Chapter 120 - At the Le Petit Gusteau (1/2)

”Sir how can I help you?” Asked a service person. It was a young man, about twenty years old. The nut-brown hair was neatly combed back and the black and white service uniform fitted. It was to be expected from such a noble bistro as Le Petit Gusteau. Although it was a rather small bistro, it was still very exclusive. With its cozy ambience it reminded of a wine tavern from the Provence.

Small tables, antique wood and vintage bistro furniture, stylish pictures on the wood paneling and simple decorative elements exude that credible Parisian bistro feeling.

Almost all seats were taken, although Le Petit Gusteau was rather hidden among the insider tips of Dijon.

Alexandre nodded. ”Alexandre de Valois. Would you please escort me to the table of my wife and relatives.”

”Of course. If you'll follow me, please.” The boy pointed into the corridor with his gloved hand and led Alexandre through the hall of tables to a remote part of the bistro. Only a few tables were placed in front of the impressive window front, where a chattering group of three ladies and a child sat at a single table. Faces all too familiar to him. They seemed to be having a pleasant conversation while the little one bathed in the care of his grandmother. A cheerful serenity floated around the round table.

Alexandre walked over to the table without waiting for the young waiter.

” Maman. Louise.” Did he greet his mother and sister.

”Alexandre?” Lily whispered in surprise and turned her head, so she could look him in the eyes. A slight blush lay around her cheeks while he lost himself in the innocent glint of her eyes. His heart softened. Dame it! She was so cute! Lost in her sight, he bent over.

She shivered as his warm breath settled over her neck and cheek. Alexandre smiled softly before kissing her check from behind. Promptly her face turned red.

”Hello, Love.” He whispered next to her ear before he stood up again and examined her face carefully. She seemed relaxed, she was fine.

”Alec.” The little one was beaming at him, his face was covered with bread crumbs and his eyes became big and bright. But not those of Alexandres mother! Pin-pointed pupils fastened him out of slitted eyes. Once their eyes met, the hostile expression on his mothers face disappeared beneath her cheerful mask.