Adriana Sinclair: a life re_designed

Chapter 4: Meeting my ex husband

The next day, I arrived at the office, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.

Emma greeted me warmly.

"Adriana, Julien's waiting."

I knocked on Julien's office door.

"Hello, Adriana," Julien said, standing up.

"Hello, Julien. What can I do for you?"

Julien smiled.

"I've reviewed your design portfolio. Impressive work."

"Thank you," I replied.

"I'd like your input on a sensitive project," Julien said. "A high-profile client needs a bespoke design. Discretion is key."

My curiosity piqued.

"I'm intrigued," I said.

Julien handed me a folder.

I went through the folder and saw that it really was a discretion.

"Meet with the client tomorrow. Discuss their vision."

Then when you get to Paris you can discuss the overall of the project.

I nodded.

"Consider it done sir, I said.

Julien's eyes locked onto mine.

"Adriana, this project's success hinges on your expertise."

As I left the office, my mind still reeling from what Julien said, I headed to the hospital for a routine checkup.

I decided to text Mattie, for her to know my whereabouts.

I got to the hospital and greeted my attending doctor

Dr Patel led me to the examination room, a warm smile on her face.

"Let's check on the baby," she said.

I settled onto the bed, lifting my shirt to reveal my growing belly.

Dr Patel applied the ultrasound gel, moving the wand across my abdomen.

The familiar whooshing sound of the heartbeat filled the room.

Dr. Patel's eyes narrowed, her brow furrowed.

"What," she murmured.

Suddenly, her expression changed from curiosity to surprise.

"Adriana, look at the screen," Dr Patel said, her voice filled with excitement.

I turned to the monitor, seeing two distinct shapes.

"Twins?" I whispered.

Dr.Patel nodded, beaming.

"Congratulations! You're carrying twins;

My jaw dropped as Dr.Patel told me, and she continued with the examination.

"How did you not notice?" I asked

"Sometimes, twins can hide behind each other," she explained.

I stared at the screen, mesmerized by the two tiny hearts beating.

After the ultrasound, I sat in the hospital room, stunned.

Twins.

My mind raced with questions.How would I manage?

What about Paris?

My design career?

Dr. Patel smiled at me warmly.

"Take your time, Adriana. You'll adjust."

I nodded, still reeling.

"Any health concerns?" I asked.

"None so far," Dr. Patel replied. "But we'll monitor you closely."

I took a deep breath.

As I finished my ultrasound, Dr. Patel provided me with instructions, which I attentively noted. "Thank you, Doctor," I said with gratitude. Leaving her office, I decided to take a brief pause before heading out of the hospital. Finding a comfortable spot, I sat down and dialed Mattie's number to share the exciting news.

As I waited for Mattie to answer, I couldn't contain my excitement and fear, "Hey, girl!" Mattie's voice chimed through the phone.

How was your ultrasound, Hope the baby is okay?

"Mattie, you won't believe it," I said, barely containing my squeal.

"I'm having twins!" I blurted out.

There was a pause on the other end of the line. "Twins?!" Mattie shrieked. "Oh my god, Adriana! How come?

I laughed and cried, feeling a mix of emotions. "You're surprised too, right? I'm still in shock."

"How are you feeling?" Mattie asked, concerned creeping into her voice.

"Honestly? Fear," I admitted. "But Dr. Patel says everything looks good so far."

"We'll get through this together," Mattie reassured me. "And Paris? How will that work?"

"I don't know yet," I said, biting my lip. "But I'll figure it out. Julien's project will be a great opportunity for my turning point.

Just then, I saw Chase and his assistant walk into the hospital lobby, his eyes scanning the room. Our gazes met, and my heart skipped a beat.

"Mattie, I have to go," I said hastily.

"What's wrong?" Mattie asked.

"Chase is here," I whispered.

The line went silent for a moment. "Be careful, Adriana."

"I will," I promised, ending the call.

Chase's eyes locked onto mine, but he didn't acknowledge me. He turned and walked away, disappearing into the crowd.

I sat there, frozen, my mind reeling from the unexpected encounter.

What was he doing here?

And why did he still have the power to make my heart skip a bit.

I watched Chase disappear into the crowd, feeling a mix of emotions: shock, anger, and a hint of sadness. Why did he still affect me?

Shaking off the feelings, I gathered my belongings and left the hospital. The cool evening air helped clear my head as I walked to my car.

As I drove home, my mind wandered to the twins. How would I manage alone in Paris? Would Julien understand my new circumstances?

Upon arriving home, I found Mattie waiting at the doorstep, a concerned expression on her face.

"Hey, girl! How are you?" Mattie asked, enveloping me in a warm hug.

"I'm still processing," I admitted, leading her inside.

Over a cup of tea, I filled Mattie in on the details: the twins, Julien's project, and Chase's unexpected appearance.

Mattie listened attentively, her eyes wide with excitement. "You'll rock this, Adriana! We'll figure out Paris together."

Her words comforted me, but I couldn't shake off the feeling that my life was about to change dramatically.

Just then, my phone buzzed. A text from Julien:

"Adriana, review the client's file tonight. We'll discuss details tomorrow."

I nodded to myself, refocusing on the task at hand.

Little did I know, tomorrow would bring its own set of surprises...

The next morning, I arrived at the office, feeling more centered. Emma greeted me with a warm smile. "Good morning, Adriana! Julien's waiting."

I knocked on Julien's door, and he beckoned me in.

"Good morning, Adriana. I trust you've reviewed the client's file?"

"Yes, Julien. I have some ideas," I replied, confidence growing.

Julien nodded, his eyes sparkling. "Excellent. You'll meet the client today. Discretion remains crucial."

I nodded, taking a deep breath.

As Julien handed me the address, I recognized the location – an upscale hotel on the outskirts of town.

Upon arrival, I was ushered into a luxurious suite. A woman, poised and elegant, greeted me.

"Adriana, welcome. I'm Camille."

We exchanged pleasantries, and Camille revealed her vision: a bespoke jewelry collection, symbolizing her family's legacy.

Inspiration struck as I listened. "I see it," I said, sketching ideas. "Elegant, sophisticated, and timeless."

I told her to give me a few days to get it done, since it has to be discreet . I had to stay with Camile at the luxurious suite at the hotel.

After three days of hard work I came up with the design according to Camile's explanation.

As I left Camille's luxurious suite, I felt a sense of accomplishment. Our meeting had exceeded expectations.

The next day, Julien called me into his office, a hint of a smile on his face.

"Adriana, I just spoke with Camille. She's thrilled with your work," Julien said, his eyes shining with approval.

I beamed, feeling proud.

"Camille praised your unique perspective and creativity," Julien continued. "She said you've captured the essence of her family's legacy perfectly."

I glowed, hearing Camille's words through Julien.

"But that's not all," Julien added, leaning back in his chair. "Camille wants to meet with you again, to discuss the project's final stages."

I nodded, eager to see the project through.

"Julien, I have to ask," I said, curiosity getting the better of me. "Did Camille express any concerns about my ability to complete the project?"

Julien chuckled. "Actually, Camille admitted she was skeptical at first. She didn't think anyone could capture her vision so quickly."

I smiled, feeling vindicated.

"But," Julien continued, "she said your passion and dedication won her over. She's impressed, Adriana."

I felt a surge of gratitude toward Camille. Her approval meant the world.

Just then, Julien's phone buzzed. He answered, listening intently.

"Ah, Camille," Julien said, smiling. "Yes, Adriana is right here."

He handed me the phone.

"Adriana, chère," (Dear). Camille's voice purred through the line. "I must say, I'm delighted with your progress. You've surpassed my expectations."

"Merci, (Thank you) Camille," I replied, warmth spreading through my chest.

"I must admit, I was worried," Camille continued. "With Your...situation...I didn't think you'd be able to focus."

I smiled, understanding Camille's concerns.

"But you've proven me wrong, Adriana," Camille said. "You're a true professional. I'm honored to work with you."

Her words filled me with pride and determination.

"Now, let's discuss the project's final stages," Camille suggested. "But not over the phone. We'll save the details for when you arrive in Paris."

Julien already told me you're coming to Paris to help your company expand globally, I'd be of help;

"Sounds perfect," I agreed.

"I'll have my assistant send over the itinerary," Camille said. "We'll schedule a meeting at my estate. You can stay there during your project."

"That's generous of you, Camille," I said, touched.

"We'll make it a productive and enjoyable trip," Camille promised. "Au revoir,(Goodbye) Adriana. À bientôt à Paris."(See you soon in Paris)

"À bientôt, Camille," I replied, smiling.

As I hung up, Julien smiled. "All set for Paris?"

I nodded, excitement building.

"Julien, what's the plan for my accommodations in Paris?" I asked.

"Camille's estate, after the camille's project you can move to the apartment the company provides for you as discussed," Julien replied. "Don't worry you'll be well taken care of."

I nodded, feeling grateful.

Little did I know, Paris held more than just design meetings and luxury estates...