Alana novel Chapter 21

Chocolate Taste Delicious, Thanks For Asking

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What is it with men?

Why do they feel so...Superior to women?

Treat them how they feel like?

Use them how they can.

Why can't we stay away from these men?

These were my thoughts as I enter my pastry shop, content with the smell of my goods baking.

"Good morning everyone." I smile and they all greet me back.

I head into the kitchen, deciding to help with the showcase filling.

Seven years ago I was so broken I could barely walk into an area without being scared of being looked at. Now my face is on billboards and Television.

"Boss, someone is here to see you." I nod and walk out to the front.

"Dustin!" I yell, running towards him and he grins.

"Alana." He smiles.

"How are you?"

"I'm well, can't complain."

"How's everything...y'know..."

"Oh...Well...It's...uh...it's different. It's okay. Everyone's good. Including Leo." He rants.

I clear my throat, nodding.

"Well, that's good," I say and it becomes awkward. "The usual?"

"Yea." I nod and get him a large chocolate mousse.

"Thanks."

"You're always welcome." I smile.

"Take care of yourself Alana and, I'm proud of you." He turns on his heel and walks out, leaving before I could reply.

I sigh and get back to work.

Great to know the bastard's still alive.

I decide to spend the rest of the day in my office taking care of the paperwork.

"Um. Ms. Winter?"

"Yes, Trina?"

"There's a male outside requesting your presence."

"Look who's talking now?" I purse my lips and he sighs. "You'll become well known-"

"I already have that quality," I reply smugly.

"Let me finish."

"As I said, extra income and it'll give your company access to the outside world. I'm talking, shipments, exports to all foreign countries."

"Why did you choose my company?" I ask suspiciously and he leans back in his chair.

"A pastry shop is the one thing we didn't have on our go-to lists."

I avert my eyes and run my hands through my hair once more.

"I'll have to think about it."

"Very well, you have three days."

"Alright." I nod. I assume he knows he's being dismissed but he just sits with this serious look on his face. Staring at me.

"Anything else?" I speak up and he shakes his head. I look around awkwardly and he finally stands.

"We're doing business and I haven't even introduced myself."  He mutters. "Aiden Sanders."

"Alana Winters," I reply.

"Well Alana, I hope you agree to do business with me." I only offer a small smile as he leaves but he stops at the doorway.

"By the way, your pastries? Their delicious, do you think you'll taste that sweet too?" He winks, finally leaving and I gape at the door as it slams shut.