Eyes Don't Lie | Charles Leclerc

Part 57 | Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

August 9, 2023
Aria POV

Waking up wrapped in Charles's arms felt like the most natural thing in the world. His steady breathing and the warmth of his body, made it all feel so peaceful, like a little slice of heaven. Last night was...just what we needed. I shifted slightly, and he stirred, pulling me closer against his chest, as if he never wanted to let me go.

"Stay with me a little longer," he whispered groggily into my hair, his voice husky with sleep.

I smiled against his chest, pressing a light kiss there before looking up at him. "I'd love to, but your maman has the whole day planned for us. You wouldn't want to disappoint her, would you?"

He sighed dramatically, tightening his grip on me. "She'll understand if I keep you all to myself for one more hour," he teased. "Or maybe I could come with you guys? You know, to carry all the bags..."

I laughed softly, shaking my head as I gently pushed against his chest. "As sweet as that is, I think this is supposed to be a girls' day, Charles. Besides, I'm sure you have plans with Arthur and Lorenzo to keep you busy."

He pouted slightly, but I could see the smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Fine, fine," he relented, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "But don't have too much fun without me, okay?"

I rolled my eyes playfully, slipping out of bed and making my way to get ready. As I freshened up and dressed in a light, flowy sundress that was perfect for the warm weather, I felt a rush of excitement. It had been a while since I'd had a day like this, exploring, laughing, and enjoying life with the girls.

Pascale, Charlotte, and Carla were already waiting in their living room area when I came in, their smiles bright and welcoming. Pascale had a shine in her eye, the same one that I always saw in Charles when he was planning something special. "Ready for our little adventure, ma cherie?" she asked warmly, linking her arm through mine as we made our way out.

I looked back over my shoulder, catching Charles leaning against the doorway, a playful smirk on his lips and a soft look in his eyes. "I'll be counting down the hours until you're back, mon coeur," he called out, his voice making my heart skip a beat.

I blew him a kiss and turned back around, my smile growing even wider. Today was going to be a good day, just the kind of fun I needed.. And I couldn't help but feel grateful for this time, for the way Charles and his family had embraced me and made me feel at home.

The little shop we found was tucked away in one of the cobblestone streets. Pascale led the way, her eyes immediately drawn to a collection of colorful bracelets, each one more unique than the last. 

"Ah, look at this one," she said, her voice filled with excitement as she picked up a bracelet with tiny sapphires. 

Her wrist was already decorated with pieces from all corners of the world. Delicate chains, beads, and gemstones that sparkled with memories of places she'd been. "There's nothing like finding something special to remind you of a place, don't you think?"

I nodded, admiring her passion. "You really have an eye for these, Pascale. It's like you collect memories with each piece."

She gave me a warm smile, her eyes softening. "Jewelry has a way of carrying moments with it, a little bit of history and a lot of sentiment. My husband used to bring me a piece of jewelry from every country he visited." 

"That's very sweet of him. Almost like he was always thinking of you, even when you weren't together."

She then turned to me, studying the cases with a thoughtful look. "Mhmm, and what about you, Aria? What type of jewelry do you like to wear?"