Paris, Winter 11:30 p.m., Deserted street near the Seine River

The city seemed frozen in time, and the lights of the Eiffel Tower twinkled in the distance. You stood on the sidewalk, your fingers tucked into your coat pockets to warm your hands. Hugh Jackman, who had been your date to a charity gala a few hours earlier, stood beside you, the silence between you as heavy as the chilly air.

“You didn’t have to come with me,”

you said, turning to him.

“I did,” he replied simply, looking out at the river. The two of you had argued during the event, something small but it seemed to bring up deeper issues. As you walked aimlessly, each step seemed to create a bridge between pride and reconciliation. When you finally stopped in front of the Seine, he took off his scarf and wrapped it around your shoulders.