I twirled the rose in my hand, amazed at how perfect its petals were.

“I’m probably just on the rebound. You know I haven’t seen anyone since Carl and I broke up. I just didn’t feel..”

“Comfortable. I know, Emily. But it’s been two months. You should start seeing people, go on dates. You’re young – you’ve got your whole life ahead of you. So start enjoying it again.”

I pressed the receiver to my ear and wished my mother was in the same room with me and not a continent away. She wasn’t just my mother, she was also my best friend, my confidant.

“But he’s French.”

“Oh, Emily, it’s not like you have to marry the guy. Just enjoy yourself. But remember to be careful.”

I knew what that last euphemism meant. “Mom, you know I’m on the pill. I didn’t stop taking it just because Carl and I broke up.”

“Well, better safe than sorry.”

We hung up shortly after. As I was brushing my teeth, I thought over my first 24 hours in Paris. I’d had my first café au lait and bought a few postcards. I’d even met someone new.