The lap of life

Chapter 21: Monaco day 4 - yatch and fancy dinner

The next morning dawns bright and clear and you are sad because it's the last day of your short vacation in Monaco...

Toto has planned something special, seeing how you had been mesmerized by the yachts in the marina; as you stood by the window, gazing at the harbor filled with sleek and elegant boats, he comes up behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist.

"I've got a surprise for you," he whispers in your ear "we're going on a yacht trip today. Ah! Pack a bag with some elegant clothes for the evening, we'll be dining at a luxury restaurant..."

Excitement bubbles up inside you; you pack your suitcases, which a taxi driver would take to Toto's private jet, and prepare a backpack with one of the elegant outfits you had bought with Lewis the previous day.

-

You spent the entire day out at sea; the yacht was a marvel: complete with a sun deck, a shaded lounge area and a fully equipped kitchen.

You lounged on the deck, soaking up the sun and enjoying the cool breeze that carried the salty scent of the ocean, and in a secluded spot, where the water was crystal clear and inviting, you swam, snorkeled and explored the underwater world, marveling at the colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs.

For lunch, the yacht's chef prepared a delightful meal: fresh seafood, crisp salads and a selection of tropical fruits; you ate on the deck, the sun warming your skin as you laughed and shared stories.

-

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the water, you head back to the marina.

You dock and change into your evening attire, excitement tingling in the air: you wear the elegant outfit you had picked out with Lewis, a sleek black dress that hugged your curves making you feel like a movie star, while Toto looks dashing in a tailored suit, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

You arrive at the Michelin-starred restaurant, where every detail exuded luxury and sophistication: the décor was opulent with crystal chandeliers, plush velvet seats and tables adorned with fine china and silverware; the ambiance was both intimate and grand, a perfect setting for our last night in Monaco.

Dinner was a culinary masterpiece and you savored each course.

You started with delicate amuse-bouches and an exquisite array of appetizers, including foie gras and ceviche. The main course was a tender filet mignon with truffle sauce for Toto and a plated vegetable terrine for me. We shared also a bottle of vintage wine, its rich notes perfectly complementing the meal.

As dessert arrived, a chocolate fondant with a molten center, you couldn't help but feel that this night was already perfect; but Toto had one more surprise: he hands you a small package, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

You unwrapp it eagerly, revealing the Formula 1 game for the PS5 that you had mentioned before your vacation; at the first moment you laught but, seconds after, you start feeling your heart full of happiness, so you look at Toto with eyes shining with gratitude and love.

But there was something in his expression... A hint of anticipation...

You decide to open the game case, finding inside a handwritten note; it was a detailed heartfelt declaration of love:

<My Dearest, from the first moment I saw you, I knew my life would never be the same. You bring light to my darkest days, joy to my quiet moments and love to every breath I take. Your laughter is my favorite sound and your smile my favorite sight. With you, I've found my home, my partner and my best friend. I want to spend every day making you as happy as you've made me. I love you more than words can express. Forever yours, Toto"

Tears well up in your eyes as you finish reading it but, when you look up, Toto was no longer in front of you; instead, he is kneeling beside you, with a small velvet box in his hand.

"Will you marry me?" he asks, with his voice filled with hope and love.

Your heart soars and you nod, unable to speak through the tears of joy streaming down your face; he slips the ring onto your finger, a perfect fit, and pulls you into his arms.

Cheers and applause erupted around you as the restaurant staff and other diners celebrated your moment; you hold Toto close, feeling like the luckiest person in the world.

This day, better this moment, was the culmination of a perfect vacation and the beginning of an even more perfect future together.