The Paris Novel

Jules and Stella take the painting back to the apartment. Stella admits that she does not want to leave it but mentions the concierge’s comment about “les autres.” Jules says that he has lent the apartment out to young artists many times over the years and that Stella is welcome to stay as long as she likes. They plan to go to Enghein les Bains that evening, and Stella remarks that it will be time for her to return to New York soon. She wears one of Séverine’s dresses to give her courage.

On the way to the restaurant, Jules asks Stella what she will do with the painting, as it is likely very valuable. She insists that it be displayed somewhere. As they approach the restaurant, Stella feels nervous. After wine and salad, Stella asks the waiter if someone named Django works there, and the waiter says that he will have him bring dessert.

When Django arrives with dessert, Stella feels certain that he is the man in Celia’s painting and asks him if he knew her mother. Django seems taken aback, asking Stella’s age and birthday. He bursts into tears, saying that he never knew he had a daughter.