Before leaving his castle on Sunday morning, Dominic made an important decision: to assist Marianne in finishing her interview. That way, they would spend the entire day together. Nevertheless, it also meant that he had to drive her around and he could not do such a thing in any of his supercars. The narrow, bumpy roads of Grenoble were no place for wide vehicles. Therefore, he chose a modest Ford Focus, in the hope that she would agree to his plan.

Much to his liking, Marianne was feeling better. She had no problem focusing and the bruises on her arms were starting to fade. He checked her out of the hospital, eagerly anticipating the moment when he would announce his idea to her. The two of them stepped out of the hospital lobby, holding hands as they made their way to the parking lot.

“What a lovely day.” She remarked, looking up into the clear, blue sky. “I wish I didn’t have to work.”

“Yeah, about that…” He faltered. “Can I be your chauffeur for today?”

“Thanks, but I’d rather rent a car.” Marianne politely refused. “Besides, a reporter in a supercar? I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“Supercar?” Dominic gave a snort of amusement, putting his free hand into his pocket. “Not today.” He continued, pulling the key out. The lights of his blue Ford flashed, as he pressed the “unlock” button. She glanced down at the car and then up at him, as a sweet smile spread across her face.

“A Ford?” She raised an eyebrow. “Really?”

“That’s what it looks like.” He nodded. “Get in. Where are we going first?”

Marianne remained silent, as he entered his car. She seated herself in the passenger seat and stared into the void, as he fastened his seatbelt.

“We haven’t gone to Paris together.” She said, turning her head to the left to face him. “And you still owe me a portrait.”

“What about the interview?” He shrugged.

“You do have acquaintances in Paris, don’t you?” Marianne inquired.

“Yeah, but it is six hours away.” Dominic spoke in emphatic tones.

“I don’t care.” She made her voice sound sweeter, leaning her head back against the headrest. “I want to go to Paris with you.”

“Your stuff is still in my castle.” He pointed out.

“We can have them sent to us.” Marianne said as her tone deepened as she reached towards him. “Drive us out of here.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Dominic winked at her, starting the engine. “Should I suggest a train?”

“It is faster.” She admitted, cupping his cheek. “But, it’s not as private. I want to hear your voice, not just train engines.”

“Good point.” He commented, driving off. “Do you have a preference?”

“Here’s the thing. I went to a dozen places with Melanie, but I don’t remember their names. I was hoping you could choose one.” Marianne said, sliding her hand down his face.

“Montmartre.” Dominic’s voice deepened even further, as his eyes sparkled with excitement. “It’s got a great view of the city. My favorite painters had studios there. Monet, Picasso, Dali…”

“I’m sorry about yesterday.” All of a sudden, her voice lowered. “I shouldn’t have listened to the doctors. I should have been there.”

“It’s okay.” He sighed. “I paid my respects to him. Now, I have to find the one behind all this crap.”

“What did the police have to say?” Marianne asked.

“Well, nothing. They’re still in the dark.” Dominic replied. “Jean suggested it could be my ex, but I doubt it.”

“Why would he do that?” She posed yet another question.

“It’s just that Linda reacted a little…” he paused. “Violently when we broke up. Can we please talk about something else? Why don’t you tell me about your books?”

“Up until a week ago, my favorite one was ‘My immortal love’.” Marianne declared, as her hand reached his wrist. “It’s about Jimmy and Anna, an outlaw and a school teacher. They have to overcome quite a few obstacles along the way, but they get their happy ending. As of tomorrow, my personal best will be about Bruce and Rachel. He’s a blueblood. She’s a reporter.”

“Will they get their happy ending?” Dominic wondered, realizing she was referring to the two of them as he turned to her.

“I don’t know.” She whispered, blinking back tears as she squeezed his hand that was in hers. “I guess time will tell.”

The sad look in her eyes added to his sorrow. Just like in the hospital, Dominic preferred to remain silent. A potential discussion about their future would make them both emotional and that was the last thing he wanted. He averted his gaze from her and looked up at the road ahead, breathing in sighs as Marianne leaned closer to him. She laid a soft kiss on his cheek, but, even then, he would not speak to her. Much to his relief, she leaned back and stopped talking about their relationship altogether.

A happy ending? Who are you kidding, Dominic? You two can’t have that. You don’t belong in each other’s universes. It’s not a matter of class. She’s a city girl. You’re a mountain man. New York would drive you crazy, the same way she wouldn’t tolerate living in solitude. Just make this night worthy of remembrance. Deliver your promise. Help her publish her work and she will never, ever forget you…