The Ruined Bride of Velvet Nights by Brick Moving Ant

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Chapter 11

“Mom did have something she wanted to tell you before she died,” I said, gently adjusting the cashmere blanket around his shoulders.

Grand–père’s eyes fluttered open, a flicker of hope crossing his weathered face. “She thought of us at the end? What were her words, chérie?”

I gazed at him–this powerful man now so fragile against the Egyptian cotton pillows–and smiled

softly.

“I think I’ll keep that between Mom and me.”

His expression transformed from confusion to understanding. Tears welled in his eyes, but then, remarkably, he began to laugh–a gentle, knowing laugh.

whispered, reaching for my hand. “You are so much like her. The same quiet strength.

drifted deeper. “Élise, my little ballerina… Papa’s waiting for you in the garden… your pirouettes

he slipped away, peacefully reuniting with the daughter he

she had forgiven her parents. That understanding comes with time. That resentment

that forgiveness was hers to give, not mine

some words

pleaded for her father’s love. The corporate headquarters in Paris, the vineyard in Bordeaux, the jet, the yacht moored in Monaco’s harbor–all mine to command.

the possessions mean little compared to the freedom

swim in the Mediterranean before breakfast on the

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Chapter 11

to photograph wildlife

scars have faded to barely visible