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Chapter 16

About to answer him, I look up, seeing our waiter arriving with our food. He raises a brow at the large order of pasta on my side, grinning.

"Yes, finally some real substance in your body."

I narrow my eyes, biting my lip. "You were the one who told me to live a little."

"Glad I had such an impact on your appetite."

I stare at him, wishing I could tell him he had such a bigger impact than that. Wishing I could tell him that I've tried to forget the time we spent together but can't. He holds my gaze, comfortably.

"How long are you here for?"

"Just a few days," I whisper, grabbing my fork. He nods, grabbing his wine. "Tell me about your job. Analyst... Isn't that what you were going to school for?"

"Yes." He smiles slightly. "I struggled to find someone who would take me without the full degree but it happened. My boss saw something in me- maybe it was desperation- I don't know but he hired me."

"And you like it?"

"It's weird but I kind of love it. There's something so strangely satisfying about figures..." He looks down at his watch. "... I actually have a meeting in a half hour."

"Oh, you do?"

"Unfortunately... Are you doing anything today?"

My response comes out like lightning. "Not until tonight, why?"

"If you don't mind waiting- the meeting shouldn't be long, I'd like to take you somewhere. I found a place a while ago I've always thought you would love."

"I'd love to. They won't mind me being waiting until you're out?"

He smirks. "I highly doubt it."

...

"I cannot believe you know Iris Tremaine!" a man who Stellan introduced as Michael Davore exclaims, his accent thick, patting Stellan's back playfully. I feel my cheeks light on fire as I scan the office, seeing everyone's gaze on me. The overjoyed red head reaches out and shakes my hand exuberantly. "Oh God, it's such a pleasure! Really... Is it alright if I hug you?"

"No, it's not alright," Stellan murmurs amusedly, pushing him back when he comes closer.

"How could you do this to me, Stellan?"

I clutch my bag, pressing my lips together awkwardly. "It's nice to meet you too, Michael."

"She said my name."

Stellan rolls his eyes and places a hand on my back, nodding for me to walk forward. I'm only too happy to oblige.

"I'm sorry about that," Stellan whispers, leading me into his office. Stellan has an office... I find myself grinning wide at the realization.

"It's alright. He was nice."

"I shouldn't be long- I'm just giving the info over. You can sit here or walk around- whatever you want to do."

"Okay."

He grabs a portfolio off the desk and rubs my arm slightly before he leaves. I sputter quietly to myself, reaching into my bag. I dial Viktor's number in a rush.

"I've been waiting to hear-"

"Viktor." 

"What?" 

"I ran into Stellan."

The line quiet for a moment before I hear him stutter. "Wh-what?"

"Stellan. He's here- in Paris... He lives here."