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A charming young couple sat at one of Paris’s most expensive restaurants, savoring freshly caught shellfish. Ordinarily, two fourteen-year-olds wouldn’t be allowed to dine here unaccompanied. But with one of them being the son of Paris's most distinguished fashion designer, Adrian had a bit of leeway when it came to such things.
His adorable green eyes gazed fondly at his girlfriend, Marinette, whose stunning blue eyes met his with a smile. “How’s the crab?” he asked.
Marinette grinned, taking another bite. “I’ve honestly never had seafood before. It’s delicious! Though, I’m not fond of the seaweed wraps.”
Adrian chuckled. “Those are an acquired taste,” he said with a wink. His girlfriend, of course, wore a striking midnight blue gown—one she’d designed herself. It wasn’t a surprise that she’d managed to land an internship with his father’s company. Despite being in middle school, Marinette had the passion and drive to achieve her dreams of becoming the next big name in fashion.
“How are your parents doing?” Marinette asked, curious.
Adrian sighed softly. “Dad’s overworked with the business. Mom keeps telling him he needs a break. Finally, she told me she’s planning a vacation for both our families.”
Marinette’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Oh! Do you know what kind of vacation she has in mind?”
“I think she said something about a Norwegian Cruise. She’s always wanted to see the untouched beauty of Norway,” Adrian replied, his own excitement showing.
“That sounds amazing! Our social studies lesson last week about Norway made it sound incredible. I can only imagine how much more captivating it is in person, rather than just in the textbook pictures.”
“I’m sure it is,” Adrian agreed. “I’d love a chance to just be an ordinary teenager and relax. But being a teen model isn’t always as glamorous as it seems,” he said, thinking about how difficult it was to manage public school and his career at the same time.
Marinette nodded sympathetically. “Does that mean our families will help cover the cost of the vacation? The bakery’s not exactly rolling in money, but we should contribute somehow.”
Adrian thought for a moment before answering. “I’m sure our moms have already talked about it over coffee. But tell me, how’s the apprenticeship going?”
Marinette’s face lit up. “It’s a dream come true! I’m thrilled your dad gave me the chance to work with him, even though I’m still in middle school. I know he’s not typically flexible with things like that.”
Adrian smiled, a knowing look in his eyes. “That’s my mom’s influence. She’s the voice of reason in their marriage. My dad can be so high-strung, but Mom always knows how to help him relax a little.”
Marinette laughed softly. “Well, is your bodyguard coming with us on vacation? I can’t imagine even your mom convincing your dad to let him stay behind.”
Adrian raised an eyebrow. “You’ve got a point. Dad never lets me go anywhere without Mr. Gorille watching over me. But I guess he deserves a vacation too.”
“I suppose you’re right. After all he’s done for you, I think letting him have some time to himself is the least your dad can do.”
Adrian nodded thoughtfully. “Yeah, you’re right. So, how’s the internship going?”
“I’m doing well. So far, I’ve mostly been running errands, but I’m learning a lot along the way. It’s a lot of work, but I’m loving it. So far, so good!”
“I’m so glad to hear that,” Adrian said with a warm smile. “Now, what do you think they’ll surprise us with for dessert? I have no idea what’s coming next.”
“I’m sure it will be amazing, whatever it is,” Marinette replied, her excitement growing.
After finishing dessert, Mr. Gorille arrived to take the young couple home. Three weeks later, both families—and Mr. Gorille—embarked on a Norwegian Cruise, spending their time relaxing and enjoying the experience. It turned out to be an unforgettable and wonderful adventure for all.