from a nearby café, I aimed to power through a night of work.

Matilda entered the garden minutes later, carrying a box of coffee. "Sir, you ordered coffee?" she inquired, placing the box on the stool beside me. "I would have made some for you."

Glancing at her nervously fiddling with the hem of her skirt, I sighed. "If I need homemade coffee, I have one person for that." I lowered my head in frustration. "She's not here, so..."

"The house feels empty without her. I miss her so much," Matilda admitted, bowing her head before leaving. I took the coffee out of the box, noting the flower art design that didn't quite look right. The taste, however, was pleasant.

Sleep eluded me for the night. If Elle were here, she would have been a great help, ensuring I got the rest I needed. But I couldn't call her. With the conflicting emotions that surfaced whenever she was around, it felt like an unwise decision. Determined to sort myself out, I decided to call Nancy. Respecting the sanctity of my matrimonial home, I headed over to Nancy's.

BRITNEY'S POV

I can't help but feel grateful, even if it means admitting I might sound silly. The serendipitous encounter that brought Roswell and Roselle together feels like a divine stroke of luck. When contemplating the design for my new project, there was no other model I could envision. The reasons behind my choice were a secret, one I hadn't shared with Roselle or even my brother. I aimed to reveal to her, my brother, and the world the remarkable treasure she brought into our family. Elle, typically concealing her beauty in baggy clothes and a cap, deserved to see herself beyond those disguises.

Two hours into our Parisian adventure, we embarked on a delightful sightseeing tour. While it wasn't my first time in Paris, witnessing Elle's exhilaration transformed the city's familiar landmarks into a new experience. We captured numerous moments with laughter and fun.

"I'm genuinely thrilled you agreed to come with me," I exclaimed as we entered our hotel room, previously checked-in.

"I would've regretted saying anything other than yes," she replied, beaming. Taking my hands, she looked down at me with a warm smile, given her slightly taller stature. "Thank you so much. If someone had told me a year ago that I'd be talking to you like this, I might have bathed in my own pee."

Her humor was infectious, and I couldn't contain my laughter. "Little wonder my brother is radiant; having someone like you around is a blessing," I remarked as I reached the door of my room, hers just opposite. "Get some good sleep; we're visiting a spa tomorrow," I added with excitement. She hugged me, and we retreated into our respective rooms. Settling onto the bed, I grabbed my phone, only to discover twelve missed calls from my brother.