Double Twenty

Chapter 13 - The Girl from Ipanema (Stan Getz)

"What we say lasts only a moment. What we feel resonates far beyond our woes."

An untroubled smile plays on Victoria's lips, a thrill of novelty and excitement pulses through the veins of this heiress. As she walks back to her family home in the "Troca" neighborhood, each step resonates with the promise of an evening that could redefine her romantic trajectory.

She opens the door to the vast Haussmannian apartment, a haven of tranquility in the early evening, usually animated by the hustle and bustle of her parents and sister, who are conveniently absent. The pleasantly quiet home offers her the perfect latitude for her preparations. Rejecting the idea of wearing an evening dress or something too fancy, Victoria opts for fitted jeans and a simple white t-shirt, expressing her taste for casual elegance. She adds a touch of sophistication by slipping into high heels and applying her favorite Dior lipstick, creating in moments a chic and simple look, as she likes to define herself.

The living room library is brimming with culture and history, each shelf overflowing with classic vinyl records and meticulously arranged CDs. As she browses these shelves, her fingers glide over the colorful covers and familiar titles. Finally, she selects a jazz album she knows will wrap the evening in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. She places the record on the turntable, and soon, the smooth notes of Stan Getz begin to play softly. The enchanting melody of bossa nova, with its delicate rhythms and soothing harmonies, fills the space. Getz's saxophone, accompanied by João Gilberto's subtle guitar, creates an ambiance that is both intimate and expansive, a world where each note seems to tell a story. "The Girl from Ipanema" resonates gently, Astrud Gilberto's melodic voice adding a touch of melancholy and reverie.

Being a perfectionist, Victoria arranges a few scented candles and a bouquet of fresh flowers on the coffee table, wanting to add a touch of subtle romance. While getting ready in the bathroom, she ties her hair into a neat ponytail, leaving a few strands to frame her face.

Reflecting on her many experiences—from piano lessons to high-society dinners—she recognizes in Matthieu a refreshing simplicity that pushes her towards greater authenticity. Tonight, she wants to be seen for who she truly is: vibrant, passionate, and ready to be surprised. In a moment of joyful haste, she slightly stumbles while arranging her decorations, her laughter ringing out, an echo of the excitement that carries her. It is a pure sound, a sound of freedom.

Standing by the window, she watches for the arrival of her guest. At the sight of his familiar silhouette, carrying grocery bags (which is totally incongruous for her), her heart races. These dinner preparations, a simple yet profound gesture, mean more than just a meal; they symbolize sharing, an opening towards what could prove to be a beautiful story, vibrant with hope and promises under the Parisian sky.