Stepping foot on the land of romance they say, Paris, was my first time. I never did do overseas, all of my business transaction are all set at New York or via Skype or whatever works to both side. Aside from that, I rarely travel to any places, if I do, it will be because it is such an important event or with some personal matter. I'm engrossed on my work that I shut the whole world, avoiding any socialites.
Still on my computer, I felt a light top on my shoulder, "My apologies for disturbing you ma'am however will be landing soon to Paris," the waitress said. "Thanks," I acknowledge her before again, shutting the laptop down. Right after that, the captain has made his announcement that will be landing shortly.
This take –offs and landings is truly giving me pure chills and nervous for the first time in my entire life. Feeling the shake, I clench my fist on the arm chair, tightly, while closing my eyes close tight and gritting my teeth in silence. Once the landing was clear, I puff out a loud sigh of relief. But the shaking was still their so I had to sit it down for a while.
"Are you okay, ma'am?" one of the bodyguard who assist me, asked me. I can tell he is ready to call someone from his earpiece.
"Yeah! I'm fine, just shaken. Give me a minute, then we'll head out," I informed him. Nodding, he stood over behind me, just a few meters, letting me take my time. As I was preparing for my things to head out, the bodyguard suddenly stopped me.
I looked at him in confusion, as he was listening to his earpiece. I let him finishes first before asking why, "I'm sorry, ma'am. But I must inform you that there are several Medias outside the airport, waiting for your arrival. Seems like someone inside the group informed them about your arrival to Paris," he said.
Media, again, ughhh! They're so tiring.
"Jezzz!" I muttered before grabbing a sunglass and hat to cover my face. I never liked showing my face to the public, nor to any event. That is why, I rarely attend any events nor my own events. I would attend but with a mask on. Hiding my own identity.
Just as I walk out to the arriving area, I can already see the media running towards me. Thankfully, I have my security, and the airports security, and they had it all under control. Flashes of camera light might have blinded me instantly if I wasn't wearing a pair glasses. Questions and questions, are thrown upon me. In which, I never dared to answer one of them. Hastening my pace, I quickly reached my van, couple of camera still sticks but they were forced and no one knew how thankful I am.
Slouching on the seat, I took off my glasses, and let out a sigh, "Lavoisier Hotel, merci".
The ride to the hotel was short, I couldn't tell since I was already weary to care. All I know is that, the sky is already nearing dawn. And here I am, exhausted from being squished earlier at the airport.
As I walked in the hotel, I quickly said the information and showed them my reservation slip before I was given the key to my suite, "Have a good and nice stay, mademoiselle," the receptionist said before I head to the elevator.
As I reached my suite, I swiped my keycard, and the door swung open. Collapsing onto the plush bed, I heaved a sigh of relief. It had been a long day, and I was in desperate need of rest. At home, I seldom enjoyed a full night's sleep; work always seemed to keep me up late into the night. Perhaps it was time to put work aside for a while.
I was already half passed asleep when suddenly my phone rang, I groggily searched through my bag. Before answering with a hint of irritation, "What is it?" I grumbled, only half awake.
"Sorry to disturb your sleep, but the company just wanted to thank you for the break. That's all. Bye, Ires," Cindy's voice came through the phone, and I could detect a hint of mischief. She had a tendency to tease me about my lack of a boyfriend and my reluctance to marry, despite being thirty years old.
Tossing my phone into the nightstand, I passed out to sleep.
I couldn't tell what time it is when I was awaken but the sunlight coming from my window is already blaring at my face when I woke up. Hence, I let out a grunt before pulling myself out from the comfy bed to the bathroom. Looking at my own reflection, puffing eyes, with that heavy eye bags, paired with a nest of hair. It wasn't me, just like a living person without any differences. Glancing again at the sun, I splashed my face with water, but I didn't realize that the water was too cold, I gasped. Good thing, it woke me up.
Hair dripping wet, I step out the shower. The mist, instantly vaporized as I opened the sliding door that separates the shower to the room.
My stomach had been rumbling since I left the bathroom, so I needed food. Unlocking the car that Cindy had arranged for me during my stay in Paris, I started the engine and drove to the restaurant she had recommended. She knew my taste well. Parking the car, I got out and headed inside.
Upon arrival, a hostess was already waiting for me, and there was no need to state my name; she recognized me immediately. After all, it was my restaurant. It was odd that Cindy had insisted on visiting my restaurant in Paris, even though I had someone managing it for me. Nevertheless, I followed her to a table on the balcony, next to the entrance.
"Thank you," I told her as I took my seat, appreciating the pleasant view of the city.
"You're welcome, mademoiselle" she replied with a nod before leaving me to my own devices. I sat back, taking in the beautiful view. This was exactly what I needed—some time to relax and enjoy the scenery. Maybe Cindy had been right all along; I needed a break.
"What a surprise! Natalia, my friend!" a familiar voice called out from behind.
"Yeah, it's me," I chuckled as I turned around.
"I thought Cindy was joking when she texted me about your visit to Paris," my friend said as she sat beside me.
"Well, then, she wasn't joking. How's the restaurant?" I asked her.
"It's doing well, but we need some renovations both inside and out, and we should replace some appliances in the kitchen and add more tables. Other than that, it's been good. Here's the report, just as you would ask," she said, handing me a document. I scanned through it, noticing the need for renovations to attract more customers.
"I can see that you haven't suffered a significant loss in profit this year. Renovations seem to be in order, and make sure your staff is friendly," I said after reviewing the report.
"I'm sorry about the staff. We hired a new employee, and she's a bit intimidated by you. You do have that intimidating aura, you know," my friend joked, making me laugh.
We discussed the business and renovation plans further, and when the food arrived, I couldn't help but praise the delicious and elegant presentation.
"I can see why this place is always filled with customers. The food is both delicious and classy," I commented, and I meant every word. The presentation was exquisite, and the taste didn't disappoint.
"The chef is really talented and artistic," my friend added with a wink. She had been managing my restaurant in Paris since we graduated from college. She pursued her dream of becoming a chef, and I had supported her wholeheartedly. When she finished her culinary studies, I offered her a job, which she initially refused but eventually accepted after much persuasion. Now, the restaurant was highly rated online and had become one of the most popular places in Paris.
"You're still a workaholic, I see. That's why you don't have a boyfriend," she teased.
"You know me well; I just don't have the time," I replied as I sipped my wine.
"You do have the time, Talia. Since you're here, how about we enjoy the night?" she suggested, clearly not convinced of my reasoning. It was the kind of pressure I didn't enjoy, but my friend was known for her lively and unstoppable nightlife, while I was more reserved.
"Alright, I'm in. What time?" I asked, and her smile widened.
"7 o'clock in the evening. I'll text you the location."
"Sure, no problem. Anyway, it was nice catching up with you, but I need to head back to the hotel. Send my lunch and dinner to the hotel, as Cindy must have informed you," I said.
"Yeah, she texted me about it. It was nice catching up with you too, boss. Thanks for visiting the restaurant," she replied playfully, making me laugh. I handed her the money before leaving the restaurant.
I started the car's engine, honked, and drove off. I wasn't actually heading back to the hotel just yet. First, I wanted to visit the mausoleum and explore it before returning to the hotel.
The drive to the mausoleum took longer than expected; I had thought it would be just a 30-minute trip. An hour later, I finally arrived. Parking the car, I turned off the engine and made my way inside.
I wanted to visit the mausoleum to see some of their antiques and, especially, their artworks. I was aware that the mausoleum was hosting an art exhibition, and I figured it was an excellent opportunity to explore. The designs, blending antique and modern elements, were intriguing. I wondered if it was just a coincidence that they were holding an art exhibition during my visit. Regardless, I decided to join the tour and listen to the guide's explanations about the history and significance of the various pieces on display.
The exhibition proceeded smoothly and came to a close with enthusiastic applause from the tourists, myself included.
"Thank you for visiting our France Mausoleum. We hope to see you again on your next visit to Paris," the guide said, and we all clapped in appreciation before dispersing into the crowd.