Why Lorie? Part II

Chapter 38: Viktor's Ultimate Surprise

Following Marianne Foret's funeral, Josette remained in Paris for a while longer to take care of all the necessary legal paperwork. According to their will, her parents left Josette their house in Paris, as well as all of their monetary savings... which turned out to be a surprisingly considerable amount. Apparently, Monsieur Foret had been a savvy businessman and his investments were quite profitable. Josette's eyes widened upon receiving a check that was close to one million Francs.

"Are you sure this is correct?" Josette asked the banker, her mouth slightly agape.

"Yes, Mademoiselle. Your father was a very good investor... and did not spend much of his cash... as you can plainly see," the man replied with a well-practiced smile, while scrutinizing Josette's face with his intelligent dark eyes.

"But this... this is much more than I ever expected," Josette gasped.

"In that case, congratulations! It is yours to spend... or to continue to invest, if you wish," the banker said, hoping she would choose the latter. "I would be more than happy to help you find some profitable stocks and bonds," he continued, obviously having a hard time parting with all that cash.

"I shall have to speak to my fiancée first," Josette replied. "He happens to be quite a good businessman. But thank you for all of your help."

"It's been my pleasure, Mademoiselle," the banker walked her personally to the main entrance. "Here is my card... in case you change your mind. You can always contact me directly," he pointed out his telephone number. He then shook Josette's hand firmly and took his leave of her.

Josette was still dazed as she walked back to her parents' house — which she had a hard time calling her own, as of yet. She held a fortune in her tiny purse. It was enough to ensure she could lead a long and comfortable life, without any extra help. She could easily retire from singing if she wanted to. And she no longer had to rely financially on anyone else... namely Viktor. This certainly put a new spin on their already complicated relationship. Now, she could walk away from him if she wanted to... but did she?

Those thoughts were still running through Josette's mind from the time she and Lorie boarded the Orient Express at the Gare de l'Est in Paris, until the train finally pulled into Vienna's main station the following day. She took Lorie's hand, and they descended together. As soon as their feet touched the platform, Josette spotted Viktor and Peter. They saw her at the same time. Viktor rushed toward her, his arms wide open. Josette's natural instinct was to fall directly into them. As soon as she felt his strong chest against her cheek, she knew she truly loved and wanted him. Viktor did not hesitate. He immediately placed his lips over hers, and kissed her passionately.

"My love! You are finally home," he whispered against her mouth. "You have no idea how lonely I've been without you."

Josette's eyes filled with tears. Her emotions were running amok: she still felt devastated by the loss of her parents, yet relieved that her mother's struggle was over... and elated to see Viktor's face.

"Me too... my darling," she replied, pressing her lips against his once more, craving their proximity more than ever. He returned her kiss avidly, tightening his grip around her waist and squeezing her against him.

Once they breathlessly parted, Viktor picked Lorie up in his arms. "And you, my little daughter! How I've missed you!" He kissed both of Lorie's cheeks, and caressed her blonde curls with his free hand.

"I missed you too, Papa," the little girl buried her face against Viktor's neck. "I hope we never have to part again."

Peter stood by, watching their reunion with a melancholic smile. He was also emotionally torn between happiness at having the girls back home, and sadness at their profound loss. Once Viktor started to walk toward the exit carrying Lorie in one arm and her pink suitcase in the other, Peter shyly approached Josette.