Chapter 47: Paris
As Bella arrived in the heart of Paris, she couldn't help but smile. The early morning air was crisp and cool, carrying the earthy scent of damp cobblestones, mingling with other, more heavenly smells. The city was just beginning to wake up, with a few early risers strolling along the quiet streets and the occasional bicyclist speeding by.
The sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm glow over the elegant facades and wrought-iron balconies of the buildings. In the distance, she could see the tip of the Eiffel Tower silhouetted against the sky. The sight filled her with anticipation. Soon, probably tomorrow or the day after, she would be standing at its top with her mom.
Bella had convinced her mom to stay for a full month in France, but she hoped they could also squeeze in a side trip to England. She had purposely held off visiting London and the English countryside to share the experience with her mom.
Crossing two streets, Bella reached the River Seine. The city was still waking up, and she enjoyed the peaceful stillness in the air. The Seine flowed gently beside her, reflecting the soft hues of dawn. As she walked, the occasional ripple caught her eye, the water glistening in the early light.
The streets were nearly empty, with only a few early risers quietly going about their routines. The usual hustle and bustle had yet to begin. Bella breathed in deeply, letting the wonderful aroma of humans fill her senses, most were still snug in their beds, their dreams yet to be disturbed by the day's demands.
As she walked, a jogger passed by, his scent lingering in the air. Bella couldn't help but smile; he smelled particularly tempting. His pulse was strong and steady, and the blood within him probably tasted especially rich and flavorful. She couldn't help but imagine catching up to him, pulling him close, feeling the heat of his skin against hers, as she leisurely trailed her tongue along the curve of his neck, savoring the moment before sinking her teeth in, allowing that warm, sweet blood to flow freely down her throat with each deep pull.
A low hum of desire escaped her lips, the thought tantalizingly vivid in her mind. She was actually quite hungry, as it had been some time since she last fed. But it was still early, and the city hadn't even woken up yet. She highly doubted she would find anyone suitable at this hour. With a sigh, she resolved that soon she'd slip out one night and satisfy her thirst.
As she still had several hours before she needed to head to the airport, Bella decided to check into the hotel to see the suite she had rented and take a long, hot shower. It had been a week since she last stayed in a room in Germany, and the dirt from her usual explorations clung to her more than she liked. Walking up to the hotel, she noted that it looked just as it had in the photos—a blend of classic Parisian elegance and modern sophistication—and she knew she had made the right choice.
Luxury had never been a priority during Bella's travels—she usually stayed wherever was convenient, no matter how modest. But this trip was different. It was her mom's first visit to Europe, her first time in Paris, the city she had always dreamed of seeing. So, Bella had gone all out, booking the finest suite available at a high-end hotel in the heart of the city.
Her mom would certainly ask how much all this had cost, and Bella had vowed never to speak a word regarding the price. The truth was, it was beyond outrageous—and she never would have considered staying in a place like this during her human life. Back then, frugality had been a necessity, a habit she had honed over years of careful budgeting. But now, after a decade of being a vampire, she had relaxed considerably when it came to money. What was a small fortune if it meant giving her mom the trip of a lifetime? For that reason alone, it was worth every penny.
A decade… It was still hard for Bella to believe that it had nearly been ten years. She was almost thirty years old now. In her college days, she'd always struggled to imagine what her future might hold. Career, family, the slow progression of years—all of it had seemed so hazy and uncertain, as it should for a young woman just leaving her teenage years behind.
Never, not in a million years, could she have guessed this was how her life would turn out. It was almost laughable. Back then, she had thought maybe she'd become a teacher or a writer. She had always struggled to picture herself as a mom with a family of her own.
The idea that she would end up as an immortal, super-powered, crime-fighting vampire somehow hadn't been considered in her future ambitions. And yet, here she was, and oh was she pleased with how everything had turned out. Of all the potential futures, of all the paths her life could have taken, this one felt like she had truly hit the jackpot.
The only negative she could think of in her three-plus years of traveling was that she hadn't met a man who truly captured her desire, a thought that had been occupying her mind more and more as each year went by. Despite all the wonders she had seen and the adventures she had embarked upon, there was a small, nagging void that her travels hadn't filled. She had always been independent, content in her own company, but the desire to find someone to share her life with had only grown stronger with each passing year. Plus, she really needed a good, hard fucking. Oh boy, did she need that.
Yoshitaka had been a mentor and nothing more. She respected him immensely, but their bond was one of teacher and student, not potential lovers. And while she had encountered other vampires during her journey, they had either been with someone or they just hadn't clicked in that way. On the positive side, however, her travels had expanded her network of friends, and in the vast expanse of immortality, having long-term friends was a treasure beyond measure.
As Bella stepped into the hotel, the grandeur of the lobby struck her immediately. It was just as she had anticipated—grand, truly grand. Polished marble floors gleamed under the soft glow of crystal chandeliers hanging from high, ornate ceilings. Rich tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes of pastoral beauty, while plush, velvet-upholstered chairs were perfectly arranged for guests to enjoy the luxurious ambiance.
Walking up to the front desk, Bella couldn't help but notice the clerk's expression—an unmistakable stink eye directed her way. She wondered if it was the stereotypical "snooty Frenchman" attitude or perhaps she was dirtier than she had realized after her long journey. Her clothes were certainly well-traveled, and after quickly sniffing, she did catch the faintest whiff of earth and forest still clinging to her, though she doubted the clerk could smell it. Either way, she wasn't about to let his attitude bother her.
With a bright, confident smile, she addressed him in flawless French, her accent perfectly polished. The clerk's raised eyebrow relaxed slightly, his demeanor softening as he responded in kind. Still, Bella suspected that the real reason for his sudden shift in attitude was the credit card she had handed over, along with the small fortune she was shelling out for the suite.
The transaction was swift, and soon enough, the clerk handed her the key cards with a more cordial, if still reserved, expression. He pointed her in the direction of the elevators, his tone clipped but polite.
"Sixième étage, Mademoiselle," he said, with a slight nod of his head.
Bella thanked him with another smile before heading to the elevator. The polished brass doors reflected her image as she pressed the button for her floor. Catching her reflection, she decided she didn't look too unkempt. The ride up was smooth and silent, a testament to the hotel's luxury.
When the doors slid open on the sixth floor, Bella stepped into a corridor just as refined as the lobby. Thick carpets muffled her footsteps as she approached her room, curiosity piqued. She slid the key card into the lock, and with a soft push, stepped inside, eager to see if the room met her expectations.
Looking around the room—no, rooms—Bella's eyes widened. Holy shit... This was more like a spacious, upscale apartment than a hotel suite. She smiled as she quickly explored, moving from one room to the next, marveling at the sheer size and elegance. The living area featured plush seating, perfect for relaxing, while the dining area boasted a polished wooden table fit for a small dinner party. The tasteful decor made the space feel both luxurious and welcoming.
When she reached the bedrooms, Bella chose the smaller one, knowing her mom would appreciate the larger space and king-sized bed—after all, she was the only one who would be sleeping. Bella's room, though smaller, was still impressive, with a queen-sized bed draped in fine linens and an intricately carved headboard.
But it was the bathroom that truly stopped her in her tracks. Bella paused, shaking her head in disbelief. This was easily one of the fanciest bathrooms she'd ever seen. The marble floors gleamed under the warm lighting, and the expansive vanity with double sinks was topped with sparkling granite. A large, deep soaking tub sat beneath a window offering a stunning view of the Parisian skyline, while a glass-enclosed shower with multiple showerheads promised a spa-like experience.
Without wasting another moment, Bella quickly pulled off her travel-worn clothes and tossed them aside. As she did, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Well... maybe she was a little dirtier than she thought. Her skin bore the evidence of her recent travels, a fine layer of dust and grime that made her long for the feel of hot water to wash it all away.
She stepped into the shower, turning the knobs and letting the water heat up before stepping under the powerful spray. As the water cascaded over her, Bella sighed in relief. The scalding water felt heavenly on her skin as she quickly lathered shampoo into her hair. After the shampoo and conditioner had done their magic, Bella found herself reluctant to leave the warmth of the shower.
Noticing that one of the showerheads was detachable, a slow, knowing smile curled at the corners of her lips. Her thoughts began to wander, the warmth of the water only heightening the sudden, undeniable urge for some extra relaxation. The idea danced in her mind, teasing and tempting, as her fingers traced the smooth, sleek metal of the showerhead. Anticipation built, her senses tingling with the thought of what she could do with the privacy she had right now. Yeah, she had time... time to lose herself in the moment, to chase that delicious high. Maybe more than once...
Clean and definitely feeling more relaxed, Bella slipped into the other outfit she'd packed in her backpack. As she glanced in the mirror, she realized that a shopping trip was definitely in order. Paris was the fashion capital of the world, after all, and her practical travel wardrobe wasn't exactly stylish. The idea of exploring Parisian boutiques with her mom brought a smile to her face.
Stepping out of the hotel, Bella was greeted by the bright mid-morning sun, its warmth already promising a beautiful day. The city had come alive during her time getting ready. The streets were now bustling with activity, cars honking as they navigated the busy roads, and people walking and biking in every direction. The air buzzed with the sounds of a city fully awake, the rhythm of Paris in full swing.
As Bella made her way to the curb to hail a taxi, her heightened senses instinctively scanned the environment. She was always on alert, always aware of the world around her in a way that normal people could never comprehend. Across the street, her sharp eyes caught sight of a pair of window washers on the second floor of a building, one of them accidentally knocking over a bucket of cleaning solution that splattered to the ground below. At that exact moment, a cyclist riding past became startled by the commotion and swerved dangerously, heading straight towards the open door of a delivery car.
Simultaneously, a young mother with a small child and a baby in a stroller were about to cross the street when the liquid hit the sidewalk. The boy, curious about the noise, suddenly broke free from his mother's grasp and ran toward the scene. The mother, panic flashing across her face, dashed after him, but in her haste, she accidentally nudged the stroller, sending it rolling toward the busy street, straight into the path of oncoming traffic.
Bella saw all of this unfold in an instant, her mind processing the chaotic scene with lightning speed. Without giving any outward sign of the potential tragedies that were about to occur, she subtly placed a shield in front of the stroller, bringing it to an abrupt halt just before it could roll out onto the busy street. The baby inside remained safe and blissfully unaware.
At the same time, her sharp eyes flicked to the delivery car with its door carelessly left ajar. Realizing the driver wasn't inside, she acted swiftly, using her shield to slam the door shut just as the unsuspecting bicyclist barreled toward it. The cyclist, still focused on the commotion behind him, yelling at the window washers high above, rode past, completely unaware of how narrowly he had avoided a painful collision.
Bella exhaled softly, a pleased little smile tugging at her lips. Moments like these—small acts of intervention—always brought her a quiet satisfaction. It wasn't about recognition; it was about the simple joy of knowing she had made a difference, no matter how small or unnoticed. The world carried on as if nothing had happened, which was exactly how Bella liked it.
She watched as the mother, now cradling her crying child, hurried back to the stroller. The panic in the woman's eyes faded as she reached her baby. The scene around them quickly returned to the usual rhythm of a bustling Parisian morning, with no one the wiser to the tragedies that had just been averted.
A cab pulled up to the curb, its tires coming to a gentle stop in front of her. Bella took one last glance at the now-peaceful street, the city moving on in its usual lively way. She got into the cab, a sense of contentment settling over her as she leaned back against the seat. Sometimes, being in the right place at the right time made all the difference, and she was glad she could be that silent guardian angel when needed.
"Arrivées Aéroport Charles de Gaulle, s'il vous plaît," she told the driver, who nodded with a smile before driving off.
The ride to the airport was a slow crawl through morning traffic, making each mile feel like a small victory. Bella could have easily outrun the cab, but in broad daylight in the heart of the city, that wasn't an option. Instead, she leaned back, letting the city's energy wash over her as she inched closer to her destination. Though the drive was only about twenty miles, it felt like an eternity with anticipation bubbling inside her.
Finally, the cab pulled up to the terminal. Bella stepped into the bustling arrivals area, the sounds of travelers, clattering suitcases, and the hum of the airport filling the air. Her steps were steady, but nervous excitement fluttered in her chest. It had been so long since she'd last seen her mom, and the anticipation of their reunion had been building for what felt like forever.
As she reached the designated area, Bella scanned the crowd, her heightened senses picking up every detail, every voice as people reunited with loved ones. The sound of luggage rolling across the floor mixed with bursts of laughter and chatter. She spotted on the board that the plane had landed, and after twenty minutes of waiting, she finally heard the voice she knew so well: "Bella!"
She turned and saw her mom walking swiftly toward her. Grinning, Bella pulled her into a big hug, careful not to squeeze too tightly. She breathed deeply, her mom's familiar scent instantly reminding her of home. When they finally let go, Bella took a moment to really look at her. There were a few more lines on her mom's face, but she still looked youthful for her age and was certainly young at heart.
Bella didn't like to think about it, but in just two short years, her mom would be fifty. She knew all too soon her parents would be gone, but she quickly pushed those negative emotions aside. She needed to focus on the here and now; on the fact that her mom was standing right in front of her, and they were about to have an amazing time together.
"Bella! Oh, it's so good to see you," Renée exclaimed, pulling her daughter into another tight embrace. She didn't even register Bella's cold skin anymore. The years had felt longer than they actually were with Bella overseas, and while their frequent phone calls had eased the ache somewhat, nothing could truly replace the comfort of having her daughter by her side. Renée had been lonely; she'd had her fair share of flings during the intervening years, but no man had truly captured her heart enough to fill the void left by Bella's absence.
"I know, Mom," Bella said, her voice thick with emotion as she gently wiped away her mom's tears. "But hey, no tears—smile! We're together again, and soon, we'll be exploring everything the 'City of Lights' has to offer. Just think—we'll see all the places you've always dreamed of." Bella's grin widened, her words full of enthusiasm. She could already hear her mom's heartbeat quicken with excitement at the thought of their upcoming adventure.
Renée's face lit up with a playful grin, her eyes sparkling with the youthful energy Bella remembered. "You're right! Let's find my bag and get out of here." The baggage carousel just then began to rumble, signaling the arrival of the luggage. They moved toward it together, their steps in sync as they navigated through the crowd.
"When did you arrive in the city? Have you had a chance to see anything yet?" Renée asked, her curiosity getting the better of her as they waited for her bag to appear.
"I just arrived this morning, and other than checking into the hotel, I haven't seen a thing." Bella said, wrapping an arm around her mom's shoulders and giving her a playful shake. "I wanted to wait for you so we could experience it all together."
As they stood by the baggage carousel, Bella's eyes caught sight of her mom's bag, which was hard to miss. The hand-painted image of herself as a child, smiling brightly, was staring back at her. Her mom had been on one of her many art kicks when Bella was ten and had asked her to pose for what she claimed would be her latest masterpiece... which, for some reason, she wanted to paint on her suitcase.
Now, watching the bag move closer on the conveyor belt, Bella couldn't help but notice that time had not been particularly kind to the painted image. Her once-bright smile had faded, and her nose had almost completely rubbed off, leaving a strange smudge in its place.
"There's your bag," Bella said, pointing it out to her mom as it neared them. "Looks like my nose didn't survive the trip," she added with a playful grin.
Renée laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she watched Bella grab the suitcase. "Well, one of these nights, we can touch it up. Oh, maybe I can try my hand at painting the new you. Oh! Even better—you're such a wonderful artist now; how about you paint us standing in front of the Eiffel Tower? That would be lovely, wouldn't it?"
Bella smiled, loving her mom's creativity, even in the smallest or wackiest things. "I'm sure we can think of something," she replied, feeling a sense of contentment settle over her.
As they headed toward the exit, Bella turned to her mom. "So, what do you want to do first? The whole city's ours to explore, and we've got a month to take it all in."
Renée's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Oh, Bella, there's so much! Maybe a walk along the Seine, or a visit to a museum—oh, and I'm hungry, maybe we could grab some authentic French pastries... I can't decide, everything sounds so wonderful!"
Bella chuckled, loving her mom's enthusiasm. "We'll do it all, Mom. I'm just happy to be here with you."
As Renée stepped out of the airport, she could hardly believe it—she was finally here, in Europe, in Paris of all places. The air felt different, charged with the promise of adventure, and she couldn't help but smile as she watched Bella confidently hail a cab. Sliding into the backseat, she listened with delight as Bella spoke to the driver in flawless French, the words rolling off her tongue with ease. It was one thing to hear Bella's stories over the phone, but seeing her daughter in action, so at ease in this foreign land, filled Renée with a surge of pride.
As the cab pulled away from the airport, Renée's eyes were immediately drawn to the world outside. The day was beautiful, with clear blue skies and a golden light that seemed to make everything shimmer. She tried to focus on her conversation with Bella, but the sights of Paris kept stealing her attention—a charming café with tables spilling onto the sidewalk, a grand old church with a towering spire, and the bustling energy of the streets.
For a while, they chatted about Renée's trip. She sheepishly admitted how she had become quite distracted flirting with a handsome pilot during her layover in New York and had almost missed her connecting flight. Bella laughed, shaking her head in amusement, but even as Renée spoke, her thoughts kept drifting back to the scenery outside.
"Oh, Bella, look at that building! Isn't it stunning?" Renée marveled at a grand, historic structure, its ornate architecture speaking to the city's rich history. But before Bella could respond, Renée had already shifted her focus. "And there—oh, isn't that one of the famous bridges over the Seine? It's even more beautiful than I imagined!"
Renée continued to marvel at the sights, her excitement growing with each passing minute. As the cab turned a corner, she gasped, her heart skipping a beat. There, rising majestically above the city, was the Eiffel Tower, taking her breath away.
"Oh my god, Bella, look!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with awe. She turned to Bella, eyes wide with excitement, and saw the warm, knowing grin on her daughter's face—Bella was clearly enjoying every bit of her reaction.
Soon, the taxi pulled up to a tall, elegant building that towered over the bustling street. The ornate facade, with its intricate carvings and gleaming glass, hinted at the luxury within. After Bella paid the driver, they stepped onto the cobblestone sidewalk, their footsteps lost in the hum of Parisian life.
As they walked through the grand entrance, Renée's eyes widened in awe. Bella had mentioned they'd be staying in a nice hotel, but this was beyond anything she had imagined. The lobby was a display of opulence, with marble floors that shone like mirrors, high ceilings adorned with sparkling chandeliers, and lavish furnishings fit for a palace. Renée felt like Cinderella, stepping into a world as enchanting as it was overwhelming.
She glanced at Bella, who smirked and gave a slight nod toward the elevators, amusement evident in her expression. Clearly, Bella had anticipated this reaction, and Renée couldn't help but smile as they crossed the expansive lobby.
Soon, Bella opened the door to their suite, and Renée's breath caught in her throat again. Her mouth fell open as she took in the sight. "Oh, Bella… This is too much. It's like an apartment!" she exclaimed, stepping into the living room. The space was enormous, with plush sofas and armchairs arranged around a grand coffee table, and elegant accents placed just right.
But it was the view that truly took her breath away. Through the large windows, the Eiffel Tower stood in all its iconic glory, bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon light. The windows opened onto a balcony, and Renée could already picture herself and Bella sitting there with a coffee in her hand, watching the sunrise paint the skyline in golden hues.
She shook her head in disbelief as she wandered through the suite, inspecting each room with wide eyes. "You even got a bedroom for yourself?" she asked with a playful grin. "What would you even use it for? You don't sleep."
Renée hesitated, taking in the sheer luxury of their surroundings. "Are you sure we need all this? And for a whole month?" she asked, though her tone held little real protest. The objections were more a matter of principle—she secretly loved every inch of the suite, and the thought of spending an entire month here felt like a dream.
Bella caught the subtle gleam of excitement in her mom's eyes and simply smiled. They both knew that her mom's objections were half-hearted at best. Nothing would be changed, and deep down, she knew her mom wouldn't have it any other way.
Feeling the need to assert herself in the face of her mom's assumptions, Bella spoke up. "But Mom, what if I meet some hot French guy? You wouldn't want to walk in on us doing it on your bed, would you?" Bella teased, a playful smirk on her lips. "You wouldn't deny me my fun, right?" As she spoke, she couldn't help but hope, crossing her fingers mentally, that those words might somehow come true.
Renée, picking up on Bella's lighthearted tone, smiled warmly. She loved this new teasing side of her daughter's personality. Deciding it couldn't hurt to gently pry, she asked, "Did you, by any chance, meet anyone special during your travels, Bella? I know you're not one to talk about these things, so I haven't brought it up when we spoke on the phone."
Bella's playful expression faded as she shook her head. "Sadly, no. I was looking, Mom. I really was." Frustration tinged her voice, though she tried to mask it with a hopeful smile. "Maybe I'll have better luck in Paris. After all, it is known as the 'City of Love,' right?"
Renée's heart ached for her daughter. Even as a teenager, Bella had never had any luck when it came to love, and now, as an immortal vampire, it seemed her issues had become even more complicated. Unsure of what to say, she offered, "Maybe you should, you know, just pick someone. Let's face it, honey, I think any guy would give his life to be with someone like you."
Bella couldn't help but chuckle at her mom's suggestion, a wry smile playing on her lips. "And that's probably exactly what they'd be doing if I ever tried that, Mom. I hate to admit it, but I'd most likely fuck him to death."
Renée grimaced, not liking the image that popped into her head, but her expression quickly brightened as she thought of a potential solution. "I've got it! What if you picked someone you didn't care if they… you know, didn't make it?"
Bella shook her head. "I'm not doing it for the first time with some drug dealer or criminal, Mom. It doesn't have to be true love or anything like that, but I'd like to at least have some kind of connection with the guy." She softened her voice, hoping to ease her mom's concern. "Don't worry about me, Mom. As the saying goes, time really is on my side—yes, it is." She added, her tone hopeful, "I'll find him one day, Mom. I know I will."
"I know you will too, honey," Renée said, giving Bella's hand a gentle squeeze before turning to gaze out the large windows. A wide smile broke out on her face. "So, what shall we do first?" She marveled at the city spread out before them. There were so many possibilities; the options seemed endless.
An hour later, Bella found herself walking along the River Seine, feeling a deep sense of peace. The gentle murmur of the river and the rustling of leaves along the banks made everything feel just right. Tourists bustled around them, moving in all directions to take in the sights.
Her mom's attention was suddenly captured by a small group of people riding by on Segways, their laughter mingling with the city's sounds. Renée's eyes lit up with fascination, and she quickly asked a nearby passerby what the group was doing. Bella smiled as her mom learned it was a tour group riding along the Seine, taking in the sights from a unique perspective. The amazement on her mom's face told Bella they'd be joining that tour soon enough. That was fine by her—she'd always wondered how those things managed to stay upright.
A short while later, Renée spotted a charming little café nestled between two larger buildings, its colorful awning standing out against the stone facade. With a delighted exclamation, she led Bella to it, and within minutes, they were seated outside at a small, round table, the perfect spot for people-watching as they soaked in the atmosphere.
As Renée savored her pastry, a look of pure contentment spread across her face. Closing her eyes in bliss, she hummed softly, thoroughly enjoying what she was sure was quite possibly the best croissant she had ever tasted. As she finished the last bite, she couldn't help but lick the buttery flakes off her fingers, not wanting to waste a single crumb. "Oh God, Bella, you don't know what you're missing," she sighed, her voice filled with sincere delight.
Bella stared at her mom for a moment, feeling a flicker of bewilderment. Did her mom really just say that? Sometimes, she was sure her mom forgot that she was sitting next to a vampire who would rather bite down on the lady sitting next to them than eat that foul-tasting thing.
She leaned in slightly, a sly smile curving her lips. "I don't know, Mom. I'm sure it's more likely that you don't know what you're missing." With a devilish grin, she started to lick her lips with deliberate slowness and leaned closer, making a soft, exaggerated sucking sound.
Renée's eyes widened in realization of what she had said, her expression shifting from confusion to amusement. She couldn't help but burst into laughter, her eyes crinkling at the corners as she giggled uncontrollably.
Bella watched her mom laugh, shaking her head slightly. "Maybe we should just agree to let each other enjoy what we enjoy," she suggested, her tone dry but affectionate.
"Deal," Renée managed between giggles, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye.
Renée took a deep breath, her laughter subsiding as she admired the beauty of Paris. "Let's continue down the Seine," she suggested. "We can stop at the Eiffel Tower for some pictures, but let's wait to go up. I want to be fresh, and I'm still a bit jet-lagged. I was too excited to sleep on the plane."
Bella nodded, her amusement still evident. "That sounds good to me. We've got plenty of time."
As they left the café, Bella wondered if there were any establishments out there that catered to vampires—maybe a bar or something. She'd have to ask Char next time they talked. With her luck, it would probably be in Italy and run by the Volturi.
Walking along the Seine, Bella and her mom came across a lively stretch of street performers. A magician pulled off tricks with a flick of his wrist, two dancers moved gracefully, a mime acted out an exaggerated routine, and a musician played the guitar impressively. Tourists gathered around, their faces lit with simple joy as they enjoyed the performances.
Bella's attention was quickly drawn to the mime, his face painted white and a black beret perched jauntily on his head. He was deep into his act, pretending to be trapped inside an invisible box, his hands pressing against imaginary walls with exaggerated effort. Bella chuckled at the sight. Leaning closer to her mom, a mischievous glint in her eyes, she whispered, "I really wish I could put that mime in a real invisible box. Think how freaked out he'd be."
Her mom's eyes flickered with amusement as she let out a chuckle. "Oh, Bella, you're terrible!" Renée giggled, though the twinkle in her eyes showed she would've enjoyed seeing that too.
A couple of days later, Bella checked the weather on her phone and saw that a beautiful, sunny day was forecaste. After her mom, who was thankfully no longer jet lagged, woke up, they decided it was the perfect day to visit the Eiffel Tower. The morning air was crisp and invigorating as they left the hotel. The street was already bustling, with Parisians and tourists mingling in the early light.
Since the hotel was only half a mile from the tower, they decided to walk, soaking in the charm of Paris. They chatted about the Eiffel Tower, their anticipation growing as they imagined the breathtaking views from the top. With each step, the tower loomed larger, its iron latticework more intricate as they drew closer. Bella could feel her mom's excitement growing, her eyes lighting up with each glimpse of the tower peeking through the buildings.
But as they approached, their excitement was met with the stark reality of what seemed to be the longest line in the history of mankind. A sea of people stretched out before them in a snake-like queue that wound around the base of the tower and disappeared around the corner. Tourists from all over the world must have had the same idea, each of them eager to experience the majesty of Paris from the top of its most famous landmark. Bella hadn't anticipated the line would be this long, though she probably should have.
Bella sighed, her shoulders drooping slightly as they took their place in line. Leaning in close to her mom, she whispered, "This sucks. If only I could fly us up there, we'd be seeing the city from the top in less than a minute."
Renée chuckled softly, reaching out to rub her daughter's back in a comforting gesture. "That would be nice," she agreed with a smile. "But since your wings are clipped with all these people around, how about you show me some more of those pictures you took during your travels? That should make the time pass quicker."
Bella nodded, pulling out her phone, eager to share the incredible places she had visited. As the line slowly inched forward, she swiped through photos of misty mountains, ancient temples, and vibrant markets. Her mom's eyes widened with each new image, curiosity growing as Bella shared highlights of her journey. They were so caught up in their conversation that the hours passed... mostly unnoticed.
Finally, four hours later, they reached the top of the Eiffel Tower. The view that greeted them was nothing short of breathtaking. Paris sprawled out beneath them, a sea of rooftops, winding streets, and historic landmarks. The Seine cut through the heart of the city, its waters gleaming in the afternoon light.
Bella and her mom couldn't resist capturing the moment. They took countless photos—of the sweeping views, of each other, and together, with the help of friendly tourists. The cool breeze ruffled their hair as they posed against the iconic iron lattice, their smiles wide, the excitement of the moment evident in their faces.
Bella felt a deep sense of accomplishment—getting her mom here, to this spot. Seeing the sparkle in her mom's eyes as she took in the view, the contentment on her face, filled Bella with satisfaction. She knew this moment would stay with her mom for the rest of her life.
While her mom dined at the mid-level bistro in the tower, soaking in the breathtaking views of Paris spread out below them, Bella's thoughts began to drift toward more pressing matters—specifically, her own need for sustenance.
"Hey, Mom," Bella began casually, leaning in slightly. "While you're sleeping tonight, I'm going to head out and grab myself a little snack, okay?"
Renée, in the middle of savoring a particularly delicious bite, nodded, doing her best to keep the image of what Bella's 'snack' might entail far from her mind. "Okay, dear. Do what you need to," she replied, focusing instead on the rich flavors of her meal. She didn't want to let thoughts of Bella's dining habits ruin her own appetite.
Bella chuckled softly, appreciating her mom's attempt to stay unfazed. But as she sat back, her eyes wandered to the family at the next table. The tantalizing aroma of their blood was starting to become distractingly appealing. Bella caught herself, mentally rolling her eyes at her own predicament, and turned back to focus on her mom. She didn't want anyone else to notice her looking at the family like they were a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken. It had been almost three weeks since she'd last fed, back in Germany when she'd stopped a man from assaulting a woman. She only had herself to blame and chided herself for waiting so long.
Bella closed her eyes, sinking deeper into the warm, sudsy water as the bubbles gently caressed her skin. She had been luxuriating in her incredible bathtub for the past three hours, letting her body float on the surface. The other day, while shopping with her mom, she had come across some amazing strawberry-scented bath bombs that had caught her attention. The scent was sweet and inviting, so she had bought them without hesitation. Now, coupled with the rich bubble bath, the aroma enveloped her and she just felt so damn comfortable. She wished she could fall asleep right here in the tub; if only the warmth of the water could lull her into sleep. But, alas, her mind was as sharp as ever.
Eventually, Bella opened her eyes, glancing up at her cell phone, which floated effortlessly in the air above her. She often liked to practice her micro-precision movements with her shield, and this morning, she had been using her ability to operate her phone, writing messages and checking the internet without touching the device. Earlier, she had sent off lengthy emails to Charlie and Char, detailing her current travels. She smiled, thinking about the reunion she'd had with her friends when she first arrived in Europe. Peter and Char had flown out, and they all met up for two weeks of skiing in the Alps. That had been an amazing time, plus she had learned to ski, something she had never done before.
With a thought, Bella turned on the internet, wanting to check the updated weather for the day. As the Weather Channel had predicted last night, it looked like there was a good chance of rain today. It could be the perfect day for her and her mom to visit a museum. The Louvre, perhaps—she knew that stop was high on her mom's wish list, and a rainy day seemed ideal for wandering through its vast halls. Satisfied with her plan, Bella noticed the time inching closer to eight in the morning, signaling the start of the official day. She gently sent her phone flying back to her room, where she placed it carefully on the desk she could see from her vantage point.
Standing up, Bella felt the suds slide down her body, each bubble tracing a path over her flawless skin. Her gaze drifted to the mirror, and she couldn't help but be enthralled by her reflection—every tantalizing curve, every angle of her body, glistening with the remnants of the bath.
The soft light of the bathroom accentuated her smooth, porcelain skin, as the bubbles clung teasingly to her breasts, the gentle rise and fall of her chest catching the light. Her nipples, slightly hardened from the cool air, peeked through the suds, creating a contrast that drew her eyes. Looking lower, she almost giggled as the suds had congregated around the small patch of hair at her nether regions. Unable to resist, she watched as she lowered one hand and teasingly slid it along her opening. God, that felt good—she was tempted to part her legs and really go at it, but she had to remember she wasn't alone, and she preferred her private time to be... well, private.
Moving her hand away, she lifted both hands to wring the sudsy water from her slicked-back hair, which still held traces of bubbles, making her appear both wild and impossibly seductive. She stretched her arms out wide, feeling the muscles in her shoulders flex as she wiggled them—a habit she'd carried over from her human days. Bella smiled, her eyes tracing the contours of her form in the mirror. Even after a decade, the sight of her body still had the power to turn her on. Damn, she needed to find a vampire to do naughty things to her. She exhaled, trying to calm down her libido.
Bella stepped out of the water, she turned the knob to drain the tub, and walked over to the shower. A quick rinse washed away the last traces of her bath. Five minutes later, feeling refreshed and clean, she stepped out, wrapping herself in a plush towel.
Bella dried off and headed into her bedroom, making a beeline for the closet where her new outfits hung. She and her mom had found some great pieces in the shops they'd visited, and Bella was excited to wear something new for a change. She chose a light red ensemble that accentuated her figure perfectly. As she dressed, she considered what to make her mom for breakfast. If they wanted to visit the Louvre today, they couldn't afford to dally, or they'd end up stuck in line again… this time in the rain.
Bella had just finished preparing breakfast for her mom, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm croissants filling the air. As she set the table, the soft creak of a door caught her attention. She looked up to see her mom emerging from her room, already dressed and looking refreshed, a bright smile on her face.
"Morning, Mom," Bella greeted, gesturing to the breakfast spread. Her mom's eyes lit up as she took in the sight, her enthusiasm clearly not just for the food but for the day ahead.
"The TV said rain today. The Louvre?" her mom asked, hope evident in her voice.
"Of course," Bella replied, grinning at her mom's excitement. It was exactly the reaction she had expected.
After a quick breakfast, they headed out, opting for a taxi to get to the museum as early as possible. When they arrived, there was a line, but thankfully, it wasn't nearly as long as the one at the Eiffel Tower. Bella noticed dark clouds gathering overhead, but for now, the sky held, and that was all that mattered. The line moved quickly, and within two hours, they were inside, admiring some of the most incredible works of art Bella had ever seen.
Walking through the Louvre, Bella was struck by the sheer magnitude of history encapsulated within its walls. Each section they passed through seemed to tell its own story, a testament to civilizations long gone. The sculptures were especially mesmerizing—figures carved with such precision and emotion that their creators had managed to capture not just the physical form but the essence of life itself. Many of these sculptures were incredibly ancient, relics from a time that had all but faded from collective memory.
Now, a vampire, Bella found herself contemplating these works in ways she never would have as a human. For her, the concept of time was beginning to feel less abstract and more tangible. These sculptures, standing resilient after thousands of years, made her wonder about the future. Would she, perhaps thousands of years from now, find herself in a museum—maybe even the Louvre itself—gazing at works of art created in the present, but admiring them as she did these ancient masterpieces? Would she, centuries from now, be walking through these same halls, oohing and aahing over masterpieces that hadn't even been created yet?
As Bella's mind wandered through the conundrum of immortality, her mom was equally enthralled, but for different reasons.
Renée was completely absorbed in the art surrounding her, her eyes wide with the same wonder she had always felt when confronted with great works. Having worked at various galleries in Phoenix on and off since Bella was a child, Renée had developed a deep appreciation for art, and this visit to the Louvre felt like the culmination of all those years of passion. Each painting, each sculpture, seemed to speak to her in a language she understood instinctively, and she moved through the museum with a mix of reverence and excitement, taking in everything she could.
The Louvre was truly massive, a labyrinth of art and history that seemed to stretch on endlessly. Bella and her mom had spent several hours wandering through its grand halls, each filled with some of the greatest pieces of art ever created. The experience had been nothing short of awe-inspiring, with each new room revealing treasures that left them both speechless. But now, they had finally arrived at one of the most popular and celebrated sections of the museum: the wing dedicated to the works of the Renaissance masters, including probably the most famous painting in the world, Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa.
As they approached the room housing the Mona Lisa, Bella could already see the crowd gathered inside. The room was packed, a sea of eager faces all jostling for a glimpse of the famous painting. It took some time, but with patient determination, Bella and her mom finally made their way to the front, where they could view the painting up close.
When Bella finally laid eyes on the Mona Lisa, she felt a flicker of disappointment. The painting was, of course, beautiful, but it was smaller than she had imagined. Far smaller. While she had always pictured it as a grand, imposing piece, it was, in reality, surprisingly modest in size. As she stood there, taking in the painting, Bella couldn't help but glance around the room, noting the other masterful works of art that spanned entire sections of the walls. Those pieces were truly massive, their grandeur filling the space with an overwhelming sense of awe. In contrast, the Mona Lisa seemed almost understated, and she couldn't help but wonder how it had amassed its legendary status.
Bella was just about to comment on this to her mom when something caught her attention—a scent... the unmistakable scent of a vampire. Bella's eyes widened in shock; she had met so few vampires in her travels, and she had thought the chances of encountering one with her mom present would be next to nil. Now she realized the folly of her assumptions as the consequences and repercussions of her actions hit her hard, especially if the vampire realized they were together.
Renée, unaware of the shift in Bella's demeanor, turned to her daughter with a warm smile. "Do you remember when you were seven and I tried to bake you a birthday cake shaped like the Mona Lisa?" she asked, her voice full of nostalgia. "I was no Da Vinci, and you thought the cake looked like a puppy. You started asking me if it meant you were getting one as a birthday present. You were so cute that day, smiling with your chubby cheeks while missing all your front teeth."
Unable to resist the urge, Renée reached up and tried to playfully squeeze her daughter's cheek, but her fingers met the unexpected resistance of Bella's now more resilient skin.
Bella winced; any vampire in the room would have heard that and now knew they were together. She slowly turned, her eyes sweeping the room, and that's when she saw him. Hidden in the shadows at the corner of the room, he stood unmoving, but his dark, piercing gaze was fixed solely on her mom.
I hope you enjoyed Bella and Renée's time in Paris. It seems their vacation is about to change in unexpected ways...
I've only visited Paris once, and that was just for a day trip, so I don't know the city well. Maybe you could guess, but I took the Segway tour to see what little of the city I could. I hope I did the city justice.
Comments are welcome! I enjoy reading anything you have to say about the chapter or the story in general.