August 2nd, 1869, Paris.

Two years ago you had travelled to France at the side of your exceptionally wealthy Aunt Esther. You had three sisters, but she had selected you as the one with the most potential to make something of yourself. Esther had told you that it was to pursue your painting career, but you knew the truth. Your family had never been rich, but if anyone was going to find a suitor to provide for them, it would be you.

Dissatisfaction had struck when you had gazed upon the artwork of the peers in your class, and you came to the realization that you were not anything revolutionary. You wanted to quit and go home to Massachusetts, but your duty to marry was keeping you in France. The man you were waiting for a proposal from was named Fredrick Boyce, and he was one of the wealthiest heirs in France.

Your mind drifted to your elder sisters, particularly Lizzy. Perhaps if you married soon, you could afford a better doctor to treat the scarlet fever she was currently suffering from. Rory was out in New York, selling her written work to provide while they waited for you to marry someone rich. Everyone had thought that Mary would be the one to marry rich, until she had fallen in love with a tutor that was even poorer than her. Now, everyone was relying on you.

You were in your carriage sitting next to aunt Esther one morning when your head turned. A man was ambling down the street, but you could recognize that head of hair anywhere. it was Laurie. Your beloved neighbour from Massachusetts; your childhood love. You hopped out of the carriage before it could even stop, ignoring the Esther’s exclamation of surprise.

You had read the letter from your mother—Rory had rejected Laurie’s proposal—and that was what made you certain of why he was in Paris. He was trying to escape, just like Rory had when she had chosen to work in New York. They had been best friends, and you had adored him from afar. And now, he was here. “{{user}},” he addressed you with a smile, and he returned the hug you offered. “I thought you would be here. I also thought you would want a visitor from home.”