Someone’s Someone

by Curious Girl

I've always been someone's someone. I will always be known as the sister of. The sister of the wonder child; the sister of the Nobel prize laureate; the sister of Princess Anastasia of Romanov; the sister of the next Queen of England; the sister of the Olympian... and the daughter of Troy and Gabriella Bolton. But I am so much more. I am Josephine Bolton.

10. Chapter 10

Oliver

I wake up far before I have to and watch the sun rising over the Thames through the glass front in Josephine's bedroom. Pastel pinks and oranges illuminate the sky that has fluffy lilac clouds. It's a beautiful morning, but it's one without Josephine.

I sigh and pick up my iPhone that's been laying on the nightstand since I sent that text to her. I battled the whole night with myself before I wrote that text.

But she didn't write me back. She read it, but didn't respond.

I have no idea what that means.

Josephine

I slept like a baby. Despite what I did. Or maybe because of what I did.

I didn't dream of Edward and I didn't dream of Oliver. I didn't dream at all. I just had a very deep and restful sleep.

I roll over to my side and stare at the bright blue sky through the transom windows. God, I love Paris. There's something magical about this city. It feels like a second home. This city has a special place in my heart.

Suddenly, the door to my bedroom gets torn open and my blonde sister walks inside. Ana's still in her pyjamas, a pair of plum coloured silk shirt and a matching top with lace. Her blonde hair is a bit frizzy from sleeping. Her bright green eyes are glowing already. She has removed every bit of makeup last night. She looks radiant without any makeup on her face. She sits down at the end of my king sized bed. "Spill."

When I got back to the suite Ana was already asleep. "There's not much to spill."

My sister shakes her bright blonde head, "Oh no! I saw you leaving the Cartier Party with Edward Rothschild! You dragged the host away from his own party!"

"Well, for one I did not know that he was the host and secondly, I didn't drag him away. It was the other way around."

"Where did you guys went?"

"To Le George."

"The restaurant downstairs?"

"Yes. We've had dinner together. You want to know the menu?"

"No." Ana rolls her bright green eyes at me. "I'd rather know what you guys talked about. Edward is a bit of a mystery. No one really sees him. We all just hear of him and his philanthropic work."

"That's what we talked about."

"Elaborate."

"His philanthropic work. How he built schools in India, water fountains in Africa and animal rescue centres in South America... It was a very interesting conversation."

"You guys didn't talk about your families?"

I shake my head, "Why should we? We obviously know each other's history. Our families have known each other for years. There's no need to tick the basics - we already know it."

"You enjoyed the date?"

"It wasn't a date... I think."

"Jo,"

"It wasn't. But we will have one tonight."

"What about Oliver?"

I shrug, "What about him?"

"Well isn't he the one you're seeing right now? Aren't you exclusive?"

On his part, yes. On my part, it's undecided. He signed the NDA - not me. He is bound to me but I'm not bound to him. "I am seeing him but that doesn't mean I can't see Edward as well."

"A threesome?"

"No, not a threesome. What happens in Paris, stays in Paris."

"But Edward lives in London as well."

"He's touring the world, doing charity."

Ana licks her lips, "You can't have both men."

"I don't have either." I tell her back. "Oliver signed an NDA. He's bound to me for 15 weeks and then he's free to go wherever he wants to go."

"And what if he doesn't want to go anywhere?"

I haven't thought about it this way. "That doesn't matter. Our paths will separate again."

"Will they?"

"Yes." I say with a nod.

"And then it's time for Edward?"

"No! I am not... This is not..." I shake my head. "Edward is Edward and Oliver is Oliver. They are two very different men." I cannot deal with Ana's inquisition right now. "We're having breakfast at L'Orangerie with Edward this morning."

"We?"

"Yes. He invited you as well. We'll go to the Armani Privé show afterwards."

"You're playing with fire, Jo."

"I'm not playing with fire. I am not in a relationship with either of these men. So, will you join Edward and me at the Four Seasons?"

"Yes. After all, it would be rude to not go."

"Good." I say and climb out of the bed. "Get ready. We're meeting him in half an hour."

"Half an hour?! How on earth are you going to be ready in so little time?"

I shrug and brush through my long waves that have formed knots over night. "I just put on mascara, brush my hair and get into that royal blue plissé skirt with a black laced to

from Armani." I think out loud.

My sister shakes her head in disbelief. "You're having a date with a Rothschild and you're completely cool about it?"

I shrug again. "He's just a man. Just like I am just a woman."

"You're unbelievable. Do your hair and put on some lipstick." She says as she walks out of my bedroom.

I nod. "And I'll even brush my teeth." I throw her a kiss as she chuckles at my words.

With naked feet, I walk into the en-suite bathroom. Just like Ana's bathroom across the living room, it's made of beige marble and has gold taps. There's even a free standing tub and a shower with a rain shower head.

It reminds me of home.

And that shifts my focus to Oliver. I wonder what he's doing right now. Is he about to take a shower like me? Or is he still sleeping as he doesn't have to go to work until noon.

I strip out of my navy silk pyjama and get into the shower.

Oliver

I let the water pour down on me as I stand in Josephine's shower. I pulled on every tap that I could find, so the water is coming from everywhere: from the rain shower head above me and from the ten body splashes around me.

But it doesn't make up for the person that I'm missing here.

Last evening was tough. I can't even be without her for one day without missing her immediately. I caved and wrote her a text. I miss you - that's the most cliche I could get. No wonder Josephine didn't write back. It's too emotional, the pressure is too high. I should've just wished her a good night or something.

But not I miss you.

Except I do. I tossed and turned last night and it feels like I didn't sleep at all.

It's like a part of me is gone. I am not complete without her.

I hate that she's in Paris. I hate that she's having the time of her life with her sister. But most of all, I hate that I can't be with her.

Josephine

30 minutes later, Ana and me enter the Four Seasons, getting nearly eaten alive by the flashlights of the paparazzi. It's such a contrast from eight hours earlier. The porter holds the double swing doors open for us and we step in. I'm wearing a royal blue plissé skirt with a black laced top and black stilettos - all by Armani Privé of course. In one and a half hour the show will start at the Louvre. A place I've been to countless times. I love the art there as much as the meals in the restaurant that's in the Eiffel Tower.

Ana is wearing a grey pants suit by Armani Privé as well. It's the same that I wore yesterday for the party, only in a different colour. She said it brought me luck so maybe it would bring her luck today as well since she's still looking for a dress for Char's evening reception. She looks good in it. She paired the pants suit with nude heels and diamond earrings that she bought yesterday at the Cartier party. They're shaped like a sparkling cluster and there's a tear shaped Colombian emerald hanging down. They look stunning.

I didn't buy a piece last night.

I was too busy being fascinated by Edward Rothschild.

It's why I'm back in his hotel just eight hours after I left it.

A man dressed in a black suit walks over to us. He's from the hotel staff. The movement causes the photographers and news reporters that have managed to get inside, go crazy. They start running over to us so fast that I actually fear for my life for a split second. But then Ralph and his five other friends form a protective shield around Ana, the hotel staff and me within the blink of an eye. "Mr. Rothschild is already waiting for you in L'Orangerie." He informs us with a genuine smile on his lips. He has perfectly groomed white hair and crystal blue eyes. I like him. "If you would follow me..."

Ana and I follow the nameless man through the white marbled lobby that is bursting with news reporters trying to get into L'Orangerie to get a few snaps from the many celebs that are staying at the Four Seasons for the Couture Week.

As soon as we've exited the lobby, the paparazzi let go of us. They start crying for some models that enter the Four Seasons.

I've never been more thankful for models.

"I think you can back off now." I inform Ralph.

He nods, "We'll remain close by."

Of course they do. Ralph and his five colleagues disappear again as Ana and me reach L'Orangerie.

The man in the black suit waves with his hands. "Mr. Rothschild is expecting you at the west end. It's the most private area we have to offer. Enjoy your breakfast." He smiles at us before walking away.

Ana and I walk into L'Orangie. It's a light filled restaurant in the Four Seasons and a la carte. I spot Edward Rothschild sitting in the left. He's sitting in a private room. It looks like it has been made for smokers to smoke there but I know Four Seasons has a strict 0% policy on smoking. They don't even allow the wealthy people to smoke cigars in their suites. So this has to be a room for the owner then - the Rothschilds.

Edward Rothschild.

I walk over to the separated room, passing several round white marbled tables with couples and families enjoying their breakfasts. A piano player is playing a soft melody.

Edward looks magnificent in the black suit - tailored by Armani - and black polished shoes. He left the first two buttons of his white Oxford shirt open. No tie.

His turquoise coloured eyes are sparkling. His blonde hair is glossy.

He looks hot.

My heartbeat increases at his image.

I've never had that reaction before. Not even with Oliver. It's like I'm the moth that gets drawn to light.

Edward greets my sister first with a warm hug. As if they knew each other for years, which they don't but our families do.

It's so strange that we haven't met earlier. I find it highly odd to stand across someone who is able to discreetly manipulate everyone around himself. He's charming and arrogant. I'm sure he can be an asshole and an angel at the same time. He's stunningly beautiful, graceful and polite but he's also sexy as hell. He is innocent and naughty. He is darkness and light.

He is exactly like me.

I am attracted to my male self.

No wonder I kissed him back last night. He wowed me - and I'm pretty sure I wowed him.

We're two sides of the same coin after all.

"You like him." Ana teases me.

I wasn't even aware that I stared at him. The realisation hit me so hard that everything around him and I just vanished as I stared into his turquoise coloured eyes. How can he be even hotter in daylight?

It doesn't make sense. He doesn't make sense to me.

But I don't make sense to myself most of the time either.

"Jo," Ana's voice somehow reaches through the fog and into my brain.

"Right, sorry. I'm glad to see you again." I say to Edward and embrace him quickly. But his scent lingers in my nostrils just like his hands in the middle of my back. The touch sparked tiny little explosions within me. It feels just like with Oliver but yet it's different. It has a different pace, a different intensity... it's amazing but also different.

And I don't know which of these two I enjoy more.

Oliver

With still damp hair, I walk out of the bedroom. I've put on a light grey cotton T-shirt and black joggers, and I must admit the clothes fit my body perfectly. Plus, they're like nothing I've ever worn before! The quality is amazing. It's so soft against my skin. No wonder Josephine wanted to buy me clothes.

I stop in my tracks as the sound of a humming woman fills my ears. It's not Josephine, I'd recognise her voice under a million. It's a bit higher.

Could this be her mother? Or one of her sisters? Duchess Lorelai or Dr. Bolton? Or one of her aunts? Or maybe her grandmother?

Or perhaps it's Princess Charlotte of Wales again. But she has a different voice.

The options are endless!

I inhale deeply and straighten my shoulders before continuing to walk down the hallway. As long as it's not her father I am safe. Whoever it is, it won't be worse than meeting her father. If I ever meet her father.

I frown when I see a short but big lady wiping the dust away from the shelves of the sideboard in the living area. The woman is brown haired and has olive skin. She hasn't seen me yet as she's still humming a melody that suddenly hits a bullseye within me. It's a very old but popular Latin American song. The woman in her mid forties looks like she's from there. Maybe Venezuela, Chile or Costa Rica.

The realisation makes me smile like I haven't in the last twelve months.

Suddenly the woman turns around and spots me standing behind the couch. Her deep brown eyes are wide. "Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn't know someone else was still here. I thought the penthouse was empty. Miss Bolton-" she has a very heavy Latin American accent. I still can't pin point it to a country but it's definitely not Costa Rica or Chile. But maybe she's from Argentine.

"Josephine is away for the weekend but I decided to stay here. She didn't inform me about anyone coming here to clean either."

She shows me a small smile. "I am Flor." She holds out her right hand.

"Oliver." I say as I shake her hand. "Where are you from, Flor?"

"Baracoa."

That's a small town in the east of Cuba. "You're from Cuba?"

"Si, but I was born in Argentine." Flor says with a smile. "But when I met my husband during a holiday in Cuba, I decided to stay here."

And now she's working for Josephine. "How long have you been working for Josephine?"

"I've been working for the Bolton Family for six years now. I worked for Miss Bolton and her siblings when they lived in Oxford and went to university there. Then when Miss Bolton went to Harvard for her master's degree, I worked for Mr. Bolton until Miss Bolton came back." She starts explaining to me.

She worked for Josephine's brother?

"But I've been working here for about half a year, ever since Miss Bolton moved in here. Mr. Bolton is now getting married to Princess Charlotte so he won't need my help anymore but maybe one day I will work for Master Elias, Master Calloway or Master Gideon. I really like working for the Boltons."

"I'm sure they are very pleased with your work."

"There's hardly anything to clean. Josephine is very tidy."

I smile at her. Of course Josephine seems tidy. She's barely home to make anything untidy. "I'm sure Nate isn't."

She laughs, "No, but men are usually less tidy than women."

Flor has a nice laughter, it's full of warmth.

"I'm glad Josephine has found someone special to share her life with."

I don't think she knows that yet.

Josephine

Having breakfast with Edward was the best way to start this day in Paris. We've spent the morning in total peace, far away from the prying eyes of paparazzi, other hotel guests and celebrities that will attend the Couture fashion shows today.

Ana, Edward and me laughed, talked about his humanitarian work that has allowed him to travel through the whole world and help people in need. He really hit the jackpot with that, not only with me but clearly with Ana as well. As we share the same values, the conversation just went on very naturally and time passed by too quickly. It was fascinating to hear about his latest work in Cambodia, where he built schools, distributed food and water to the less fortunate and played soccer with kids to keep their minds off of their worries for an hour a day. He even helped out at a few rescue centres for monkeys - that made me smile because I thought about how a monkey stole my mother's wedding ring on Bali. Ed has been to Bali as well and helped out after the earthquakes and tsunamis that happened in the last five years.

How can one man do so much good?

"This was a wonderful start to the day but we should get going now." Ana starts before finishing her green tea. Breakfast was a delicious collection of classic French pastries, fresh fruit and veggies as well as delicious poached eggs.

"Speaking of going," Ed starts before looking, "would you mind me stealing you from your sister until tomorrow morning?"

My eyes widen at his question. Yesterday, he said our date would be tonight and now he's moving it up by twelve hours? "You want to skip the Armani Privé show?"

Edward nods, "If you don't mind."

"No, I don't mind it at all." I say before looking at Ana. "If you see anything that I would like just get it. You don't mind going alone, do you?"

My blonde sister shakes her head with a smile on her lips. "No, not at all. You two have fun."

"Oh, we will." Ed says with a grin on his lips.

Ana rises from her chair, "I should get going now."

I rise from my chair as well and embrace her. "Have fun." I whisper into her ear.

"You'll have more fun." She promises me before letting go of me. "It was a real pleasure to meet you, Ed." She says to Edward before embracing him as well. Then she turns around and walk away from our little private area where we had breakfast in complete silence.

"I like your sister."

"She likes you, too." I say as I watch Ana disappearing behind a corner. She looks fabulous in her light grey pants suit by Armani. When I look back at Ed I notice he was staring at me. He has mesmerising turquoise coloured eyes that remind me of the ocean at French Cay. Calloway's eyes are little bit darker than Ed's but I've always known that Cal is going to be a heartbreaker when he's older and now the evidence is staring right at me.

I didn't even feel his eyes on me.

"Where are we having our date?" I ask after a moment of staring back at him. To my surprise I don't blush under his intense gaze, instead it feels like the most natural thing in the world. Like it always has been this way.

I wonder if it's the same with my parents. Because I've seen how intensely my Daddy stares at my Mummy when he doesn't think she's noticing him - and she returns the favour.

"That's a surprise."

"Do I have to go back to the hotel and change?" I ask him as I am wearing stilettos and a royal blue plissé skirt with a black laced top. For some reason - maybe it's his mysterious smile - I don't think I am dressed properly for his surprise.

But he shakes his head. "No, I've arranged anything. Even the outfit change, if we have to change our outfits."

So, we will do something that requires a different outfit. "But we are going to stay in Paris, aren't we?"

"There's so much beauty in this country... and I'd like to show you some of my favourite places."

"A road trip through France?"

"Something like this." He says before rising from the table. "The helicopter is waiting for us on the roof." He explains as he walks around the round table. "Shall we?" He holds out his hand while giving me a million pounds smile.

I place my hand in his and feel a jolt of electricity running through my body. The touch awakes every nerve within my body, causes goosebumps and makes me heart beat faster in my chest.

As always, Ana was right. I really like Ed.

---

Provence is a beautiful part of France. We flew over fields of greenery and vineyards as well as lavender fields. It was a wonderful two hour flight from Paris to the vineyards of the Rothschilds. On the way, Ed pointed to several tiny villages, that we flew over, and told me about his childhood memories there. Apparently, the Rothschilds are a very big fan of France. They spend their summer holidays either at the Côte d'Azur, Nice or Saint Tropez and go skiing in the winter in the French Alps. They even spent a few months with the French president at their vineyards when Ed was still a little boy. He played tennis with the president's daughter.

The Rothschild vineyards are near a little village called Vaison-la-Romaine, a stunning historic village full of cobblestones. It looked beautiful when we flew over it.

But now that we've landed in the middle of nowhere, I can't help but be excited over whatever Ed has planned.

And I don't usually like surprises.

I grab Ed's hand and climb out of the helicopter that's an Eurocopter EC 135, one of the safest helicopters in the world. My stilettos sink into the grass just slightly. We're on a grass field but vineyards are around us and the turquoise coloured sea is not far away from here. The shores start about a kilometre away from us, so the sound of waves crashing against each other fills my ears. The air is salty and it's a bit windy, but oh so beautiful...

We're definitely at the Rothschild vineyards but I have no idea in which part. The sun is shining brightly down on us so I'm grateful that I brought my sunglasses. It's a cloudless warm day here, although it's just early April. In London it's still quite cold but here on the south east part of France it feels like early summer.

No wonder the Rothschilds love France so much.

Our vineyards are in Bordeaux, so up north, but I must admit having a few hectares of land here in Provence would be nice as well. The climate is a bit milder so I think the grapes get a different - not necessarily better - degree of ripeness. It would be interesting to see how our grapes would do here.

"What now?" I ask as I look at Ed through my black cat-eye sunglasses by Givenchy.

"We're taking the car to drive to our destination." He informs me with a boyish grin that makes my heart do somersaults in my chest.

"We couldn't land there?" I ask him as he grabs my hand and leads me away from the helicopter.

"No and when we're there you'll understand why."

His hand feels nice around mine. It's big and slightly warm... and oddly secure. I frown as the realisation hits me. I do feel safe around him. First I thought it was just the immense privacy that he offered me yesterday and this morning but now... now I think it has more to do with him as a person than with what he's offering me.

It's strange. It makes my head spin and my legs go jelly as I follow Ed. He has a very attractive profile. A nice small but pointy nose, a sharp chin that's free from any hair, full lips, high cheekbones, quite bushy dark blonde eyebrows and stunning turquoise coloured eyes that he's hiding behind black aviator sunglasses but I know they're there.

He looks like the perfect heartbreaker, a womaniser. But he's not. He's actually the opposite. He's caring and kind, he's polite but also driven... he's a philanthropist - the sexiest character trait of all.

I could deal with bossiness, arrogance and coldheartedness.

But I couldn't deal with someone who doesn't care about giving back. Because this is what drives me the most. Helping people, whether they're poorer or sicker than me, is what makes me, me.

I am a philanthropist.

And so is he.

"You know how to drive a manual, don't you?" Ed's question rips me out of my thought.

We stop walking and I watch how his head turns slightly to the side to look at me. Edward Rothschild is young, insanely wealthy, hot as hell and a philanthropist - he's the male version of me. No wonder I feel so attractive to him. It's like he's my complement. "Yeah, of course I do." I answer after a moment of staring at him.

With his free hand he reaches into the pocket of his beige slacks and gets out a car key. A key to a Jaguar.

I tear my eyes off of Ed and look at where we stopped across. A stunning glossy black Jaguar from 1956 is standing across us. The car is in tip top shape with beige leather interior and mahogany wood. The condition of this are is excellent! It's an old-timer that only belongs on these kind of streets, the streets of French liberté, delicious wine and the ocean breeze blowing through your hair. "That's an XK 140 from 1956." I breathe out in amazement. The car is almost one hundred years old but it looks brand new.

"You know your cars, Miss Bolton."

I let go of Ed's hand and walk closer to the car. It feels almost unreal to touch it. The Coupé is a two seater with a wide snout that was typical for the time. 191 PS are packed into timeless elegance. 2.808 cars were produced as a Coupé that year. 3.345 Roadster were built and 2.789 as a DHC, a Drop-Head Coupé also known as Cabriolet.

But this piece of art looks like it came straight from the manufacturer. It has even retained its original number plate, VP series.

I can't believe Edward owns this beauty. It must be worth a few millions - not even my father nor I can get our hands on these kind of cars because no sane man - or woman - would ever sell such a car.

I twist my upper body around to face Ed, "This is such a beauty!"

He shows me a small smile, "I call her Eloise."

I mirror his smile right away, "A very fitting name."

Suddenly, he throws the car key into my direction. I catch it, afraid to even scratch the key to Eloise.

Ed walks around the car and opens the passenger seat, "Come on, I'll tell you where to go."

"You want me to drive her?" I ask him shocked as he get seated.

"Yeah, I'd like to try out the passenger seat for once. I heard you have a soft spot for cars in your heart."

"Not just any car." I say as I open the driver's door. I climb into Eloise and feel the comfortable beige leather cushioning my back and bump. It feels very nice... almost like going back in time... when Grace Kelly was still alive.

I turn on the motor and with a loud, deep purr the beauty comes alive. It makes me grin like never before. "Gosh, she's wonderful." I say as I wrap my hands around the mahogany wheel. I put in the first gear and gently start driving down the road ahead of me, that has clearly been used many times before me. It might not be asphalted but the soil is still pretty firm. Eloise belongs right here, driving between the stunning vineyards that overlook the turquoise coloured sea.

For minutes, we drive in silence. I adore the countryside ahead and around us - and Ed seems to adore the sight of me because I can feel his turquoise coloured eyes burning holes into my body.

Maybe he takes all of this for granted, after all this is his summer holiday home. He knows what it looks like, so he'd rather look at the one thing that is new: me.

But I don't mind it. I am way to obsessed with Eloise, the vineyards, the bright sun, the cloudless sky and the ocean breeze that's blowing through my long chestnut waves. My hair is flying everywhere, but I don't mind it at all. Because I love being here.

"How long do we have to drive?" I ask him after driving for ten minutes ahead.

"A few more minutes, you can speed up you know."

"No, I'd rather not scratch the bodywork with flying stones or sticks."

"Okay, that gives me five more minutes to stare at you sitting behind the wheel of my sixteenth birthday present."

I look at Ed for a second, "You got this beauty for your sweet sixteen? I only got an Aston Martin! And it's not an old-timer."

"But I'm sure the Aston is nice to drive on the motorway and racing circuit with Nate."

"Alright, you've got me. I do love a fast car, but this..." I change the gear as I speed up, "This has so much history, so much elegance, it's so... so timelessly beautiful..."

"I like how you talk about Eloise. Is someone jealous?"

"Not jealous... just in awe. No wonder you spent half the year here in France. Eloise doesn't belong to London, she belongs right here... under the French sun, driving through the French Rivera."

Ed chuckles, "My sister strongly disagrees with you."

"Maybe she and I should have a chat. I will set her record straight." I think out loud.

Ed laughs, "I don't doubt that." Suddenly, he grabs my right hand and intertwines his fingers with mine. The touch gives me chills all over again. "Turn left and drive up the hill. We're almost there."

"I hope this date comes with a wine tasting from your vineyards. I've never had one of your wines before." I say as I turn left and then drive up the hill.

"It does and I hope you like our wine. It's almost as good as yours."

Of course he has had our wine before. I feel like Ed knows me while I have just scratched the surface of him. "Maybe next time you leave for your humanitarian work, you should bring a few boxes of wine with you." I joke as I drive up the steep hill. We were already on quite a high mountain. Occasionally, the leaves and branches from the vineyards touch Eloise and I pray there won't be any marks left.

"Maybe I will." He answers as we slowly reach the top of the hill. A big beige stone mansion with two levels and balconies comes into my view. It looks historic but it's in top shape just like the car I am driving. It has to be built in the early 1920s. It's almost as big as my childhood home and has also the same shape, a U shape with lots of white transom windows. A fountain is in the driveway, in front of the huge white wooden doors. I'm sure there's a pool behind the mansion that overlooks the vineyards that continue growing from the sides and further up the hill. The birds are tweeting and the sun is kissing my shoulders. It's such a peaceful place. This must be their summer holiday home.

It's absolutely breathtaking.

"You brought me to your summer holiday home?" I ask as I drive through the white pebble stones that make up the driveway.

"Yes but this will only be where we sleep."

I park the car in front of the big white wooden double doors. "I hope no one but us is here."

"We're alone."

I turn off the engine and hand him the key to Eloise back. "If I knew we stayed here overnight, I would have packed a bag."

"Oh, don't worry, I took care of that." He says before getting out of the car.

"You brought me clothes?"

"Just fresh underwear, a tooth brush and other necessities."

"You didn't have to do that. I could've just gone back to the hotel and pack some stuff up." I explain and suddenly get a glimpse into how Oliver must have felt when I bought his clothes. Only I had a reason, while Ed didn't.

"But I wanted to. Besides the time you would have spent packing up your stuff, without having any idea where we would be going, would have distributed my plan."

I frown. Sometimes, Ed doesn't make sense to me. But it's why I like him.

Suddenly, the sounds of horses fill my ears - and my jaw drops to the floor. He has horses here?! "Are those horses?!" I ask although I know the answer. My ears recognised the familiar sound that's like music to my heart.

Edward nods as he walks over to the double front doors, "I thought we should ride through the vineyards. There's place I'd like to show you."

"We're going horseback riding?!" I ask in excitement. I haven't been on a horse since I came back from Harvard.

"Yes." He confirm as he opens the doors.

"But I can't ride in stilettos." I protest although I would do it. Because I love horses... they're my weakness.

And cars, obviously. I just love PS.

"Don't worry, I took care of that. There's a full set of horseback riding attire in your room."

My room? "We're not staying in the same room?"

Edward steps into the huge mansion and turns on the lights. A massive chandelier fills the foyer with warm lightning. A wooden curved staircase to my left leads to the upper floor. Framed photos of the Rothschilds from the past decades are hanging on the wall across the staircase. It weirdly reminds me of my childhood home.

I almost feel at home here.

"Since you've set the record straight yesterday evening, I didn't want to force anything or give you some mixed signals..." He trails off, "but I wouldn't mind waking up next to you tomorrow morning."

To my surprise, I wouldn't mind that as well.

Oliver

Two hours later, I know Flor's whole life story as she kept talking like a waterfall while cleaning, but nothing - not even a tiny glimpse - about Josephine. Perhaps I should google her. I was tempted to do it yesterday after skyping with my Mum. But then I decided against it. Because Josephine deserves to have the chance to be seen without any prejudices. She deserves to have a clean slate.

But boy, am I curious! I want to know everything about the woman I fell in love with. I want to know everything about her siblings, her grandparents, her parents, cousins, aunts and uncles. I want to know everything and everyone that made her, her.

I want to meet the people who gifted life to this wonderful human being.

But I can't.

Because I signed that bloody NDA.

Josephine

Edward grabs my hand as we walk by the open horse enclosure that's connected to the barn which is still a few meters away from us. There are already a few horses eating grass far away from us. I already love it here! Ed is wearing an all black outfit that consists of an Oxford shirt, competition breeches and boots. He doesn't wear a vest.

He looks mouthwatering in all black.

Edward brought me horseback riding attire from the same brand that I usually buy my clothes from so I know the quality is amazing. It's a stunning outfit that consists of a white blouse, a beige quilted vest, black competition breeches and slim black leather boots. All by the brand Vestrum, a luxury brand that specialises in equestrian clothing.

"How many horses do you have here?"

"Six. All in top shape." Ed answers.

I wouldn't expect anything less. "And which one is your's?"

"I own two. A Dutch warmblood in black named Ebony and an Arabian horse in grey named Assam."

I rode a Dutch Warmblood in my tournaments, it's a very temperamental horse, very arrogant and breathtaking beautiful. And the Arabian horse is one of the oldest in the world but I haven't ridden it yet. Maybe today's my lucky day. "You named a horse after a state in northeast India?" I ask him surprised. Usually horses get named by their fur colour or breed but not after a state. Assam is a state in northeastern India, situated south of the eastern Himalayas along the Brahmaputra and Barak River valleys.

He smiles, "Geography was one of your favourite subjects in school, wasn't it?"

I shake my head, "That was sailing, horseback riding, math, Russian and chemistry."

"I see. I helped out at a school for a few weeks in Assam. It was my first job abroad. I was fifteen." He explains before squeezing my hand. "It shaped me in ways I will never truly understand. After this one job, I knew I could never turn my back to these people. It's why I started travelling the world after doing my masters at Yale."

"What did you study at Yale?"

"Global Affairs. But I studied Neuroscience, Math and Mechanical Economics at Harvard before that. I repaired Eloise almost on my own. When I got her, she was in great shape but nowhere as splendid as she is now."

"That's a pretty big difference to Global Affairs."

But he only shrugs, "I have a wide range of interests. I even thought about studying medicine for a while to work for Doctors Without Borders."

That would meet his interests and need to help best. "Really? Why did you decide against it?"

"It would have taken me too long and I wanted to do something then and there. So I spent only the least amount of time on campus and I was always in foreign countries in the holidays. I started with Haiti first and then worked my way down to South America. By the time I graduated Yale, I had worked in every country of South and Middle America."

"Why didn't you work at your doorstep? New Haven and Cambridge surely could have used your help as well."

"New Haven and Cambridge are overrun with students doing good." He says with a shrug as we reach the red horse stables. The smell of hay and horse poop fill my nostrils - I love it! "But I like to help where most people don't go. I like to help at places so far away from civilisation that I can't be contacted by phone for weeks. I like seeing people smile. It's why I do what I do."

He's too good to be true.

An old white haired man is working in the barn as we walk past the stables that are filled with horses. They're all so beautiful and in such excellent shape!

"Edward!" The man says in a very heavy French accent. I've never heard someone pronounce the name Edward that way, but I like it.

"Jean-Luc!" Edward shows him the same genuine smile that he has shown me the whole day so far. It's full of warmth and appreciation. I like this smile. Ed lets go of my hand to embrace the man tightly.

They start talking like old friends in perfect French.

I decide to give them their privacy, so I turn around and stare at the beauty that's standing in the stable across me. A stunning black Dutch warmblood. This breed was created in the middle of the 20th century and broke the scene of dressage and showjumping. These horses possess appealing personality, willing to perform backbreaking work and staying enormously calm. A straight profile and proportioned body make the Dutch Warmblood ideal for riders of all levels. Its fairly long neck adds a bit of elegance while the highly set tail makes the total look of the horse so refined.

This has to be Ebony. I hold out my hand and gently fondle the forehead. She has dark eyes and glossy fur. Her legs are strong and her body is very well proportioned. She must be worth millions.

"I see, you've already met Ebony..."

I turn around and Edward's voice, "Yes, I couldn't help it. She's stunning."

Jean-Luc walks over to us. He must be in his mid sixties but he still looks good. "Je m'appelle Jean-Luc."

"Jean-Luc has been carrying for these horses since I was little. He lives nearby."

I hold it my hand, "Je suis Josephine." I shake his hand with a smile on my lips.

"So, do you want to ride on Ebony or Assam?" Ed asks me while Jean-Luc walks past us to another stable. I can hear some noise coming from there and a few seconds later he appears with a black leather saddle, a white saddle pat, black leathered bridle and reins as well as stirrups. I notice the navy E.R. embroidered into the saddle pat immediately.

"While I haven't met Assam yet, I kind of already fell in love with Ebony, so I'll take Ebony."

"Probably the better choice. Assam can be a bit aggressive and cocky." Ed says with a smile before opening the stable. "But he has had every women under his spell so far."

"I wonder if that's because of the horse or because of the owner sitting on the horse." I counter with a grin on my lips.

"We'll never know because Assam is all gentlemen and doesn't kiss and tell."

I chuckle, "I see and the many women you've had here don't like to say it either."

"I don't know but if you count my sister and mother as the many women, than yes."

My face turns serious at his words. He has never brought a woman to this place?!

Oliver

"Do you know where Josephine keeps her photography work?" I ask Flor as she's starting to pack up her things and get ready to leave.

"There are safes behind the hanging photos in the left hallway downstairs, so I think there's probably where she keeps her absolute best work. There's also a safe in her study. But her worse work - at least in her eyes - is hidden in her wardrobe."

I frown, "Where? I didn't see it."

"The room has a secret door that leads to another room. That's where she keeps her most private stuff. I'm only allowed to get in there once every few months, so she must take care of this room herself."

"How do I get into the room?"

Flor sighs, "I'm not sure I should even be telling you this." She picks up her black bag.

"Flor, please."

"I'm sorry. You're going to have to figure it out yourself. All I can say that shoes are very important to Miss Bolton." She says before walking away from me. I watch her walk down the hallway that leads to the foyer. The lift doors open with a silent ping, she steps in, they close with the same ping - and I am alone.

I nearly run into Josephine's walk-in wardrobe. I tear the door open and stop in the doorway. The back wall is full of evening gowns, organised by length, colour and fabric. The left wall is filled with blouses, shorter dresses, T-shirts and other tops. The right wall is full of her pants, jeans and purses. She has a huge selection of purses and shoes. They make up 60 % of the wall. I don't know all of the designers but I know they must be bloody expensive, because everything Josephine owns is expensive. She even bought me expensive clothes. But my little nook - as she calls it - can't be where she's hiding that secret door.

On the shelves above her clothes are a ridiculous amount of hats in various shapes and colours. The island in the middle is made of white marble and walnut, just like her kitchen. In everything Josephine does and owns, she's not much of a gender defining kind of woman. She doesn't own lots of girly pink clothes and stuff, she's much more neutral while still being sexy as hell.

Okay, I have to think. I have to make a plan.

I can't just shove everything around until I find a doorknob. I can't mess it up - she would find out. I have to put everything I touch back to where it belongs.

But I am determined to find that secret room.

Josephine

We ride side by side through the vineyards and endless lavender fields with the turquoise coloured sea next to us. We've been riding for almost two hours in which we rode past Lacoste, Cassis, La Ciotat and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. We're now close to Antibes, which is at the Côte d'Azur, the French Rivera.

It's such a freeing feeling to be sitting on a horse again. I love the wind that is blowing through my hair, despite the black helmet that I'm wearing, and the sound of horse's hoofs. It's the best sound and feeling in the world.

And the man next to me on the grey horse is pretty awesome, too. Turns out Edward is a very good rider. Almost as good as me. His grey Arabian horse is in tip top shape. This breed is considered among the oldest in the world; it dates back to the times of King Solomon. Such an opinion is popular among hippophiles, but recent researches based on the analysis of mtDNA show its heterogeneous origin. At the same time, probably no one can question the noble appearance of the Arabian horse. The main peculiarities of the Arabian beauty are the dished and well-shaped face, long arched neck, and naturally high tail carriage. Primarily, they are grey, chestnut, bay, roan and black. Being acclaimed as one of the honours of the Arabian Peninsula this breed opens our list with an estimated price of $1,000,000.

And while Assam is a stunning creature, I am glad I went with Ebony. She's a steady horse that takes my commands really well.

"Doing good there?" Ed asks me. The black helmet suits him really well.

I know I am smiling from ear to ear but I can't help it. "I love it!"

"Great! Follow me."

And with that he speeds up on his grey Arabian horse. I follow him quickly with Ebony as we career up a hill and away from the shores. He didn't tell me where we'd be going. He only ensured me we'd be having our wine tasting there along with lunch. Assam is carrying a basket and so is Ebony but I have no idea what's inside of those baskets - and for the first time in my life I love staying in the dark.

As we reach the top of the hill, I can see the stunning purple lavender rows in front of us. They're blossoming and the smell is to die for! Humming birds are flying from flower to flower but Edward rides through the field like it's his everyday route.

And I'm sure it was when he was little.

I follow him through the lavender field, but not without taking in all of this beauty. Edward's grey Arabian horse rides up a hill again and suddenly, I notice a gazebo on top of the little hill. It's surrounded by a few oak trees. I think there's even a swing on one of the trees.

It's the perfect spot to have lunch, right within these endless lavender fields.

I quickly follow Edward with Ebony and speed up, but I am unable to catch up with him. When I reach the little gazebo, Ed has already climbed off Assam and is waiting for me.

"How's this for a lunch spot?" He asks me as I stop next to him with Ebony. He helps me down the black Dutch Warmblood, although I am perfectly capable myself to get off the horse properly.

I hand him the reins and look around. To my right are the stunning purple lavender fields and to my left is the turquoise coloured sea. There's a sandy beach a few kilometres away from here. The ocean is glittering in a bright turquoise colour.

I turn around and stare into an even more amazing source of turquoise. Edward smiles at me, with his lips but also with his eyes. I can feel myself getting lost in this colour... and these feelings he gives me. It's a vortex of emotions I've never felt before. "This is very nice."

He leans forward, "I was aiming for amazing."

"It is... it's really amazing to be here. Thank you for showing me this spot." I say as his smell fills my nostrils. It's the ocean breeze combined with a hint of calming lavender and his very own muscular scent. He smells heavenly.

It's intoxicating.

"Ready for lunch?"

"Depends. Does it involve wine?"

He smirks, "I brought the finest selection for you to try, Miss Bolton."

Oliver

I'm staring at her shoes, that's a collection of stilettos, sneakers, boots and flats. They are sorted by colour and style. Flor said Josephine loves her shoes. So the entrance to this mysterious room has to be somewhere hidden between the 200 pairs of shoes that are neatly organised in front of me. It's ridiculous. How can one earn so many shoes?!

Why would you need five black pairs of stilettos?! Or six pairs of white sneakers?! Or the same boots twice?!

It's excessive to say the least.

I have no idea where to start. Which pair is her favourite? The sparkly ones that look like the ones Cinderella would wear? Or the sleek black ones with red soles? Or maybe the royal blue heels with some kind of stone at the tip? Going through these is like looking for the fucking needle in the hay. The entrance to her secret room could be hidden behind every shoe she owns.

I sigh before I start looking behind every single shoe she owns. It's going to take me ages but I'm eager to see those photos... to find out more about the woman I fell in love with.

Josephine

Lunch was a delicious lobster sandwich that fit perfectly to the 1918 white wine from the Rothschild's vineyards. It had a lovely fruity note in the aftertaste and it was light enough to make sure we won't ride home drunk. It was a simple yet very tasty lunch on a red and white checked blanket that was inside one of the two baskets that we brought. We talked about our childhoods and I found out that I am very lucky to have such caring and loving parents because Ed's parents had sent him off to boarding school the second the opportunity arose. They did the same with his little sister Meredith, who is just a year younger than me. All Ed had from his parents were the holidays and even during those they worked most of the time. Maybe that's why he's so close to Jean-Luc as Ed used to go horseback riding during almost every holiday.

While my parents work a lot as well, it is clear that we are their priority and not work. Family always comes first - at least in the Bolton household.

I promise myself to give my parents an extra long embrace the next time I see them. They have no idea what an amazing job they're doing.

I also found out that Coldplay is one of Ed's favourite bands. He saw them live in Chile once when he worked at a refugee camp there.

"You know, Coldplay is going to play at the annual Aching Hearts concert." I point out before taking a sip of the white wine.

"Really? When?"

"21st of June. In Richmond Park."

"Right next door to your childhood home then?"

I nod, "My Mum's still organising these concerts."

"So, you'll be there?"

I nod again, "It's a family thing. We will all be there."

"Then I'll come." He promises me. "Will you also come to the Diana memorial concert on the 1st of July?"

I'm surprised he knows about it. It hasn't been officially announced by Kensington Palace and Windsor Castle yet. It's top secret. "Who told you about it?"

"That beach blonde haired man you call your brother." Ed says with a smirk on his lips.

I didn't realise they knew each other, let alone that they're close enough for Nate to spill the beans about me. "I have to talk to him about what it means to be a Royal."

"Isn't that Duchess Lorelai's task?"

I wave with my hand, "She's going to break down whom to curtsy to, how to shake hands, make small talk and all that stuff but I have to explain to him whom to shut up to and whom he can talk to."

"And I am the first?"

"I didn't say that." I counter quickly. "I just think Nate has to be more careful now that he's joining the Royal Family."

"You wouldn't have a problem with that."

"With what?"

"Joining the firm. It seems like you have everything under control at any given moment."

I laugh at the absurdity of his words, "Oh no. Never in the world will I join the firm. Rory and Nate are enough to shake up Royalty. They don't need me to do that."

Edward smiles at me. "So, no Duchess Josephine?"

I chuckle, "No. Never."

"That's just my luck."

"Oh, I'm sure the Rothschilds are somehow connected to the Mountbatten-Windsors. Maybe through a great-great-great-great grandma maybe?"

He grins, "It's actually my great-great-great grandmother. So technically we are now related since Rory and Nate are now Royals."

"But you don't have a title."

He sighs and lays down on the blanket. "Grandma Harriet fell in love with a divorcee. Had to turn her back on the crown for love. She gave up her title. She was a Princess and would have been a Duchess if she stayed within Royalty. But you can't choose who you fall in love with."

No, you really can't. But I wouldn't know that. "So you would have been an Earl then?"

He nods. "Earl of Albany as my parents would have been the Duke and Duchess of Albany."

Albany. That dukedom hasn't been used in centuries but I think maybe Nate will get the title. If he gets a title. He knocked up the Princess of Wales by accident and I know King Charles will punish him for that. In one way or another. "Nate might get your title." I breathe out.

"Earl or Duke?"

I shrug, "Duke if I had to guess." Or hope. I finish my glass and place it back into the open basket.

"Well, I gladly give him that title."

I lay down next to him, "I wouldn't bet on it though."

He turns his head to the side and our noses almost touch. I can feel his warm breath against my face. "What's you guess then? For Nate's title."

I shrug, "I can't tell. I really can't tell."

"You know something."

I know of two reasons why he wouldn't be getting a title at all. And those two reasons are growing inside Char's uterus. "I do but I cannot tell you."

"Okay."

"Okay?" I ask back surprised. I expected him to push me.

"Yes. You're an excellent secret keeper."

"What can I say? It's in my genes." I joke, causing him to smile. "Thank you for bringing me here."

"Thank you for being here." He whispers back as his turquoise eyes focus on my lips.

I can't kiss him again. I enjoyed our last kiss too much. I would fuck him right here, between lavender fields and the turquoise coloured ocean.

And that would be a betrayal towards Oliver.

It's wrong.

I get up from the blanket before I can do another mistake. I don't know what it is about Edward but he's so bloody charming. He has charmed me with this place, his smile, his two horses... and everything else in the last 24 hours.

And I don't get charmed. By no one.

Except for Edward Rothschild. I brush through my hair as my eyes scan the lavender fields. The sun is standing high but the oak trees provide us enough shadow to stay cool. It may be early April but it feels like early June here. Ebony and Assam are eating grass nearby. I gave them some water in bowls that I found in one of the two baskets. This place... this place is like a tiny piece of paradise on earth. I turn around and look at the turquoise ocean. A path leads down the little hill and to the sandy beach. The wind is blowing through my hair so I tuck the front pieces of it behind my ears. I feel dizzy.

Edward's making me feel dizzy. I've never felt like this before, not even with Oliver. My eyes hang on to every single word that Edward says. Whenever he smiles, I can't help but return his smile. He shares the same values as me. He pushes buttons I didn't know I had.

I wince as I feel Edward's hand on my shoulder. It's the same jolt of electricity that has run through me since we met. Every time he touches me, all of my nerves react. It reminds me of the feeling Oliver gives me, but it's different... it's not stronger or less intense but different. Just like the two men. I can't compare them.

"Everything alright?"

I nod and turn around to face. "Yes... it's just..."

"It's just what?"

"You make me feel dizzy." I admit as I rest my forehead against his. It feels nice... familiar and strangely exciting. A hunger within me start awakening like a monster hat has been fast asleep for decades.

"You make me feel dizzy, too." He whispers against my lips.

"I like this feeling."

"I like it, too." He stares deeply into my eyes.

Before I know it, my lips have sealed over his. He returns my kiss and quickly our tongues start dancing as we explore each other's mouths. He's an amazing kisser. Sparks explode within me and a strange feeling fills my stomach. My body starts craving his. I want more than his lips and tongue. I want it all.

I pull away from his lips before the hunger within me gets the best of me. I place my hands against his chest and rest my forehead against his. I don't know much about a healthy relationship but I do know that sex would definitely be cheating. And I can't do that to Oliver. "Ed, I can't..." I whisper and feel how my body is protesting against my decision. Gosh, I want him. I want him so badly that my whole body is shaking with need. But I can't. "I can't do this..." I inhale deeply and stare at his mesmerising turquoise eyes, "I'm seeing someone and it wouldn't be fair towards him."

"He doesn't have to know." Ed breathes into my face. His warm breath awakes every nerve in my body. My whole body is craving him.

"Ed, as much as I want you right now I can't do this when I am committed to someone else."

"How long?"

"I'm sorry?"

"How long will you stay committed to him?"

Shit, he knows about the NDAs. One of my former fucking mates has told him about them. I lean back to get some space, but Ed wraps his arms around my waist. He bloody knows!

"Listen, I am not judging you for being careful. Frankly, if I were you those kind of actions would be in my daily practice as well. It's important to be safe rather than be sorry. So, how long do I have to wait for you?"

"Fifteen weeks. Until early July."

He nods as if we were talking about something ordinary like bringing out the trash on your way out. "Okay."

"Who told you?"

"Your brother."

"N-Nate?!" I ask shocked.

"We meet at the White's regularly. Play pool, poker and have a few drinks."

"I didn't realise you guys were so close." Nate never mentioned Ed towards me.

"It was him who said we'd be a great match and I must agree with him. We are a great match. We have a connection that goes beyond sharing the same interests... and you feel it, too. It's why you've kissed me twice. It's why you can't say no to me. We're like magnets."

I do feel a strong connection after only 24 hours of knowing him. And I do feel this strong pull that he described very fittingly as magnetic.

Ed runs his hand up my back and I feel how my muscles vibrate from his touch. A shiver runs down my spine and coats my arms and legs with goosebumps. I bite on my lower lip as another wave of lust rushes through me. It's even stronger than the last.

"I'll tell you what we're going to do. We're going to enjoy this weekend and see it as a holiday. I don't kiss and tell, so whatever happens, happens. And then on Nate's wedding, we'll see each other again."

"You're invited?"

He nods, "I'm sitting in the choir."

"I'll reserve you a dance."

"You'll come alone?" He asks me surprised.

"Of course. I don't bring my..." I have no idea what to call Oliver. "...whatever, to official events. It's limited to my penthouse only. No public outings."

"No paparazzi photos." He reads between the lines.

"Exactly." I say with a smile on my lips. "And I'll reserve you a dance."

"I'll make good use of it."

"But I have to warn you, I will dance with Arthur and Archie as well. To keep the pretence of my reputation."

Ed nods, "Of course." His hands cup my face, "Perhaps I'm going to see you at Wimbledon with your sister or brother in early July. And I'm most definitely sure, I will see you at Royal Ascot in late June... and maybe at Trooping the Colour in mid June, at the dinner at Buckingham Palace."

"But you've never been to one of those before." I breathe out. In all these years I've attended these events, whether very publicly like Wimbledon and Royal Ascot or quite privately like Trooping the Colour in Buckingham Palace as I am not a Royal, I know for sure Edward has never attended these events in the last nine years. I would have noticed his turquoise coloured eyes, his blonde hair, his chiselled body and that heart melting smile. I couldn't have missed him.

"I will now." He promises me, "Just because our parents know each other, doesn't mean we will end up together but I have a feeling that the two of us have great potential to become something neither we nor our parents expected."

They say faith can move mountains but I think Edward is moving the Himalaya and Mount Everest together just to have the chance to be with me.

I feel very flattered to say the least.

"Our paths have never crossed before."

"Because I was busy saving the world, helping those in need and you were busying doing everything you can to take over your parents' seat at their firm. You are meant for something bigger than that..." he trails off and licks his lips. "You and I... we could rule the world in a way no one has ever done before. Together, we combine greatness. Together, we are extraordinary, more than when we are apart. So, yes Jo, I can wait until early July to be with you because I know you are worth it. This is worth it. We are worth it."

Before I know what I'm doing, my lips have sealed over his. I don't know what it is about Ed, but he pushes my buttons in a way no one has ever before. I wasn't ready for this. I didn't expect to meet him in Paris, jet off to his vineyards in Provence, have a breathtaking ride on the most stunning horse I've ever written on to the most perfect little spot to have lunch at and see him opening his heart to me as we stand on the shores with the sea in front of us.

He swept me off my feet completely.

He kisses me back with such passion that my back crashes against the trunk of the oak tree. It shakes a little. I feel every cell in my body craving more than just his lips, I want his naked skin against mine, I want his cock inside of me, I want... I want him so badly that my heart bleeds for him.

I pull away and gently push his chest away from me. "I'm sorry, but I can't... I want to... I really want to, but I can't."

He cups my face and fondles my cheeks with his thumbs, "That's okay. I'll wait for you, Josephine Bolton. Because you're bloody worth it."

Oliver

I've gone through 150 pairs of shoes, but none of them are hiding some secret door knob. As always with Josephine, she knows how to hide her secrets. I have to get to work soon, so I have to adjourn my search for the entrance to this secret room. After all, I have until tomorrow evening, that's when she promised me she'd come back.

I know where I stopped looking. I stopped at a pair of white Ralph Russo stilettos with florals growing up the heel of each shoe. They look very nice but I have no idea how she walks in these ten centimetre high shoes.

But she must love them because she has ten different colours of the same pair.

I sigh and walk over to my part in her closet. It's tiny in comparison to the rest of her closet, but to me it is huge. And it will always be huge. I can't believe she brought me all this stuff. It's way too much but the clothes are all in my size and actually made for me.

I get out a hanger with a grey Oxford shirt before I lay it on the white marbled island behind me. Then I pull out a pair of jeans from one of the shelves. She bought me eight different jeans - I would have been fine with one.

I will just never get used to this kind of luxury.

Josephine

The wind is blowing through my hair like crazy as we drive through the French Rivera in Eloise. Ed wanted me to drive but I declined because I know how curvy and steep the streets in France can be. So, this time it's me who sits in the passenger seat.

"There's a scarf in the glove department." Ed says before looking at me but all I see is my reflection in his black mirrored sunglasses by Gucci. He has changed from his riding outfit to a chic outfit that consists of beige slacks, a white Oxford shirt, a jacket and leather shoes.

I changed into a bright pink summer dress with ruffles. It was one of the pieces that lay on the bed in my guest bedroom when we returned from our riding session. It's a pretty dress by Dolce Gabbana and I don't know how I feel about someone else buying stuff for me.

Oliver has to feel the same way about what I did.

"Why are you telling this me now? We've already been on the road for 45 minutes!" I complain as I open the glove department of Eloise. I get out a silk scarf by Hermes with a black and white floral print. I quickly wrap the scarf around my head and secure my hair.

Ed pushes his sunglasses a bit down the bridge of his nose and his turquoise coloured eyes come into my view. "You look like Grace Kelly."

"Does that mean it suits me?"

"Very much." He shows me a smirk that makes my heart beat faster.

"Enough to tell me where we're having dinner?"

He chuckles, "Nice try, Miss Bolton, but no. This weekend is a surprise."

I sigh, "Are we nearly there yet?"

"Aren't you enjoying the view?" He asks me back as we drive down the steep and curvy streets next to the shores. It's a stunning view, but somehow my eyes seem to enjoy the man sitting behind the wheel more.

"I'd rather be enjoying dinner with you."

"Patience is not one of your strengths, is it?"

I shrug, "We all have our flaws. What's yours?"

"You." He says simply as we start getting closer to a little village that's by the sea.

"Me?" I ask him back surprised.

"Yes, you." He starts slowing down the speed, "You are an amazing woman, Jo, but you know that. You are intelligent, funny, charming, caring, loyal... and sexy as hell. You're the best kisser I've ever met and you make me so god damn horny with just one glance that I can't help but grip that wheel tightly, because otherwise my hands would be resting on your thighs. I need to fuck you so badly, but I won't because you made it pretty clear that you're unable to fulfil this need. At least yet. And I respect that because I respect you." He looks at me for a second and I can see my amazed expression in his sunglasses. "I respect you."

He has made me speechless. Before I can even think of a response he looks away. It's almost like I've hurt him and I don't want to hurt him.

I grab his right hand and place it on my left thigh. "To ease the craving a bit." I explain.

He squeezes my thigh in response and I feel my pussy clenching in need. Shit, this was a bad idea.

"It's making it worse." He says as he turns the corner. We've entered a little village that's full of historic French houses and cobblestone on the floor.

"I know." I agree with him and intertwine my fingers with his instead. I'm surprised how well our hands fit into each other. The need is still very much there, but somehow this connection makes it more bearable. "But that's better."

"It is." He says as he parks the old-timer Jaguar in front of a small restaurant that's right at the sea. The sun is standing low but it hasn't started to set yet.

Back in London, Oliver just came home from work.

Oliver

The doors of the lift open with a ping and I step into an empty apartment for the second time in two days. It's weird to be here all alone, to have so much space to myself. No wonder Josephine is gone every weekend.

But at least this gives me time to find her secret room.

I am dog tired from working at the café today but my curiosity is getting the best of me. I want to find that room and since I have off tomorrow, I can look for it the whole night.

Josephine still didn't answer my text so I'm pretty sure I've scared her off so badly that she's going to end this and kick me out when she comes back from Paris. So I better make good use of the time I've got left.

I walk straight into her bedroom, ignoring my protesting stomach. I haven't eaten during lunch and I am starving but Josephine is more important than my hunger.

I stop in front of the black Ralph and Russo heels, right where I stopped looking this morning. I don't know why she has to have so many shoes. I reach into the shelve where the heel is standing on and look for some kind of switch or button that could open this secret door. I thought about Flor's words the whole day. Maybe she meant Josephine's sneakers and not heels. Because so far, I have found nothing!

I want to pick up the shoes but to my surprise they're glued to the shelve. I frown and pull at the left shoe again and to my surprise it lifts slightly up but I can't lift it completely.

Suddenly, I can hear how locks open somewhere in this room. Sixteen locks open after another and I let go of the shoe. I found it!

I found her secret room!

Suddenly, the wall with her bathrobes and morning gowns that's to the left of her shoe wall, starts gliding towards me. The hangers on the clothing rack shake a little but none of them fall down. The door swings open and I am standing in front of a sixteen square meter room in a rectangular shape. The floor is made out of royal blue carpet and it's full of glass cabinets, thin mirrored drawers and glass cabinets let into the walls. A big crystal chandelier is hanging from the ceiling. Everything is sparkling.

Diamond necklaces are placed on statues that are safe behind the glass cabinets that are built into the walls. Hundreds of necklaces in various shapes, sizes and with different stones. Emeralds, rubies, diamonds, sapphires... every expensive stone is in here. In the glass cabinets that stand in the middle of the room are earrings, bracelets and rings. They are all in top shape, perfectly clean. I'm guessing the thin drawers are holding more jewels, perhaps the kind that's not her favourite. This room looks like a jeweller's shop.

I found her jewellery room.

But I don't see a single photograph.

Damn it!

I walk into the room and start looking around. Maybe she has put them in one of the drawers. Or maybe there's some kind of secret room attached to this one.

I don't care about the jewels, I've never seen Josephine's money when I looked at her and that's not going to change just because I am standing in a room that's probably worth a few billion pounds.

Money doesn't buy you happiness and love. It doesn't buy you health or respect.

But it can make your life a lot easier.

I lick my lips and start opening one thin mirrored drawer after another. It's just more expensive necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings . She has them categorised by gem: it goes from clear coloured diamonds, to yellow, to deep blue, to light green and to rosé coloured diamonds. The next set of drawers is the same for sapphires I guess, but I had no idea sapphires could be green, yellow and pink, let alone be clear.

As I move clockwise from drawer to drawer, the music repeats itself for emeralds, rubies and pearls. The last section is full of expensive watches: Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, Tag Heuer, Lange Söhne, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Rolex, Hublot and Cartier. She doesn't have any jewellery from Tiffany co, she prefers Harry Winston and Cartier.

55 different watches, 129 different necklaces, 348 pairs of earrings, 120 rings and 234 bracelets - if I've counted correctly. All made from very real gem stones, using very real metals.

I also know that she likes platinum, white gold, red gold and yellow gold equally as much.

I stop in the middle and take a look into the round glass cabinet. The are breathtaking bracelets made out of diamonds in there and along them I recognise the one she lost when we met at the charity gala at the Ritz in London a few weeks ago. It's still as sparkly as I remember.

I will never forget that Argentine Tango which we danced in the hallway all alone with no music. It was the best bloody dance we danced.

I sigh and brush through my hair. I thought I would find out more about Josephine, instead I've reached another impasse. Sure, I now know how much jewellery she really owns but that doesn't help me at all.

I'd rather find what's precious to her heart.

Her photographs.

Josephine

The waves crashing against each other fills my ears as a background music to our dinner in a little village that's close to Saint-Tropez. I'm very much appreciate this private dinner setting, that's close enough to the sea and it's beauty but far enough from noisy paparazzi and the praying eyes of the public. We enjoyed the typical French cuisine all from locally grown organic veggies. We've shared a big portion of Fondue Savoyarde, had each a Salade niçoise as a side and for dessert it was a simple but delicious crème brûlée.

And now we're finishing off with an espresso because we've had two bottles of brilliant white wine over the course of our dinner. I'm even a bit tipsy because I can feel my flushed cheeks from time to time. Especially when Ed says something flattering.

Our conversation has turned from the humanitarian work to excessive flirting and hand-holding. Over the last two hours, the sun has set right next to us, but I didn't deign to look at it. I saw the reflection and stunning colour play in Ed's turquoise coloured eyes. They're even more vibrant now that the stars and moon have appeared.

I finish my espresso with my left hand, since my right is being held my Ed's large hand. I've been ignoring the need to kiss him the whole evening but I have no idea how to survive the drive back to the vineyards, let alone the night.

I've never been this tempted in my entire life.

"Ready to head back?" Ed asks me with the same heartbeat increasing smile that he has been wearing ever since I grabbed his hand in Eloise on our way to the restaurant.

"Yes. I really enjoyed this dinner with you. Thank you for bringing me to this special place." I say and raise from the chair. The restaurant is completely empty so I guess Ed booked the whole restaurant for us. He also paid the bill - a fact that sits oddly well with me.

I never had someone else buy dinner for me. But then, I've never had dinner with another man. I've never had dates before meeting Ed. It was just sex before.

But I like this. I like having a captivating conversation over a very well cooked meal with a glass of wine. I enjoy having dates. They're fun!

I'm just not sure if it's because of the setting or the man I'm having them with.

"You didn't even look at the sea once." He points out as he picks up his jacket from the back of the chair. The temperature has dropped rapidly but men never feel cold. It's a mystery ai've never been able to solve.

"Because you're much more interesting to look at." I counter as goosebumps start covering my bare arms and legs.

"Here." He hands me the jacket and I wrap it around my shoulders.

"Thanks." I hold the jacket by the collar as his smell starts filling my nostrils. It's still this amazing mixture of lavender, salty ocean smell and his very own musky smell. It's heavenly.

I follow Edward out of the restaurant after we thanked the cook and the waiter for their exceptional service tonight. The streets are paved with cobblestone. Antique streetlights lead the way to the old-timer Jaguar that's called Eloise. We're completely alone. It's so peaceful here. The houses are stunning and there's even a fountain in the middle of the main square in this tiny village.

"It's so beautiful here!" I say as we walk by a house that's almost completely covered in ivy and purple wisteria. This is such a charming village.

Suddenly, Edward kisses me passionately and my back crashes against the wall that's covered in ivory and wisteria. I kiss him back automatically, my body is grateful to be giving into this need after fighting the whole evening. I wrap my arms around him as our kiss intensifies. Gosh, I am so thankful we're in the middle of nowhere and not in a metropolitan city. This would never happen in a place like that, because there're cameras and noisy people... Our tongues start dancing. He tastes of the espresso we just had but there's still a hint of the sweet white wine that we drank with our fondue. Ed's such an amazing kisser. Instead of satisfying my craving, my body keeps wanting more.

I want more of Ed.

I let go of his lips before I pull down his pants and fuck him in this innocent village. "Ed, I can't..." I breathe into his face. "I can't do this..."

"I know..." he whispers back before kissing me quickly. "But, God forgive me, I wanted to kiss you the whole night. I'd like to do more than kiss those perfect lips... so much more." His turquoise eyes stare deeply into mine. "I want you so badly, Jo."

My whole body is on fire from his words. I brush through his blonde hair, "Bring me back to your estate and I'll see what I can do."

Oliver

I hang back the last framed photo that's hanging in the hallway which leads to her bedroom. Just like Flor said, behind each carefully selected photograph that captured the perfect moment in time, Josephine has hidden a safe. Whether it's a family photo, a photo of herself with Charlotte, a photo with her sisters, a photo with her brothers, a photo with her triplet siblings or a photo with her parents, there's always a safe hidden behind it. At least now I understand why this is the only area that is filled with something personal - her photos - yet it actually covers a much more important issue: her six safes.

Really, Josephine thinks of everything.

And I have no idea how to blow one of these six different safes. They all have a fingerprint sensor and an iris scan. It would have been hard enough for me to guess the numbers right but with the two additional safety features it's impossible for me to get these safes open.

I'm pretty sure that's where she's keeping her work.

My stomach growls as I walk into the open living area. It looks unused like always. I miss Josephine so badly. With naked feet, I totter into her kitchen and open the fridge. The fridge is full. There are even a few pre-cooked meals in clear plastic containers. I think they're from the restaurant downstairs. Josephine mentioned something like a hotel service, so I guess she must've arranged that for me. There's a soup, pre-cut veggies for a salad and a curry. I've never been more grateful for something to eat. I get out all the containers, ready to dig through all of them.

Josephine

I pull away from his delicious lips, needing air to breathe. We've barely made it back to the mansion. The second Ed unlocked the door, I found myself pressed against the first wall there was, getting cherished by his lips. Being completely alone with him is too much for me. I can't say no. I fall prey to temptations.

He kisses the nape of my neck before moving further down to my cleavage. The fire within me is starting to eat me alive.

"Edward," I breathe out his name. Gosh, these feelings he's giving me...

He stops kissing my cleavage and looks me in the eyes. "Whatever happens in France, stays in France."

"Whatever happens in France, stays in France." I repeat his words, totally hypnotised by his turquoise coloured eyes.

There's a triumphal grin on his lips before he grabs my lifts and lifts me from the floor. I lock my ankles above his butt and kiss him passionately as he walks up the staircase that leads to his bedroom. His scent and his lips are intoxicating. His hands on my back gently push me closer to him as our tongues start dancing again.

He opens a door and a few moments later I can feel his soft bed underneath me. I start unbuttoning his Oxford shirt while he opens the button of his slacks. They glide down his legs and reveal his toned legs. He kicks off his shoes as I open the last button of his white Oxford shirt. Damn, he has some abs! That he's in shape was something I knew considering his fitted clothes that he wore when we went horseback riding earlier but even I didn't expect this chiselled figure. I run my fingers up his torso, his eight abs are perfectly visible. He has wide shoulders and strong arms. His large hands grab the edge of my pink ruffle dress and he helps me out of it. I'm wearing a black laced set by Agent Provocateur that consists of a strapless bra and a thong. I didn't choose this set for him. I didn't plan on sleeping with him after just 24 hours of knowing him... I didn't do this intentionally, yet maybe my subconscious knew this would happen.

I should have known we'd end up like this.

"Gosh, you're beautiful." Ed's turquoise coloured eyes dance down my body. I am in top shape, I've always been because I'm very keen on sports and eat very nutritional rich. I rarely eat junk food and I have boxing sessions with Wlad three times a week.

Of course, I look fucking hot. I am sex on legs.

But so is Edward.

I open the clasp of my bra while he stripes my thong off of my legs. "Tell me you have condoms."

He grins, "Always thinking of everything, aren't we Miss Bolton?"

I lean forward and hook my thumbs into the waistband of his black boxer briefs. "Being careful is in my blood."

Whatever happens in France, stays in France.

Oliver

I turn off the rain shower head in her shower, open the glass doors and step out. I grab a heated towel from one of the drawers and wrap it around my hips. I don't like being here alone. It's not my home. This feels like a hotel. From the cleaning staff named Flor, to the cooking service from the Michelin restaurant that left food in Josephine's fridge for me.

I look out of the glass front in her bathroom. The view of London at night is utterly stunning but that's nothing compared to the woman who lives here usually. Or sleeps here as I don't think Josephine really lives here.

I thought I had to get her into some nice restaurant for our first date but maybe I should make sure she stays in for a weekend. We could cook together and eat it in front of the tv instead of her dining table. She should loosen up and see her penthouse as what it is: her home.

She should get back to her roots.

Josephine

I stare at Edward, who is fast asleep next to me. The moonlight is shining through the transom windows in the guest bedroom that had been designated to me. My Chanel purse is still standing on the nightstand next to me. It's a stunning typical French room with very large transom windows, a chandelier, a fireplace with a marbled mantelpiece, vintage mirrors and classic French furniture. I thought we'd go to his room, but I guess mine was closer.

The sex was absolutely amazing. I've had three toe curling orgasms. It was nearly as good as with Oliver. Nearly. Ed didn't touch me the same way as Oliver does, he kisses me differently, his cock felt different... because it was different. But it wasn't bad at all. In fact, it was equally as good. Different but just as good.

I rode Edward's cock the same way Oliver fucked me before I left for Paris. It was ruthlessly, animalistic sex. It wasn't gentle or slow.

It was different.

I close my eyes as I exhale. I betrayed Oliver. I feel so rubbish but it felt right. Edward is right, we have a connection and I can't believe he is willing to wait for me for 15 weeks... He thinks I am worth it.

He has no idea that I am not girlfriend potential.

But Oliver knew when he signed the NDA. He knew this would be hard for me, but I don't think he'd knew how hard. I didn't feel attracted to another man ever since I met Oliver a month and a half ago, yet Ed throws all of my good intentions over the board. He has completely charmed me.

And I seem to have charmed him equally as much. I'm insanely attracted to him, more to his work, his values and characteristics rather than the shredded body.

But the shredded body didn't do any harm. I look at Ed's naked body next to me. Every time we touched, a fire within me lit up. With every kiss the fire gained intensity and every time I came, it was like we were both lit on fire.

But now he's laying on his side of the bed, giving me the much needed distance without even realising it. He's not like Oliver at all. In fact, these two men couldn't be more different.

I reach to my nightstand and open my purse to get out my iPhone. As soon as I turn on the screen, I can see Oliver's words.

I miss you.

He has sent me those three words over 24 hours ago and I still didn't reply. Simply because I didn't miss him. I was busy enjoying Edward. But right now I feel more than just... I would prefer lying next to Oliver right now. Because I am used to sleeping next to him and sharing a bed with Ed is... it's different.

I sigh before my thumbs start typing a reply. I don't even know if he speaks French but I decide to send my message anyway. He'll figure it out.

There's no other language that describes my emotional state better right now.

Oliver

My iPhone rings with a notification sound in the middle of the night. I just fell asleep half an hour ago after tossing and turning for hours. I roll over in her huge bed and reach to the nightstand to grab the iPhone. It has to be a from Josephine. Only she and Finn have my number and Finn sure as hell won't contact me in the middle of the night.

The bright light blends my vision for a moment. As soon as my eyes have gotten used to the blue light that's coming from the display, I can see it's 3:45 am. And underneath the time display is a bar with the name of the woman I love and her message.

"Tu me manques" she wrote.

I didn't know Josephine spoke French. I have to ask her the next time we see each other how many languages she speaks. I have a feeling she speaks more than just French.

I only speak English and Portuguese. I have no idea what it means so I decide to google it. It doesn't simply mean I miss you. It means you are missing from me.

You are missing from me.

A grin stretches my lips.

Maybe Paris was good for us. Maybe the distance will bring us closer than ever.

---

Thank you for taking the time to read this chapter. I hope you enjoyed it!

Remember Ana's words about someone sweeping Jo completely off of her feet? If not, please read chapter 37 of A Million Times More. Do you think it's Oliver or Edward she meant by that?

Will Jo confess what happened in France to Oliver? If so, how is he going to react?

Do you like Jo with Ed or Jo with Oliver more?

Please review!

In gratitude,

Nicole