Epilogue

Vince

" I s that the last of it?" I shouted to Sylvain through the open door.

"Yes, yes. There's nothing more in the car. All your belongings are now safely inside." He came up behind me as I stood in the bright lounge of our new villa, put his arms around my waist, and kissed my neck.

Six months had passed since the disaster that was Theo's wedding.

The Monday following the wedding, we'd talked at length about Sylvain being a millionaire and how that would affect us.

Well, how it'd affect me, really. I wasn't happy he'd hidden it from me initially, but I understood his reasons. I'd already told him I refused to be a kept man, that I'd pay my way wherever and whenever I could and that he'd best not try to stop me.

He'd smiled and called me petite souris, an endearment I loved. From the first time he called me his little mouse, I'd known we had something between us. I thought it was too soon, but the heart knows what it knows. Mine knew Sylvain was the man for me, and I guessed his knew the same.

As long as we were on even terms, I was happy.

Not long after Theo's wedding, Mum had died, and while I was devastated at her passing, I'd been somewhat relieved too. No longer suffering, she was at peace. She hadn't been my mum for such a long time and although her death had been unexpected, it had been inevitable.

Other than Lexi, she'd been my only tether to the UK.

My bestest friend Lexi.

She'd given birth to a beautiful baby boy called Alfie. Seemed I got that wrong, but I was still his godfather, and that was fine with me.

Theo bounced from boyfriend to boyfriend, still looking for his ‘someone'. Funny how I'd often catch him looking at me the way I used to look at him.

Lexi put it down to my new found confidence. I'd gone from timid to self-assured in a short space of time and all because of my relationship with Sylvain.

And it was true. I'd grown in so many ways since meeting him. He'd given me a much needed boost to my self esteem.

Virgos together, Sylvain and I had yet to have an argument, but if he kept insisting on paying for everything, I could see one coming.

I'd conceded where the villa was concerned, but then I didn't have a spare few million lying around to buy a new place despite having sold my home in the UK.

Sylvain, on the other hand. Well, he had that and some change.

Giselle had kept the house in the village, much to her delight, but as we had a swimming pool, I reckoned she'd be here more often than not.

As for work, I'd joined Sylvain's corporation and worked in IT, of course. It was what I knew and although I struggled with the language, my French was coming along well. I could tell more than my name and how old I was.

At first, I'd split my time between France and home. Sylvain had visited when he could, sharing long, idyllic weekends with me.

Never in my wildest dreams had I imagined being this happy.

But with happiness came sadness, and I missed my friends dearly. England and France weren't that far apart, and we'd made promises to visit often, it wasn't the end of the world.

I sighed and opened a box. As much as my meagre belongings needed to find a home in this pristine glass and wooden palace, I still hated tidying.

Sylvain entered the living room. "Vince, come have breakfast with me."

"Let me unpack this box, and I'll be with you."

Sylvain took my hand and led me away.

"Enough. We can put everything in its place later. Coffee's brewed, and I have fresh croissants."

I didn't need telling twice. Croissants were a temptation I gave in to almost every morning.

A few months ago, Sylvain had bought the villa, mainly for the magnificent views it afforded over the Alpes. Contrary to most English houses, the living accommodation was upstairs, while the bedrooms were on the ground floor. We'd spent many mornings sitting on the balcony, taking in the view and eating breakfast together.

Our bedroom, however, led directly out onto the terrace surrounding the pool. Ideal for early-morning or late-night swims.

We loved nothing more than skinny dipping in the dimly lit pool at midnight, after which we fell into bed and did what we did best: make love.

I'd gone from a lovesick puppy, pining over my best friend, to an ardent lover, growing in confidence every day.

Sylvain had been patient, never once pushing me to do anything I wasn't comfortable with.

In six months, we'd taken it no further than hand jobs, blow jobs, and my favourite, frotting.

We'd experimented, more so at my insistence than Sylvain's. I loved him for his constant ‘at your pace, Vince', but I was ready for more. I'd encouraged him to use his fingers, and so far, we were up to two, but it was time. I wanted to experience it all.

"I think I'm ready." I dipped my croissant in my coffee and took a bite. The first time I saw Sylvain do it, I'd asked why. He'd simply answered, "it tastes good."

He wasn't wrong, and since that day, it had become my morning routine.

"For what?" He eyed me quietly. "You already moved here."

"I'm ready for you. Tonight. I've made you wait long enough."

"No matter how long it takes, I'll wait. There's no rush." He took my hand and kissed my knuckles.

Regardless of where we were, he always showed me how much he loved me, be it a hand on my back or a kiss on my forehead.

"I don't think you could call six months as rushing, but I'm ready, and tonight seems fitting. Today is the beginning of the rest of our lives."

"You know I've planned a party at the resort for you later." He crossed his legs and took a sip of his coffee.

"I do." He'd told me. "But afterwards, when we get home, we should take it to the next level. In fact, I insist. I've given this a lot of thought."

I knew he'd want to wait, but I wasn't sure I could any longer. The sensations I'd experienced when he used his fingers were indescribable. The burn, the stretch, the emotion it invoked in me. I knew I was ready.

"Mon Dieu, Vince, how will I concentrate at work today knowing that?" He groaned and adjusted himself. I grinned, pleased I had that effect on him.

"How about we do it now?" He wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.

"You have to get to work, and I have all my stuff to put away." Work didn't start for me until tomorrow.

"Look what you've done, though." His erection pressed against his flimsy blue shorts, threatening to peek out.

"No." Even though I would love to do it right now, I had a plan. A plan that involved something I'd bought, something tucked away in a drawer. Doing anything now would spoil the surprise.

Stay strong . Don't cave in.

"You're such a spoilsport, but I guess I should get ready for work." He stood and dropped his shorts to the floor, almost melting my resolve.

"I'm not looking." I put my hands over my eyes, not just to shield them from the wonder that was his cock but also to remove the temptation to touch it. "Go to work. I'll see it, I mean, you, later."

He walked away, and I couldn't help sneaking a look at his fine arse. Like a ripe peach, ready for eating.

Breathing a sigh of relief, I drank my coffee, basking in the warm sunshine. I didn't remember ever being this happy, finally having someone who loved me for who I was, flabby tummy and all.

To be honest, I hadn't been love at first sight, but there'd been a spark. And that spark had grown into a blazing fire, but now, I loved him deep in my bones, and it hadn't been long before we'd both admitted it.

Giselle had had her reservations at first, and no wonder. I was only four years older than her. Her mother had been shocked too but soon came around. Sylvain had been alone for so long they had never expected him to settle down, especially with an Englishman, who was twenty years his junior.

Time was ticking, though, and I wanted to get my belongings packed away, have a shower, and get ready for the party. Sitting here drinking coffee wasn't getting anything done.

I'd have plenty of time to do that in the coming weeks and months and years.

I shook my head. Wow. Who'd have thought it?

The rest of the day passed in a whirl of unpacking boxes and folding used newspapers, and by lunchtime, I was almost done. A few small boxes remained but they could wait.

Hot and sweaty, I poured a cold beer and went to the pool to cool off.

Sylvain was picking me up in an hour.

I stripped off, not embarrassed to look in the mirror anymore. I had continued my weight loss journey and was happy with how I looked. As much as Sylvain had complained, I knew he was happy for me. He'd kiss the stretch marks that had never faded, calling them my silver stripes, evidence of how far I'd come in the past months.

I held my breath, slipped into the cold water and ducked my head beneath the surface. Swimming had become a passion, and I glided through the water, barely making a ripple.

When Sylvain got home, I was dressed and waiting.

"You could have waited to shower with me. There's room enough for two." He placed a swift kiss to my lips and walked into the bathroom.

"Get a move on. We'll be late." I tapped my watch for effect. We had sufficient time, but I enjoyed teasing him.

I poured us drinks and checked my phone while I waited for him.

A message from Lexi and one from Theo.

I didn't ignore them, but sometimes I'd let Theo wait for a day or two. While he'd improved tenfold since dumping the twat, he could still be an arse.

Lexi: Have fun tonight, Vince. Alfie sends lots of love and wishes we could all be with you. Call you tomorrow.

Theo: Vince, darling. Have an absolutely marvellous time. Sorry I couldn't be there, but I'm off to Cancun. Don't worry. I'll avoid anyone who looks like a dentist. Mwah!

My eyes misted over. If only they could be here. I loved everyone at the resort and had even become friends with Raphael, but I missed my friends.

A hand landed on my shoulder, and Sylvain kissed the top of my head.

"You okay, petite souris?"

"Yeah. I'm fine. I wished Lexi and Theo could be here, but Alfie's too young to travel, and Theo's off flying."

"You have me."

"I know, and I love you. You know that." I rested my cheek on his hand.

"I do, and I love you too."

A horn beeped outside. Our taxi had arrived early.

The resort restaurant was buzzing, tables laden with food, the bar full of drinks; it promised to be a great evening.

I spied Giselle and Fabien chatting, standing close together. Did I spy a budding relationship there? I'd have to ask Sylvain later. I mingled, greeting the many that had turned up. My heart swelled with gratitude.

I heard a baby's cry and the crowds parted, then there they were, right in front of me: Theo and Lexi, little Alfie fussing in his carrier.

"Oh my god. How can I ever trust you again?"

I rushed forward and gathered them both into a fierce hug.

"I fucking love you two."

"Jesus, Vince. You're crushing me." Lexi struggled to free herself, but I held on for a moment more, wanting to reassure myself she was really here.

Finally, I let go. Sylvain was watching us, grinning.

I stalked towards him and took his face in my hands. "You are in for a world of trouble when we get home, but I love you so much. Thank you for bringing them to me."

He shrugged and kissed my lips lightly.

"It was my pleasure, and I'm very much looking forward to your world of trouble. Now go, enjoy yourself."

The evening flew by. I talked with everyone, teased Lexie, and cuddled Alfie. And when Sylvain took the tiny infant in his arms, my heart filled with love for them both.

Sylvain shook his head. "I'm too old for babies."

Maybe, but I knew him, and I might be able to persuade him.

All too soon, it was time to go home. Most of the guests drifted away, leaving my friends and me to talk about the next couple of days.

"Sylvain said I can take a few days and show you around. It's not too hot right now, so it should be fine for little Alfie."

"I can't wait." Lexi clutched a hungry Alfie to her breast. I never thought I'd see the day, but she'd taken to motherhood like a duck to water. "Robin is sorry he couldn't come, but you know how his shifts are."

I watched Theo as he stared at her, then looked at me. "I never thought I'd see you so happy. I wish I had what you do."

I shrugged. "Things happen for a reason. This is where I'm supposed to be. I know it now."

"I pushed you away, and now I regret every moment." He twisted his hands in his lap.

"You followed your heart."

"I followed his money and failed to see what was right in front of me." He took my hand, but I snatched mine away.

"I'm no longer on the market, Theo."

"But…"

"No buts. I waited for you for years. You never looked at me once, so why now?"

"You're different. You've changed, and I don't just mean your confidence. Look at you. No longer the person you were."

"Looks shouldn't mean everything, Theo. Sylvain loved me before I lost the weight. He loved me for who I was. He didn't try to change me. I did this for myself. No one else."

"I'm such a dick."

"Yeah, you really are sometimes. Don't look for outer perfection. Look for someone who loves you, flaws and all, and do the same for them. That way, I guarantee you'll find happiness."

I didn't meant to preach, but he'd never find what he wanted unless he looked past what was on the outside.

"Maybe," Theo stood. "I'll see you tomorrow."

With Alfie now sleeping, Lexi did the same. "You, Vince Murphy, are the nicest person I know. I'd best get this little one to bed. Enjoy the rest of your evening."

She smiled and I watched as she walked away, so happy they were here.

"What was that all about with Theo?" Sylvain asked as we rode home in a taxi. "It looked pretty intense."

"Just Theo being Theo."

"He likes you."

"Well, he can't have me. I'm yours, remember?"

"You definitely are."

Butterflies swirled in my stomach at what later would bring. I'd promised him I was ready, yet the thought I would finally experience what I'd been craving made me nervous.

And when we finally made it to the bedroom, panic had set in. What on earth had I been thinking? I wasn't ready at all.

"You okay, Vince?" Sylvain's voice was full of concern.

"I don't think I'm ready yet." My lip trembled. He'd be so cross with me.

"Come here. Sit with me."

We sat on the bed, and he took my hands in his large ones.

"I'll wait an eternity if I have to. I told you I'm in no rush. Sex is great, yes, but having you here by my side every day, giving me what you do, is enough for me. I don't need what you think I do to love you, and I don't want you to worry. I love you unconditionally."

A dam broke, tears streaming down my face, more from relief than anything.

"I wanted to make you happy. I thought that was the way."

"You make me happy every day. Now, get undressed, and let's go to bed. We had a big day."

He was right. I was exhausted, what with unpacking and the party. Maybe my plan for tonight hadn't been the best one.

We snuggled under the cotton sheet, my head as usual on his chest, his steady heartbeat soothing.

"Are you happy you moved here?" He stroked my arm, lulling me to sleep.

"I am. But you know what's funny?"

"Tell me, ma petite souris."

"I travelled a thousand miles to find myself. Instead, I found you. I found my home."