But at least Jules wouldn’t have to worry about having a dopey expression on her face in front of others or tripping over objects or being so distracted by Vivian’s presence that she couldn’t make an informed decision.

“Okay,” she said. “If you’re sure.”

“Oh yes. I’m sure.” Vivian gave Jules a look full of purpose. “And I’ll do whatever it takes for you to be sure too. If something’s worth having, it’s worth working for.” The purpose in her eyes became a flame. “You’re worth it, Julia.”

The flame worked. Jules melted right on schedule. It took the effort of a lifetime not to agree to Vivian’s idea then and there.

“Don’t worry,” she said hoarsely. “I’ll make up my mind.”

“That’s what I’m counting on.” Vivian slid off her barstool with a little grunt and looked toward the stairs. “It’s time for me to get dressed. At least you get to figure out your life in your pajamas. Don’t say I never did anything for you,” she added sardonically.

“I wouldn’t say that, Vivian,” Jules said softly. “I wouldn’t say that at all.”

Chapter 39

Chapter 39

Where would I go?

Jules looked carefully at the first question on her list of considerations, which was six items long and already made her want to tear out her hair.

Even worse, she kept getting interrupted. It was nine thirty in the morning and Vivian had left the townhouse an hour ago to attend a star-studded breakfast. Jules was already being bombarded with texted questions and requests from all corners. Most of them started off with a cursory apology for disturbing her, then launched into something complicated. All of which left Jules with little time to figure out something important enough to turn her life upside down.

For example, where she’d go and what she’d do if she left Du Jour.

She could find something. Monique Leung’s offer proved it. If someone wanted to hire Jules all the way from London, she could get a job in New York. Once people established that she wasn’t leaving because of any bad blood with Vivian Carlisle, they’d be interested in her. That wasn’t the issue.

She chewed on her lower lip. The issue was that, even aside from her feelings for Vivian, she loved Du Jour. It was the holy grail of fashion. She got to be where things happened, doing what she was good at.

Hell, she didn’t even like having the day off, as much as she appreciated the gesture. Yes, she needed time to think, but she loved being in the thick of things.

She and Vivian were alike in that.