Becoming an Expatriate: Part 2/3

The flight from Omaha to JFK was on time. Once at JFK, she had a 3-hour layover before her flight to CDG. Her first-class seating provided her with free access to Delta's Crown Room. Once checked in there, she passed by the food service provided in that breakfast had been quite filling. So, she headed to the bar to do a modest wine serving knowing what she could expect on her Paris flight. With a glass of Rosé she went to a personal kiosk to do some reading of the book on French wines she ordered that had been delivered to her parents' house the day before. As during her college years, she carried a yellow marker to highlight some points for her review in the future. It was the chapter on Rhone wines that first captured her attention. This chapter immediately brought back thoughts about her conversations with Bob at Chateau Vin. He had her contact info, but they hadn't talked about when he actually would be in Paris.

She had just finished the Rhone chapter and had started to read the chapter on Alsatian wines as well as the unique eau-de-vie brandies that are made by the fermentation of various fruits. She knew nothing about brandies, but she made a note on her small pad to check them out once in Paris. At that point an announcement was made that the CDG flight would begin boarding in 10 minutes. She finished her Rosé and headed to the gate.

Flying first class, she was amongst the first to board. She had only a small carryon given the 2 bags the she had checked for free. She was looking forward to adding to her wardrobe once in Paris, Within minutes she was settled into her window seat. She recognized the flight attendant that approached her as one that served her on the flight to the States. With a cute smile, the flight attendant said, "Good afternoon, Madam Sarah. I remember you really enjoyed the Rhone wine several days ago when traveling to the States. However, we don't have that available on this flight."  Sarah smiled and responded jokingly, "Madam, you must be mistaken. I don't remember any Rhone wine." They both laughed. The flight attendant continued, "But for now, I can offer you a flute of Champagne, or perhaps something else." Sarah responded, "Yes!, I would love some Champagne for now." With the flight attendant gone, a very attractive, very well dressed young lady arrived to take the aisle seat next to Sarah. With her bag placed above, the young lady sat down while extending her hand to Sarah. With a charming French accent, she introduced herself as Chloe. "Bonne Journée, Madam. Je suis Sarah." With a kind smile, Chloe responded, :So, you are American." Sarah laughed, "Was my French that bad?" Chloe smiled, "Yes, but perhaps we can work on that on our way to Paris." Immediately, Sarah was fond of this young lady.

The flight attendant arrived with two flutes of Champagne. To Chloe she said, "Madam Chloe, I have your regular for takeoff." She responded, "Thank you Carol." With that Carol provided each with a flute. Before she left, Chloe said with a smile, "Carol, this is Sarah. She is under my care for the flight." They all laughed. Carol responded, "Yes, Madam, I know Sarah from a trip several days ago to the States. She really enjoyed the red Rhone wine on that trip." Sarah said in a calm voice, "I am told I did." Again, they all laughed, and Carol left to continue her duties for others in first class. Chloe took the lead to talk with Sarah. "So are you a regular traveler to Paris?" "Actually, I am not. I am now returning from my first trip to Paris. I am happy to say that I am now on way back for a consulting position I was offered while there." "Really? Tell me more about how that happened, if you wish. I expect it may be an amazing story that I would like to use for my readers." "Readers?" "Oh sorry, yes!, I am a Contributing Editor for Vogue France. My articles focus on foreigners to Paris as to their experiences. For that reason, I am back and forth to the States. Hence, my familiarization with Carol." In her MBA mindset, Sarah asked, "Why Delta and not Air France?" "Simply stated, Americans do not fly Air France. And with my professional responsibilities, Delta maximizes my opportunities ....such as yourself Sarah. So, please tell me more about that amazing trip to Paris that resulted in an expatriate position." Carol had just arrived with the bottle of Champagne to see if either wanted more. Sarah was so relaxed with Chloe, she responded, "Oui Madame, s'il te plait" Chloe simply said, "Yes of course, Carol. Have I ever denied more? Thank you." With the flutes refilled, Sarah gave Chloe the short course on her visit to France and her time with Claude without mentioning his name or company specifically. Sarah also did not mention her visit with her parents or meeting Bob. They had finished their Champagne when Carol came to take their flutes for takeoff. With a slight Champagne buzz for each of them, they both settled into their upright seat positions for departure without speaking until in the air.

With the plane leveled in flight and the seatbelt lights turned off, Carol came by to take their dinner selection from the choices provided in the menus for each of them. Noting Chloe's earlier comment, Sarah stated, "I will have what 'my guardian" is having. As a to-be consultant, I recognize the value of experts." Chloe turned to Sarah, "The Chicken Provencal is excellent and served with maple-glazed carrots and haricots verts. The beef can be questionable at times" Carol offered her agreement. Sarah said, "So, be it. What about the wine?" Chloe then stated that the California red Meritage was very smooth with little tannin. Again, Sarah said, "So, be it."

With the wine served, Sarah started. "Chloe, I am very interested in knowing more about your job. I must say that given my first trip to Paris a little over a week ago, my heart was captured by my experiences with wine, food, and overall environment. Also, I was very lucky to meet the most extraordinary man .... which led to my consulting offer. And now, I am on my way back for a 4-month consulting position to see how well I adopt to working with the company that has offered me the position." Chloe interrupted her. "Actually, first I want to know more about your initial Paris adventure. It will fit excellently, I am sure, with my responsibilities at Vogue France. That is, a story of your travels in Paris could be good for your notoriety as well as for foreigners visiting Paris." Sarah said with confusion on her face, "I am not sure I follow your point Chloe." "Thinking of the recent TV series, 'Emily in Paris', I am suggesting a non-fictional story line that follows you through at least your first 4 months in Paris as an expatriate." "Hmmmm, that sounds like fun ... and great exposure. But, I will need to pass this by my boss as to what extent any details about my job are to be mentioned."  Chloe smiled, "We can work it either way. I would prefer to use your actual particulars. But, you make a good point. I am thinking that you will get a great exposure to Paris and French society, and visa versa. In essence, I would be your 'fly-on-the-wall' as you Americans say. By the way, I would be covering your expenses when I join you in the major activities. That is, with your permission of course." "Wow! I like that part."

With their meals served, they had a casual conversation as to Chloe's perspective of writing her series of articles regarding Sarah's experiences in Paris for some yet-to-be-determined time period. It was clear to Chloe that, in their limited conversation, that Sarah was quite inexperienced in her life so far. Chloe noted to herself that Sarah's Harvard's MBA presented an interesting perspective for the story line. That is, a well educated, but socially inexperienced individual, has fallen for the charisma and enchantment of Paris. One angle would be that Paris can be amazing for the least socially sophisticated to the most. Chloe turned to Sarah as they were finishing their entrées, "Sarah, I think my articles following your next 4 months, at least, would be very interesting to visitors from many countries that want to be exposed to the multiple facets of the City of Light". Just pure projection on my part perhaps, but I can see romance in your time in Paris." Thinking now of Claude, Sarah smiled widely. "I think I can see that as well Chloe." Chloe put her right arm in the air as asking for permission to speak. "Perhaps a possible title for the series of stories could be "The Loves of Sarah." They both laughed.

Carol came by to take their empty plates and ask what they wanted for desert. The choices were hot fudge or caramel Sundae ... or Tart Tatin ala mode Sarah said, "I'm thinking just another glass of the red wine." Chloe chimed in with "Make that two, Carol. Sarah and I have some serious discussions ahead where the wine would be most advantageous." Carol nodded and said, "Observing you two as I was serving others, I thought that may be the case. I'll be right back with the bottle." simultaneously, the two raised their tables and relaxed their back seats. Chloe started, "Sarah, please share with me your initial impressions during trip to Paris." Sarah paused and then, "Well interestingly, my amazing set of experiences started when I was having my first meal at a brasserie near my hotel in Le Marais district. I asked a gentleman in a table next to mine for some assistance in understanding the menu. That led to an amazing dinner at La Gallopin, in the back room no less. Of course, I had to do some fashion shopping in that area." She went on to explain that she had received an extraordinary, 4-month consulting assignment with the gentleman's company as well a dinner prepared by him at his amazing house in the 15th Arrondissement of Paris." When she finished, Chloe stated she was in total awe of what Sarah had experienced, especially in such a short time. Sarah had accidentally mentioned Claude's name noticing that Chloe had raised her eyebrows in hearing that name. Carol had now returned with the bottle of wine to refill their glasses.

Not to be known to Sarah yet, Chloe had put together the name 'Claude', a fabulous house in the 15th Arrondissement, and the preparation of a private dinner prepared by a Claude. She very well knew a Monsieur with those exact characteristics for several years. However, that relationship. ended abruptly. However, she knew best not to bring that to the surface at this point. She recognized Sarah to be a very interesting person to know as a friend, BUT also as a great story line for her a series of stories. After another two glasses of the wine by each, Sarah asked about which arrondissements she should stay during her consulting assignment. Chloe suggested 8th, 9th, and 10th.  With those suggestions made, each of them began to open their flat beds to get some sleep during the next 5+ hours before landing at CDG. Carol asked if they wanted to be awaken for the light breakfast that would be served 1-1/2 hours before landing, but both declined. The cabin lights were dimmed and both were soon asleep.

Upon being awaken by Carol I hour before landing, they freshened up with the toiletries provided and had a brief parting discussion about where and when they would meet again in Paris. With cell phone numbers exchanged, they settled in for the landing the two said au revoir on the jetway.

Upon gathering her 2 checked bags and passing through Passport Control, Sarah was met by Pierre. She expected it would be at least a 40 minutes drive in the late morning to Le Marias where she had reserved a week at the same hotel as her first trip. Therefore, she asked Pierre to wait while she purchased a croque-monsieur and café crème for each of them at the Paul kiosk near the exit. She had been desiring those two delights for several days since she decided she was returning. As usual, Pierre had little to say during the ride, which was fine for Sarah. She wanted to take in more of the countryside into the city.

Her first recognizable remembrance was the Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre on the horizon. Once in into the crowded streets of central Paris, Pierre opened up with an unusual statement. "Madame, Monsieur Claude and I have missed you. I trust you had a good visit to the States." "Oui, Pierre, But I was anxious to get back here and start my new job." "Monsieur Claude mentioned to me how pleased he was to have you join the firm. He rarely says anything like that. Once you start your job, I will be picking you up and dropping you off on your work days. That is, until you are comfortable with the Metro and bus routes." "Sil te plait, Pierre. I like that." As they pulled up to her motel, Hôtel de la Herse d'Or, Pierre opened her door and carried her 2 bags into the front desk. Before leaving he said, "Madame, Monsieur Claude told me to tell you that he will call you later this afternoon to see if you would like to have dinner with him tonight. I think he has a special restaurant experience for you to celebrate your return. 

It was not quite Noon when she settled into her room. The rest on the plane was not sufficient enough for her. So, slipped out of her traveling clothes and took a quick shower. Next she put on her silk Teddy and left a wake-up call for 3:30 PM. At 3 her room phone sounded. She stirred and reached for the phone. It was Claude. "Bonne journée, Sarah. Welcome to Paris." "Bonne journee Claude. I am very happy to be here." "Well, if you agree, I would love to take you to Le Jules Verne. a Michelin-starred restaurant within the Eiffel Tower. It is one of my favorites in Paris." She couldn't say "WOW!" fast enough. "Pierre will pick you at 8. And, if you have that gorgeous deep purple outfit with the red piping with you that you had that night at La Gallopin, then that would be perfect." "I do. OK!, I will meet Pierre at the front desk." "Super! Mademoiselle, au revoir" "Au revoir Claude." She thought to herself, 'Wow! he remembered my dress.'

Hanging up, she was quickly out of bed to put on her jeans and Harvard sweat shirt, Dinner was at least 5 hours away and the croque monsieur upon her arrival was not sufficient to last that long, Once dressed with hair brushed, she headed to her familiar brasserie where she first met Claude. Upon arrival at the Brasserie, the waiter remembered her and provided her an English-version menu when she sat at a table of her choosing. Sarah already knew what she desired. "Monsieur, I would like the salad nicoise and verre de Chardonnay." "Oui Madame." She pulled out her phone to check for messages and emails. There was one text from Bob simply stating 'Welcome to Paris. I look forward to meeting up with you in the near future. Best, Bob' She responded with a single.

Finishing her salad and wine, she paid la addition remembering that the prices were service compris.  However, she left 2 €'s anyhow. She expected that she would be back many times and wanted to leave a favorable (typical American) impression. In the days following WWII the 'Ugly American' perspective surfaced. But, now it is gone. The Chinese tourists have now taken up the gauntlet with their version of arrogance, rudeness, and indifference. Back in her room, she unpacked the purple dress that Claude had mentioned. She then took out the perfume she had purchased during the first visit. She started to feel a bit anxious about the evening. Everything had been so perfect since meeting Claude. But now she would have to perform in this consulting job without knowing exactly what would be her requirements ... her responsibilities. Her primary point of comfort was that Claude specifically wanted a Harvard MBA, and on that point she was solid. She had done excellently as to Finance and Operations Research (the underlying mathematical skills required for senior management consulting). She rested her concerns with a simple thought, i.e., she could do as well as any fresh Harvard MBA graduate. And clearly, Claude was experienced and knowledgable enough to understand what he needed ... and saw in her.

It was only 5 at this point, and she decided to go back to the brasserie with her book on French wines and spend an hour with it with a glass of white wine. She specifically wanted to read up on the white Bourgogne given that Claude had introduced her to Montrachet. She learned some wine terms, e.g., 'terroir,' '1st. cru', 'wine regions', and 'appelllation d'origine'. They were enough for some small talk if appropriate during dinner.

Back in her room she was feeling energized and decided to write down some questions for which she would like answers. She decided the questions should be fairly light focusing on the basic issues the firm was, or would be addressing. She wanted to be in 'listening' mode and not be too talkative about herself unless specifically asked. She had already revealed a great deal about herself at the dinner at Claude's house. Then she thought further that she really wanted more in-depth information on this extraordinary man first, and then the company. It would become clear that Claude's characteristics were very incorporated into the 'personality' of his company. It was time to prepare for the dinner date.

First, she checked for messages and texts. There were none. Next, she opened the french doors to the petit landing overlooking the street. There was a slight wind, and the enticing morning scent of Paris had been replaced with the baking scents of the boulangerie next door. It was too early for the normal roaming crowds of Le Marais that would finally ebb by 2 AM. Unlike Paris' left bank known for its bohemian character, Le Marais is arguably one of two of the liveliest district on the right (northern) bank enjoyed by the 'finer' folks. She was becoming increasingly anxious about her dinner date with Claude.  Yes!, she had the offer and the cash advances, but very little actual knowledge of what was expected of her ... of her degree. As she was fitting into her purple gown, she kept reminding herself to stay calm, to be 'Parisian cool'. She sprayed her perfume into the air and walked underneath it to capture its essence. The unique scent immediately took her thoughts to that first night with Claude at Le Gallopin.  It was his sky-blue eyes that impressed her that night that she hadn't noticed when she they first met at the Brasserie. Next was the ease of his casual smile and their conversation. She was so looking forward to being back in Paris .... and dinner with Claude.

At 8 she left her room and dropped her key off at the front desk. Pierre was already there and ushered her to the car. As usual, he had little to say other than "Bonne Soiree", and she back."  Once in the car, she asked, "Remind me, where am I going tonight for dinner?" "Mademoiselle, you are joining Claude for dinner at the Le Jules Verne, a 2 Michelin star restaurant, in the Eiffel Tower. It will be an extraordinary experience in the clouds" She didn't understand his point at the time, but let it go.

She saw the Eiffel Tower up close for the first time after they crossed the Seine on Pont de la Concorde. She didn't realize its size until then. Once there, Claude opened her door and explained that he could not leave the car. But, the elevator was just ahead of her with a specific button for the restaurant. As the glass enclosed capsule ascended, she was impressed by the iconic iron structure surrounding her. Arriving 450 feet above the street, she was greeted by the Maître d' who had been made aware of her dress. He graciously welcomed her and led her to the table with Claude already seated. It was seeing his smile as he rose to receive her, that she felt a rush of air leave her as if a sudden release of tension. With a very gentle touch and la biss by each, he placed her chair as she sat. "Welcome back Sarah. So good to see you." "Likewise Claude." He continued, "First, permit me to apologize for not being with Pierre to meet you tonight. I have just arrived from Nice 1 hour ago."  He paused, "Tonight is NOT about business. Instead, if you wish, lets explore your thoughts and questions about Paris specifically and France generally." He paused,  "As I said, I just arrived from Nice where I have an apartment. You may wish to know more about the Rivera in that you will have the opportunity to stay there on the weekends, should you wish. But first, I have taken the liberty of placing an order for the flexible Chef's Menu for each of us. It consists of 5 courses with a different wine with each course." "WOW! This meal sounds extraordinary." He continued, "Each course includes a different wine. I know the Sommelier very well, and while he is excellent at his job, I have asked him to let me choose the wines tonight. He has agreed. The first course is an amuse-bouche, aka hors d'oeuvre. That will be followed by an appetizer, the entrée, a salad, and finally desert." "WOW! again." " You will see that the French serve the salad following the entrée to cleanse the palate, as you might say. Also, in this restaurant, this table is ours as long as we wish. We are in no hurry."

At that moment the waiter arrived with the amuse-bouche and a flute of Roderer Champagne for each. Claude raised his flute and said, "Here is to your beginning of a totally new life that you may not have expected several months ago. Sante!" "Sante! Claude," They clicked their flutes, and he reached across the table to hold her left hand with a gentle squeeze. Within minutes the waiter arrived with the appetizer: a small stack of seafood including lobster, Saint Jacques, and langoustines with a small sprayer of lemongrass vinaigrette for enhancement. The waiter brought  them a glass of Chablis as well, and took away the flutes and empty dishes. Additionally, a basket of baguette and ciabatta pieces was soon to arrive and placed on the table with a small dish of olive oil sprinkled lightly with white pepper for dipping. Claude then spoke to the waiter, "Buerre et sel, s'il te plaît.

Sarah began to question Claude as to the arrondissements she may consider for an apartment. "By the way, where is your office located?" He smiled, "Actually, my company is in Le Defense West of Paris, across the Seine. With that said, I suggest you would much more enjoy residing in Paris proper. A primary Metro line provides easy access to that area from Paris. It would of little benefit to reside near that Metro line since the other Metros connect with it easily." "Actually Claude, I was quite impressed with the brief view of your posh neighborhood." "Ah yes! There are some very decent apartments available there, but it is more limited as to the night life; that is for a single Mademoiselle." With a smile she said, "But, I only need 4 months at most until you offer me a senior position where I can afford almost anywhere." They both laughed at that comment as Claude was thinking to himself that she was not far from the likely truth is his judgement of her.

The waiter arrived to clear their appetizer plates and stated that the entrées would be served in 15 minutes. Claude raised from the table and took Sarah's hand to lead her to the edge of the restaurant to look over the West and South side of Paris. He pointed out the office building at Montparnasse as one of the other 2 locations where there is an elevated viewpoint of Paris given that building has a rooftop observation desk. He then walked her around to the Northern side of the restaurant and pointed out Sacré-Coeur at Montmartre as the other location for viewing Paris. She noted that she had seen the Basilica when she was entering Paris in the morning.

As they were returning to the table, there was a sudden surrounding of light as the EiffelTower's nightly light show came to life. Once at their table, their serviettes had been neatly folded and the chairs properly placed, Each setting had a full glass of Montrachet The waiter was soon to follow with their entrées. He first served Sarah from her right and then Claude. He then provided a brief description as to how the turbot had been prepared. With the waiter gone Sarah tasted the Montrachet. Thinking back on her readings regarding wine earlier that day, she commented that she preferred the Montrachet over the Chablis. "The Chablis has some acidity and is more crisp with a taste of flint." "Very good Sarah. Interestingly, they both are 100% Chardonnay but from slightly different regions. The differences of the two wines from the same grape, but from different regions, demonstrates perfectly the influence of terroir, the land." As I might have mentioned before to you, Montrachet is arguably the most extraordinary Chardonnay around the globe. It is only matched in some minds by Meursault that is produced from nearly the same region, but with different soil.

Being finished with their entrées, the waiter arrived to take their plates. Within minutes he returned with their salads and then glasses of rosé. They continued to talk about the character of Claude's company. When they were just finishing their salads an individual approached their table from behind Sarah. The person joyfully said,  "Well, hello Claude." He looked up and seemed somewhat startled by Sarah. The voice sounded familiar to her, and she turned to see Chloe. Sarah noticed that Chloe was not surprised to see her. "Hello Sarah." Sarah paused and then, "Hello Chloe .... nice to see you again ... and in the same day." Turning to face Claude, "Chloe and I sat next to each other on the flight from JFK. It seems that Chloe would like me to be a character in an ongoing series about Americans coming to Paris." Claude interrupted "Really!?, how interesting." Claude turned to face Chloe, "Cherie, I expect that it is not a coincidence that you showed up here tonight. Am I correct?" "Claude, cherie, you and I know each sooooooo well. Yes!, I figured out that Sarah was referring to you during our discussion on the flight. Hence, I figured you would bring her here tonight,"  Sarah then spoke, "Hey you two, what am I missing here?" Claude responded, "Chloe and I have a history together, a lovely one at that for some time." Chloe interrupted him, "Sarah, to be blunt, Claude was looking for a mate, but not his equal necessarily." Then Claude interrupted her. "Chloe, be nice. That really isn't the whole truth. You seemed to be looking for someone to control." Noting an increasing hostility, Sarah actually stepped in between the two, "Whoa!, you two. Tonight is about excellent food, atmosphere, .... and most importantly MY RETURN TO PARIS." Amazingly, they all laughed and settled into a comfortable conversation about absolutely nothing. However, both Claude and Sarah were thinking to themselves about why Chloe had made her presence. Sarah would know the answer to that point in several weeks. Claude thought he knew, but he was wrong.

Noticing the arrival of Chloe, the waiter came to ask Claude if she was joining them. Without hesitation, Claude spoke very firmly, "No!, Madame is just saying hello. You can bring the deserts as well as a shot of Chartreuse, avec glacons, for each of us. Taking the clear point being made, Chloe simply said, "Super to see you two together. I am so looking forward to creating the series around you Sarah in Paris, especially given your position with Claude's enterprise. That is,Claude, if you don't have any objections." "None at all Chloe. As they say, 'even bad publicity is good publicity.'""Oh Cherie, it would NEVER be bad publicity from me." She turned sharply and exited the restaurant without another word to Sarah.

The two remained silent for an extended moment, Then Sarah said, "What was that?" "Oh that? That was Chloe when she can't control the moment. She has such moments when amongst certain others. Sarah shook her head slightly so as to get rid of what just to took place. Claude continued, "You need not be concerned about that. After several gins, she will be fine."  After a moment, he continued. "I think the articles will be great for you in a number of ways. Parisians seek out celebrities, and you will be one shortly. And, it could be beneficial to my firm as to attracting new clients." "Thank you Claude for that comment". At that point, the desert and Chartreuse were served. "I am in awe of this desert, Sarah said, "Please, let's get diretly to it." "You betcha, as you often say."

 For each of them, Chloe's interruption was soon forgotten as they discussed her first day of work in light detail. With some Chantilly remaining on her lower lip, Claude reached over and wiped it off. "Now, you are perfect, Cherie" Feeling the effect of all the wines plus the Chartreuse, Sarah said humorously, (but not really), "So you are now referring to me as Cherie,  I like it Claude." For both of them, this was a subconscious note as to their evolving relationship. Claude replied, "Oh, I guess that slipped out. Hmmmm, no comment now," They both laughed.

With the table cleared, Claude explained to Sarah that she had a week, or more, if necessary, to find a place to live before she had to report to the office. He noted that Pierre was available for her travels around Paris while looking for a residence, and that he would inform her about any of the Arrondissements that she may want to consider.

The Chartreuse was starting to kick in as Sarah was attempting to have a more detailed conversation about the job. Clause recognized what was happening and decided it was time to get her back to her hotel. He signaled for la addition. "Sarah, I am glad to share your welcome back to Paris. There is so much for you to experience here, and I am glad that I can provide you with that opportunity." With a slight slur in her speech, she responded, "Claude this is a dream to come true, not just as to being in Paris, but also the opportunity to prove my MBA skills for your company." She started to say something about being with him, but stopped. She continued, "I don't yet know the actual challenges, but within the 4 months as a consultant, I believe I will well prove my capabilities and value." "I truly believe you will. ..... Cherie" They both laughed again. He reached for his phone and called Pierre to inform him they would be down momentarily.

With la addition paid, he stood and assisted Sarah with her chair. Going down on the elevator, she could see Pont Neuf in the distance with its charming rounded outposts on the sides. At the bottom, Claude walked her to the car where Pierre was waiting. "Sarah, I leave you here. Pierre will drive you to your hotel.  My house is only a few blocks away, and it is such a lovely evening, especially given our time together. Again, he told her that he was excited to have her joining the team, and she should take the time necessary to find a residence. "I desire to be well settled before I take on my responsibilities." With a very gentle la biss by each, she was off to soon begin the most amazing next part of her life.