(Jenny's POV)
I'm in an industrial warehouse on the outskirts of London, playing a not-so-friendly high-stakes game of poker with Tobias Murphy. He's an Irish lowlife criminal – along with his cronies, Paddy Kelly and Melanie O'Sullivan.
"You play a dangerous game, Missy," says Tobias. "So I'm betting you have either the luck of a cheat… or more money than brains. Which is it?"
"You'll never know, Tobias. Unless you'd care to raise?" I say, raising an eyebrow at him. "How about the jewel?"
The jewel I'm talking about is the Travancore Ruby – the largest ruby in the world. It weighs 21,955 grams (that's 48 pounds, 6.43 ounces) and it is owned by the Travancore Royal Family of India. It was on loan to the British Museum – that is until two nights ago, when Tobias and his gang decided to… acquire it for themselves. Now it's up to me to get the ruby back.
"She's bluffing," says Paddy. "Throw it in the pot, Tobias. She can't win again."
"This is worth a lot of money to some people. What do you have to offer?" Tobias asks me, putting the ruby into the pile of money that's building up.
"How about your freedom?" I say. "Holding onto that old rock's bought you nothing but trouble, Tobias. You lose it; you also lose the heat on your tail. You win, I smuggle the three of you – and your stolen jewel – past the authorities and into America. Either way, you win."
Tobias looks at the cards he's holding – then he smiles. "Read 'em and weep, Missy," he says, throwing down two kings and three aces on the table. Then he gets up and starts to put the money and the ruby in the sack. "You'll have to use that pretty face of yours to smuggle us past the cops, sweetheart. Because they sure as hell ain't gonna buy that bull you call a bluff."
"Hmmm." I use the special ring that Zeke gave me to change the faces of the cards, hence my winning. "Who said I was bluffing?" I say, laying down a ten, a Jack, a Queen, a King and an ace on the table.
"But… Now wait a minute, what about me and the gang?" Tobias asks.
"Find yourself some other pretty face for those cops, Tobias…" I tell him, standing up and taking the bag from him. "Because if you're relying on looks to get by, I'd say you're busted." As I pull the bag towards me, I accidently knock over a glass of beer that spills over the holographic cards, revealing my deceit. "Oops. That's put a damper on things."
"Looks like we've been dealt a cheat, gang," says Tobias. "Get her!"
Paddy tries to grab me from behind, but I strike him with a back kick to the stomach, making him stumble backwards. "So you wanna play nasty now, Tobias? Fine. I got you covered!" I say, dumping the bag over his head. Then I kick him in the chest causing him to fly into the wall.
"Why don't we settle this over a drink, Missy?!" Melanie says, smashing a bottle over my head.
"The name isn't 'Missy'." I turn to her and pull off my dark brown wig. "It's Jenny Brownstone! And offering drinks or not, that's not the way she likes to be hit on!" I say, punching Mel hard across the face. "Now let's… not be… sore losers!" I back flip onto the table to avoid the chain and hook that Paddy swung. "Smart thing to do would be to take the hit, or should I say hits, and walk away."
"That not the way we play, Brownstone. We go all or nothing," says Paddy.
"Good…" I say, going into a fighting pose. "Because I can always throw down my five of clubs."
"That supposed to scare me?" says Tobias. "Takes a helluva lot more than that, Brownstone! A helluva –"
A black van comes crashing through the warehouse. I jump from the table and hang onto the light hanging above to avoid been hit.
"Aiiyyee!" Tobias screams as he runs. As do Paddy and Mel.
The van screeches to a halt. The door opens and out pops the MI9 agents, their guns pointing at Tobias and his gang.
"This is MI9!" one of the agents shouts. "Drop your guns and put your hands up!"
"Do it – now!" another agent barks.
Tobias, Paddy and Mel do what the agents say and drop their guns. Then they get down on their knees and put their hands on their heads. More agents jump out of the van and arrest the criminals.
"Stark!" I cry when I see him come out of the van. I let go of the overhead light and land on my feet. Then I pull the ruby out from my shirt. "Mission accomplished."
"Barely," he says. "Your recklessness almost cost you the ruby – as well as your life."
"Hey, I got us the jewel, didn't I?"
"Hm. I suppose the British Museum and the Travancore Royal Family will be… happy that you got back their most valuable gem."
I stare at Stark. Did he just… pay me a compliment? The world has finally gone mad. Who would have thought that under that dislikeable and hostile persona that Horatio Stark is actually a nice person?
"Is there a problem?" he asks, returning to his old bossy self.
"Oh, er, nothing," I say, shaking my head. "Nothing, sir. I take it that I'm done for tonight?"
"Yes, you're dismissed. I'll debrief you in the morning."
"Thanks. Goodnight."
Stark grunts in response. I roll my eyes and exit the warehouse. I suppose it was nice while it lasted. Though I am amazed that horrible old Smug Stark can be so nice – once in a blue moon! But having a nice Stark would be just as bad as having the Stark that we've got now.
I can't wait to tell Frank about this. Though throughout this week, Frank hasn't been spending time with me. Every time I want to plan something with him, he keeps saying that he's busy. I wonder what he's up too.
I let out a gasp. Of course – he's planning something for my birthday! It is in two days. That's why he's been so busy. He's planning on making my birthday a very special one. Now I'm really excited. I wonder what's he's going to do. Whatever it is, I know that it's going to be spectacular and it's gonna knock me off my feet!
(Frank's POV)
I arrive outside Mrs King's house. I look down at my watch – Jenny won't be back from her mission for at least another half an hour. That gives me at least fifteen minutes. The reason I'm here is because I want Richie's blessing to marry his niece. Now normally – and traditionally – I would have to ask the father, but since I haven't met Jenny's father, her uncle is the next best thing. I'm very nervous. I've been practising over and over in my head what I'm going to say. But I wanna make a good impression rather than just sitting Richie down and then going blank.
Anyway, I climb out of the car and head up the path to the house and knock on the door. I straighten up my suit while I wait. If I want to make a good impression, I have to look good. I don't want Jenny's family to think that she's going to marry a total sleaze, do I? After a minute or so, the door opens and rather than Richie standing at the doorway, it's a man of average height and build with a dark complexion – similar to Jen's, but a little darker – black hair, and the same chocolate brown eyes as Jen's. He's wearing jeans, with a light grey sweatshirt cardigan and a black shirt underneath.
"Can I help you?" he asks.
"Oh…" I stammer, surprised that it's not Richie. "Er, my name is Frank and, er, and I was wondering if I could talk to Richie about something."
"Frank? As in Frank London?"
I furrow my brow, wondering how this man knows my full name. "Um, yes."
Suddenly, the man's face beams. "I was wondering when I was going to meet you!" He takes my hand and shakes it. "It's good to finally meet you at last."
I let out a nervous laugh. "Er, sorry, but who are you?"
The man slaps his head. "Sorry, where are my manners? My name is Robert Brownstone. I'm Jenny's father."
My eyes go wide. "J-Jenny's father?" I repeat.
"Yes. I'm so happy that I get to meet you at last. Jenny and I have tried to make arrangements, but we're both so busy given that she's a teacher and I'm a solicitor. Anyway, look at me chatting away, you must be freezing. Come in, come in!"
I step inside and close the door behind me. Then I follow Robert up the stairs. I should have known that he's Jenny's father – they're both slender and of average height, with the same brown eyes. How did I not see that?
"Hey Rich, look who I just met," says Robert when we enter the living room.
"Oh, hi, Frank," says Richie. "You must have been surprised to see Rob open the door instead of me. Sorry about that – there was something that I borrowed from him and I went upstairs to retrieve it."
"It's no problem at all," I say.
"Anyway, what are you doing here? Jenny's gone to a friend's house and Hermione's at her yoga class."
"Actually, Richie, I wanted to talk to you. But since Jenny's father is here, I actually want to talk to him."
Robert and Richie exchange looks. They may already have an inkling as to what I'm about to do.
"OK," says Richie. "Have a seat."
I take a seat by the door, while Robert and Richie take the sofa.
"So," says Robert, "what do you want to talk about?"
"It's about your daughter – Jenny," I start. "I was wondering if I… if I could…"
So much for making a first impression. I'm starting to sweat a bit. I think it's because of me being in the same room as Jenny's father. Or the fact that I didn't know he would be here. Oh God, what if he says no? What if she wants Jenny to marry a rich man?
"It's OK, Frank, just take your time," he says softly.
I nod my head and take a deep breath. "Mr. Brownstone, you should know that I love your daughter very much. My life would be so chaotic without her. I wouldn't be able to accomplish half the things I need to without her by my side. There aren't enough bottles to contain the amount of love I feel for her… for my love for her continues to grow more and more each and every day she is in my life. This is why I would like to marry her.
"I understand the seriousness of the commitment and that being able to spend the rest of my life with your daughter would make me the happiest man in the world. Jenny has given me life in everything she does. Her smile warms my heart when I am feeling sad or doubting my place in this world. Her words speak volumes to me about character and how supportive she is in everything I do. Her love fills me with the motivation I need to continue to push forward on this long and winding road of life. She completes the parts of me that I struggle to perfect within myself. Every day I realize more and more that life without Jenny in it, by my side, as my wife, would be a life not lived to the fullest. She lifts me up, and I want to give her the same kind of joy for the rest of the days of our lives.
"Everyone deserves someone that can love, cherish, comfort and support them through life's ups and downs. Marriage is a commitment to give all these things, as well as receive them from another. Life will be hard at times, but sharing the burdens will lighten the load and make the rewards attainable. And I promise you, sir, that I will make the commitment that I will always honour, respect, and cherish your daughter. Which is why, Mr. Brownstone, I would like to have your blessing to marry Jenny."
The room goes silent after my speech. Richie is staring at Robert who in turn is staring hard at me.
Then Robert breaks into a smile. "I had a feeling you were gonna ask me that," he says. "I saw how shocked and nervous you were when I introduced myself to you. Your speech was sincere. It was deep and strongly felt. You really do love her, don't you?"
"She's the most amazing thing that's ever happened to me," I tell him. "She's my soul mate, my other half. And I love her. And I know that this is a big step, and I'm not expecting an answer right this minute. If you'd like some time to think about it, I understand."
Robert nods. "Usually, I am not steeped in tradition – especially in a tradition like this – but I do feel greatly honoured that you respected me enough to ask for my blessing, despite the fact that we are meeting for the very first time. I can see that Jenny means everything to you and from what I heard from Jenny; you mean everything to her too." He smiles at me and sticks out his hand. "Congratulations, Frank, you have my blessing."
Oh my… Is – Is he serious?
"Are you serious?" I say aloud.
Robert nods.
"Thank you, Mr. Brownstone," I say, shaking his hand. "Thank you so much! I promise you that I'll always take care of her to the best of my ability, and I will always honour and respect her."
"I'm glad to hear it, Frank. But rather than calling me Mr. Brownstone or Sir, please call me Robert – or Rob."
"Sorry, Robert."
"I think this calls for some celebratory drinks!" says Richie. He gets up and heads into the kitchen.
"So, Frank, when are you planning on proposing to Jen?" Robert asks.
"I'm gonna do it on Saturday," I say.
"On her birthday? Well, this is certainly one present that she's going to remember forever. You've got everything planned?"
"There are still one or two things that need to be done."
"You excited? Nervous?"
"I'm excited and nervous, but I am a teeny weeny bit more nervous."
"Like you were with me?"
"I was very nervous when I saw you. I've never met you until now, that's why I wanted to ask Richie for his blessing because I've only met him on a few occasions."
"Ah."
"By the way, I was wondering if you and Richie could keep this to yourselves. Jenny has told me that Livi and her mother tend to gossip whenever they hear a secret."
"That's true. Whenever Tess or Liv hears something – whether it's true or not – they have a tendency of passing the conversation around, despite the fact that they have been told to keep it a secret. So don't worry about this one, Frank – Rich and I will keep shtum about this. You can count on that."
"Thanks."
"Here we are!" says Richie when he enters the room with a tray containing three glasses and various types of drinks. Richie pours himself a beer, while Robert and I pour orange juice as we have to drive home.
"Here's to Frank who's about to make an honest woman out of my daughter," Robert smiles, raising his glass.
"Hear, hear," says Richie, raising his glass. "And here's to marriage and commitment."
"Marriage and commitment," Robert and I say, raising our glasses and the three of us take a swig at our beverages.
xxoOoxx
Half an hour later, as Robert, Richie and I enjoy another round of drinks; we hear the door open and close. I hope it's not Jen. I can't let her know why I'm here – she can't know. I want my proposal to her to be a surprise and, like Robert said, one that she'll remember forever.
I look to the doorway and let out a sigh when I see that it's Mrs King who has entered the house, not Jenny.
"All right, Mrs K?" I say.
"Frank? What are you doing here?" she asks.
"I invited him," Richie lies smoothly before I can answer. "When Rob here said that he was coming over, I decided to invite Frank, too. I wanted them to get to know each other."
"And trust me, Hermione, we are getting on like a house on fire," says Robert. Then he raises his glass. "To friendship!"
"To friendship!" Richie and I say, raising our glasses, and then taking a swig at it.
"Yes, I can see that," says Mrs King. "Well, have a goodnight and make sure you clean up those glasses, Rich!" Then she heads up the stairs to her bedroom.
I look at my watch – it's nearly nine o'clock. Jenny should be coming back soon. "Actually, fellas, I better get going," I say, standing up. "There are some things that I need to do."
"Mmm, me too," says Robert, downing the last of his drink.
"I'll see you lot out," says Richie, standing up.
We all head down the stairs and out of the house. Robert and I say our goodbyes to Richie and head down the path to our cars.
"Look after Jenny, Frank," Robert says before he enters the car. "Care for her, support her and protect her."
"I will, Robert," I say. "I will."
He nods and enters the car. Then he starts the engine and pulls out, waving at me as he drives past me. Then he disappears round the corner.
Don't worry, Robert. I promise that I will take care of her and look after her – like you've done for her for all her life.
I get into my car. Then I start it up, pull out and drive home.
Time to put part two of Operation Birthday Surprise into action.
(Jenny's POV)
At first I can't believe my eyes when I enter the classroom the next day. Carrie is holding a cupcake with a candle on it, and singing 'Happy Birthday to You' – along with everyone else in the class. I look to the whiteboard and it says 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JENNY!' on it.
"Happy Birthday, Jen!" the class chorus.
I blink in surprise and blow the candle from the cupcake. Then everyone hands their birthday cards to me.
"Wow. Thanks, guys," I say. "But… my birthday isn't until tomorrow."
"We know," says Carrie. "That's why we're celebrating today."
"I thought maybe we could have a party!" Davina suggests.
"And we don't get no homework," Scoop adds.
"Oh guys, I don't know…" I say.
"Oh, come on, Jen, live a little," says Rose.
I raise my eyebrows at her. First, Stark's being nice, and now Rose wants to party rather than study. The world really has gone mad.
"Yeah – it's not like we'll get an opportunity like this again," says Oscar. "Remember that we're all leaving next year."
"So what do you say, Jen?" says Donovan. "Can we have a party and get no homework?"
"Please? Please?" The class look pleadingly at me.
What the hell. It's Friday and less than twenty-four hours until my birthday. I want to have a bit of fun before the big day.
"Sure," I shrug with a smile. "Why not?"
The class cheer and soon, Scoop plugs his iPod player into the computer and turns the volume up to some hip-hop beats – though I do tell him to put the volume down because other people have their lessons.
At lunchtime I start to head over to the canteen when my watch communicator vibrates.
"What?" I murmur, looking at the watch communicator. "Oh, you have got to be kidding!"
I turn around and head for the storage cupboard. I make sure that I'm not being followed. When I enter the cupboard, I pull the lever and let the lift take me down to HQ.
"All right, Frank," I say when the lift doors open. "What's the big idea calling me down here when you fully well know that I have the weekend…?" I stop when I see who's in HQ. "Zeke. What are doing here?"
"Hey Jen," he says. "I'm sorry that I called you down here, but I wanted to wish you an early happy birthday and I wanted to give you your present." He holds up a white envelope. I take it from him and open it. Inside contained two train tickets.
"What is this, Zeke?" I ask confused.
"Your birthday present," he says. "You and a friend are going to spend an all-expenses-paid weekend in Paris. You are going to spend two nights at the luxury Shangri-La Hotel, and I'm giving the both of you two thousand euros spending money for your shopping spree."
I stare at Zeke like he's gone completely mad. "Are… Are you serious?" I ask. "I'm going to spend my birthday in Paris? As in Paris, France?"
"Yep," he nods.
I squeal out loud – I can hardly believe it! I'm gonna spend my birthday in the fashion capital of the world!
"Thank you, Zeke!" I exclaim, throwing my arms around him and squeezing him tight. "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you! You are absolutely amazing!"
"Thanks… Thanks for telling me something that… I already know!" he chokes. "Now can you… let go of me? I… I can't breathe!"
"Sorry!" I pull away. "Oh, my God. Paris – the city of love. And there is no doubt who I want to take with me."
"Ah, yes. About that…"
"What? What's wrong?"
"I'm afraid that Frank can't join you on your trip."
"What?! Why?"
"This letter will explain it."
Zeke hands a folded piece of paper to me. I open it up and read the letter.
Dear Jenny,
I am ever so sorry but I can't come with you on your trip to Paris (Zeke told me what he had planned for you). Something has come up concerning my mother. She was involved in an accident and broke her leg. I'm at the hospital in North London to see how she is. She'll probably be spending the weekend at the hospital before they let her go, and I really don't want to leave her.
I'm really sorry that this has happened. I hope you can forgive me. I wish you a happy birthday, and I'll see you on Monday.
Love, Frank.
"Oh, my God," I say after reading. "That's terrible. I should call him to check if his mother's OK."
"You can't!" Zeke exclaims. "I mean, remember he's at the hospital, so his phone may be in silent or it's off. Secondly, you have to go home and pack – you have to leave this evening."
"But what about Frank?"
"Frank would have wanted you to go out and enjoy yourself – not sit around in some smelly hospital. Is that how you want to spend your birthday?"
"Um… well…" I sigh. "I suppose not. I guess… I guess I could call Livi – she's always wanted to go to Paris. It will be a girly weekend away for the both of us."
"There you go."
"Well, er… I better call Livi and tell her the good news then." I give Zeke a kiss on the cheek. "Thanks again, Zeke."
He blushes. "You're welcome."
I turn and exit HQ via the lift.
So much for Frank's busy week planning my surprise birthday. But family does come first and let's face it; I really don't want to spend my birthday in a hospital.
After I leave the cupboard, I head for the canteen while at the same time taking out my phone and calling Livi to tell her the good news.
(Frank's POV)
I'm in the interrogation of HQ, watching Jenny and Zeke on CCTV on my Spy-Pod. I see the look on Jenny's face as she reads the letter. I should point out that my mother is well, and the letter that I wrote is all part of the Operation Birthday Surprise. While Jenny thinks that I'm at the hospital, I am actually going to broad the train that her and whoever she's taking with her to Paris – probably Livi – in disguise and stay at the same hotel with them (in a different room, obviously). Then on the evening of her birthday, I will surprise Jenny while she's having dinner. And while we relax in the lounge later in the evening, that's when I'll propose to her.
I watch as Jenny turns and leaves HQ. I receive a signal from Zeke from the security camera to let me know that Jenny's out of the cupboard and its safe for me to come out. I close my Spy-Pod and put it in my pocket, and then I exit the interrogation room.
"I saw that Jenny took the bait," I say when I come into the room.
"Hook, line and sinker," says Zeke. "Can I see it?"
I take the small box out of my pocket and open it, showing Zeke the ring.
"Dude, I can't believe you're going to do this!" he says as he stares at the ring. "Jenny is going to be blown away."
"I hope so. And I hope that she'll forgive me for lying to her. I also hope that my mother forgives me for using her in the deceit."
"Believe me, when Jenny sees this ring, she'll know that the lies were totally worth it." Zeke looks up to me. "Listen, Frank, like you, I love Jenny. I love her like a sister. I'll do anything to protect her – even though she's older than me. I want you to do the same – I want you to care for her and protect her. Hold onto her, Frank. Hold onto her, and whatever you do, don't let her go."
I give Zeke a warm smile. "I won't, Zeke. I promise."
"Good," he says. "Because if you do anything to hurt her, I'll set Ling on to you. Ling, the Cat Android 1000 and all the other androids I've built."
"I promise you, Zeke, that Jen is the only woman for me. There's no-one else I want."
"Good."
Then Zeke holds out his hand for me to shake – which I do.
"Well, I better go home and start packing," I say.
"Yeah, yeah, man, you go and do that," says Zeke. "And good luck."
I nod. Then I turn and exit HQ. After I reach the top and exit the cupboard, I sneak through the corridors, being extra careful not to bump into Jenny. As soon as I'm out of the school, I head for my car and hop in. Then I pull out of the school and head for home to start packing.
(Jenny's POV)
The taxi drops me off at St Pancras station at around seven o'clock. My train doesn't leave for another hour, but I want to be early. After I pay the driver, I take my weekend roller case and enter the station. I head for the café near the Eurostar departure lounge where Livi is already waiting for me.
"Hi!" she calls, waving at me.
"Hey," I reply taking my seat next to her.
"You have no idea how excited I am! This weekend is going to be awesome! I mean Paris – the fashion capital of the world. I can't wait to check out the latest fashions there."
"I'm just looking forward to some serious chilling out time."
"Thanks so much for inviting me. I am forever in your debt. But… wouldn't had it been better to take Frank?"
"Frank wanted to come, but his mum injured herself in an accident and he's visiting her at the hospital. I've texted him to check how she is – he haven't replied back yet."
"I'm sure that Frank doesn't want you to spend your birthday wondering how his mother is. He wants you to enjoy yourself and shop until you drop – which is exactly what we're going to do. We'll show the Parisians how the Brownstone sisters shop – with style and finesse."
I laugh at Livi's comment. We order some drinks while we wait, discussing what we are going to do in Paris.
"Would all passengers for the eight o'clock train to Paris please come to platform five for boarding," the tannoy announces.
Livi and I jump to our feet and head to platform five. As we board the train and head to our seats. "Oh!" Someone bumps into me as I head to my seat.
"Sorry," the person grunts and hurries along to their seat.
I furrow my brow at the person. They sounded oddly familiar…
"Jen!" Livi's voice knocks me out of my thoughts. "Jen, you're blocking the path."
I look behind me to see a group of people waiting to go to their seats.
"Sorry!" I smile sheepishly, and I join Livi at our seats by the window.
As the train starts to move, Livi and I join hands and grin at each other.
"Paris here we come!" Livi says excitedly. Then she pulls out a pile of the latest fashion magazines from her bag and starts reading. I'm too excited to do anything except imagine all the fun that we're gonna have – especially me, as it's my birthday.
xxoOoxx
When the train arrives at the Gare du Nord station in Paris at around 11:15 P.M., we hop into a taxi and head to the Shangri-La Hotel. We are met by a doorman in a green uniform with gold braiding.
"Bonjour, mademoiselles," he says with a smile.
"Bonjour," Livi and I giggle girlishly as we step into the lobby. It's like a film set!
"Spectacular!" I gasp, gazing at the marble floor and luxurious décor.
"Fabulous," agreed Livi.
We go over to the check-in desk and get our room keys. We are sharing room 96. Two porters take our bags and lead us to our room.
"This is incredible!" Livi raves, walking around the room.
The room is decorated in a classical French style. Lavish furnishings and sumptuous fabrics are enhanced by sparkling chandeliers and majestic artwork. The beds have thick gold covers and the tall French windows lead out onto the balcony, giving us an exceptional view of the Eiffel Tower and the River Seine. The curtains are a warm cream colour, held back with gold tassels.
I flop back onto my bed and spread my arms out wide. "Now this is luxury!" I declare.
After we finish admiring our room we start to unpack. Afterwards we head to the hotel lounge downstairs for a late-night snack. Then we head back upstairs to our rooms and to our beds – we have a busy weekend ahead and need to get our beauty rest.
xxoOoxx
My birthday morning finds me happier than any birthday I have found in years. I turn over to find Livi's bed empty – she must be in the bathroom. I jump out of bed, put on my red bathrobe and throw open the French windows to check out the view.
There's a knock at the door. I head to the door and open it, revealing a porter holding a bouquet of red roses.
"I have a delivery for Mademoiselle Jennifer Brownstone," he says.
"That's me," I tell him.
The porter hands me the roses. "Bon anniversaire."
I head for my bed on place the roses on it. Then I get my bag and open it, fishing inside for a tip. I take out twenty euros and give it to the porter.
"Merci beaucoup, mademoiselle."
Nodding my head, I close the door and go back to my bed where I laid the roses. I pick up the card that's lying in the roses and I read the message.
Thinking of you with love on your birthday and wishing you everything that brings you happiness today and always.
Happy birthday.
Love, Frank.
"Aww!" I coo with delight.
"Who was at the door?" Livi asks when she comes out of the bathroom, wearing only a towel.
"The porter," I say. "He gave me roses – they're from Frank! Look at the message he wrote."
Livi takes the card from me and reads the note. "D'aaww!" she murmurs.
"I know, right?"
"And while we're on the subjects of presents…" Livi goes to her bed and takes out a large purple parcel with a silver ribbon from her weekend bag. "Happy birthday, sis."
I take the present and open it up. I gasp as I see what I've got – a jar stuffed full to the brim with classic sweets, including from what I can see Flying Saucers, Frosties, White Mice, Fruit Salad, Refresher Chews, and Anglo Bubbly. On the label of the jar it states the year I was born (1988), my name and a short message: 'Happy Birthday, love Livi'.
"I love it," I say, and I give Livi a hug. "Thank you."
"You're welcome," she says. "Now get ready – I wanna shop so hard in the Parisian boutiques that I wanna put them out of business."
I laugh and head for the bathroom.
As soon as I've had a shower I step into a gorgeous sable-brown, faux-fur gilet complemented by a carmel-coloured, ribbed t-neck sweater and chic camel-coloured bell bottom trousers. This incredible ensemble also includes matching gloves, brown ankle boots, and a chic leopard-print handbag. Livi is wearing a stylish black coat atop a black shirt, a mid-thigh leopard print skirt, sheer black tights and black Mary Jane shoes, accompanied with a black quilted bag with gold chain straps. Her hair is held in a ponytail with a black ribbon.
"You ready?" I ask her.
"I was born ready," Livi says. "Let's go!"
We head out of the hotel. Hugo, the doorman, grins when he sees us.
"Cab, Mademoiselles?" he enquires. When we nod he puts two fingers in his mouth and gives a piercing whistle. A white taxi screeches to a halt next to us and we climb in.
"Have a good day!" Hugo calls as we head off, piled into the back of the cab. We wave goodbye and settle back, grinning widely.
"Where to?" the driver asks in French.
"La Avenue des Champs-Élysées," I say. Then I tell Livi, "The Avenue is one of the most famous streets in the world for upscale shopping."
I can see her excitement bubbling over. The taxi takes us through the Place de la Concorde on the way to Champs-Élysées and we cheer as we see the Arc de Triomphe.
"I have always wanted to see the Arc de Triomphe!" I gasp. We step out of the cab on Champs-Élysées and head for the nearest boutique.
We spend half the morning going up and down the street, checking out the window displays and trying out all the latest looks. Finally, out bags bulging with fabulous new clothes, we head for the Eiffel Tower. When we get to the very top we get a sensational view of Paris.
"This – is – amazing!" Livi squeals. "Quick, let's take a picture." We take some shots of the city and the streets below. Then we ask the lift guard to take a picture of me and Livi.
Suddenly, there's a disturbance not far from where we are to our right; a man is on the floor. It looks like he's having a heart attack. Then applause breaks out and we see that the man is on one knee, the woman is in tears: it's a successful proposal. The man springs to his feet and the two of them share a long kiss. More and more people are applauding and whistling; one of the lift guards comes bounding over, punching the air as if it is a personal victory. Strangers approach the couple with congratulations.
"Lucky girl," I murmur.
"Hmm," says Livi. Then she asks, "Do you ever think about Frank proposing to you?"
I stare at Livi, surprised at her question – but then again, I have been thinking about this sort of situation for months. I drift into a daydream about Frank doing just that. It's the same scenario like the couple, but without the people. Its night-time – the moon is full and the stars are out. We're on top of the Eiffel Tower, having a slow dance. Then we settle down for dinner. We talk, we laugh and we hold hands. Afterwards, we're watching a firework show, and during the grand finale, Frank leans into me and whispers the four magic words in my ear: "Will you marry me?" I turn to him and see that he has gotten down on one knee, holding the ring. My eyes brim, and I know exactly what I'm going to say – I'm going to say…
"Jen!" I jump when Livi waves in my face.
"What?" I stupidly say.
"I said do you ever think about Frank proposing to you?"
I think about Frank, seeing the past year of bliss as if it has all occurred in a single day, and I feel caught up in an unstoppable tide.
"Yes," I say finally, turning to Livi. "Yes, Livi, I do."
She draws in a little gasp of breath. "Really?"
"I can really picture myself in the future with Frank – proposal, marriage, even kids."
"Ooh!" Livi squeals with delight and hugs me. "I'm so happy for you, sis. Oh, I can't wait for the day it happens."
"I can't wait either. Now let's get these bags back to the hotel."
We go over to the elevator, watching the newly-engaged couple pose for photos. We enter the lift and it takes us down to ground level. Then we hail a taxi and return to the hotel. After we drop our bags off, we go to a nearby café for some refreshment.
"Today was amazing," I gush. "I'm really glad we did it."
"Me too," says Livi.
"So is there anything you wanna do for the rest of the day? Do you wanna shop some more? Kick back and relax at the hotel? Or be like a typical Brit and tour the city?"
"Shouldn't I be asking you these questions? After all, today is your birthday."
"Oh yeah!" I giggle stupidly. "I totally forgot. All right, I suggest that for my birthday… we head over to the Louvre and visit the Mona Lisa."
"Great idea. Let's go."
We catch a cab to the Louvre. As the driver takes us there, I take out my phone to see if Frank has called or texted. He hasn't. As much as I enjoy hanging with Livi in the greatest city in the world, it's not the same without Frank. But then I remember the bouquet of roses that he sent to me – it shows that even though he's not actually with me in person, he's with me in my heart.
We arrive at the Louvre ten minutes later, and the first place we head for the High Renaissance collection – where Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa is. But when we get there, we see a large number of people crowding around the painting, taking pictures of it.
"Yeah… I don't know about you, but I'm gonna visit some of the other works in the museum that isn't as crowded as this," says Livi.
"OK," I say as I try to peer through the crowd to catch a glimpse the famous painting, but to no avail. "Let's meet at the entrance. I'll see you soon."
Livi nods and takes her leave. Then I take a deep breath and start to work my way through the crowd to see the Mona Lisa.
(Frank's POV)
I arrive at the Louvre Museum a couple of minutes after Jenny and Livi. I pay the driver and head inside. I go to the High Renaissance collection as I know that that will be the first place they'll go. When I reach the place, the room is very crowded. I peer around, looking for Livi as she is the one that I need to talk to. I dare go into the crowd in case I do bump into Jen like I did on the Eurostar yesterday. I take some steps back and start looking around the museum for Livi.
After nearly ten minutes, I find Livi at the Decorative Arts collections on the first floor, admiring the Objets d'art collection. Then she turns and starts to come towards my direction. As soon as she exits the room, I grab her by the waist and cover her mouth to stop her from screaming. I drag her to the nearest toilets – the ladies – and upon entering, I let her go and lock the door.
"What the hell?!" Livi cries. Then she sees me. "Stay back! I've got pepper spray and a rape alarm in my pocket and I'm not afraid to use them. I also know judo and Tae…"
"Livi, Livi, clam down." I take off my baseball cap and sunglasses. "It's me – Frank."
"Frank?! What the hell are you doing here? I thought you were visiting your mum in hospital – back in London!"
I shake my head. "Sorry, Liv. I only said that because I'm planning a surprise for Jenny."
"A surprise? What kind of surprise?"
"I'm planning on proposing to Jen – tonight."
Livi gapes at me. "Are you serious?"
I nod.
"Oh, my God!" Livi shrieks. "Oh, my God, oh, my God, oh, my God! Are you really gonna propose to her?"
"Shhh! Not so loud," I tell her. "And yes, I am."
"Oh, my God. This is so weird, because just today we were talking about marriage."
"What?" I say with a little choke of surprise.
"Yeah, on the Eiffel Tower a few hours ago. We saw some guy propose to his girlfriend and I was asking Jen whether she's thought about you proposing to her."
"What did she say?" I ask desperately.
A smile spreads across Livi's face. "She said that she can see a future with you!"
"Really?"
"She can see you proposing to her, marrying her – even having children! Frank, she wants to spend the rest of her life with you."
I stare at Livi in astonishment. I can't believe Jenny wants to settle down with me. She wants to be my wife and the mother of my children. She really is the perfect girl for me.
"So, how are planning on proposing to her?" Livi asks.
I shake my head to bring myself back to Earth. "Oh, erm, I'm planning on doing it at dinner tonight. This is why I have come to you, Liv. You need to find a way to get her to come down to restaurant by herself."
Livi salutes me. "Consider it done."
"Also, you cannot tell her that you saw me or what I am planning to do. Please – you have got to promise me that."
"These lips are most definitely sealed."
I put my hands together and bow. "Thank you."
"Ooh, I can't believe that you're gonna propose!" Livi squeals. "This is so cool!" She pulls me into a hug. "I'm so happy for you guys. You better take care of her, all right? If I find out that you've hurt her, I will so kick your arse. Remember, I take Tae Bo and judo lessons."
"I know." I hug her back.
Livi pulls back and sniffles. "Right, well, I better go and find Jen. She'll be wondering where I am."
"Yeah, I better go back and get ready," I say. "Remember to get her to the restaurant by herself. And remember – you didn't see me."
"Gotcha."
I put on my baseball cap and sunglasses, and I unlock the door. We get strange looks from everyone when Livi and I exit the toilets, but we ignore them. They must think that we… you know, in there. Livi and I nod our heads – as a way of saying goodbye – and then we go our separate ways. Then I leave the museum and hail for a cab and return to the hotel to begin the final part of my plan.
(Jenny's POV)
After seeing the Mona Lisa – and getting a telling off from the security guards for trying to cut – I wait around for Livi. I look at my watch – she should be back by now. Maybe she's looking at the Venus de Milo nearby.
Eventually, I get a bit tired of waiting and stroll off to the souvenir shop. As I browse around the shop, I notice that the man near me is acting really weird. He keeps glancing around him, darting looks from side to side. Suddenly he pulls a bundle of reproductions print posters from the shelf in front of him, rolls them into a tube and shoves them under his coat. Then he starts to walk quickly towards the door.
"Hey, stop! Thief!" I yell.
The guy begins to run. I go after him. I can see the shop manager trying to reach him, but he's too far away – which is all the more reason for me to pick up my legs and go after him. The thief pelts out of the door and into the courtyard, barging into people as he goes. I notice close by a crowd of people watching a performing artist using the ribbons – the kind that you'll see in rhythmic gymnastics. I go over to the girl with the ribbons and take one of them from the ground.
"Hey!" the girl cries.
"Sorry, I'll give it back, thank you!" I say quickly as I run. I see the thief is going past the Louvre Pyramid. I notice that someone has bent down to tie up their shoelace. I run up to the person and hurdle myself onto their back.
The person starts to complain and protest in French when I jump off their back, propelling me in the air. Then using the ribbon as an extending arm, I throw it around the thief, ensnaring him.
"Oof!" the thief puffs when I pull him to the ground, the ribbon tightening him. Then I go up to him, and I pull him to his feet and take him back into the museum as everyone around me claps, cheers and take pictures.
Once we're inside, the shop manager and a couple of security guards run up, grab him and take him away. Just then, Livi shows up.
"What's going on?" she asks.
"Oh, nothing," I say. "I just foiled an art thief at the Louvre. You know the usual."
Before Livi can reply, the shop manager comes up to us with the stolen posters in his arms and a big smile on his face.
"Merci, mademoiselle. Merci beaucoup, you have just saved us a lot of money," he says.
"Thanks," I say. "It was nothing."
"I would like to reward you. Please, I'd like you to these free entrance tickets, plus exclusive entry into a restricted area of the museum, where you can see very special artwork."
"Thanks!" I gasp, taking the tickets. I turn to Livi. "Unless you don't want to come if you don't want to…"
"Jenny," she says, "if there's one other thing I love more than fashion and guys is free stuff. Of course I'm coming."
We say our thanks to the shop manager and enter the museum again.
We have the most amazing time looking around the Louvre – I'm very inspired by the wonderful art that we see. The use of colour gives Livi some ideas for new fashion combinations and we both just love the sculptures. By the time we are ready to leave it's dark and we suddenly realized how hungry we are.
"How about we head back to the hotel and change into our new gear, then hit the restaurant for a luxury-style birthday meal?" Livi suggests.
"Good plan," I say, and grab a taxi.
Back at the hotel we unpack our boutique bags and get ready. I choose a lilac shantung sheath dress that goes down to my knees. My dress is accented with a slit at the front, small bows at the shoulders, and a self-belt. My accessories include faux pearl drop earrings, and lilac heels. Livi is wearing a brilliant blue one-shoulder dress with a shimmering tulle overlay and tons of tiny sparkles trimming the top and skirt. Her golden accessories include a headband, hoop earrings, a collar necklace and a chain belt.
We leave our room and take the elevator down to the lobby. But as we head to the restaurant, Livi stops. "Oh no!" she cries.
"What's wrong?" I ask.
"I forgot my purse. I'll have to go back upstairs to get it."
"Do you want me to come with you?"
"No, it's fine. You go on ahead without me. I'll only be a few minutes."
"Well, if you're sure…"
"I am. Now go. Go before we lose our table."
Livi goes back into the elevator and I head to the restaurant.
Upon entering the serene dining room of La Bauhinia, the splendid dome-shaped glass roof brightens up the elegant décor and casts light on its fine details. Bathing in hues of celadon, amidst deep red velvet sofas and black lacquered wood tables, Asian-inspired porcelain art and antiques reflect the legacy of the Shangri-La Hotel rooted in the Far East.
But as I enter the restaurant, I can't help but freeze in my tracks. Nothing can prepare me for this. It's him. "You."
(Frank's POV)
I'm sitting at my table in the restaurant, waiting anxiously for Jenny to show up. God, I'm so nervous. My legs are shaking and my palms are sweaty. What if she doesn't show up? Of course she's coming. Livi is going to text me to tell me whether or not Jenny's coming. I check the inside breast pocket of my jacket to see if the box is still inside – for the hundredth time! Of course it still is.
Just calm down, Frank, I order myself. Calm down and get ahold of yourself. Take a few deep breaths.
I take slow deep breaths to calm my nerves – then my phone beeps, and I jump. I'm getting odd looks from everyone at the restaurant. I smile sheepishly at them and I take out my phone. It's a text from Livi.
Jen's coming! Good luck!
OK, Frank, I tell myself. Time to put the last part of Operation Birthday Surprise into action.
I take one more deep breath and taking the single red rose that I have next to me, I climb to my feet and I turn around – just in time to see how gorgeous Jenny looks when she enters the restaurant. As soon as she sees me, she freezes on the spot.
"You." she says.
I smile and start to step towards her, walking slowly, majestically. I hand her the rose. "Happy birthday."
"Frank…" Jenny sighs. "Wh-what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be visiting your mother in the hospital – all the way back in London?"
I shake my head. "I don't have to. My mother is as right as rain."
She stares at me blankly. "Wha…? You mean… you mean she didn't…? I mean she's not…?"
I nod. "I only said that so I can surprise you."
"Yes. Well. You've certainly surprised me."
"Shocked, more like. I'm sorry."
For a few seconds, Jenny doesn't say anything. Then she leans towards me and kisses me. "Oh Frank…" She throws her arms around me. "I'm so glad that you're here."
"Me too," I say, hugging her back. "Now let's sit down and order ourselves a meal."
"But what about Livi? Shouldn't we wait…?" It dawns to her. "She's not coming, is she?"
"No," I say as I shake my head.
"She knew that you were here, didn't she?"
"Yes," I nod.
"And you told her not to tell me that you're here, didn't you?"
I nod again.
Jenny looks at me, and despite her attempts to furrow her brow, a smile flickers around her mouth. "I should be furious at you for telling Livi to keep the secret from me – Livi too," she says, waggling her finger at me. Then she adds, "But I suppose I can forgive the two of you – mainly you because you're so cute."
I grin at her comment. Then, I take her hand and lead her to the table at the corner of the room so we can be private. We sit across from each other and hold hands.
"This really was a nice surprise, Frank," Jenny says. "Thank you."
"You're welcome," I reply. "And sorry – again."
"Again? What for?"
"For bumping into you on the Eurostar yesterday."
"That was you? I knew you sounded familiar!"
I smile in response. I motion with my hand and call over the waiter. I order red wine for us. Then we order our meal. We gorge on the freshest and finest French breads and pastries, we indulge in a luscious selection of French cheese, enjoy a refined platter of cold cuts alongside genuine Asian specialty dishes from Thailand, Malaysia and Japan, beautifully arranged in a buffet. During the meal, Jenny tells me how she stopped a thief from making off with expensive print posters and was rewarded with free tickets to the Louvre and access to restricted areas of the museum.
"Now that your crime busting talents have been distributed across the Channel, you're now an international crime-fighter," I say, causing her laugh.
Afterwards, we relish a selection of 'old-fashioned' French desserts, with its assortment of subtle delicacies, fresh seasonal fruit and a large choice of fine biscuits and cakes.
"Well, this was delicious." Jenny wipes her mouth with the napkin and leans back from the empty plate. "I don't think I can eat anymore."
"Mmmm, me too," I mumble, gulping down the rest of my wine.
After I pay for our meals, we head over to the bar on the first floor. We get comfortable by the window where there's a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower.
Jenny leans into me, pressing her body against my side. "Thank you for making this birthday special," she says.
"Anything for you, my darling," I say. I dip my head and meet my mouth with her lips. Then we relax and take in the view of the inspiring city that is Paris.
A waiter comes to check on us, and I order champagne. It's time to put the final of Operation Birthday Surprise into action.
The waiter arrives with our champagne and sets it on the table. I've only got one chance to do this.
"Hey, isn't that Robert Downey, Jr. over there?" I say, pointing at the far end of the room behind her.
"Where?" Jenny quickly turns to see, giving me time to take the ring out of the box and put it in her champagne glass. "I don't see him. Where is he?"
"Oh…" I shrug. "Sorry – it must have been someone who looked like him. Sorry about that. Anyway…" I hand Jenny her glass with the ring. "Here's to you, Jen, for turning twenty-five." I raise my glass. "Happy birthday."
"And here's to us for being in the most romance city in the world," she says. "To Paris."
"To Paris." We clink our glasses. As I sip my champagne, I watch Jenny sip hers – and stop when she finds the ring in her glass.
"Hm? What's this?" She pulls out the ring. "What the…?" Her eyes widen. She slowly turns to me. "Frank?"
I give her a warm, sincere smile. "They say that once in your life, you'll meet someone who you can bare your soul to and accept you just the way you are. I am lucky to have that, to meet that 'once-in-a-lifetime someone' and if I miss this chance I know that I will live my whole life regretting. I've been waiting for this for the longest time. I've been looking for this opportunity to go beyond my horizon and face all the world's uncertainties. And all my life I was afraid. All my life I was not sure if I can take this biggest risk of starting my life. With you I am ready to love forever and if today I will be hurt again, I know that it will be worth it. You are the most amazing thing that ever happened to me and for the first time in my life, I feel that I'm invincible – ready to take all the pain, ready for whatever that we have to go through. For what it's worth, know that I will fight for you no matter what. I will fight everyone who is against us. And if the time comes that you will give up on me, I will fight even you until you realize that what we have is not something you can easily give up on because our love is real. Our love is our destiny. I am taking this once-in-a-lifetime chance of uniting with my soulmate and I'm begging you to take this chance too." I go down on one knee. "Jennifer Christine Brownstone, will you make me the happiest man in the world and be my wife?"
Her hand flies over her mouth. Speechless and overwhelmed with emotion, tears well up in her eyes and overflow down her cheeks in spite of her best effort to keep them at bay.
After a minute of absorbing the heartfelt speech and proposal that I laid onto her, Jenny says the words that I want to hear: "Yes. Yes, of course I'll be your wife."
Then it's all something of a blur: nudges and turning heads at the other tables, applause starting up as I clean the ring with a napkin and slip it on Jenny's ring finger. Champagne, whistling, and Jenny and I sharing a passionate kiss.
"I love you so much, Frank London," Jenny says softly.
"And I love you too… Jenny London," I grin, and we embrace each other.
Operation Birthday Surprise is a success.
A/N: Hey, everyone. How y'all doing? I hope you guys enjoyed reading this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it. I just wanna give you a heads-up and tell you that the next chapter will contain scenes of a sexual nature, so look out for that. Anyway, that's all I wanted to say. See you guys later, and virtual cookies to anyone who reviews.
Artful Doodler
XOXO