Chapter 20: Blissful in Paris

Ananya

The moment we stepped off the plane in Paris, I could feel the magic of the city wrapping itself around me. Everything felt dreamlike—the cool breeze, the soft hum of French being spoken around us, the scent of freshly baked croissants wafting through the air. It was everything I'd ever imagined and more.

Aarav had arranged for a private car to take us to our hotel. As the car weaved through the streets, I couldn't stop staring out the window. Paris was beautiful, its architecture timeless and romantic, its streets lined with cafés and boutiques.

I turned to Aarav, my heart brimming with excitement. "This feels unreal."

He smirked, his arm draped casually across the back of my seat. "It's real, baby. And we have all weekend to enjoy it."

The first thing we did after checking into the hotel was head out to explore. Aarav had booked us a suite in one of the most luxurious hotels in Paris, but I was too excited to stay inside.

Our first stop was the Champs-Élysées. The avenue stretched out before us, bustling with life. Shops and cafes lined both sides, their windows displaying everything from designer handbags to decadent desserts.

Aarav held my hand as we walked, his grip firm and possessive. "We're going shopping," he announced, leading me toward one of the designer stores.

"Aarav, no!" I protested, laughing. "I don't need anymore clothes!"

He raised an eyebrow. "So? My wife deserves the best."

Before I could argue, we were inside, and he was pointing out outfits for me to try. Dresses, shoes, scarves—he made me try them all. At first, I felt shy, but Aarav's encouragement melted my hesitation.

When I stepped out of the dressing room in a black dress he'd picked out, his reaction made my cheeks heat. His gaze was intense, his lips curving into a slow, appreciative smile.

"You're breathtaking," he murmured, his voice low enough that only I could hear.

Aarav

Watching her twirl in that dress, her excitement lighting up the room, made every penny worth it. Seeing her happy was my weakness, and I had no intention of hiding it.

Ananya's joy was contagious. She dragged me into every store that caught her eye, her laughter echoing in my ears as she admired trinkets and souvenirs. I carried her bags without complaint, amused by how she lit up with every little discovery.

At one point, she found a beret and placed it on her head, striking a playful pose. "Do I look Parisian?"

"You look adorable," I replied, smirking as I took a picture.

Ananya

As the day turned to evening, we found ourselves by the Seine River. The golden light of the setting sun cast a warm glow over everything, and I couldn't help but sigh at the beauty of it all.

We sat on a bench, enjoying the view. Aarav pulled me closer, wrapping an arm around my shoulders. "Are you happy?" he asked softly.

I turned to him, my heart swelling with emotion. "I've never been this happy in my life."

His gaze softened, and he leaned in, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "Good. That's all that matters."

Aarav

Dinner was at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Eiffel Tower. Ananya's face lit up as the tower sparkled, the lights dancing in the night sky.

"This is magical," she whispered, her eyes glued to the view.

"You're magical," I replied, unable to look anywhere but at her.

She blushed, her smile shy but radiant. Moments like these made me realize just how deeply she'd woven herself into my heart.

Ananya

The next day was even more magical. Aarav had planned a day full of surprises. From a boat ride along the Seine to exploring the charming streets of Montmartre, every moment felt like a dream.

At one point, we stopped at a quaint little café. I ordered a hot chocolate, while Aarav opted for coffee. The tables were tiny, forcing us to sit closer than usual.

"You have chocolate on your lip," Aarav said, his voice teasing.

I reached up to wipe it, but he caught my hand, his eyes sparkling with mischief. Leaning in, he brushed his thumb across my lip, his touch sending a shiver down my spine.

"All gone," he murmured, his voice low.

Aarav

As the day went on, I couldn't help but marvel at how effortlessly Ananya fit into this city. She belonged here, her energy and excitement matching Paris's charm perfectly.

When we returned to the hotel that evening, she was exhausted but happy. She flopped onto the bed, her bags of souvenirs and gifts scattered around her.

I sat beside her, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Tired?"

She nodded, her eyes closing. "But it was the best day ever."

I leaned down, pressing a kiss to her temple. "Get some rest, baby. Tomorrow's going to be even better."

As she drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile. Paris had been her dream, but seeing her this happy made it mine too.