Chapter 2 New Beginings

(Laura's POV)

I stood in front of the full-length mirror inside one of Camden's largest fashion stores, inspecting the sleek black blazer I had just tried on. It fit perfectly, accentuating my figure while maintaining a professional yet stylish look.

Anna, my best friend and self-appointed fashion consultant, sat cross-legged on the fitting room couch, scrolling through her phone. "That's the one," she said without looking up. "You need at least one outfit that screams, 'I belong in a Parisian bakery, and I'm here to slay.'"

I chuckled. "You think I'll need blazers in a kitchen?"

"Not for baking, obviously," Anna said, rolling her eyes. "But you'll need something nice for meetings, networking, or, I don't know, spontaneous Parisian romance?"

I scoffed. "The only thing I'll be romancing is dough and butter."

Anna smirked. "We'll see about that."

We spent the next few hours hopping from store to store, carefully selecting pieces that balanced comfort, professionalism, and a touch of Parisian elegance. I picked out a mix of classic jeans, soft sweaters, tailored blouses, and, at Anna's insistence, a pair of stylish ankle boots.

By the time they reached the luggage section, I was already overwhelmed. "I swear, I only need one suitcase."

Anna gasped in horror. "One? Laura, you're moving to Paris! You need options."

With an exaggerated sigh, I gave in and bought a second suitcase, mentally preparing for the challenge of packing everything before my flight.

As they made their way out of the mall, arms filled with shopping bags, Anna looped her arm through mine. "You realize this is huge, right? You're about to start a new life in Paris, working at one of the best bakeries in the city."

I exhaled slowly. "I know. It still feels unreal."

"Well, believe it, babe. This is your moment."

The weekend flew by in a whirlwind of final preparations. I packed my bags, triple-checked my documents, and made sure I had everything I needed for my big move.

My father had taken care of my travel arrangements as promised, booking a comfortable flight and securing an apartment just a few blocks from Moretti's Patisserie. Every few hours, he would call or text to confirm the tiniest details-ensuring my transportation was set, checking if I needed anything else, and reminding me to stay safe.

Finally, the morning of my flight arrived.

Standing at Heathrow Airport, I took a deep breath, clutching my boarding pass tightly. Anna was by my side, arms crossed as she eyed my luggage. She was trying too hard not to cry.

"You sure you have everything?"

I laughed. "Yes, I do."

Anna pouted. "I'm just making sure! You're about to start a whole new life in Paris, and I won't be there to rescue you if you forget something important."

I grinned. "I'll survive."

Anna softened, pulling her into a tight hug. "I'm going to miss you, babe."

"I'll miss you too." I squeezed her back. "But you better visit. I expect you in Paris with a croissant in one hand and a shopping bag in the other."

Anna laughed. "Deal. Now go be the pastry queen you were born to be."

My mom was also there to see me off. She took a day off from work to see me off. She was too emotional as she hugged me goodbye. "Be a good girl. Always remember the daughter of who you are. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call me or your father. I love you okay, always remember that" she said.

With one last goodbye, I made my way through security.

As the plane took off, I stared out the window, watching as London faded into the clouds and thinking of all the fun moments I had in London. I sighed while constantly telling myself that everything will be alright so as to help me relax and prepare myself for the journey ahead.

Paris awaited.

The moment I stepped out of Charles de Gaulle Airport; the crisp Parisian air wrapped around me like a fresh beginning. The city had an undeniable charm, a blend of elegance and history woven into every cobblestone street and wrought-iron balcony. Even the air smelled different-coffee, butter, and something sweet I couldn't quite place.

A sleek black car was waiting for me at the pickup area, just as my father had arranged. The driver, a middle-aged man with a kind smile, greeted me with a polite nod. "Mademoiselle Mendes?"

"Yes, that's me," I replied.

"Welcome to Paris. I will take you to your apartment."

The drive through the city was breathtaking. I pressed my forehead against the window, taking in the sights-majestic buildings with intricate facades, quaint cafés with outdoor seating, and patisseries showcasing delicate pastries in their window displays. Every corner seemed like something out of a postcard.

"This is it," the driver announced as they pulled up in front of a charming cream-colored apartment building.

I stepped out, taking in the quiet street lined with bakeries, boutiques, and small cafés. I had imagined what my new home might look like, but this exceeded my expectations.

After thanking the driver, I entered the building, took the elevator to the third floor, and unlocked the door to my new apartment. It was small but cozy, with large windows that let in plenty of light. A modern kitchen, a tiny balcony overlooking the street, and just enough space to make it feel like home.

Exhausted from the trip, I dropped my bags, changed into something comfortable, and collapsed onto the bed. Before I went to bed, I updated my family and Anna on my arrival. They were all happy that I arrived safely and wished me success as I start the next day.

Tomorrow, I would start my new job at Moretti's Patisserie.

Tomorrow, everything would change.