AGAIN || MAYBE IN ANOTHER LIFE

Chapter 31

We're going to find some drama from now on!!!

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CHAPTER 31

Céline

Now

'Hello, love!' Charles' warm voice greets me through the phone. He's been away for what feels like forever. Well, technically just ten days, but it's been enough to make our apartment feel unnervingly empty. Ever since the Spanish Grand Prix, where he claimed a stunning victory, I've been counting the hours until he's back in Monte Carlo. And now, finally, he's on his way home.

'I'm in the car, just leaving Nice.'

'Finally!' I smile, sinking onto the couch, leaving the laundry I was folding on the coffee table. 'I was starting to think you'd forgotten where you live.'

Charles laughs. 'Impossible. How could I forget you?'

'Clingy.' I say, grinning. 'How's the traffic?'

'Not too bad. I'll be home in about an hour. But listen, I have news. We're having dinner with Max, Daniel, Kelly, Pierre, and Kika tonight. Café de Paris at eight.'

'Oh, are we?' I glance at the clock. It's almost six.

'No rest for the victorious?'

'Rest is overrated.' He says. 'Besides, you miss them too, no?'

'True.' I admit, then hesitate. 'But I was hoping we could've had some time just for us tonight. It feels like forever since we've really been alone.'

His voice softens. 'I know, fleur. I've missed you too. How about this: dinner tonight, and tomorrow it's just you and me? No plans, no interruptions.'

I smile despite myself. 'Really?'

'Really.' He says. 'And we can do whatever you want.'

'Okay then.' I say, relenting. 'I'll get ready. But only if you promise me something.'

'Anything.'

'No talking about tires or setups during dinner.'

He laughs again. 'Deal. See you soon.'

By the time we arrive at the Café de Paris, the sun has set over Monte Carlo, leaving the sky painted in deep purples and oranges. The restaurant's terrace is alive with the hum of conversation, and our table is perfectly situated with a view of the glittering marina. Max is the first to spot us, standing to wave us over. He's already halfway through a cocktail, his grin as mischievous as ever. Daniel sits beside him, animatedly telling a story to Kelly, who's trying, and failing, to hold back laughter. Pierre and Kika are cozied up at the far end of the table.

'Finally!' Max exclaims as we approach. 'The golden boy graces us with his presence.'

'And his better half!' Daniel adds, winking at me.

'Good to see you too.' I say, leaning down to kiss Max and Daniel on the cheek before settling into the chair Charles pulls out for me. 'What have we missed?'

'Daniel was just recounting the time he accidentally ordered cow's tongue in Paris.' Kelly says, rolling her eyes. 'For the fifth time this week.'

'Hey, it's a great story!' Daniel protests. 'And the moral is, always triple-check the menu translations.'

'Or just learn French.' Pierre quips, earning a chuckle from Kika. 'What about you, Charles?' Max asks. 'Still riding the high from Spain?'

Charles shrugs modestly. 'It was a good race. But the focus is on the next one now.'