All Chapters of The Billionaire's Bargain: Chapter 21 - Chapter 25

PENELOPEStanding behind the counter, I watched Jess animatedly talk about some reality TV show she had been obsessing over.“…And then, get this, the guy proposed to her sister instead! On live TV! Can you imagine?”I gasped, half listening, half kneading dough. “Wait—what? That’s insane.”Jess huffed. “I know, right? If that happened to me, I’d be in prison for murder.”I laughed, rolling my eyes. “You and me both.”Mondays were always our busiest days, but today felt different—calmer. Peaceful.Until the bell chimed, indicating a customer.A woman stepped in, her heels clicking sharply against the tile floor. She was tall, slim, with a sleek brown bob and a perfectly tailored beige dress that screamed money.Her eyes scanned across the bakery, taking in every detail with a barely concealed look of distaste. She didn’t belong here.Jess and I exchanged a look. “Good morning,” I greeted with a polite smile. “What can we get for you today?”She didn’t respond at first. Instead, she to

PENELOPEEve’s office was just as elegant as her house—warm-toned furniture, fresh flowers on the desk, rare art hung everywhere in her office. She smiled warmly as she poured us both a cup of coffee. “So, Penelope, I assume you’ve given my offer some thought?”I nodded, taking a sip before setting my cup down. “Yes, I have. And I’d love to set up a stand at your foundation’s cafeteria. It’s a great opportunity, and a nice step to take, I’m really grateful.”Her eyes lit up with approval. “That’s wonderful to hear. I have no doubt your pastries will be a hit. The cafeteria is always packed, and I think the visitors and staff would love something fresh and homemade.”I smiled, already feeling the excitement buzz beneath my skin, it sure will be an amazing way to show Samantha Elliott that I won't back down easily. “I’ll handle everything—menu, supplies, logistics. I’ll also have my team manage the stand, so it runs smoothly, and you don't have to worry about anything”“That sounds pe

PENELOPEIts been two weeks since Christian left, and the silence had been… refreshing, the house was a lot quieter, less tension, no Christian Hilton to ruin the atmosphere with his brooding figure.I had thrown myself into work, and it had paid off. The stand at Eve’s foundation was now fully set up and running smoothly. Business was thriving, and seeing people enjoy our pastries every day has its own kind of satisfaction.Everyday, I just wished my mother had been alive longer to witness it all happen. Shrugging the thought off, today was a good day, not a sad one, I needed to be happy.Jess and I were currently restocking the display case at the bakery after opening later than usual this morning.“You know,” Jess started casually, wiping down the counter, “it’s been two weeks.”“And?” wondering where she was going with that.“And you haven’t mentioned Christian once.” She smirked. “No calls? No texts? No ‘oh my God, Jess, I miss him so much’?”I scoffed. “Please, why would I miss