55 pages • 1 hour read
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Amanda attends an exclusive art fair in London, while Olivier participates in a similar literary event. They discuss their work, and Amanda is pleased to discover how well they complement each other as a couple—something she found lacking in her past relationships. Over the five days in London, she starts envisioning a future with Olivier. On their last night, they celebrate at an elegant restaurant and even plan a weekend in Saint-Tropez.
Toward the end of dinner, however, Olivier reveals that he is married, though he claims to have an “understanding” with his wife, Stephanie. Shocked, Amanda demands to know why he had not mentioned this sooner. Olivier explains that he wanted her to get to know him first and understand his freedom despite his marriage. Olivier describes Stephanie as “cold” and primarily focused on her equestrian pursuits, admitting that their marriage was a mistake complicated by their two children. Olivier explains that he raised the children independently, as Stephanie is often away. He confesses that she still lives with him when she is in Paris and claims he sees no point in divorce.
Although Olivier assures her that their marriage is one of convenience, Amanda is deeply unsettled, viewing his actions as infidelity.