I Slept with My Boss and Ran Away

The next day, Meredith woke up early, dressed not in lavish attire but in comfortable, simple elegance. At ten in the morning, the delegation arrived to escort the couple to The Royal Inn. No sooner had they left than Stella began spreading the news, proudly proclaiming how capable her daughter-in-law was to be invited to dine by the French prince.

At The Royal Inn, Darcy DuMont was somewhat nervous. He valued this lunch greatly, changing outfits multiple times and consulting his wife Catherine, "How does this look? Or is the other one better?" Catherine laughed, "It's been years since you've taken a lunch this seriously." "One must not be rude," Darcy replied, "We represent the French royal family." Catherine teased, "You just admire the girl."

As they were chatting, the delegation's messenger arrived: "Mr. and Mrs. Sterling have arrived." "Good, we'll be right there," Darcy said excitedly, finally settling on a blue suit. He and Catherine headed to the restaurant, where Meredith and Terrence Sterling were already waiting. Upon their arrival, both stood to greet them: "Mr. DuMont, Madame," greeted the Sterlings. "Mrs. Sterling, Mr. Sterling." Darcy replied with a beaming smile, "Mr. Sterling, a paragon of virtue, truly a match made in heaven with his wife." Together, Meredith and Terrence embodied romance.

Catherine, seeing Meredith up close, was momentarily dazed as she was reminded of Bianca from years ago. The four of them sat down, with the delegation waiting at a distance. This lunch was exclusively for the Sterlings.

The conversation at the table flowed smoothly, full of harmony and laughter. Afterward, Terrence and Darcy went bowling while Meredith and Catherine sat down for a chat. Catherine, feeling a bit guilty, took extra care of Meredith, "When is the baby due?" "Mid-October," Meredith replied with a smile, "It's soon." "I wish all the best for your baby," Catherine said, presenting a gemstone necklace, "Please accept this for your little one."

Meredith initially refused, "Oh, I couldn't possibly accept such a valuable gift." "Please, take it. It's the least I can do; I really like you, and it's our fate," Catherine insisted. Reluctantly, Meredith accepted, "Thank you, Mrs. DuMont." "No thanks needed; you deserve it," Catherine replied warmly, "If you ever need anything, this necklace will grant you access to our places in France." This necklace was fit for a royal daughter, and since Catherine had no daughters of her own, she chose to give it to Meredith.

Surprised, Meredith felt a deep gratitude, "Thank you, Mrs. DuMont." Catherine avoided asking about Meredith's parents, sticking to light conversation instead.

Meanwhile, Terrence and Darcy played a balanced game of bowling, neither wanting to show the other up, especially since Terrence was discreetly holding back to maintain dignity and friendship between their countries. Darcy was thoroughly enjoying himself, "Mr. Sterling, you play well; it's been a long time since I've had such fun. It's a pity we must leave the day after tomorrow; otherwise, we could have played a few more games." "You're always welcome in Auroraville," Terrence replied, "and we'll visit France when we can." "You're most welcome," Darcy responded heartily, "Mr. Sterling, you are fortunate, and Mrs. Sterling is wonderful. I wish you both a lifelong happiness."

After their meal and the day's events, Darcy's official visit ended, and he arranged for their return. As Meredith had mentioned earlier, their dining with the French royal family brought good publicity and benefitted both their companies, also enhancing the relations between the two nations.

In the days that followed, Darcy returned to France with his wife Catherine and their son Lucien. Joy Chaucer traveled to Europe to meet with Ferris Bright, taking over Chloe's businesses and relocating them to Auroraville. Business not being her forte, she left the operations in the capable hands of Ferris.

Suddenly, Meredith's due date was just two days away, and she grew increasingly anxious as the day prescribed by her doctor approached.