Chapter 57: Farewell to Paris

The dawn broke over Paris as Matthew stood on the balcony of his modest hotel room, watching the city slowly come alive. The cobblestone streets glistened from an early morning drizzle, and the faint sound of vendors setting up their carts floated through the air. It had been a whirlwind few weeks—winning the World's Fair's highest honor, engaging with some of the world's brightest minds, and catching fleeting moments of serenity in the city's beauty.

But now, it was time to leave.

Matthew's packed trunk sat by the door, filled with neatly folded clothes, blueprints, and notes from his time at the fair. A small medal case rested on top—the physical proof of his achievements. He picked it up, running his thumb over the smooth surface. It wasn't just a trophy; it was a symbol of the future he was building.

Amber's knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts.