London, May 1919, Aries Mansion.

I open the door to Augustin's room and step inside. Today, I've adorned myself in a black and gold striped dress, with a half-tilted hat and just the right amount of makeup. Augustin is also wearing a neatly pressed, incredibly comfortable-looking shirt. I smile at him, my cheeks tinged with pink. Augustin nods in greeting, just like the first time we met at the party. Between us now are only polite gestures, gentlemen, and sophisticated ladies. The process of divorce and property division between us has finally concluded. I grow stronger by the day, while Augustin is beginning to find his own voice. This time, he's the one protecting my mother and me from Lady Rose and Lord Lionel. He's even helped me connect with his acquaintances as well as Andermis's in France. He's assisted with accommodation and relationships to provide support in times of need, while I'll have to seek employment and pursue my own dreams in that new land. I can't ask for more. My life has been shaped by three men, and all three have shaped me into who I am today. A truly empowered and valuable woman!

Augustin wheels over to me, then exclaims and chuckles. Despite the passing years and numerous changes, I can't deny that he still looks dashing and elegant. Augustin takes my hand and says, "You look beautiful."

"Thank you, Augustin," I smile and reply. "You still look as wonderful as the first time I saw you."

"But weren't you despising me back then?" Augustin teases. "When are you boarding the train?"

"The train departs at 8 o'clock. Barry will take us to the station shortly," I gently say.

"Has Francine packed all her stuffed animals?" His face carries a hint of wordless sadness.

I nod, suddenly swept up in his melancholy mood. I sigh, my gaze heavy and sincere, asking:

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"Don't you want to say a final goodbye to her?"

Augustin can't respond immediately, as if he's reconsidering his decision. I can see the inner struggle and turmoil in his eyes. It's not an easy decision, knowing that his only daughter will soon leave England, perhaps never to return. I can't fathom why he insists on taking the difficult path. I don't want him to regret his hasty decisions as I once did. The feeling is like a splinter lodged in my heart, and each beat of it sends a sharp pang. Augustin has become an integral part of me, so I can't bear the thought of him going through that pain. I step closer, urged by the ticking of the clock, and offer a caring suggestion:

"You should go and meet—"

"No, it's better this way, Fiona," Augustin interrupts. "I know it's hard for me, but it's better for Francine if we keep our distance."

His voice becomes subdued and laden with emotions. He wheels closer to the window, gazing down below. I join him, sharing his view. I softly smile with tranquility when I spot Francine down there. She's hugging the servants in farewell. She's grown fond of them, especially young Arvin, Mrs. Patmore's grandson. Those two have been inseparable, only it's regrettable that they have to part ways now. Standing here, I can see tears streaming down Arvin's cheeks like a waterfall as he reluctantly says goodbye. I believe the little boy cherishes Francine dearly, and she'll be just as heartbroken to leave our little friend behind. I turn to Augustin, and a satisfied smile graces his lips. He softly says:

"I didn't want it to be like this. Francine has shed enough tears. Besides, when you take one more step, she won't feel so far away."

Augustin turns to me, smiling reassuringly. He takes my hand, a final caress before it becomes a memory. Then he glances at the clock, shifting his gaze to meet mine. He breathes out a long sigh, laced with a sense of peace. Smiling, he says:

"Be happy."

"Goodbye, Augustin."

I lean in, pressing a deep kiss on his forehead, my body light as a feather as I step away. Before completely leaving, I halt and look back at him once more. Augustin turns to meet my gaze. I will dearly miss the memories in this house, and this man. I smile with genuine happiness and say:

"Francine will always be your daughter. I'm certain that will never change!"

"I know."

And then, that's the last time we see each other. I close the door with a sense of closure and descend to the lower floor. I don't forget to bid farewell to Lady Rose and Lord Lionel. To be fair, they've contributed significantly to the person I've become today. I bid farewell to the family members who stand there to see me off, then board the carriage with Francine and depart.