Chapter 15: An advisor

Seb's estate had a stylish charisma. The wooden table in the dining room was set with silverwear and crystal.
While he was talking to the chef about the menu, Annabelle tried to forget about the conversation they had in the car. She knew Seb was playing a game. He wanted her land and it was in his best interest to get rid of her as soon as possible.

Annoyed she moved a vase with red roses on the table so it wouldn't stand in anyone's sight. There was nothing else she could do right now.
"I think you don't need me tonight, Seb." She said when the cook disappeared.
He didn't answer her, but leaned against the doorframe with a smile on his lips. "You're not going to sulk all night because I'm right about the house, are you Chérie?" he teased.
"You're not right at all." She snapped. "And I never sulk."
Her answer made him smile even more. "Good. Shall we have a drink?"
"A glass of wine would be nice." She said.

Their hands touched briefly when he gave her a glass.
"Thanks." She took a step back and tried to come up with something to cut the silence.
Seb looked at her, like he was trying to take in every detail. "To come back to your question, I'm very happy you are here tonight." He said softly.

Annabelle looked at him. The honesty in his eyes made her heart skip a beat. He looked breathtaking in his dark suit and white shirt, which stood out against his tanned skin and dark hair. But there was still the danger that surrounded him. She couldn't explain, but there was something about him that made her nervous. Maybe it was the look in his eyes when he looked at her... Or his sensual mouth... Or maybe it was the way his eyes seemed to look right through her.

"So... Who's coming over tonight?"
"My business partner Urs and his wife Brigitte. Urs runs the office in Paris, so it's a great opportunity to catch up. And a possible new client, Roger Kaye and his partner Sharon. I hope he'll give us some work for the next few months."
"It sounds like an important evening for you."
"Oui... I must admit I would like to have Roger as a client. He's building a new hotel in Cannes. Exactly the type of project our company is specialised in. So, let's hope tonight will be successful."
"Tonight is more about doing business then pleasure."
"Well, hopefully we can combine those two."

She looked away before he could enchant her with his green eyes. If seducing was an art, Seb was a master in it, she thought. She wondered how many women would have been in love with him. Possible more then hundred... And they would probably all have a broken heart. You had to be very strong to handle Seb, she thought.

"Who was usually your hostess in the past?" she asked curious, trying not to look at him.
"The last couple of months there have been a woman, Jenny. But it didn't work." He shrugged. "That's how it goes."
He didn't sound very sad, so Annabelle assumed he was the one who broke up with her. "You look like a real player." She said.
"Oh really? Why is that?" he asked amused.
"I don't know." She looked intently at him. "There is something about you..."
"I like the company of women, but I hope I'm not a player. I don't mean to, anyway. I'm very picky if it comes to starting a relationship with a woman. And I'm very open and honest about the fact that I don't want to get married again."
"You loved your wife very much, didn't you?" Annabelle said softly. She saw the sad look in his eyes. "Fabrice told me." She said quickly. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you."
"It's ok. But you are right. I loved my wife... Very much."

Annabelle bent her head. She was sorry she started about something so personal.
"What about you? Are you a tease, Annabelle?" he asked.
"I hope not."
"But it must have been you who cancelled the wedding. No man would be crazy enough to do that."
"Thanks for the compliment." She said, a little suspicious. She hesitated. "Yes, I cancelled the wedding... But I didn't like it."
"You did it because you had no choice. Because he had hurt you." It was a statement, not a question, so she didn't answer him. "You know, the best way to get over a broken heart is to find someone new." He tilted her chin with his fingers and forced her to look at him. "A bit of fun makes you forget your worries."

His tender touch burned her skin. She tried no to blush, but she felt her cheeks glow. "Is that how you do it?" she asked, trying to break the intimacy. "Go from one relationship to another one?"
"I don't have a broken heart." He said.
"Right..." she sipped her wine. "I'm sorry, Seb, but I've got bad news for you."
"Something else then that you don't want to sell me the house?" he smiled.
"Oh yes. The point is, Seb, that you will never be a good advisor. Your advice isn't very helpful."
He looked at her and laughed. A laugh that made her shiver.
"I like you, Annabelle." He shook his head. "I must admit I like you a lot..."
When they met each others gaze, she wanted to say she liked him as well. But she didn't.
Just then the doorbell rang. "That will be Urs and Brigitte." Seb turned around. "He's always early."

Chapter 16: Dinner

Urs was a good looking Swiss man. Annabelle thought he was in his mid thirties. He had piercing eyes and his long hair was brushed back. He looked very handsome in his dark suit. His wife Brigitte was very French but seemed to be younger. She was a beautiful woman with long dark hair that was done up neatly. Her cream-coloured dress looked very expensive and she probably bought it in an haute-couture shop in Paris. She looked very chic and natural at the same time, something a lot of French women seemed to have.

"It's very nice to meet you, Annabelle." She said and kissed her on both cheeks. "I heard a lot about you."
"Really?" Annabelle looked surprised at Seb.
"Oui, I told Urs and Brigitte about my stubborn neighbour who refuses to sell me her house."
"Oh Chérie, are you still working on that?" Brigitte kissed Seb's cheek. "You already own half of the countryside."
Annabelle saw that Urs gave her a meaningful look like she said something she shouldn't have. But she nor Seb didn't seem to notice.
"Oui, it's true." He said with a twinkle in his eyes. "But it doesn't mean I don't want more. I discovered my neighbour has other qualities, so I leave the house alone... For now."
"What do you mean with other qualities?" Annabelle asked. She didn't know if she liked the way this was going.
Seb grinned. "I mean the pleasure of your company of course."

Annabelle shook her head. She didn't want to be charmed by his compliments. He knew exactly what women wanted to hear. Seb was born to seduce. She thought about his advice. 'You know, the best way to get over a broken heart is to find someone new.'
Of course he just wanted to tease her. It probably didn't mean a thing, so it was best to be alert.

She and Brigitte walked to the dining room, followed by Urs and Seb.
"Did you come all he way from Paris for this dinner party, Brigitte?"
She smiled. "Yes, we flew to Nice and rented a car. We do it more often and if a possible new client is present, we like to be here."
"Let's hope Sharon is in a better mood then last time." Urs sighed. "It's good that you are here, Annabelle, otherwise we would never get a contract."
"What do you mean?" she asked surprised.
"Hasn't Sébastien told you?" Brigitte asked laughing. "I'm afraid Sharon has a thing for Seb. There were a few embarrassing moments last time. We were afraid Roger wouldn't go through with the whole deal."
"So, there is more to it then the pleasure of my company?" Annabelle laughed.
"You have lots of qualities." Seb said. The smile on his face lighted up his eyes. When the doorbell rang he went back to the hall.

"He's incorrigible." Brigitte laughed. "And sexy. Everyone falls in love with him. I lost count on the women I've seen around him, right Urs?"
"He just hasn't found the right one yet." He said coldly. "Don't give Annabelle the wrong idea."
She was just about to say that it didn't matter because she wasn't one of his girlfriends, when Seb and the other couple walked in.

During the evening, Annabelle felt more at ease. Seb's friends were very nice and he was a very charming and polite host. During dinner she watched him and saw how the women adored everything he said.

Sharon was obviously very fond of him. She was mid thirty, blond, had a great figure and blue eyes. The more she drank, the more she started flirting with Seb who took it very relaxed.
Roger didn't seem to mind his wife's behaviour, but Annabelle thought Brigitte was right. This was not a good situation for doing business.

"So, Annabelle, what do you do?" Roger suddenly asked while Sharon bent over to Seb to tell him how great dinner was.
Annabelle felt sorry for him. He looked like a nice guy, a lot older then Sharon, probably sixty, but attractive.
"I'm trying to set up a bed and breakfast." She said.
"Really? That's interesting. That's what I do as well. I have a chain of hotel in America. I started in Texas and expanded to other states. And now I want to start in Europe. I hope Seb can design me a beautiful building."
"I'm sure he can. I heard that Seb is very talented." Annabelle said.
"Yes, I know his reputation is excellent." Roger nodded. "But the price is high."
"Roger, you should know that if you want decent work, it will cost you." Annabelle said.
He smiled. "You could be right, Annabelle."
"To be honest, I don't know much about Seb's way of doing business, but I do know everyone wants him. If you are famous, you want Seb. It's like Prada shoes or a dress from Chanel: if you have them, you're hot."
"You think so?" Roger nodded. "I guess you could be right. I have to maintain a certain class my hotels are known for that."
Annabelle poured him another glass of wine.
"Now tell me about your plans for that bed and breakfast." Roger bent forward a little.
"Well, it will be something small and I'm not going to get rich, but it suits me. I lived in the city for years and it's great to be in the countryside now. It will be quite a challenge to fix everything..."

"A challenge is an understatement." Seb said while he pulled his hand away from Sharon's. "I think you must be very fearless to start such an adventure."
"I like it." Annabelle shrugged. "Of course I need to learn a lot. There is a small vineyard which I would like to use, and the olive trees could bring in some extra money. But I don't know anything about it."

"Do you live in Fabrice's house?" Urs asked.
She nodded.
"But that house is in a terrible state." He said, looking at Seb. "You had someone look at it for Fabrice years ago, didn't you?"
"I don't remember, Urs." Seb said annoyed.
It could be her imagination but Annabelle thought Urs looked a little angry after Seb's answer.
"I do know that Annabelle will be without water soon, if she doesn't get connected to the head supply." Seb shrugged.

Annabelle shifted in her chair. She didn't want to talk about that. "The house will be just fine. It just needs time and maintenance."

Chapter 17: Jealousy

Annabelle excused herself and went to the kitchen, that was cleaned up by the caterer. While she was waiting for the water to boil, she put the cups on a tray.
A few minutes later, Seb walked in.
"Tell me, what am I? A Prada shoe or a Chanel dress?" he asked grinning.
She smiled and looked at him. "I'm sorry if I crossed the line."
"You don't hear me complain. What you said, helped. We are not negotiating the price anymore, but when I can start."
"That's probably because of dinner." Annabelle said.
"And the way you smiled at him." Seb softly added. "Thank you for helping me just now."

The way he said it and the way he looked at her, made her shiver. "Oh, it's ok." She said. "You help me and I help you. We're even now. Tell me, did someone check Fabrices' house?" She tried to avoid his gaze and concentrate on their conversation.
"No, Urs was probably confused with another house."
"Good." She smiled. "So, the house won't collapse before I start renovating?"
"Mais non, the house will not collapse." He smiled and tucked her hair behind her ear. "You are hiding behind your hair sometimes, did you know that?"
"I do?" she stammered. His touch burned her cheeks. She desperately tried to say something, anything to distract him. "That Sharon is quite something, isn't she?"
"Yes, but you play the role of girlfriend perfectly. Is there something you're not good at?" he asked.

When he took a step forward, she smelled his cologne and felt the heat of his body. She wanted to take a step back but he put a hand on her shoulder so she had to look at him. She saw him staring at her lips and almost couldn't control her racing heart.
"Shouldn't you be going back to your guests?" She tried to sound reasonable, but her voice faltered.

"Seb?" Sharon called his name in the hallway, but Seb and Annabelle stayed still. It was like they were all alone.
"Seb, where are you?" She came closer.

"I think your mistress is looking for you." Annabelle said, her heart racing.
"That's not funny, Annabelle." Seb said threatening. His finger softly traced her cheekbones, until he got to her neck. "Besides, there is someone else I want for that position."
Before she had the chance to react, he came closer. She felt his breath against her skin and looked into his eyes.
"Seb..." she whispered. His lips found hers and tasted her. Very slowly, tender and overwhelming. Annabelle gripped his strong shoulders. Her lips trembled with anticipation against his. She felt nothing but desire, a desire that almost hurt. She moaned when he pulled her closer.

The warmth of his chest against hers made her sigh with pleasure. She wanted to be even closer to him. His hands stroke her bare back and he enjoyed every second.

"Sorry to interrupt you." Sharons said coldly.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Sharon. We didn't hear you come in." Seb sounded remarkable calm.
Annabelle's heart was still racing. She was mad that she let herself go, but on the other hand she was irritated that Sharon had interrupted them while she wanted so much more...

"I called a few times." Sharon looked mad at Annabelle. "But you were obviously to busy to hear anything."
"That's right." Seb said unaffected. "Is there anything we can do for you, Sharon?"
"Jenny is on the phone." She answered abrupt.
"Ok, I'll be right there"
He looked at Annabelle and smiled when he saw her flushed face and the glow in her eyes. "I won't disturb you anymore while you're making coffee, Annabelle."

"Good idea." She turned around and poured the hot water in the coffeepot. She was mad at herself that she had given herself so easily to Seb. For him flirting and seducing was nothing more then a game. He had loved it of course that Sharon had caught them in the act.

"Isn't it strange that Jenny is calling tonight?" Sharon asked while she leaned against the table and lighted a cigarette.
"Oh?" Annabelle tried to control her voice. "Why is that strange? She's a friend of Seb."
"Well, she's something more then that, Annabelle. During the last dinner party Seb organised for us, she was the hostess. And they looked very much in love." She blew out some smoke and looked at Annabelle. "But then again, we know that Seb's relationships never last long."
"Not until now, no." Annabelle said coldly. She was angry because of the way Sharon said it.
"Time will tell, darling." Sharon said sweetly before walking out.

'What a bitch!' Annabelle thought. But although she didn't like the woman, she had to admit that she was right. Seb was a smooth seducer.
She thought about the way she reacted to the kiss. It was unbelievable that she got so carried away. Desire had risen and it had shocked her.

But what was even more shocking, was the fact that nobody had ever made her feel like that. Never had a kiss felt like that. She had lost control over herself and the situation and it turned her on and scared her at the same time. She took a deep breath and walked back to the living room.

Seb just put down the phone when she came in. "I'll help you."
He took the tray and their eyes met. She felt the desire rise again and looked the other way.

"We were just saying, Annabelle, that it would be nice to take a look at your house." Roger said happily. "Sharon and I are around the next few days, so maybe we can drop in."
Annabelle swallowed. "Yes, of course, but not yet if you don't mind. It's not really ready for visitors. And from tomorrow on, it will be a mess because the construction workers start then."

Seb observed her when she handed Roger his coffee. He tried not to think about the way she reacted to his kiss. If he did, he would take her to bed and throw his guests out right away.

He admired the way she rejected Rogers' proposition without insulting him. And he admired the way she reacted relaxed and sharply to one of Urs' teasing remarks.
Seb smiled. Yes, it was nice to have Annabelle around... She was a remarkable hostess. Attractive... and very sexy.

That's when he decided to do nothing until he had the chance to get to know that fascinating woman a little better.

Chapter 18: Gardening

Sunlight warmed Annabelle's face. She stayed on the bed couch for a few more minutes and thought about last nights' dinner.

Seb had suggested that she stayed there, so she didn't have to go home so late. But thinking about the kiss, she declined the offer. She didn't even want him to take her home but he insisted so eventually she accepted.

On the way home, she could hardly concentrate on what he was saying because she couldnt forget about their kiss. Annabelle didn't know how she would react when he did it again, so she stumbled out of the car when they got home, waved at him and hurried inside.

She groaned, pushed back the covers and got up. It annoyed her that she kept thinking about the kiss. It probably meant nothing to him and it shouldn't mean a thing to her either. But why did she stay awake for hours then?

She tried not to think about it. She had enough to do today. And she probably just imagined the passion between them. Seb had played a game to keep Sharon at a distance and she had a little too much to drink. It was probably best to forget the whole thing.

She just got dressed in shorts and a t-shirt, when Arnaud arrived. Annabelle gave him a cup of coffee and they talked about what she wanted to do first.
They decided to start on the stairs. Arnaud went to get his tools and Annabelle closed the doors to the kitchen and dining room to keep them clean.

Afterwards she went outside and started to work on the overgrown garden. She tied up the roses and began to tear out weeds from the path.
The sun was high in the sky and she got thirsty. 'If it was this hot in the spring, what would it be like in the summer?' She asked herself. Hotter then in Manchester, that's for sure!

She sipped a bottle of water and climbed on the ladder that she had put against one of the olive trees, to trim the branches.
It was a heavy job and when Seb arrived an hour later, she was still on the ladder to take care of the last branches.

He was underneath the tree and looked at her legs that stood out nicely in her shorts. Her hair was in a ponytail and she looked like a sixteen year old. For a minute he looked at her while she was wrestling a persistent branch that was to thick and heavy to cut off.

"Need a hand?" he asked softly.
"Oh... Hi Seb!" She turned around and looked down. "I didn't expect you today." She tried to sound casual, but she felt her heart racing when she looked at him. "It's getting a habit to sneak up on me."
"Oui, it looks like it." he grinned.

Suddenly she remembered last nights kiss, the warmth of his lips and the passion she had felt...
"So, what can I do for you?" Annabelle turned her attention back to the branch and used all her strength to cut it.

In stead of answering her, Seb looked at what she was doing. "You're making a mess." He said.
"Really? What am I doing wrong?"
"To start with... You're using the wrong tools." He looked through the old toolbox she found in the barn. "This is what you should be using." He showed a dangerously looking scissors. To her surprise he climbed on the ladder and stood close behind her. "Do you see these branches?"

She felt his breath against her neck. "Yes..." Although she tried to focus, it was hard with him standing so close.
"You should cut them at this point." He continued and pointed out a spot. He cut the branch effortless.

His words hardly got through to her. All her senses focused on his body that was pushed against hers. She could smell his cologne and felt his strong arms around her. It turned her on immensely.

"That's better." He released her and jumped on the ground. And then he extended his hand to help her down.
"Thank you." When her hand touched his, she shivered.
Although her feet stood on the ground, she seemed to be floating. She felt light-headed, captured by his impressive appearance. She wanted to nestle in his arms. He looked so incredible sexy, just irresistible. And on top of all that, the kiss from last night kept haunting her.

Annabelle tried to erase that thought because she didn't want to end up as one of his many girlfriends.
"So, what do you think about my work?" she asked and looked around.
For a minute it seemed he wasn't going to answer her because he looked so intently at her. "I think..." he said slowly, "that you worked so hard that you deserve lunch. Come and have lunch with me."

"I don't have the time, Seb. I have too much to do." She began to pile up the branches.
"Having lunch shouldn't take hours. And you shouldn't be working in this heat." He said while he leaned against the ladder.
She appeared from behind the tree and wiped her hands at her hips. "I don't mind." Some locks of hair covered her face. She released her ponytail and her hair fell nonchalant on her shoulders.
Seb noticed the way the sun shone on it. For a minute he wondered how it would feel like, to run his hands through it. "You're in France now, so you should acted like a French-woman." He murmured.
"And how is that?" she looked at him.
"Civilised of course." Seb smiled.
Annabelle laughed out loud.

"Anyway, I thought you would say no due to your lack of time, so I came up with an alternative plan."
"What kind of alternative plan?" Annabelle asked.
"You'll see." Without another word he disappeared behind the house.

Chapter 19: Lunch

Disappointed that he had left, Annabelle continued to pile up branches. It was good that she refused lunch. She had to keep him at arms length.
To her surprise Seb appeared again with a blanket and a cool box.
"What are you doing?" she asked when he spread a blanket in the shadow of the olive trees.
"What does it look like?" he asked dryly. "If you don't want to go to a restaurant, the restaurant comes to you. The chef of Chez Louis has made an interesting menu. I hope you'll like it."

Curious she took a step forward to look into the cool box. She saw him taking a bottle of white wine from a bucket of ice.
"So, what else is in it?"
"Salad nicoise, a speciality from the region, goat's cheese, Mediterranean vegetable roles and all kinds of fruit for dessert." Seb said.
"Sounds great, but if I eat all that, I won't be able to work this afternoon."
Seb sat up and pulled her next to him on the blanket. "You do know what you need, don't you?"
"No, what's that?" She watched him pouring the wine.
"Recreation, that's what you need." He gave her a glass and their eyes met.
"Well, thank you." Annabelle looked away and raised her glass. "This is really very kind of you."

She sipped her wine that tasted like honey and was ice cold. It was a nice refreshment after the hard work on the olive trees. She moved a little so she could sit against the tree trunk. "You don't have to work today?" she asked.
Seb smiled. "I always take the time to have lunch."

While he was unpacking the plates, Annabelle looked at him. She saw his strong arms in the cream-coloured shirt. He looked very powerful and stylish in the light summer pants that he was wearing. The light colours looked very nice with his tan and brown hair.
He saw her looking at him and smiled. "How is the wine?"
"Delicious."

"Try this." He offered her his fork with some goat cheese.
After a small hesitation she allowed him to feed her. It was a sensual and intimate experience. She felt uncomfortable at first, but when she tasted the food, she closed her eyes and surrendered.
"So... what do you think?"
"Delicious, this is so good!" She was smiling when she opened her eyes and looked at him.
"Bien." He put the plates and some bowls with olives between them.

Annabelle was surprised that she was so hungry. She had never enjoyed her meal as much as she did now. Maybe it was because they were sitting outside or maybe it was the silence of the vine yard where only the buzzing of honey bees was heard. Or was it the company? When she was around Seb, her sentences seemed to be sharp.

"The chef who made this should be rewarded." She mumbled, her head resting against the tree. "What did you say his name was?"
"Louis, he's the owner of a small bistro in the village. It's really cosy and the food is very good, as you can tell. We can have dinner there tonight."

His casual invitation made her heart jump up. "Thanks for the invitation, but I'm rather busy at the moment." It was silent for a moment and she looked suspiciously at him.
Seb lay on his side, resting on an elbow. "You are so serious sometimes." He said softly. "Life is here to enjoy it."
"I know, and I do enjoy it." She said grinning. "I'm laying in my own vine yard and I'm eating food prepared by a top chef. I have a glass of wine in my hand and I can feel the sun. I feel pretty decadent and to be honest... I haven't felt so relaxed in years."
"That's the whole idea."

"Too bad I have to get back to work." She said.
Seb grinned. "You are your own boss, so you can take the rest of the day off without any problems."
"The garden will never get ready if I do that." Annabelle said, shaking her head.
"Well, to be honest... I have a lot to do as well this afternoon."
"You're working at home?"
He nodded. "I have an office upstairs. I work here for 3 weeks and 1 week in Paris."
"Sounds great."
"Yes, I like it as well." He said.

"I've never been in Paris." She looked at the blue sky. "On my way here, I saw the signs to Paris and I almost took the exit. But I was afraid I wasn't going to find my way back here."
"You would love it. It's a very nice city, especially with the blossoming of the chestnut trees. And it's so beautiful to walk past the Seine." Seb said smiling.
Annabelle sipped her wine. "Well, maybe I will go there someday."
"Why don't you come with me next week? I have to work during the day, but afterwards I have plenty of time to show you around."

Chapter 20: Temptation

If his dinner invitation caused her heart to jump, it was nothing compared to her reaction to this offer. It was like she couldn't think clear. She was tempted to say yes.
When she didn't immediately react, he shrugged. "I guess you're to busy with the house."
She heard the irony in his voice and immediately defended herself. "Well, yes... Look around, Seb... I have to."
"You do know what they say about all work and no play?"
She looked the other way and starred in her glass. "How many bedrooms has your apartment?"
"Two. Although here is no need to use them both." He smiled when he saw her blushing.

Annabelle looked at him and was convinced that if she would say yes, they wouldn't be sleeping in separate beds. But she wasn't ready for it. "Maybe I'll take you up on your offer in the future, but like I said, I'm really busy at the moment."
"Of course." He smiled.
"Why do you look at me like that?"
"No reason." Seb bend forward to fill up her glass. "I have the feeling you can't relax while I'm around. Why is that, Annabelle? Are you afraid you might enjoy yourself?"
"I'm not afraid at all!" She felt her heart beating like crazy. When he came closer she panicked. She wasn't scared, she was petrified. Petrified for what she felt, petrified for the way her body reacted. Something inside her wanted to say 'Yes... Take me to Paris... Take me to bed.' It was a delirious desire that her mind was trying to resist. It was not the time to start another relationship.

"David and I were supposed to get married next week." She said without thinking. "We would go to Rome for our honeymoon. So, you probably understand it wouldn't be appropriate to go to Paris with you? Especially not next week."
"Paris isn't Rome." He shrugged. There was an uncomfortable silence. But then he looked intently at her. "You think your marriage could have succeeded?"
She raised her eyebrows. "No, I don't think so. But it doesn't mean breaking up is easy. We lived together for three years."
"Oui, but he wasn't the one for you, Annabelle. And if someone isn't the one, you have to move on." He tucked her hair behind her ear so he could see her face. It was a tender gesture and she had to swallow. "How long ago did you break up with him?"
"Two months ago."

She ran out of the apartment when she found out the truth. Luckily she could stay with Karina at the time. Those two weeks had been hell. She had to cancel the marriage, tried to get rid of David's financial problems and she was grieving over Fabrice. She sipped her wine and tried not to think about it.
"What day were you supposed to get married?" he asked while he started to clean up.
"Saturday."
"Ok, if you don't want to come to Paris for a week, why don't you come by the end of the week then? We can meet on Friday. I'll pick you up at the airport, we spend the weekend together and fly back on Sunday." He looked at her. "It will distract you from what you were supposed to do that weekend."

It sure would, she thought. The thought of spending a weekend in Paris with Seb, made her dizzy.
"I don't know, Seb. I think it's kinda quick to go away for a weekend. But thanks for the offer."
He grinned. "On the one hand you say 'I don't know', which means you're still doubting. But on the other hand you say 'thanks for the offer', which sounds like a rejection. What's it gonna be?"
"It's..." she hesitated when he bent towards her and starred at her lips.
"So...?"
"It's definitely a..."
He took her glass and put it next to her in the grass. Because he was so close, she didn't know what she wanted to say.
"What did you want to say?" he whispered in her ear.
"Seb, stop it." She didn't sound very convincing. When he pulled her next to him on the blanket, she protested weakly.
He smiled down at her. "Where were we?"
Her heart was beating so fast, she was convinced he would feel it if he leaned against her.
"Seb..."

His kiss silenced her. It was a tender kiss and his soft hands slid under her t-shirt and caressed her belly. She should have pushed him away, but she knew she couldn't. Instead she returned the kiss and her desire became even stronger.

She wished his hands would caress her whole body but he kept stroking her belly. Softly teasing till she almost lost it. His kisses were passionate. It was like he woke up a desire that she didn't know she had in her.

He was the first one to sit up and asked "I take that is a yes?"
Annabelle didn't want him to stop and she felt angry and frustrated because of it. Frustrated because she wanted to be in his arms again and angry because he was so self-confident.
"It was just a kiss, Seb." She mumbled irritated. "Don't get carried away."
He looked at her flushed cheeks and yearning lips and grinned. "I don't think I was the only one to get carried away."

She sat up, angry for getting carried away so easily. That man was so arrogant and unbearable. She should have hit him instead of kissing him.
The only problem was that he was such a good kisser... The lovely feeling he had woken up, was still there. She tried to ignore it and tried to ignore him as well when she stood up. It was easier said then done.

"Oui, it was just a kiss..." He stood up as well. "But you have to admit there is something special between us."
"Oh really? I haven't noticed."
"Oh? You want me to show you again?" he asked winking.
"Stop teasing me, Seb." Annabelle mumbled.
"I'm not teasing you. I meant what I said about our weekend in Paris. And to prove it, I tell you that I don't mind sleeping in the spare room. Believe me, I don't say that to everyone."

She couldn't stay mad at someone with such a lovely smile. "Well... I'll think about it. But now I have to get inside and see how Arnaud is doing." She felt relieved to change the subject.
"Arnaud went out for lunch when I got here." Seb said. "He wanted me to let you know that he'll be back around 4h and that you have a problem with the floor."
"What about the floor? I thought he was starting on the stairs." Annabelle shook her head.
Seb smiled. "One problem usually leads to another in these houses, Annabelle. You'll learn soon enough."
"Thank you for the advice." She said dryly.
"Knowing you, you'll have those problems solved in no time." He grinned. He looked at his watch and took the blanket and cool box. "I have to go. I'll talk to you later."
"Yes, see you later."

When he disappeared around the corner of the house, Annabelle stayed behind in the vine yard. It was like she had dreamt the last hour.

Chapter 21: Phone calls

"If Seb is really as attractive as you say, I think you should go." Karina's voice sounded determined. "What have you got to loose, Annabelle?"

Annabelle smiled and thought about Seb who always confused her. "Except my self-control, you mean?"
'And my heart', a little voice whispered. She tried not to listen to it. She wasn't planning on giving her heart to anyone in the next few years.

"He has this strange effect on me, Karina. I never felt anything like it. The minute he touches me, I'm lost."
"Well, if a handsome Frenchman would ask me to go to Paris with him for the weekend, I certainly would say yes."
Annabelle shook her head. "No, you wouldn't, 'cause you're happily married."
"I almost forgot!" Karina laughed.

Annabelle smiled. It was good to hear Karina's cheerful voice. She missed her. "I'm a little suspicious, Karina."
"That's understandable after everything you've been through." Karina said kindly.
Annabelle sighed. "He's not the type of man who wants a serious relationship, and that's ok... I think it could be fun and that I should go... But on the other hand I'm afraid I'm gonna get hurt. He's a smooth talker. Besides... It's been 6 days since he invited me and I haven't heard a word from him. He probably changed his mind about our weekend together and he'll be in Paris on his own."
"Well, you do have his number? Call him and you'll know." Karina simply said.

Annabelle frowned. She wasn't planning on calling him. She didn't know exactly why she wouldn't. Probably because of his arrogance or the look in his eyes. No, she was not going to run after him. That was not like her.
"I don't think that's a good idea." She mumbled. "Besides, I think I'll just forget about the whole weekend. I mean, Saturday David and I were supposed to get married. It's all a bit fast."

"I don't know if I should tell you this..." Karina started hesitating. "Last week, Carlos and I were in Chinatown and we saw David in a restaurant."
"Oh?" Annabelle frowned. "On his own?"
It was quiet for a moment. "No, he was there with a dark haired babe. I'm sorry to tell you this, but they couldn't keep their hands of each other."
"Oh." Annabelle stiffened.
"Maybe I shouldn't have told you." Karina said worried.
"It's ok. I'm glad you did because I was worried about him."
"You were worried about David? Why?"

Annabelle shrugged. She couldn't declare her complicated feelings for him. "Deep down I wondered if I shouldn't have stayed with him to help him. He really has a problem, Karina."
"You can say that again." Karina's voice sounded bitter. "Except for being a gambler, he was a thief and a liar. Tell me again how much you had to pay for his mess?"
"You know perfectly well." Annabelle sighed.
"Yeah... And then you still worry about him?" Karina sounded angry. "You're way too good. Let me tell you this: last Saturday he didn't seem to be worrying about you at all. That guy is just a parasite."
"Maybe you are right, but... He couldn't really help it. Gambling is like alcoholism."
"If you ask me, you're better off without him." Karina said.
"Yes, you're probably right. I'm a disaster when it comes to picking the right guy, eh?" Annabelle laughed.
"Seb sounds ok."
"Well, at least he's honest and straight forward." Annabelle admitted. "He said he wasn't looking for a serious relationship. And he's honest about his plans for this house." She looked around the place that used to be the living room. There was a huge gap where the stairs had been and an even bigger gap where a part of the floor had been.
"So, go for it and enjoy Paris."

A car stopped in front of the house. She looked hopeful through the window, but was disappointed when she saw a small van. "I have to go, Karina. Someone is at the door. And no, it's not him."
"Too bad." Karina laughed. "Don't forget to send me a postcard."
"Maybe I won't go." Annabelle saw the company logo on the van. "Jeez! I think it's the electricity company. That's a nice surprise. I heard it would take at least 3 more weeks."
"You see, the future looks good." Karina said satisfied.

An hour later the lights were shining brightly in the house and the fridge and water heater were turned on. Civilization was back. Karina was right: it was all about the future now, there was no use to keep hanging in the past. A hot bath and an ice-cold gin-tonic was just what she needed.

The water was running when her mobile rang again. She didn't recognise the number, so it couldn't be someone she knew.
"Bonjour Annabelle."
She was happily surprised to hear Sebs' voice. "Oh... Hi... How did you get my number?"
"I wrote it down when your mobile was at my house. So, how are things with the house?"
"We're making progress." She tried not to think of the mess in the living room.
"You got electricity yet?" he asked.
"Yes, I do." She smiled. "You must be perspicuous, because they were here just now."
"I'm glad everything is going well."

His relaxed tone made her stomach jump up again. She sat down on the edge of the bath. "And how are you? Did Roger Kaye sign the contract?"
Seb smiled. "Oui, he came by today. He said hi."
"That's nice." Annabelle tried to sound casual. Would he ever bring up Paris, she wondered.
"I wanted to come by, but I didn't find the time. It has been really hectic here."
"And I thought the French were always so relaxed. No long lunch with wine?" she asked laughing.
"Non, although I could use it. It's probably Paris that makes it hectic. The big city always makes me more obsessed."
"Are you there now?" she asked surprised.
"Oui, I'm calling from my apartment. The weather is great: a beautiful blue sky. Not that I saw much of it. I've been in my office since early this morning."
"That's a shame."
"Well, I hope to catch up on it in the weekend."

Annabelle felt her heart skipping a beat. This was it... He was gonna ask her.
"Do you have a pen?"
"A pen?" She was taken a back for a second.
"Yes, I want you to write down a number." Seb said.
Annabelle frowned. "I already have your phone number."
"Oui, and you didn't use it a lot, did you?" he laughed. "No, it's another number."

Annabelle searched her purse and found a pen. "Ok, go ahead." She said, her agenda in one hand, her pen in the other and the telephone clutched under her chin. She wrote down the number he gave her.
"So what kind of number is this?" she asked.
"The reservation number for your flight on Friday. Look, you have to be at the airport of Nice at 5h30 in the afternoon. You can pick up the ticket at the desk of Air France. And don't forget your passport."
"You booked me a flight?" She didn't know if she had to be flattered or angry. "But you didn't even know if I was coming!"
"Well, I got impatient, so I booked. I'll pick you up from the airport. Oh, and bring some warm clothes. It can be chilly here. I have to go now, Annabelle. I have a call on my other phone."

Annabelle opened her mouth to say something, but he already hung up. What was she supposed to do now? It was quite daring to just book her a flight. She should probably just ignore it.
She sighed and looked at herself in the bathroom mirror. Being sensible didn't get her far until now. Maybe it was time to take a risk and just fly to Paris. She suddenly felt very excited.

She sipped her gin-tonic. Yes, she would go. Without any hesitations. She deserved some fun after everything she had been through. And Fabrice would have liked the idea, she thought smiling.

Chapter 22: Arriving

The flight from Nice to Paris was very short. They had just taken off when they already landed again.
Annabelle felt nervous when she saw the airport of Charles de Gaulle. She didn't know if it was because of the plane right or because she was going to spend the weekend with Seb.

Seb smiled when he spotted her in the crowd. It had been bold to book her that flight and he didnt know if she would actually come.
He didn't go right over, but took the time to look at her while she was waiting for him. She looked stunning in the red blouse, long grey skirt and matching jacket. It emphasised her figure and made her look taller. Her long dark hair hung loose on her shoulders and it looked like it was glowing.

It was like she felt he was looking at her, because she turned her head. He saw her relieved smile when she spotted him.
"For a minute I was afraid you weren't going to come." She said.
"That's what I was afraid of." He grinned. "I expected you not to come as a punishment for my presumptuousness."
"I thought about it." Annabelle admitted.
"Anyway, I'm glad you are here." He smiled.
She looked in his eyes and wanted to say 'me too', but she couldn't. "Thanks for the ticket." She said. "I'll pay you back just as soon as..."
"Annabelle." he interrupted her. "Shut up, will you?" He leaned in and took her in his arms. Seb gently kissed her cheek. "Bienvenue à Paris." He said softly.

Her heart was beating so fast that it hurt. She looked at him and wanted to step out of his embrace, when his lips brushed hers. It was just a teasing touch, but the kiss woke up the desire inside her.
"Are you hungry?" Seb asked casaully and took her suitcase.

It was like the kiss didn't have the same effect on him as it did on her. Maybe he was used to kissing like that. Because she knew he was waiting for an answer, she lied. "Erm... Yes, I'm quite hungry." The truth was that she was so excited that she probably couldn't eat at all.

He smiled. "Good, I know a nice little restaurant looking over the Seine."
Seb walked out of the airport and she had trouble keeping up with him. She saw the way women looked at him: admiration in their eyes. No wonder, she thought looking at him. He was unbelievably handsome, especially in the suit he was wearing.

His car was parked in the parking lot. While she got in, he put her suitcase in the trunk.
"Is it ok if we go to dinner right away or do you want to go to the apartment first?" he asked.
"Oh, let's have dinner." She said quickly. She wanted to stay away from the apartment as long as she could. Just the thought of being alone with him, excited her in a strange way.

Silently they drove through the city. Annabelle looked at his strong hands on the steering wheel. She tried to come up with something to say, something that would distract her from those beautiful hands. But she couldn't think of anything.

They drove through large streets with trees on both sides. It was starting to get dark and the streets were illuminated by street lanterns.
"You seem to know Paris quite well." She said.
Seb nodded. "I come here a lot. And I grew up here. My mother was a model and worked for a well-established Parisian fashion house. My father was a banker."
"Are your parents still alive?" she asked.
"Non, my father died when I was 16 and my mother 10 years later. She had a terrible second marriage and her health suffered under it."
"I'm sorry. That must have been horrible, Seb."
"Well, that's life." He parked his car. "I used to blame my stepfather but afterwards I realised that it wasn't all his fault. After my father died, my mother was very unhappy and she was looking for the happiness she had before. And she got disappointed."

Annabelle followed him when he got out. The night was cool and the streets were shining due to a recent rain shower.
She wondered if his past was the reason for him being single. Maybe he thought that one good marriage was enough and that he shouldn't make another commitment. When she realised she was trying to analyse him, she tried to get rid of those thoughts. Seb was single because he wanted to, she said to herself. And it was none of her business.

"Be careful on those bumpy stones. They can be slippery." He warned her. Seb took her hand while they waited to cross the street. His hand felt cool and strong.
When they walked around the corner, she saw the Seine and the beautiful illuminated shores.

"We are going over there." Seb pointed at a terrace. "You have a beautiful view on the Seine and the food is delicious."
"Sounds great." She said smiling. "Do you take all your lovers to this restaurant?" She immediately regretted her words.
"I didn't know you were a lover." He looked thoughtfully at her. "Not yet, anyway." He said smiling.

His last sentence made her blush furiously. "With lovers I just meant that I'm here in Paris... With you... Nothing else." Her attempt to explain, made it only worse.
Seb laughed. "Come on, Annabelle. It's not good to philosophize on an empty stomach. You're here now, that's all that matters."

Chapter 23: The restaurant

When they got to the restaurant, he opened the door for her. It was hot inside, although the doors to the terrace were open. Maybe it was so hot because of all the people. They were sitting and standing at the bar and it seemed like all the tables were taken. Or the heat could be caused by the large oven that she could see through a large stone arch.

The restaurant was very vivid and cosy, informal and stylish at the same time. Around them, people were talking in French.
"You think we can get a table?" Annabelle asked. "It's so busy."
Before Seb could answer, he was greeted warmly by a man who came from behind the bar. They talked in French to each other. Annabelle found it fascinating to hear Seb speak French. His English was sexy, but it was nothing compared to his melodic mother tongue.

Seb introduced her to Henri. The man kissed her hand and brought them to the only free table in the restaurant: a perfect spot with a nice view over the terrace and the river.
"You were saying?" Seb teased, when Henri had disappeared and a waitress handed them the menu.
"You have friends in high places, don't you?" She smiled. "Not only did you get a table, but it's the best one in the house."
Seb smiled. "Oui, Henri and I know each other for a long time. We were in school together."
"He owns the restaurant?"
Seb nodded. "He has his own tactics. Who comes here first, gets a table. You can't book..."
"Unless you're an old school buddy." Annabelle finished laughing.
"Exactly." Seb looked at the menu. "What would you like to eat?"

She looked at her menu. Although it was in French, she could figure out most of it. "What's this?" she asked, pointing out a dish she didn't know.
"Fried Sole with sweet potatoes. Why don't you take the escargots as a starter?"
"Snails?" She looked repulsive and discovered he was teasing her. "I don't like snails in the garden, so I'm certainly not going to eat them."
Seb laughed. "So, I guess you're going to take a typical English starter. Roast beef?"
Annabelle laughed as well. "Yes, but with French mustard."
"Do you know that you are very beautiful when you laugh, Annabelle?" He asked softly.

His compliment confused her. She wanted to joke about it and not take it seriously. But when she looked at him, she saw the sincere and serious look in his eyes and was speechless.
"Thank you." She whispered.
He saw the insecurity and vulnerability in her eyes. "That David hurt you a lot, didn't he?" he asked.
"I don't know what you mean." She said, clearing her throat.
"He has hurt you... He took away your radiant self-confidence that was in your eyes and smile."
She swallowed. "It hasn't been easy for a couple of months." she admitted. "But I'm over it, Seb."
He nodded. "Well, you can forget about everything this weekend, so let's talk about something else."
"Good idea." She smiled and pretended to study the menu. But she felt her heart beating like crazy. And it wasn't because he talked about David, but because of the way he looked at her. The compliments he gave her, the sincerity in his voice, like he really cared about her. They were probably just tricks, but he was playing his role as seducer very well.

Chapter 24: Dinner

The waitress came back to take their order. She knew Seb was looking at her, so Annabelle ordered in French, hoping she said it right.
Seb immediately ordered a bottle of wine.
"So, how was my pronunciation?" she asked when the waitress left them.
"It was very good." He smiled.
"I was just wondering." She shrugged. "When you French speak English, it sounds so sexy... I wondered if it was the same the other way around."
"Say something." He put a hand under his chin and leaned forward.
"Like what?"
He pretended to be thinking and a twinkle appeared in his eyes. "You could say: "Sébastien, I'm so happy to be in Paris with you... Why didn't I meet you any sooner?"
"Idiot!" she laughed.
"Something else? Ok, let me think."

Behind them was a small stage and a woman sang a French love song. A few people got up to dance on the terrace.
"Oh, I know." Seb said. "You could say: "Seb, will you please dance with me? I long to be in your arms."

Annabelle knew he was teasing her, but she felt her cheeks burn. She looked at the couples on the dance floor who looked so much in love. The thought to be so close to Seb, made her blood pressure rise.

He stood up and extended his hand. She knew she had no other choice then to follow him to the dance floor. It was very crowded so she couldn't keep her distance, even if she had wanted to.

She allowed him to take her in his arms. Annabelle closed her eyes and her head rested on his chest. Her body was trembling and it made her scared and happy at the same time.
One of his hands was on her waist, while the other one rested on her back. She had never been so aware of the touch of a man or his muscled body against hers.

It was like they were all alone, like time stood still. She wanted this dance to go on forever, that she could stay in his arms forever...
When another song started, they kept dancing.

Seb mumbled something French in her ear. The sound of his voice and his breath in her neck intoxicated her.
"I want to tell you something, my sweet Annabelle." He said softly in French.
The way he said her name, made her look up.
He hesitated and smiled again. "I don't know if I'll be able to keep my hands to myself tonight." He said softly.

Although her French wasn't that good, Annabelle understood what he had said. She could pretend that she didn't know what he had said, but the truth was that she understood it all to well. She longed so much for him that it hurt.

"And one more thing." He continued in English. "Your order in French sounded sexier then any food in the world."
She laughed, glad that he broke the tension with a joke. "You are crazy, you know that?"
"Crazy about you." He whispered, looking her in the eyes.
Annabelle decided to take it as a teasing, but it made her shiver after all.
"Let's sit down, our food is coming." Seb took her hand and brought her back to the table.

When she sat across him, her heart was still racing. Seb seemed to be totally relaxed. He smiled and poured another glass of wine for her.
"Tell me, how is the house?" he asked.
She should have been happy he changed the subject, but the house was the last thing she wanted to talk about. "The stairs are almost finished." She tried to think. "Arnaud works very hard."
"Arnaud is a great guy."
Annabelle nodded. "I think he's very reliable. I left the key behind so he could work some more during the weekend." She played with her food. "You're not mad at me, are you, for not selling you the house?"

He hesitated if he should tell her the truth. That her rejection hindered a huge project for luxurious apartments. That it cost his company thousands of euros every week. That Urs was getting more and more impatient and angry.

She frowned when he didn't answer. "I love that house, Seb." She said. "I'm planning to make something beautiful out of it."
"I'm glad you're so enthusiastic, Annabelle." He said amused. "But let me give you some advice. Never get emotionally involved in business matters. If you're not objective and businesslike, it could cost you heaps of money."
Annabelle shrugged. "I think there are more important things then money. Things that make you happy, for example..." She felt he was looking at her. "You think I'm naive, don't you?"
He smiled. "I think you are very sweet." He said softly. "And to answer the other question... No, I'm not angry."

The waitress came by and asked if they wanted something else.
Seb looked at her. "Shall we have coffee and cognac here or at my place?"
Annabelle felt her heart jump. "Let's go to your place." She said softly.

Chapter 25: Going home

The chilly night made her shiver. Seb put an arm around her shoulder and suddenly there was another reason why she was shivering.
"Are you ok?" he asked.
"Yes, I'm fine." She allowed herself to lean against him. "It's not that cold, is it?" she said. "It's probably my age."
"Your age?" Seb laughed. "You're only 29."
"What time is it anyway?"
Seb took a look at his watch. "A quarter past midnight."
"Then I'm not 29 anymore." She sighed. "I'm 30. That's horrible!"
"It's your birthday!" Seb stopped. "You were supposed to get married on your birthday?"
Annabelle nodded. "When we planned it, it seemed like a good idea. 30 is a good age to get settled, to get attached..."
"Not to the wrong man." Seb said.
"Yes, I know that now." She answered.

Seb looked at her and wished he could read her eyes, but it was to dark. He tenderly stroked her hair. "Happy birthday, Annabelle."
"Merci." She swallowed. Suddenly it felt good to be here with him... It was like she came to the right place after all the wrong decisions. It was a strange feeling that she couldn't explain. She was here to have some fun...

When he leaned in to kiss her again, fireworks exploded inside her. She returned the kiss and realised she wasn't here for fun. There was nothing superficial about her feelings for Seb. But she knew she couldn't expect anything more. Maybe it didn't mean a thing for him and she was gonna get hurt again.

Suddenly it started to rain. They laughed and ran to the car. But before they got there, it already stopped.
Paris was enchanting at night. They drove over the wide boulevard with illuminated fountains and impressive squares. The Arc de Triomphe stood out against the dark sky and the horses seemed to be ready to fly away.
And then they saw the Eiffel Tower with his lights that reflected in the river.

"This truly is a beautiful city." Annabelle sighed.
"Yes, I agree." Seb smiled. "I made a tour so you could see the most beautiful spots, but tomorrow I'll give you the grand tour. I hope it doesn't rain, but I can't promise you that. After all, this is Paris in April."
Annabelle looked at him and smiled. "It sounds great."

He parked his car in a quiet street with lots of trees. "Here is my apartment." Seb said and pointed to some elegant houses with iron balconies and shutters in front of the windows.
"Come on." He opened the door of the car. "Let's get inside."
Annabelle suddenly realised she would be alone with him. "I thought you would be living in a modern glass tower." She said, trying to sound casual.

"To be honest, I'm a more traditional type." Seb said laughing. "Most of my designs reflect the grandeur from the past. I hope I don't disappoint you."
"On the contrary, I think we have that in common. I love old buildings. That's probably why I love Fabrice's house so much. It's almost an honour to renovate it." She looked at him while he took her suitcase from the trunk. "So, I guess I'm a traditional type as well."

That was the truth. She was old-fashioned when it came to certain things. And not only when it came to buildings. She never had a one night stand. She only had relationships with people she loved and who she thought loved her.

So what was she doing here, she asked herself. Was she gonna throw all her principles in the Seine to sleep with Sebastien Izambard? And would she make a big mistake?

Chapter 26: Hesitations

They walked up the stairs to a large hallway. Seb took his mail, looked through it and lead her to the elevators. He pushed the top button. Due to the light, she could clearly see the raindrops in his hair. Suddenly she wanted to run her fingers through his hair and wipe away the drops. The feeling scared her.

When Seb looked at her in a dark, sensual way, she felt even hotter. She nervously cleared her throat. "Haven't you been home today?" she asked, pointing at the mail in his hand.
"No, I left the office and went straight to the airport to pick you up."
"You must be tired." She wanted to say something casual, but she immediately regretted her words. Especially when she saw the look in his eyes.
"No, not really." He reassured her.
"Well, we both had a long and tiring day." She looked at her feet while the elevator went up. Jeez, she felt like a teenager on her first date. She had to stop to behave so ridiculous.

When they came to the top floor, she got out and followed him towards his apartment. It was a stylish residence with shinning scrubbed floors and vanilla coloured leather couches. The whole apartment was stylish, decent and looked very expensive.

"It's a beautiful apartment." Annabelle looked out of the window and saw a small terrace. She could see the lights of the city. "And a beautiful view." She added.
"Oui. Too bad I don't have much time to enjoy it." Seb put his mail on an antique sideboard and turned on the lights. "Would you like to freshen up a little while I pour us a drink?"
She nodded. "Yes, please."
"You sleep in my room. I thought you would find it more comfortable."

Annabelle turned around and looked at him. Suddenly she wondered what it would be like to share the room with him. To be in his arms and be kissed all over. She tried to ignore the longing she felt. A little voice warned her she shouldn't have come, that she should leave right now, now that she was still able to do so.

"I feel guilty for banishing you from your room, Seb. Especially because you had such a busy day." She stammered. "You know, I can still go to a hotel. There must be a lot around here."

"Oh, I bet." He leaned against the sideboard and looked amused. "But the deal was you would stay here and I'm a man who keeps his word. I'm not letting you go to a hotel."
"Thank you." She couldn't think of anything else to say, but nevertheless she kept wondering if she shouldn't insist on going to a hotel. Seb might be the one to keep a promise, but it were her own feelings she didn't seem to get under control. One look of him and her knees turned into jelly. One kiss and she forgot everything around her.

"Here is the bedroom." Seb brought her to a room at the end of a small hallway. It was a luxurious room with a huge bed in the middle. Annabelle had never seen such a large bed. The cream coloured satin sheets matched the curtains and the carpet.

"The bathroom is this way." Seb pointed towards a door at the left. "If it doesn't rain, we can have coffee and cognac on the terrace later."
"Thanks." When he closed the door behind him, she sat down on the bed. She should have told him she didn't want a drink. Maybe it would be for the best if she locked herself in this room till Sunday.

That thought made her smile. "Coward." She said softly to herself. She got up, walked to the bathroom and looked at herself in the mirror. She looked a little pale. "Have one drink and go to sleep." She said to herself. "You never had trouble saying no to a man, so why would Seb be the exception?"

Deep down she knew Seb was the exception and that she didn't want to say no. She had never felt this way about David. What would he be doing right now? Would he remember that it should have been his wedding day today? Maybe not, maybe he was to busy with the mysterious dark haired woman that Karina had seen him with. She hoped that whoever she was and whatever he was doing, he would follow her advice and get help for his addiction.

Annabelle put on some lipstick and brushed her hair that curled even more due to the rain. With a smile, she took a step back. That was better. She would have a good time tonight.

Chapter 27: A night of love

In the living room, music was playing softly, but Seb was nowhere to be seen. She looked at the terrace where raindrops fell on the table.
"I'm here." Seb said from a room next to the living room. She found him in his office where he was reading his mail. Next to him stood two glasses of Cognac.
"I'm sorry." He took a glass and handed it to her. "I got a little distracted, but I'll make that coffee now."
"No, it's ok." Annabelle took the glass. "Just Cognac is fine." She looked at the little mail box on his desk and saw it was filled to the top. "It looks like you have to take care of a lot of things."
Seb smiled. "A week of faxes. It's always the same when I'm here. I spend quite some time getting through my mail. There is a lot of junk in it, but I still have to read it through."
"You could use a secretary." She said and sat down next to him.

Seb was reading a letter. "Yes, I do have one in my office of course." Although he answered her, it was obvious his mind was elsewhere.
Annabelle looked around the room. It was an office, but it did seem cosy with all the books and the soft light. In the corner was a fold-away bed and there were some paintings above it. She stood up to take a better look. "These are beautiful." She looked at him, but he barely reacted. "You have a cosy office." She said, sitting down on the bed. "You could use it as a spare room."

He looked up, put down the letter and grinned. "That's what I'll be doing tonight. Unless I get a better offer of course." He teased.
"Right."
Seb smiled when he saw her blush.
"This is quite a comfortable bed." Annabelle said, trying to sound casual.
"You think?" he asked, his brows raised.
"Definitely." She hopped on the mattress to test it. "If you want your own bedroom, I don't mind swapping."
Seb shook his head. "That wasn't the kind of offer I meant." He said softly.

Immediately she felt a wave of excitement. She saw the teasing look in his eyes. "You're a smooth talker, Sébastien Izambard." She said cautiously.
"Where did you get that idea?" he laughed.
"You are." Annabelle stood up and walked to the desk. "And I've been warned about you."
"By who?" he asked amused.
"By Sharon for instance." She stood in front of him.
"What does Sharon know about it?" Seb took her arm, pulled her to him and put her glass on his desk.
She shrugged. "Well, she did know you had lots of girlfriends and she knows Jenny."
"The only thing Sharon knows is that I never slept with her. And I'm not planning to either."
Annabelle grinned. "If she could hear you now, she would be broken hearted."
"That's not my problem." He shrugged. "Let me tell you what I think about it." He said seriously, looking deep in her eyes. "Jenny is the past, just like David. Now there is only you and me and a very uncomfortable fold-away bed."

Her heart was racing when he pulled her close.
"Ok." She whispered. "The present is the only thing I'm interested in as well."
She bent forward and to her own surprise she was the one who took the initiative by kissing him tenderly and provocative at the same time. Because he didn't react right away, she moved closer and kissed him even more seductively.

For a minute Seb let her do it. It took him a lot of effort to control himself. Annabelle's lips got more and more urgent. He felt that she longed for him, that she wanted him to kiss her like he did before.
Suddenly he eagerly returned her kisses, his lips hungry against hers. She enjoyed the feeling, her whole body shivered with anticipation. When she let herself go even more, he suddenly released her.
"Are you sure about this?" he asked hoarsely. "If we continue this, I won't be able to stop in a while. My self-control has its limits, Annabelle."

She was trembling. From the moment she bent forward to kiss him, the fire inside her woke up. And she didn't want it to stop.
"The same goes for me." She whispered. "Make love to me, Seb."
Seb smiled and she saw the satisfaction in his eyes. He slowly unbuttoned her blouse and his fingers softly caressed her skin.
"What about those separate beds?" he teased. Her blouse was unbuttoned by now.
"Right... separate beds..." Annabelle mumbled, her eyes closed. "Look where it got me."
"No more talking about it, ok?"
"Not for now." She said, wanting him to continue what he was doing.

He sat on his desk with her between his legs.
"Wrong answer." He teased. "You should have said: 'I promise, Seb, no more talking about separate beds.'"
"You are a tease, monsieur Izambard." She mumbled, partly irritated, partly amused by his scrupulousness.
"You should speak." He smiled and unzipped her skirt. When it fell on the floor, she stood in front of him in her underwear and black boots. "Nice outfit." He mumbled.

The way he looked at her, made her blood pressure rise.
"Am I the only one to get undressed?" she asked hoarsely and unbuttoned his shirt. When it fell open, she caressed his broad chest.
Seb bent forward and kissed her. It was a fierce kiss that left her breathless. With her arms around his shoulders, she kissed him as well. The next moment he lifted her up and turned her around so that she was sitting on the desk. He nonchalantly swept papers and glasses aside. Some of the papers fell on the ground, but they were too busy to notice it.

Annabelle felt the cool desk on her skin when she lay down. But the only thing she could think about were Sebs' hands and the warmth of his kisses.
"Please Seb..." she whispered.
He picked her up and carried her to the bed in the corner. "Let's get comfortable." He said while he gently lay her down. Within minutes they got rid of their remaining clothes and were lost in each other.

Afterwards Annabelle lay in his arms. She was exhausted and couldn't think clearly, let alone talk. He softly rocked her and whispered sweet nothings in her ear. She moved closer and wished this could go on forever. She had never felt like this.
Seb kissed her tenderly again, like a satisfied lover. She put her arms around his shoulder and wanted to tell him how much she loved him, how much she longed for him. Her thoughts confused her and she finally fell asleep, totally worn out.

Chapter 28: The morning after

When Annabelle woke up the next morning, she didn't know where she was. She lay tangled in sheets and didn't recognise the room, the bed or the bookshelves. And above all that her muscles ached.

Suddenly she remembered last night. The way she begged Seb to make love to her, how he undressed her and how they finally made love.
She remembered that he had woken her up during the night and how they started all over again.

But what worried her most, were the feelings she had. Intense feelings that she couldn't say out loud. She hoped that she hadnt said them out loud. It was bad enough that her body surrendered to Seb, she didn't want him to know he had captured her heart as well.

She looked at the ceiling and said to herself that those feelings of love were just an illusion. What happened last night, was nothing but some fun between two grown ups. If Seb really thought it meant more to her, he would be in for a disappointment. In the broad daylight it didn't mean anything to her. She didn't know where those crazy thoughts had come from. Maybe it was because she never felt so good with someone, so passionate... Maybe she confused sex with love. Yes, that had to be it, she thought.

The door of the closet was closed and she realised she wasn't alone. Carefully she looked up. The sun came in through the shutters. She saw her clothes on the ground and on Seb's desk and felt deeply ashamed.
The chair moved when Seb turned away from the closet. He was wearing a thick white bathrobe. His hair was tussled and she saw the stubble on his chin.

He smiled when their eyes met. "Good morning sleepyhead." He said tenderly. When she heard his voice and saw those sexy green eyes, her determined words vanished. Never had she been so impressed by a man. He was irresistible.

"Morning." She smiled. "What time is it?"
"A quarter to eight."
"Jeez, so early!" She stretched and sat up, the sheets wrapped around her. "What are you doing?"
"We made quite a mess of my papers yesterday." He grinned when she blushed. "So I decided to clean up a little before we leave."
"Good idea." She wanted to get up, but was ashamed of her nudity. Of course it was silly because he had seen every inch of her body last night. But she couldn't help it. In the daylight she felt shy.
"I think I'll have a shower." She hesitated.
"Good idea. When I'm finished here, I'll do the same."

Did he mean he wanted to share the shower? She wondered. Or was he planning on taking one after her?
She wasn't used to be in such a small space with a man she barely knew. Of course, she knew his body... Last night had been very intimate. But apart from that, she hardly knew what he was thinking. She almost wished she had some more experience with these kinds of adventures.

With the sheet around her, she picked up her clothes and barely looked at him. When she turned around, he grabbed her arm.
"Don't I get a kiss?" he asked.
Her knees where trembling when he pulled her on his lap.
"That's better." Seb smiled and stared at her lips. "Last night was very nice."
"Yes, it was." She didn't know what to say. All she wanted was that he would repeat last night. Her lack of self-control scared her. She should be more careful and not get carried away by her feelings. Besides she was just getting over her break-up with David.

He noticed her insecurity and vulnerability and stroked a finger under her chin, making her look at him.
"You are an amazing woman." He mumbled. He kissed her so tender that her passion flared up again and she couldn't think straight anymore.
His fingers caressed her hair and his kisses were getting more hungry. Seb pulled away the sheet so he could stroke her body. He kissed her neck and shoulders. It was so sexy to feel his stubble against her smooth skin.

Annabelle closed her eyes and tried to catch her breath. The clothes she picked up from the floor, slipped out of her hands. Her hands tousled his dark hair and she smelled his masculine scent.

When the phone rang, they abruptly stopped. Annabelle wanted to tell him to let it ring and continue what he was doing. Her eyes begged him to.
For a minute she thought he was gonna give in, that he was just as impatient as she was. And then the machine picked up the call.

"Bonjour, Seb. It's me Brigitte. I need to talk to you." She was talking in French in a hoarse, sexy voice. "Can I see you today or isn't it a good time? It's just that..."
Everything she wanted to say was interrupted abruptly by Seb who quickly answered the phone.
"Bonjour Brigitte." While he talked to her, he saw that Annabelle put the sheet around her again. "Non, today isn't very convenient... Yes, that's why I left early yesterday."
Annabelle stood up and picked up her clothes again. "I'm gonna take a shower." She whispered.
Seb nodded.

When she closed the door, the conversation went on. Maybe it was for the best that they got interrupted, she tried to convince herself. It gave her the chance to come to her senses.
She went to the bedroom and threw her clothes on the bed. So much for locking herself in here all night!

In the bathroom, she turned on the shower and stood under the hot water. She washed her hair and soaped herself, like she wanted to wash away the desire inside of her.
She didn't like it at all that she couldn't control her feelings. She should stay away from Seb and the emotions he woke inside of her.
Just then the shower door opened and Seb got in. Staying away from him was the last thing on her mind.
"Where were we?" he mumbled and took her in his arms.

Chapter 29: Romance

Hours later they walked on the Champs Elysées and looked at the fancy boutiques. Annabelle still didn't dare to think about the passion they shared that morning. But it looked like that memory coloured the day. The Seine was sparkling and the trees blossomed. But most of all she felt it when Seb looked at her and smiled when he touched her. She was never gonna be able to control those feelings.

Seb pulled her into a jewellery store.
"Try this one." He said while he put an amber coloured necklace on her that she had admired in the window. "No, really, Seb. I like it, but..."
"Hold your hair up." He interrupted her. "I'll fasten it for you."
She did what she was told. The touch of his fingers caused a very nice feeling in her belly.
"So, what do you think?" he asked when the shop-assistant held a mirror up.
Annabelle looked at herself. The necklace looked gorgeous on her and made her eyes stand out.
"It looks great on you, don't you think?" Seb asked softly. He bent forward and kissed her cheek.

'We look great together.' Annabelle thought when she saw the two of them in the mirror. Of course it was a ridiculous thought! She wanted to take off the necklace but Seb stopped her.
"You have to keep it on. It looks perfect on you." Before she realised, he gave his credit card to the shop-assistant.
"No, Seb, I can't accept this." She exclaimed. "It's way too expensive."
"You like it, right?" he asked nonchalant.
"I love it, but..."
Seb put his autograph on the receipt. "It's a birthday gift." He said. "I want to buy it for you."

The shop-assistant thanked them and smiled at the both of them. But mostly at Seb. It didn't surprise her anymore. Everywhere he went, women fell for his charms.
"Thanks Seb, but you shouldn't have." She said when they stood outside. "This is crazy."
"No, it's not." He took her hand. "Besides, I give it to you with ulterior motives."
"Oh, really?" she looked insecure.
"Oui." Seb softly kissed her lips. "I want you to wear it next time we make love."

His words awoke a wave of adrenaline. "That can be arranged." She said hoarsely. If she could they would be going back right away.
"Good." Seb played with her hair. "But I think we should eat something first."

When they sat on the terrace of a small restaurant, she wondered why her feelings for this man were so much stronger then they had ever been for David.
"So, have you decided yet?" he asked when the waitress came by to took their order.
She quickly looked at the menu. Yes, she decided. She decided that she wouldn't think about her feelings anymore.

After their order had been taken, they sat quietly together and watched the people passing by. Tourists, businessmen, couples in love...
Annabelle couldn't help it, but she had to think about the wedding. She looked at her watch. It was almost 3h, the time she would have arrived at the church.
The biggest mistake of your life, a little voice reminded her.

Seb saw her looking at her watch and she looked a bit sad. He wondered if she thought about the wedding.
"Are you ok?" he asked softly.
She looked at him and suddenly the pain seemed to vanish. "I'm fine." She smiled.

It was late when they returned to the apartment. They took a boat trip on the Seine and looked at the architecture of the city. After that, they took the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower and then they spend the rest of the evening on a terrace at Montmartre.
They decided to take a quick shower, dress up and go out to dinner. But when they came home, they forgot about everything and made love.