Slipped Away

Bella's POV The grand foyer of the Miller estate welcomed me like an old friend, its crystal chandelier casting a warm, golden glow over marble floors polished to a mirror shine. Mrs. Miller enveloped me in a hug that smelled of Chanel No. 5 and fresh roses from her garden. "Bella, dear! It's been far too long. I’ve missed you, darling," she exclaimed, her voice thick with genuine affection as she pulled back to study my face. "Aunty, I've missed you too," I replied, my heart swelling. Paris had been a whirlwind of art studios, late-night crepe runs, and fleeting romances, but nothing compared to this homecoming. "Paris was incredible—magical, really. I just finished my studies in jewelry design. Mom's been hounding me nonstop to come back and take over the family business. She's convinced I'm the only one who can keep her 'Bella's Gems' from turning into a dusty relic." Mrs. Miller's eyes lit up, guiding me to the velvet settee in the sitting room. "Well, it's about time you returned